QUICK ANSWER
If it has been more than 12 months since your last inspection, or you can see visible wear, damage, or missing tags, your anchor points likely need recertification. Anchor points are only compliant for as long as they are inspected and certified to Australian Standards, so an anchor that was safe two years ago is not automatically safe today.
IN THIS ARTICLE
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- Why anchor point recertification matters
- Sign 1: It has been more than 12 months since the last inspection
- Sign 2: Visible corrosion, rust, or wear
- Sign 3: The building has had renovations, re-roofing, or facade work
- Sign 4: Missing or illegible compliance tags
- Sign 5: Contractors have raised concerns or refused to use the anchors
- What happens during a recertification audit
- Frequently asked questions
Here are five signs building owners and managers should watch for, and what to do about each one.
Why anchor point recertification matters
Height safety anchor points support the full weight of a technician working at height, often several storeys up. Under AS/NZS 1891.4, static anchor systems need regular inspection by a competent person to stay certified for use. If an anchor is not recertified on schedule, any contractor using it is working outside compliance, which puts both the worker and the building owner at risk.
Sign 1: It has been more than 12 months since the last inspection
Most height safety systems require an annual inspection at minimum, though some manufacturers or site conditions call for more frequent checks. If you cannot point to a certificate from within the last year, treat the system as due for review.
Sign 2: Visible corrosion, rust, or wear
Anchors that live on an exposed rooftop take a beating from Brisbane's sun, rain, and salt air, especially on coastal buildings. Surface rust, pitting, or a bolt that no longer sits flush are all signs the anchor's integrity may have been compromised.
Sign 3: The building has had renovations, re-roofing, or facade work
Any structural change near an anchor point, a re-roof, a new plant installation, or facade remediation can affect how that anchor performs. Recertification after this kind of work confirms the anchor is still fixed to a sound structure and still positioned correctly for safe use.
Sign 4: Missing or illegible compliance tags
Every certified anchor point should carry a tag showing its safe working load, certification date, and the inspector's details. If tags are missing, faded, or impossible to read, a contractor has no way to confirm the anchor is safe to use, and neither do you.
Sign 5: Contractors have raised concerns or refused to use the anchors
If a window cleaner, maintenance crew, or rope access technician has ever flagged a concern about your anchors, or declined to use them, take that seriously. Tradespeople who work at height every day are usually the first to notice a problem.
What happens during a recertification audit
A height safety compliance audit checks each anchor point against the relevant Australian Standards, tests its physical condition, confirms tags and documentation are current, and identifies any anchors that need repair, replacement, or removal. You are left with an up-to-date compliance register and a clear list of any action items, so your building stays audit-ready.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often do height safety anchor points need to be recertified?
Most systems require inspection at least annually, in line with AS/NZS 1891.4, though your original installer's documentation may specify a shorter interval.
Who is responsible for keeping anchor points compliant?
This generally sits with the building owner or the body corporate, though the requirement is usually written into your management agreement. Our height safety compliance and audit team can help clarify what applies to your building.
Can I still use anchors that have not been recertified?
No. An anchor that is not currently certified should be treated as unsafe to use until it has been inspected and passed.
How long does a recertification audit take?
For most commercial buildings, a full anchor point audit can be completed in a single day, with a report and compliance register provided shortly afterwards.
