PPE for work at height training: who needs it, what it covers, and what businesses must consider

Personal protective equipment against falls (PPE against falls) only provides reliable protection if the user knows what they are doing. An incorrectly fitted harness, a fall arrest lanyard adjusted too long, or an unsuitable anchor point can nullify the entire protective effect. This is precisely why PPE against falls training is legally required in Germany.

Legal Basis: DGUV Rule 112-198

DGUV Rule 112-198 stipulates that PPE against falls may only be used by persons who are familiar with it through theoretical and practical instruction. This instruction must be documented. In the event of an accident, employers' liability insurance associations and courts will examine whether this obligation has been met. If documentation is missing, the employer is in a difficult position – regardless of whether instruction actually took place.

Who needs PPE against Falls Training?

Anyone who wears PPE against falls and works in areas at risk of falling: roofers, solar installers, carpenters, maintenance technicians, building cleaners. Even those who only occasionally use PPE against falls – for example, for a one-off inspection – must be instructed before using the equipment.

What is Taught in PPE against Falls Training?

Theory: Legal basics (DGUV 112-198, EN 361, EN 363), system types (restraint, fall arrest, positioning systems), hazard assessment and anchor point selection, suspension trauma – causes, recognition, first aid.

Practice: Donning and adjusting the fall arrest harness, connecting lanyards and retractable type fall arresters, correct adjustment of lanyard length in restraint operation, inspection of equipment before use, rescue drills and behavior after a fall.

How Often Must the Training Be Repeated?

DGUV Rule 112-198 names situations in which renewed instruction is required: when equipment is changed, when working conditions or the place of use change, or if PPE against falls has not been used for a long time. In practice, experts recommend annual refresher training.

Who is Allowed to Conduct PPE against Falls Training?

A qualified person with sufficient theoretical knowledge and practical experience. This can be an internal safety officer, but also an external training provider. External training has the advantage of up-to-date standard knowledge and valuable training documentation.

Documentation: What Must Be Kept

Date, names of participants, content of instruction, name of instructor, signatures. These documents should be kept for at least as long as the persons concerned are employed by the company.

Equipment and Advice at Gerüstexpress

Well-equipped and well-trained employees are not a cost center – they are the most important investment in the safety and legal certainty of your business. In the Gerüstexpress range, you will find mobile anchor points and securants for professional use on flat roofs. Get advice now – we will help you find the right system for your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a one-time training sufficient forever?

No. Renewed instruction is required when equipment changes, working conditions change, or after a long break.

What happens in an accident without proof of training?

The employer can be held civilly and criminally liable. Missing documentation is considered a serious omission in the event of an accident.

Can the employee waive the training?

No. The obligation to train lies with the employer and cannot be waived by the employee.