Inertia Reel Inspection
Inertia Reels as Fall-Arrest Equipment
An inertia reel, also called a self-retracting lifeline or fall arrest block, locks in a split second to stop a fall. It is fall-arrest equipment, so alongside the user's pre-use check the accepted standard is a detailed inspection by a competent person at least every 6 months, in line with the Work at Height Regulations 2005.
We inspect wall, beam and tripod-mounted inertia reels on site and report plainly on whether each one is safe to use.
Inertia Reel WAHR
Regulation
WAHR 2005
Detailed inspection
At least 6-monthly
Pre-use check
By the user
Examined
On site
Report turnaround
Within 3 days
What's included
What's covered in an inertia reel inspection
Locking Action
We test that the reel locks firmly and quickly when the lifeline is pulled sharply, the one job it exists to do. A reel that is slow to lock, or does not lock at all, is withdrawn on the spot.
Extension and Retraction
We run the lifeline out to full length and back, checking it extends smoothly and retracts fully without slack. Weak or sticking retraction is one of the faults we see most.
Lifeline Condition
We inspect the wire rope or webbing lifeline along its full length for broken wires, kinks, corrosion, cuts and abrasion. Damage near the hook end is a common finding.
Casing, Hook and Fall Indicator
We check the casing and fixings for cracks and damage, the swivel and hook or karabiner for function and wear, and the fall indicator for any sign the reel has already arrested a fall.
Anchorage, Labels and ID
We check the anchor point or mounting the reel hangs from, and confirm the labels and ID are present and legible. A reel with no ID has no traceable history and cannot be trusted.
How it works
Your inertia reel's WAHR inspection, start to finish
Every scheme your equipment is required to meet under UK regulation carried out by accredited engineers and backed by compliant reports.
1
Book
Tell us how many reels and where they're installed, and we confirm a date and a fixed quote, usually same day.
2
On-site examination
A competent examiner attends and carries out a detailed, recorded inspection of each reel.
3
Compliant report
You receive the inspection records within three days, with a clear safe-or-withdraw verdict on each reel.
4
Reminders
We track the 6-monthly due date and remind you before the next inspection is required.
OUR STANDARDS
Fall arrest checked like a life depends on it
We take our responsibilities seriously, upholding the highest standards of professionalism, quality and safety across every aspect of our operations.
Quality Assurance
Detailed, recorded inspections by competent examiners who test the locking action, not just look at the casing.
Responsibility
A rigorous inspection that keeps your fall arrest equipment compliant with the Work at Height Regulations 2005.
Care
An inertia reel only gets one chance to work, so we make sure it will.
GET IN TOUCH
Request an Inertia Reel Inspection
Tell us how many reels and when, and we'll confirm availability and a competitive quote, usually the same day.
Call us
0208 050 3958
Based in
Reading, Berkshire: serving the South of England
● Hampshire
● Oxfordshire
● Northamptonshire
● Cambridgeshire
● Surrey
● Buckinghamshire
● London
FAQ
Inertia Reel Inspection: Common Questions
How often should an inertia reel be inspected?
The accepted standard is a detailed inspection by a competent person at least every 6 months, more often in arduous or frequent use, plus a pre-use check by the user every time. The manufacturer's instructions and your risk assessment can shorten it further.
Does an inertia reel with a rescue winch come under LOLER?
Yes, for the lifting function. A reel with a built-in retrieval winch, such as on a confined space tripod, can raise a person, so that function needs a LOLER thorough examination at least every 6 months alongside the fall-arrest inspection.
What happens after an inertia reel arrests a fall?
It must be taken out of use straight away. Most reels have a fall indicator that shows it has arrested a fall, and once that is triggered the reel stays out of service in line with the manufacturer's instructions.
Is a formal inspection the same as a pre-use check?
No. The user should check the equipment before each use and look for obvious damage. A detailed inspection is a separate, recorded assessment by a competent person, and one does not replace the other.
Do I legally need a work-at-height inspection?
If you provide equipment for working at height, the Work at Height Regulations 2005 make it your duty to have it inspected. Regulation 12 requires inspection at suitable intervals where it could deteriorate, on top of the user's pre-use checks, and a competent person's record is your evidence of compliance.