How Often Should Fall Protection Be Inspected? Daily, Monthly, or Annually?

If your team works at heights whether it’s on a construction site, in a warehouse, or during maintenance jobs you already know how important fall protection is. But one question we get asked a lot is:

How often should fall protection actually be inspected?

It’s a good question, and the answer really comes down to this: you should inspect it more often than you think.

Let’s break it down in a simple, straightforward way so you know exactly what’s expected and more importantly, how to keep everyone safe

Why Inspections Matter (Even When Gear "Looks Fine")

Fall protection equipment like harnesses, lanyards, and anchor points is designed to save lives. But like any piece of gear, it wears down over time. A tiny cut in a strap or a rusty connector might not seem like a big deal until someone’s life depends on it.

That’s why regular checks aren’t just a good idea they’re a must. Skipping inspections can lead to serious injuries, OSHA violations, and even fatalities. And let’s be honest no one wants to be that company that ignored the warning signs.

Daily Inspections: Quick, Simple, and Essential

Every worker should do a fall protection inspection before each use every single day. This doesn’t need to be complicated or take a ton of time.

Here’s what to look for:

• Any rips, fraying, or cuts on the straps
• Cracks, rust, or sharp edges on metal parts
• Buckles or clips that don’t work right
• Labels that are missing or unreadable
• Any sign of chemical damage, mold, or sun fading

Think of it like checking your car before a road trip. You don’t need to take the engine apart just make sure nothing looks wrong or out of place.

Monthly Inspections: A Bit Deeper

On top of daily checks, it’s smart to do a more detailed inspection once a month usually by a supervisor or safety coordinator. This one’s a little more formal and should be written down in a logbook or checklist.

This is your chance to spot issues that may not be obvious day-to-day, like general wear or improper storage. It's also a great time to remind everyone how to care for their gear.

Again, this isn’t a legal requirement everywhere but it’s a best practice that shows you’re serious about safety.

Annual (or Biannual) Inspections: Your Compliance Safety Net

Once a year or every six months for heavily used gear a trained, competent person should do a full, formal inspection. This isn’t a quick once-over. It’s a deep dive.

This inspection includes:

• Going over every piece of the gear
• Checking for signs of wear that aren't obvious
• Making sure everything still meets safety standards
• Deciding if anything needs to be repaired or replaced
• Keeping records for compliance or audits

This kind of fall protection inspection is especially important for staying OSHA- and ANSI-compliant, and for proving you’ve done your part if anything ever goes wrong.

When Should You Inspect More Often?

While daily, monthly, and annual inspections are a solid routine, there are times when you should check even more often:

• Heavy Use: If the gear is being used multiple times a day or by several people
• Harsh Conditions: Cold, heat, chemicals, moisture these can break down materials faster
• After a Fall or Close Call: If a harness or lanyard took the weight of a fall even a small one take it out of service immediately and have it checked
• As Recommended by the Manufacturer: Always read the manual they know their product best

Don’t Forget the Paperwork

Yeah, we know documentation isn’t the most exciting part of the job. But it’s super important. Make sure you’re tracking:

• Who inspected the gear
• What they found
• When it was inspected
• Any action taken

It only takes a few minutes, and it can save you major headaches down the line if there’s ever an incident or inspection.

Wrapping It Up: It’s All About Staying Ahead

So, how often should fall protection be inspected?
Every day before use
Once a month in more detail
Every 6 to 12 months by a trained inspector

Every level of inspection plays a part. Daily checks catch obvious damage, monthly checks spot ongoing wear, and yearly inspections keep you compliant and confident.

And if you’re not sure how to set up a process that works for your team, don’t worry our professional safety consultants can help you build a plan that makes sense for your company and your crew.

Bottom Line: Don’t Wait Until Something Goes Wrong

Make inspections part of the routine. Talk about them in your safety meetings. Encourage your crew to speak up if something seems off. It’s not about doing more paperwork it’s about making sure everyone goes home safe at the end of the day.