OSHA Personal Fall Arrest System Checklist

OSHA Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) Checklist for eAuditor Audits & Inspection

1. General Information

• Inspector’s Name:
• Date of Inspection:
• Location:
• Job/Task:
• Weather Conditions:
• Fall Hazard Identified: (Yes/No)
• Height of Work Area:

2. Harness Inspection

• Harness ID/Serial Number:
• Inspect the entire harness for damage, wear, or deterioration.
• Check all webbing for cuts, frays, abrasions, or chemical damage.
• Ensure all buckles (tongue, grommet, friction) are functional and secure.
• Verify stitching is intact and shows no signs of wear or damage.
• Inspect D-rings for cracks, deformations, and corrosion.
• Confirm that the harness fits correctly and is adjusted to the user.

3. Lanyard Inspection

• Lanyard ID/Serial Number:
• Inspect lanyard material (webbing, rope) for cuts, burns, fraying, and chemical damage.
• Check that shock absorbers are intact and not deployed.
• Inspect hardware (snap hooks, carabiners) for cracks, deformities, or corrosion.
• Ensure all connections are secure and properly locked.
• Verify the lanyard’s length and type are appropriate for the task.

4. Anchorage Point

• Confirm that the anchorage point is secure, stable, and capable of supporting 5,000 pounds per attached worker.
• Check that the anchorage point is positioned directly above the work area to minimize swing fall hazards.
• Inspect anchorage connectors (beam clamps, anchor straps) for wear, deformation, and secure attachment.

5. Connectors (Snap Hooks, Carabiners, etc.)

• Inspect all connectors for wear, cracks, or deformities.
• Verify that snap hooks and carabiners are self-locking/self-closing.
• Check that connectors are compatible with the D-ring or anchorage point.
• Ensure there is no rollout or accidental disengagement.

6. Self-Retracting Lifeline (If Applicable)

• Lifeline ID/Serial Number:
• Inspect the entire lifeline for cuts, frays, and signs of wear.
• Check that the self-retracting mechanism locks up when pulled sharply.
• Verify that the lifeline retracts smoothly and without hesitation.
• Inspect the housing for cracks or signs of damage.
• Ensure the lifeline is free from knots, tangles, or twists.

7. Deceleration Devices

• Inspect deceleration devices for signs of damage or wear.
• Verify that shock-absorbing lanyards have not been deployed.
• Ensure that energy absorbers are intact and appropriately rated for the task.

8. System Compatibility and Fit

• Ensure that all components of the PFAS are compatible and correctly assembled.
• Check that the harness, lanyard, and connectors are correctly sized for the user.
• Verify that the system allows for full range of motion without compromising safety.

9. Rescue Plan

• Confirm that a rescue plan is in place and accessible.
• Verify that all workers know the rescue procedures in case of a fall.
• Ensure that rescue equipment is available and inspected.

10. Training and Documentation

• Confirm that workers using the PFAS have received proper training.
• Ensure that all inspection records are up-to-date and filed correctly.
• Verify that all PFAS components are within their service life.

11. Final Checks

• Ensure that the PFAS is suitable for the task and environment.
• Verify that the fall distance, including deceleration distance, is calculated correctly.
• Confirm that no hazardous conditions could affect the PFAS performance.

12. Comments/Observations

• Notes:

13. Sign-Off

• Inspector’s Signature:
• Date:

Instructions for eAuditor Audits & Inspection:

1. Setup: Enter each section of the checklist into eAuditor Audits & Inspection as individual items to be checked off or noted during the inspection.
2. Customization: Adjust fields based on specific fall arrest systems, job tasks, or workplace requirements.
3. Completion: Ensure that all parts of the checklist are completed before using the fall arrest system, and document any issues for immediate correction.

This checklist helps ensure that all components of the Personal Fall Arrest System are properly inspected and used, thereby complying with OSHA standards and ensuring worker safety.