PPE & Gear Inspection
What to check on harness, helmet, ropes, hitch cords, connectors and slings before you leave the yard.
When to use it
Daily pre-work inspection and periodic documented inspections.
Step by step
Step 1
Harness: webbing cuts, fraying, heat glazing, stitching, bridge wear, buckle and D-ring function, legible labels.
Step 2
Helmet: shell cracks, chinstrap, suspension, expiry date, and any impact history.
Step 3
Ropes: run the whole length through your hands for flat spots, core damage, cover slippage, glazing and cuts.
Step 4
Hitch cords and lanyards: glazing, pulled stitching, cover wear at the wrap contact zone.
Step 5
Connectors and devices: gate and locking function, sharp edges, grooving, side-loading damage.
Step 6
Rigging slings and blocks: rated markings legible, no cuts or heat damage, sheaves running free.
Step 7
Anything questionable comes out of service, tagged, right now. Record it.
Cautions
- When in doubt, retire it. Gear is cheaper than a funeral.
- Follow the manufacturer's inspection criteria and service life for every item.
On-site checklist
Training aid only. Follow ANSI Z133, your employer's policy and the manufacturer's instructions for every piece of equipment.