23 May 2025

COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN USING FALL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT

Fall protection equipment is crucial in industries involving work at heights, ensuring safety and mitigating any risks. However, improper usage can lead to serious accidents despite having the right gear.

Understanding and avoiding common mistakes can significantly enhance workplace safety, so here, we discuss the key pitfalls to steer clear of when using fall protection equipment.

NEGLECTING REGULAR INSPECTIONS

Regular inspections are vital to ensure that fall protection equipment remains in optimal working order. In fact, when we use the term ‘regular,’ we actually mean ‘prior to every use.’ This includes checking for wear and ear, damage, and ensuring that all components function correctly. Equipment should be inspected before each use and periodically by a qualified person.

IMPROPER FIT & ADJUSTMENT

Each worker must ensure that all equipment fits properly. Ill-fitting or improperly adjusted lanyards, for example, can lead to serious injury in the event of a fall. Training on how to properly adjust and ear equipment is essential to prevent accidents.

INCORRECT ANCHOR POINTS

Choosing the wrong anchor point can be catastrophic and compromise the effectiveness of fall protection systems. Anchor points must be secure, capable of supporting the intended load, and positioned to minimise freefall distances. Regular assessment of anchor points is crucial, especially in dynamic working environments.

MISUNDERSTANDING CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS

Workers often underestimate the necessary clearance below the work area. In the case of a call, sufficient clearance prevents striking the ground or lower levels. Understanding and adhering to clearance requirements specified by equipment manufacturers and regulatory authorities is a must.

FAILURE TO PLAN FOR RESCUE

From time to time, emergency situations arise, where prompt rescue is essential for injured workers suspended in fall systems. Lack of rescue planning and equipment can prolong suspension time, leading to suspension trauma and other health complications. Employers must have a solid set of rescue procedures in place and ensure that all personnel of trained accordingly.

USING DAMAGED EQUIPMENT

You might not have thought it, but continued use of damaged/ broken equipment is actually a thing. And a thing that is extremely hazardous. Even minor damage can compromise safety. Any equipment showing signs of wear, cuts, abrasions, or corrosion must be immediately removed from service and replaced.

INADEQUATE TRAINING & AWARENESS

Proper training is paramount for all workers using fall protection equipment. This includes understanding equipment limitations, emergency procedures, and safe work practices. Ongoing training ensures competence and introduces a culture of safety in the workplace.

OUR FINAL SAY

Avoiding these common mistakes is critical for maintaining a safe working environment at heights. At LES – Lifting Equipment Store, we’ve always prioritised safety by offering a range of fall protection equipment tailored to diverse industry needs. From harnesses and lanyards to anchor points and rescue systems, our quality products from world-leading manufacturers meet the stringent safety standards laid out to protect your teams.

By adhering to best practices and investing in quality equipment, you not only protect your workforce but ensure legal compliance. Should you have any questions about height safety equipment, or what equipment is most suited to the task at hand, please contact us at info@liftingequipmentstore.com or give us a call on 01384 567430.