Posted By Mark Eastbourne Hi Can I clarify first that all lifting equipment should be marked/identified with the SWL/WL, for example, strops, slings etc? Secondly, is a harnace used with a fall arrest system classified as a piece of lifting equipment under LOLER? If it is considered a piece of Lifting Equipment, then should this also have a SWL/WLL? Many thanks Mark

Posted By Peter R Peacock Full Body Harnesses to BS EN 361 used for fall arrest or work restraint purposes are not part of LOLER, they are classed as PPE. As such they should be subjected to a periodic inspection regime which should be documented. Each harness should also be marked with at least a serial number, date of manufacture and a C E mark. Persons using this equipment should also have received the correct training in how to inspect, use and maintain these items. Further information can be obtained from the WAHSA web site which has Technical Information sheets available for down load.

Posted By keith gib your right, all lifting equipment should have a SWL stamped on it or in the case of slings, on a tag which is normally tucked inside a pocket/sleeve on the sling as they come off quite easily. Harnesses do not have a SWL tag on them. I would refer to the manufacturers guidance for their capacity in terms of weight of a person. harnesses also need to be checked weekly by a competent person & the check recorded. Also identifying any defective parts that need replacement or service (typically carabiners needing lubricant etc.)In the case of torn stitching etc, the harness may need to be scrapped. Users should also check each time they use it. Refer to working at heights reg's for guidance. PS. i am basing my comments on irish legislation which has normally derived itself from UK leg. regards

Posted By Scott Hansen I am much interested in this thread. How is it that a webbing harness which might be used by the public to descend several floors to escape a fire is less of a lifting device that a webbing harness used to lift a patient in a hospital ward? According to this thread the former is a personal safety equipment and not subject to the LOLER rules but the latter is most definitely covered & subject to six monthly inspections. I would assume that the insurance company have taken a pragmatic descision about where this falls.

Posted By David Tilsley-Curtis Mark I notice that you have your harness equipment inspected on an annual basis, this is I assume under the PUWER regs, as the PPE regs do not specify any time periods. The HSE however recommend that the harness and associated equipment be inspection before each use and formally by the employer on at least a six month basis unless they are used on a very regular basis, when this formal recorded inspection should be every three months. These should be recorded on the individual product history card/sheet originally supplied with the equipment. As an instructor on the use and inspection of harness equipment, I unfortunately come across this on a regular basis. I can send you some details if required. Regards David

Posted By Mike Herbert Hi Scott, my understanding of this as follows. Webbing used in hospital bed is actually attached to the lifting arrangement and hence falls under LOLER as lifting accessory and subject to 6 month test. Other harnesses used for fall restraint and arrest purposes are not attached to the lifting equipment and are designed as safety back up and hence PPE. Harnesses used for work positioning, bosuns chair etc are integral part of a lifting arrangement. Similar equipment is used by aerialists (sp?) in the entertainment industry/film/etc. Also LOLER This latter group as another poster pointed out tend to inspect before very use. I know i would!! Slight differences in terminology and design of harness determine their use. I would not expect to see SWL on a harness in general but some do give a maximum force in kN that can be exerted. Climbing gear especially. I have not come across their use as an escape aid in case of fire and am interested in the circumstances. Hope this helps although happy to be corrected best regards mike