Fall arrest system failure toolbox talk

What it is

A harness, lanyard, lifeline or anchor that fails to stop a fall safely, through damage, poor fitting, an unrated anchor, too little clearance below, or a swing into a structure.

Controls to check, most effective first

1. Prevent falls with edge protection, work platforms or a travel-restraint system, so fall arrest is the last line of defence rather than the plan.
2. Use anchor points designed and certified for fall arrest, installed and inspected by a competent person to the manufacturer's instructions and AS/NZS 1891.
3. Work out the fall clearance, swing-down and swing-back before rigging, and choose a lanyard or self-retracting lifeline that stops the worker before they strike the ground or a structure.
4. Inspect harnesses, lanyards, connectors and lifelines before each use, and take out of service anything damaged or that has arrested a fall.
5. Give each worker a harness of the right size and rating, and train them to fit, adjust and connect it correctly.
6. Keep lines clear of sharp edges, heat and chemicals, and have a rescue plan and equipment ready to reach a suspended worker quickly.

Questions for the crew

1. Where could fall arrest system failure come up on this job today?
2. The most effective control is: “Prevent falls with edge protection, work platforms or a travel-restraint system, so fall arrest is the last line of defence rather than the plan”. Can we do that here? If not, why not?
3. Which controls for fall arrest system failure are missing or not working on this site?
4. When would you stop work because of fall arrest system failure, and who would you tell?
5. How do we report a hazard, a near miss or an incident on this job?