At KC Supply Co. we know the value of staying protected on the job, especially when working at heights. Fall protection gear is only as good as the care it receives. Whether you’re using a harness, lanyard, self-retracting lifeline, or anchorage connector, routine inspection and maintenance are critical to ensure that your equipment performs when you need it most.

Let’s walk through a few key maintenance practices that will keep your fall protection system in top condition and help you avoid costly or dangerous surprises.

1. Inspect Every Time Before Use

Before any worker straps in, their gear should go through a quick but thorough inspection. Check for wear, cuts, burns, fraying, or broken stitches on all webbing. Pay close attention to buckles, D-rings, and connectors. These metal components must be free of cracks, rust, or deformation.

If something looks off, it probably is. When in doubt, take it out of service and have it reviewed. Regular inspections can catch early signs of failure and are the first line of defense in fall protection safety.

2. Clean Gear the Right Way

Dirt, chemicals, and even sweat can wear down materials over time. Cleaning your fall protection gear isn’t just about appearance. It helps preserve its strength and function.

Use mild soap and water to wipe down webbing and hardware. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals as they can break down fibers. Let everything air dry in a cool shaded area. Never use heat or direct sunlight which can degrade material faster than you think.

3. Store Gear Correctly

Where you store your gear matters just as much as how you use it. Fall protection equipment should be kept in a clean dry area away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, or anything sharp.

Avoid tossing gear into the back of a truck or onto the floor after use. Ideally hang harnesses by the D-ring and keep other components in a designated storage area. Proper storage extends the life of your equipment and helps prevent accidental damage.

4. Schedule Regular Full Inspections

While daily checks are essential, every piece of fall protection gear should undergo a more detailed inspection on a scheduled basis. Depending on how frequently it’s used, this could be monthly, quarterly, or semiannually. Look for deeper wear, loose stitching, or any changes that might be easy to miss during quick daily checks.

Create a tracking system for inspections to ensure nothing falls through the cracks. Tag gear with the date of the last inspection and keep logs for accountability.

5. Know When It’s Time to Retire Equipment

Even well-maintained gear has a lifespan. Fall protection systems should be removed from service immediately if they’ve been involved in a fall, show visible damage, or no longer meet the manufacturer’s standards. Some equipment also has expiration dates especially self-retracting lifelines or shock absorbers.

Don’t gamble with gear that looks good enough. The cost of replacement is nothing compared to the risk of failure on the job.

6. Train Your Team to Do It Right

Fall protection maintenance isn’t just a task. It’s a culture. Make sure every worker understands how to inspect, clean, and store their gear properly. A trained team is more likely to spot issues early and take ownership of their own safety.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, well-maintained fall protection gear saves lives. Take the time to build a maintenance routine that protects your people and your operation. At KC Supply Co. we offer reliable fall protection solutions along with the gear and guidance to help your team stay safe from the ground up.

Need help choosing the right fall protection system? Contact our team today.