In Belgium, for work at height from 2 metres, you must take measures against the risk of falling.
Safety harness as a possible measure
Possible protective measures are, in order of importance:
- Eliminate the risk at the source
- Use appropriate work equipment
- Provide collective protective measures
- Personal fall protection such as the safety harness
How long does such a harness actually last? When should you replace it?
Annual inspection of the safety harness
At least once a year, the harness must be inspected by an External Service for Technical Inspections (EDTC). After a fall too, the harness must be checked by such a service.
As long as the harness passes the inspection, it can continue to be used. If not, it must be destroyed.
Fall arrest harnesses have a maximum lifespan of 10 years after the production date. A harness that is older is automatically rejected.
Check before use
Before each use, check the fall arrest harness for possible damage such as:
- Fraying
- Tears
- Discolouration
- Burns
- Deformations
These can occur not only from a fall, but for example also from exposure to aggressive cleaning agents, a direct heat source, UV rays, chemical products, dust or moisture.
Training
Employees who work with an aerial platform or work on scaffolding are required to follow training. The correct use of the fall arrest harness is covered extensively in it.
- Training Working at height: scaffolding
- Training Aerial platform
Interested or want more information? Contact Praxis on 0491 180 180 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..