High-Rise Facade Cleaning Safety Checklist

Is the davit arm certified by a qualified engineer within the last 12 months? (Review certification documentation)

Perform a visual inspection of the davit arm for any signs of corrosion, cracks, or deformation.

Verify the davit arm's load rating is sufficient for the intended load, including personnel, equipment, and a safety factor of at least 5:1.

Inspect the davit arm's mounting points for secure attachment to the building structure. Check for loose bolts, damaged welds, or compromised structural integrity.

Is the anchor point certified by a qualified engineer within the last 12 months? (Review certification documentation)

Conduct a visual inspection of the anchor point for any signs of corrosion, cracks, or deformation.

Confirm the anchor point's load rating is sufficient for the intended load, including personnel, equipment, and a safety factor of at least 5:1.

Ensure the anchor point is readily accessible and free from obstructions that could hinder its use.

Verify the davit arm rotates freely and smoothly without any binding or excessive force.

Inspect the davit arm's locking mechanism to ensure it securely locks the arm in the desired position.

Verify the anchor point is located in a position that minimizes swing fall hazards.

Confirm the anchor point is clearly labeled with its load rating and date of last inspection.

Inspect the working rope and safety line for cuts, abrasions, fraying, chemical damage, or excessive wear along their entire length.

Verify the rope diameter meets the manufacturer's specifications and is compatible with the descent control device.

Inspect rope terminations (knots, splices, swaged fittings) for proper construction and security.

Examine the descent control device for proper function, smooth operation, and any signs of damage or wear.

Verify the backup device (e.g., rope grab) is properly installed and functions correctly, arresting a fall immediately.

Inspect carabiners for proper locking mechanism function, gate closure, and any signs of damage or deformation. Ensure they are auto-locking and double-locking.

Inspect the full-body harness for cuts, abrasions, tears, or chemical damage. Verify proper fit and adjustment.

Ensure rope protectors are in place to prevent abrasion at edges and corners.

Verify the rope length is sufficient to reach the lowest intended work point with adequate slack.

Confirm proper rope management techniques are in place to prevent entanglement or snagging.

Verify all components of the RDS are compatible with each other and meet the manufacturer's specifications.

Review the rope log to ensure the rope has not exceeded its service life or been subjected to any damaging events.

Ensure adequate barricades are in place to prevent pedestrian access to the work area below.

Verify warning signs are prominently displayed to alert pedestrians of overhead work.

Inspect debris netting for proper installation and integrity to prevent falling objects from reaching the ground.

Confirm a designated spotter is in place to monitor the work area and warn pedestrians of potential hazards.

Ensure all tools and equipment are properly tethered to prevent them from falling.

Verify clear communication protocols are in place between the workers and the spotter.

Define a clear drop zone and ensure all personnel are aware of its boundaries.

Assess wind conditions and suspend operations if winds exceed safe limits (typically 25 mph).

Review the weather forecast for any potential hazards (e.g., thunderstorms, high winds) and adjust work plans accordingly.

Confirm the emergency plan is in place and all personnel are familiar with its procedures.

Ensure a fully stocked first-aid kit is readily available on site.

Monitor pedestrian traffic flow and adjust barricades or spotter positioning as needed.

Inspect hard hats for cracks, dents, or other damage. Ensure they meet ANSI Z89.1 standards.

Verify safety glasses or goggles are worn to protect against debris and chemical splashes. Ensure they meet ANSI Z87.1 standards.

Ensure appropriate gloves are worn to protect against cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure. Check for tears or punctures.

Verify workers are wearing slip-resistant footwear with ankle support. Check for worn soles or damaged uppers.

Inspect the full-body harness for cuts, abrasions, tears, or chemical damage. Verify proper fit and adjustment.

Inspect the lanyard for cuts, abrasions, or damage to the snap hooks. Ensure it is properly connected to the harness and anchor point.

Verify all tools are properly tethered to prevent them from falling. Check the tether for damage or wear.

Ensure workers are wearing appropriate clothing for the weather conditions (e.g., rain gear, thermal layers).

Verify PPE is clean and properly maintained.

Ensure all PPE fits properly and is comfortable for the worker.

Confirm all workers have been trained on the proper use and maintenance of their PPE.

If required, ensure appropriate respiratory protection is worn and properly fitted. (e.g., for chemical cleaning).

Verify a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) has been completed and reviewed with all workers.

Confirm a rescue plan is in place and all workers are trained on its procedures.

Verify a competent person is designated on site to oversee the work and ensure safety compliance.

Review training records to ensure all workers are properly trained in fall protection, rope descent systems, and hazard communication.

Inspect equipment inspection logs to ensure all equipment has been inspected and is in good working order.

Ensure Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are readily available for all chemicals used on site.

Verify all required permits (e.g., street closure permits) are obtained and displayed.

Confirm a communication plan is in place to address emergencies and routine communication.

Verify a site-specific safety plan is in place and addresses the unique hazards of the location.

Ensure an emergency contact list is readily available with phone numbers for emergency services, supervisors, and building management.

Confirm a daily safety briefing is conducted before work begins to review hazards and safety procedures.

Ensure equipment manuals are available on site for reference.