Work at Height Regulations 2005 and applicable equipment guidance

Working-at-height equipment inspections

Recorded inspection of personal fall-protection and access equipment, with each item clearly identified and its condition documented.

What the service covers

A clear examination and a usable record.

Equipment used to prevent or arrest a fall has to be suitable, maintained and inspected by a competent person at appropriate intervals. We inspect identifiable items, record their condition and make clear whether they can remain in service, need attention or should be withdrawn.

Before the visit we agree which equipment will be available, the inspection basis and any access requirements. If a finding needs urgent action, it is explained at the time rather than left for the report alone.

Read the relevant HSE guidance ↗
Equipment covered

Typical equipment we inspect.

Tell us about anything not listed. The correct scope depends on what the equipment does, how it is used and the conditions on your site.

  • Harnesses and lanyards
  • Fall-arrest and inertia-reel blocks
  • Karabiners and connectors
  • Rescue kits and tripods
  • Anchor devices and lines
  • Selected access and platform equipment
Examination detail

What we look at.

1

Identification

Labels, serial numbers, inspection history and compatibility are checked where the information is available.

2

Webbing and stitching

Textile elements are checked for cuts, abrasion, contamination, heat damage, degradation and failed stitching.

3

Metal components

Connectors, buckles and load-bearing metal parts are checked for wear, distortion, corrosion and correct operation.

4

Outcome

Each item receives a clear recorded outcome, with quarantine or retirement guidance where it should not remain in service.

Book working at height

Tell us what equipment you operate, where it is and when it is due. We will confirm the right inspection scope and arrange a practical site date.

FAQs

Working at height FAQs

Practical answers about scope, intervals and the record you receive.

How often should harnesses and lanyards be inspected?
The interval depends on risk, frequency of use, the environment and manufacturer guidance. Many duty holders use a formal recorded inspection at least every six months, with shorter intervals for arduous use, alongside pre-use checks.
Do pre-use checks replace a recorded inspection?
No. Users should complete pre-use checks, but those checks do not replace a more detailed recorded inspection by a competent person at the interval set for the equipment.
What if an item has no readable identity label?
Traceability is important. If an item cannot be reliably identified against its records, it may need to be quarantined or withdrawn depending on the equipment and available evidence.
Can you inspect equipment at our site?
Yes. We arrange on-site inspection around your operation and can work through individually identified batches to minimise disruption.