During an inspection of a fall arrest system for a telehandler personnel work platform, an operator notices a small tear in the webbing of a full-body harness and slight corrosion on the snap hook of a lanyard. The harness and lanyard are less than one year old. What is the correct course of action according to CSA Z259 series standards and provincial regulations?

Question: During an inspection of a fall arrest system for a telehandler personnel work platform, an operator notices a small tear in the webbing of a full-body harness and slight corrosion on the snap hook of a lanyard. The harness and lanyard are less than one year old. What is the correct course of action according to CSA Z259 series standards and provincial regulations?

Answer options: ✅ Remove both the harness and lanyard from service immediately and tag them for repair or replacement.

• The harness can be repaired by a qualified person, but the lanyard must be discarded.
• Clean the corrosion off the snap hook and monitor the tear in the harness for any worsening before the next use.
• These minor defects are acceptable since the equipment is relatively new and has not experienced a fall.

Correct answer: Remove both the harness and lanyard from service immediately and tag them for repair or replacement.

Explanation: Any defect, such as a tear in harness webbing or corrosion on a snap hook, compromises the integrity and effectiveness of fall arrest equipment. According to CSA Z259 series standards and provincial regulations, such equipment must be immediately removed from service and either repaired by the manufacturer or a qualified service provider, or be properly discarded if irreparable. Minor defects are not acceptable, regardless of age or prior use within current safety standards.