In order to keep your work at height equipment fully compliant, there are a number of tests that need to be carried out. When it comes to Rope Access Eyebolts these need to be installed and tested to the recommendations set out in BS Code of Practice BS 7985:2012 conforming to BS EN795.
Eyebolts, with the exception of abseil point eyebolts, are required to be compliance tested every 12 months via a pull tester to 6kn for 30 seconds. Abseil point eyebolts and fall arrest anchors must be tested every six months due to the nature of their usage.
Eyebolts are permanently fixed anchors and are often referred to by other names, such as single-point anchors and D-rings.
These single point anchors provide an essential function and are widely used to protect personnel from fall hazards in elevated workspaces. They are often found adjacent to openings, such as windows, and are a commonly used item of fall protection equipment, being found on most roofs. They are an essential and versatile fall protection solution that can also be used for internal applications, such as glass atriums and curtain walling.
Heightsafe Systems can supply and install a wide range of eyebolts. They can be made discreet, for use in public areas, or highly visible, to allow a worker to identify them easily in an industrial or roof setting. They should be fixed, either through structural steel, chemically anchored into solid / dry-lined solid masonry or through a cavity wall. However, our specialist installation team can take care of all aspects of installation and testing.
To the untrained eye, all eyebolts may look similar, however in each application the method of fixing, and therefore testing of the system will vary. That is why it is essential that you use the services of a specialist work at height company. Our inspection and testing team are trained to identify the various different types of eyebolts, including where and when to use, plus they are able to test them in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
What to look for when testing and maintaining
The type of anomalies to look for when it comes to eyebolts are loose/missing fixtures and fittings, and here the freeze thaw action during winter can cause this to occur. These climatic conditions can also result in structural damage to the substrate surrounding the eyebolt and so this must be checked. In addition, vandalism and wilful damage to eyebolts should always be considered when carrying out the inspection. Again, our team check for all these factors, plus many others.
All eyebolts should display tags that record essential information, such as when they were last tested. If these are found to be missing they should be replaced immediately after a new test has been completed.
Utilising the services of Heightsafe Systems for eyebolt installation and testing means that you are benefiting from our years of experience in this area. All the eyebolts we fit have a compliance tag to show that they have been tested and are fully compliant. Clients can then access our online tracking tool which sends you an alert one month before your eyebolts require retesting, ensuring you always remain compliant.
As part of the service, we also provide a compliance certificate for your own records. Any maintenance works (such as loose eye bolts, damage etc) can be carried out by our team before they retest.
Eye bolt designs are many and varied, with as many different uses. Whether there’re used by window cleaners or roofing maintenance workers for exterior work or internally for installing Christmas decorations, we have an eyebolt to suit. Just as importantly, we can ensure that it is regularly tested and maintained.
Make sure you keep your ‘eye on the bolt’ with our planned testing and inspection services. Talk to our work at height team today: 020 3819 7199.