FAQ: How Long Will My System Testing Take?

When you're a busy facility manager or building owner, knowing the timeline for any work on your building makes your life that little bit easier. A common question we receive is: "How long will the height safety system testing actually take?"

The time our engineer spends on-site carrying out the height safety testing is often faster than clients expect, thanks to our engineers' expertise. However, the full value of the process extends beyond the on-site visit. Below we will explain to help you understand the factors that influence the timeline and what to expect from start to finish.

Factors That Influence On-Site Testing Time

The time our engineer spends on your building depends on a few key variables. Our goal is always to be as efficient as possible while maintaining the highest safety and quality standards.

• System Size and Complexity: This is the most significant factor. A test on a small building with only a few anchor points might be completed in a couple of hours. In contrast, a large building or site with multiple safety lines, abseil systems, and extensive guardrail systems will naturally take longer to inspect and document thoroughly.

• System Type: The type of systems on the site also plays a role. An inspection of collective protection systems, like permanent guardrails, is typically more straightforward. Conversely, an individual system like a fall arrest safety line ("Mansafe" system) requires meticulous component checks and functional testing, which can take more time.

• Accessibility: How easy it is for our engineers to access the systems will impact the timeline. Clear access, well-maintained walkways, and an obstruction-free environment allow for a more efficient inspection.

• System Condition: If our engineer finds a system in perfect condition, the process will be faster. However, if a system is showing signs of extensive wear, damage, or non-compliance, extra time is needed to document findings, and formally condemn any unsafe components.

Beyond the On-Site Visit: The Full Process

A professional height safety test is a comprehensive service that doesn't end when our engineer leaves the site. The most crucial part of the process—the documentation—happens afterward.

• Report Compilation: Following the on-site work, our team compiles a detailed, formal report. This includes all of the engineer's findings, photographic evidence, and a clear pass/fail status for each system. This process is meticulous and can take a few business days to complete.

• Certification and Documentation: Once the report is finalized, we issue your official Compliance Certificate and update your system's Technical File. This is the formal record of your inspection, which is essential for proving legal and insurance compliance.

• Remediation Planning: If a system fails testing, the next step is to create a plan of action. This involves our team advising you on the best course of action—whether it’s a simple repair, a partial replacement, or a full system overhaul—to get your building back to a compliant state.

A Typical Timeline for Your Planning

While every building is unique, you can generally expect the on-site inspection for a typical commercial building to take between 4 to 8 hours. The full process, including report compilation and documentation delivery, can take up to 5 business days.

Our priority is always thoroughness over speed. The time invested in a meticulous inspection and documentation process is a direct investment in the safety and compliance of your building.

We Are Here to Help

A professional height safety system test is a focused, efficient process designed to provide you with complete peace of mind. Our experienced engineers work quickly and with the highest level of detail to ensure you receive a comprehensive report and all necessary documentation.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to schedule your inspection and get a precise timeline for your building.