How Often Do Anchor Points Need To Be Inspected?

Ensuring the safety of workers operating at height is not just a regulatory requirement but a fundamental responsibility. A critical component of any fall protection system is the anchor point, the secure attachment for lifelines or lanyards. Regular inspections of these anchor points are essential to maintain compliance with safety standards and to protect workers from potential hazards.

At Abseiling Services, we are dedicated to assisting businesses in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and throughout the UK in upholding the highest safety standards through meticulous anchor point inspections. So, how often do anchor points need to be inspected? Short answer: at least once every 12 months, but that’s not the full story. Let’s dig deeper.

What Is Anchor Point Inspection?

An anchor point inspection is a formal, documented process of assessing whether an anchor point is still safe, secure, and compliant with safety standards. It’s not a tick-box exercise, it’s a life-saving necessity. Especially in cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh, where weather and building age can increase wear and tear, regular anchor point inspection services are essential.

This process includes:

• Visual Examination: Checking for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage.​
• Mechanical Testing: Applying specific loads to ensure the anchor point can withstand the forces it may encounter during a fall.​
• Structural Assessment: Evaluating the integrity of the structure to which the anchor point is attached.​
• Documentation Review: Ensuring that all records are up-to-date and that previous inspections and maintenance have been appropriately documented.​

Regular inspections help identify potential issues before they become serious hazards.

What Are the Two Types of Anchor Points?

Understanding your anchor point type is crucial to inspection planning.

• Permanent Anchor Points:
  Installed long-term into the structure. Found on high-rise roofs, industrial sites, or commercial buildings. These require annual checks and periodic re-testing depending on environmental exposure.
• Temporary Anchor Points:
  Used for short-term work like scaffolding, maintenance, or construction. These must be inspected before each use and certified when installed.

Each type may have different anchor point inspection frequency depending on use and manufacturer guidance.

What Are the Rules for Anchor Points?

In the UK, anchor points must comply with the standard BS EN 795:2012. This defines the minimum performance, testing, and installation criteria for anchor devices used for fall protection.

Alongside this, the Work at Height Regulations 2005 require that any equipment used to prevent falls is regularly inspected and maintained by a competent person. If you’re unsure how often you need to check your fall protection systems, the answer depends on the system type, usage frequency, and environment, but every 6–12 months is the norm.

What Are the Requirements for an Anchor Point?

An effective anchor point must meet several key criteria:

• Strength: The anchor point must be capable of supporting a load of at least 12 kN (approximately 1,200 kg) for a single user.
• Compatibility: It should be compatible with the fall protection equipment being used, ensuring secure attachment without risk of disengagement.​
• Positioning: Anchor points should be positioned to minimise the potential for a fall and reduce the risk of injury. This includes considering factors such as fall clearance and swing hazards.​
• Certification: Anchor points must be installed and certified by a competent person, ensuring they meet all relevant standards and are suitable for their intended use.

Neglecting even one of these requirements could lead to failed inspections, invalidated insurance, or, worse, a fatal accident.

How Often Should Anchor Points Be Inspected?

The frequency of anchor point inspections depends on several factors, including the type of anchor point, its usage, and environmental conditions. However, general guidelines suggest:

• Pre-Use Checks: Before each use, workers should perform a visual inspection to identify any obvious signs of damage or wear.​
• Regular Formal Inspections: A competent person should conduct detailed inspections at regular intervals, typically every 6 to 12 months, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the intensity of use.​
• Post-Incident Inspections: If an anchor point has been subjected to a fall arrest event or any significant impact, it must be inspected immediately to assess its integrity before being used again.​

It’s essential to keep detailed records of all inspections, including dates, findings, and any corrective actions taken.

Why Is It Important to Inspect Anchor Points?

Regular inspections of anchor points are crucial for several reasons:

• Safety Assurance: Regular checks ensure that anchor points are capable of withstanding the forces exerted during a fall, providing reliable protection for workers.​
• Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to inspection schedules helps businesses comply with UK safety regulations, reducing the risk of legal penalties.​
• Early Detection of Issues: Routine inspections can identify wear and tear or damage early, allowing for timely repairs or replacements and preventing potential accidents.​
• Prolonged Equipment Lifespan: Maintaining anchor points through regular inspections can extend their service life, offering long-term cost savings.

Anchor Point Testing & Certification

Anchor point testing and certification involve evaluating anchor points to ensure they meet the required safety standards and are fit for use. This process typically includes:

• Load Testing: Applying a specified force to the anchor point to verify its strength and stability.​
• Visual Examination: Inspecting for signs of corrosion, deformation, or other damage.​
• Documentation: Providing a certificate that details the inspection findings and confirms compliance with relevant standards.​

Regular testing and certification are vital to ensure the ongoing reliability of anchor points and the safety of workers relying on them.

Wrapping Up…

Regular and thorough anchor point inspections are a fundamental aspect of maintaining a safe working environment for tasks involving work at height. By adhering to inspection schedules and ensuring compliance with UK safety standards, businesses can protect their employees and avoid potential legal repercussions.

At Abseiling Services, we specialise in providing comprehensive inspection and certification services for anchor points in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and across the UK. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and ensure your fall protection systems are in optimal condition.

FAQs: Anchor Point Inspection

1. Who is qualified to perform an anchor point inspection?
A competent, certified professional with relevant experience and knowledge of current UK standards (e.g. BS EN 795:2012).

2. What are signs an anchor point may need replacing?
Corrosion, loose fixings, material degradation, physical damage, or failure to meet load tests.

3. Are temporary anchor points inspected differently?
Yes. They must be checked before each use and certified during installation.

4. What happens if my anchor fails inspection?
It must be taken out of service immediately. A re-test or full replacement may be required before it can be used again.