Implementing and maintaining control meaImplementing and maintaining control measures

Implementing and maintaining control measures

Regulation 37 You must ensure that the control measures you implement remain effective.
This includes checking that the control measures are fit for purpose; suitable for the nature
and duration of the work; are installed and used correctly.

To allow the chosen control measures to operate effectively, you should:

• develop work procedures on how to correctly install, use and maintain the control measure. The procedures should include a planned program of inspections and maintenance for the control measures. The inspection regime should include details of:
• the equipment to be inspected (including its unique identification)
• the frequency and type of inspection (pre-use checks, detailed inspections)
• action to be taken on finding defective equipment
• means of recording the inspections
• training of users
• the system of monitoring the inspection regime to verify that inspections are carried out appropriately.

The manufacturer and/or supplier of the equipment should be consulted for any product specific requirements. If any signs of wear or weakness are found during the inspection, the components
or means of attachment must be withdrawn from use until they are replaced with properly functioning components.

• provide information, training and instruction to workers, including procedures for emergency and rescue. You should also cover:
  • the type of control measures used to prevent falls
  • procedures for reporting fall hazards and incidents
  • the correct selection, fitting, use, care, inspection, maintenance and storage
    of fall-arrest and restraint equipment
  • the correct use of tools and equipment used in the work (for example, using
    a tool belt instead of carrying tools)
  • control measures for other potential hazards (for example, electrical hazards).
• provide supervision by ensuring that workers exposed to a risk of a fall are adequately supervised by a competent person, especially if they are undergoing training or are unfamiliar with the working environment. Check that:
  • only workers who have received training and instruction in relation to the system
    of work are authorised to carry out the work
  • workers use the fall control measure in the correct manner.