DGUV - German statutory accident insurance

DGUV Principle 312-906

DGUV Principle 312-906 on the "Selection, training and certification of specialists for personal fall protection equipment" is the basis for the training of PPE specialists who are permitted to carry out annual personal fall protection equipment (PPE) inspections. The legislator and German statutory accident insurance association have deemed such regular inspections mandatory in order to ensure that PPE equipment is used safely and remains in perfect condition - even over longer periods of time. This Principle deals with the training objectives as well as the theoretical and practical training of PPE specialists.

Training as a PPE specialist

We would herewith like to explicitly point out that the high demands placed on personal fall arrest equipment also apply to the regular inspection of this equipment. The primary task of such equipment is to protect individuals from mortal danger which is why PPE inspections may only be carried out by a specialist who has received “sound and comprehensive training” to this effect. Successfully completing a course and passing the final practical and theoretical examinations of the knowledge acquired serves as respective proof of proficiency. The course participants are provided with a certificate confirming this proficiency. ABS Safety also offers a Training as a specialist for PPE & rescue equipment course.

PPE inspections

A PPE specialist is qualified to inspect PPE equipment. He/she sees when safety harnesses, connectors or other equipment are faulty or showing signs of wear. An inspector examines the individual components, recognising, for example, if any seams have become unstitched or carabiner hooks overly used. The result of such an inspection is noted in the inspection log belonging to the respective PPE component. This allows users to convince themselves prior to usage that their equipment can still be used and that it is regularly inspected. However, this does not release users from their duty to subject their equipment to an individual visual check prior to commencing work.