Straps and Loop Equipment Information Page

Introduction 

This document provides essential safety information for the use, inspection, and maintenance of aerial apparatus consisting of polyester webbing products, such as aerial straps, including their metal components, and cotton covers (e.g., cotton-covered straps, cotton-covered aerial loops). 

Proper use, regular inspections, and appropriate storage are essential for ensuring the safety and longevity of this equipment. Always consult the manufacturer if you have concerns about the equipment’s condition or usage. 

Shape 

Lifespan 

Synthetic Fibers (Polyester Webbing)  - 7 years

Metal Components - Indefinite

Natural Fibers (Cotton Cover) - 5 years

Shape 

Inspection 

Regular inspections are critical to ensure the safety of the equipment. Follow these guidelines for all components. 

Before First Use 

  • Use photos to record the original condition of the apparatus and inspect the full length for any imperfections. 

  • Before Each Use  

  • Keep a log of all usage and inspections and any incidents or accidents involving the equipment. 

  • Visually inspect the webbing (including the keeper/wrist lock, if present) for cuts, tears, abrasions, damage due to deterioration, or contact with heat, alkalis, or other corrosives. Check for broken, cut, or worn threads.  

  • Pay particular attention to areas of potentially high wear, such as attachment points, connectors, and sewn joints.  

  • Verify the absence of any cracks, deformation, marks, wear, or corrosion on the hardware.  

  • Inspect cotton cover for: 
    • Damaged, frayed, or worn fibres.
    • Wear or damage to the eye/attachments.
    • Contamination (e.g., dirt, oil, chemicals).
    • Loosening or slipping of splicing, whipping, or stitching. 

  • Regularly monitor the condition of the webbing and its connections to other equipment in the system (rigging).  

  • Ensure that all items of equipment are correctly positioned and rigged. 

Full Inspection (Every 6 Months) 

A competent person must conduct a thorough examination every 6 months. Maintain detailed records, including the date, inspector’s name, and any defects found (documented photographically and compared to original records).  

Follow these steps: 

  • Carefully inspect the entire length of the webbing (including the keeper/wrist lock, if present), paying close attention to areas that experience high stress. Document any cuts, tears, abrasions, or damage.  

  • Check webbing by bending webbing into a U-shape to identify stiff or crunchy areas. 

  • Check webbing for irregular lumps, kinks, or irregularities indicating internal fibre damage. 

  • Remove any hardware (O-rings cannot be removed) at attachment points to closely check for wear or damage, inspecting both the webbing and hardware.  

  • Inspect all hardware for cracks, distortion, corrosion, wear by abrasion, burrs, worn or loose parts, discolouration caused by extreme heat (greater than 100°C), frays or cuts, seizure of moving parts, or broken or missing components. 

  • Record any defects with photographs and compare them to original records. 

  • Contact the manufacturer if you have concerns about the equipment’s condition. 

Cotton cover: 

  • Inspect cotton cover for damage or deterioration. Document any cuts, tears, abrasions, or damage. 

  • Smell the cotton cover for the presence of mildew or chemical contamination.  

Shape 

Cleaning 

Washing Instructions  

  • Remove hardware before washing.  

  • Rinse in clean, cold water. If still soiled, wash in clean, warm water (maximum 40°C) with pure soap or a mild detergent (within a pH range of 5.5 to 8.5).  

  • You can use a washing machine, but first, place the product in a suitable bag to protect it from mechanical damage.  

  • Rinse properly in clean, cold water.  

  • If hardware cannot be removed (e.g., O-rings), handwash only, do not machine wash, and dry immediately after cleaning. 

Drying Instructions  

  • Never tumble dry, even on the lowest setting. Tumble drying will damage the fibres, making them weaker and, therefore, no longer safe to use.  

  • Avoid drying outside or in direct sunlight.  

  • Dry indoors in a well-ventilated area, away from sunlight. 

  • Hang to dry, optionally using a fan to speed drying. 

  • Ensure the webbing is completely dry before using it again.