What is the recommended action if fall protection equipment is found to be damaged during inspection?

When fall protection equipment is found to be damaged during inspection, the appropriate action is to tag it and remove it from service. This approach ensures that the damaged equipment is clearly marked and cannot be used until it has been properly assessed and repaired. Removing the equipment from service prevents the risk of injury to workers, as compromised fall protection gear may not perform effectively in a fall situation, putting the user at significant risk.

Using damaged equipment, either until the next scheduled inspection or for training purposes, is unsafe and contrary to safety protocols. Repairing damaged equipment immediately without a thorough evaluation may also fail to address underlying issues, potentially leading to further safety hazards. Properly tagging and removing the gear from service is the best practice per safety guidelines and ensures that all personnel are protected from potential fall hazards.