Tool 2 of 4 · BC & Alberta

ABC check

A personal fall arrest system only works when every part is there and the parts work together. Lay it out from the anchor to your harness and check Anchor, Body support and Connector in turn.

The same steps as Alpha’s Fall Protection course · BC OHS Regulation Part 11 ↗

A The anchor or anchorage connector that ties the system to a secure anchorage.

A · Anchor

☐ It is rated for fall arrest and suits this structure.
☐ I have inspected it. No damage, and it is not improvised.
☐ Only one worker is on this attachment point, unless it is rated for more.
☐ It is high and in line with my work, to limit free fall and swing.

B · Body support

☐ The label is readable and the inspection is in date.
☐ Webbing, stitching and hardware have no defects, and no fall indicator is showing.
☐ My total weight with clothing and tools is within its range.
☐ It fits snug: leg straps about a flat hand, chest strap at mid-chest, loose ends tucked.
☐ The dorsal D-ring sits between my shoulder blades, and a partner has checked it.

C · Connector

☐ The connecting device suits this job and this anchor.
☐ Snap hooks and carabiners are self-locking and work with what they clip to.
☐ It is connected to the dorsal D-ring, never a hip ring or a gear loop.
☐ Every gate is closed and locked.
☐ My free fall is within the limit on the shock absorber's label.

Check each part, from the anchor to your harness.Name each part as you check it. Tap a line once you have confirmed it.

General guidance only. This tool supports, and does not replace, your own competent assessment, the site’s fall protection plan, the current BC OHS Regulation (Part 11) or Alberta OHS Code (Part 9), the manufacturer’s instructions and your employer’s procedures. Where they differ, follow the more protective one.

Read the full notice

These tools help you check. They do not replace the plan, the label or your supervisor. Your employer must instruct you in the system and procedures for each work area and authorize you to work at height. Follow the site’s fall protection plan and each manufacturer’s instructions. When the regulation, the manufacturer, the site or the plan differ, follow the more protective one.

Built from the BC OHS Regulation (Part 11), Alberta’s OHS Code (Part 9), the CSA Z259 equipment standards and manufacturers’ published instructions, as taught in Alpha Training Solutions’ Fall Protection course. Clearance figures depend on your equipment: use the numbers on the label and the safety margin your site sets. Not made or endorsed by any regulator or manufacturer.