How to Inspect and Maintain Your Safety Harness: A Practical Guide for UK Worksites

A safety harness is one of the most critical pieces of equipment when working at height — but even the best harness won’t protect you if it’s damaged, worn, or poorly maintained. Regular inspections aren’t optional; they’re required under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, and they play a major role in reducing accidents across UK sites.

This guide breaks down how to inspect, maintain, store, and replace your safety harness, with clear, practical steps that trade professionals can follow.

For fully certified, work-ready harnesses and fall protection systems, explore:
👉 Checkmate® Fall Protection: https://www.247direct.com/collections/checkmate®

⭐ Why Harness Inspection Matters

A harness is designed to distribute energy and protect your body during a fall — but only when the webbing, stitching, and attachment points are in perfect condition.
Common issues include:

• UV-damaged or frayed webbing

• Rusted or stiff connectors

• Damaged stitching

• Misaligned or loose buckles

• Contamination from chemicals, oils, or solvents

Any of these faults can compromise protection.

UK law states that height-safety PPE must be:

• Inspected before every use, and

• Formally examined by a competent person every 6 months
  (or every 3 months in harsh environments such as construction or offshore work).

🔍 Step-by-Step: How to Inspect Your Harness

1. Webbing Check

Inspect the entire length of the harness:

• Look for cuts, tears, frays, burns, pulled threads

• Check for fading or stiffness caused by UV exposure

• Run your hand over the webbing — rough patches can indicate internal damage

2. Stitching Check

Stitching is crucial for load distribution. Ensure:

• No broken, loose, or pulled threads

• No discolouration (a sign of chemical exposure)

• Reinforced areas are intact

3. Buckles & Metal Components

Check:

• D-rings for rust, cracks, deformation

• Buckles for smooth locking and release

• Connectors for burrs or sharp edges

These must lock securely and operate smoothly.

4. Labels & Compliance Tags

Confirm:

• The harness is EN 361 compliant

• The serial number and inspection date are readable

• The service life has not expired

If labels are unreadable, the harness must be removed from service.

🛠️ Proper Maintenance for Long Life

Cleaning

• Use mild soap and warm water

• Avoid bleach, solvents, or pressure washing

• Dry naturally — never use heaters or direct sunlight

Storage

• Hang harnesses in a clean, dry cabinet

• Keep away from oils, chemicals, excessive heat, or sharp objects

• Don’t leave harnesses loose in vans or toolbags

For secure on-site storage, see:
👉 Storage & Safety Equipment: https://www.247direct.com/collections/storage-safety

⛔ When to Remove a Harness from Service

Immediately remove and quarantine any harness with:

• Frayed or cut webbing

• Heat or chemical damage

• Bent or cracked metal components

• Missing or unreadable labels

• Failed lockdown in buckles or connectors

• Signs of a previous fall arrest

Once compromised, a harness must not be repaired — it must be replaced.

Explore replacement options:
👉 Checkmate® Harnesses: https://www.247direct.com/collections/checkmate®

🧠 Top Questions About Safety Harness Maintenance

How often should a safety harness be inspected?

Before every use (pre-use check) and every 6 months formally. High-risk environments may require inspections every 3 months.

How long does a safety harness last?

Most manufacturers recommend a service life of 5 years, depending on use, environment, and condition. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidance.

Can I clean a harness with detergents?

No — harsh chemicals and solvents can weaken the webbing. Use mild soap and water only.

Do I need to replace a harness after a fall?

Yes. Any harness involved in a fall arrest must be removed from service and replaced immediately.

Can I repair a harness?

No. PPE repairs invalidate certification and compromise safety.

Final Thoughts

Proper harness inspection is more than a tick-box exercise — it’s a life-saving routine. By maintaining a clear inspection process and investing in high-quality, compliant equipment, you can protect your team and meet UK legal requirements.

For trusted, certified fall-protection equipment, explore:
👉 Checkmate® Fall Protection: https://www.247direct.com/collections/checkmate®

Stay safe. Stay compliant. Stay protected.