In any construction or build, the reliability of anchor points is essential for both general safety and legal compliance. A pull out test verifies the strength of anchor bolts, fastenings, and fixings, preventing failures that could lead to serious accidents.
So, how often should pull out testing be performed? While an annual test could be a standard benchmark, the real answer depends on several factors which we will cover in this blog, including industry regulations, environmental conditions, and the type of operations involved.
- What Is a Pull Out Test?
- What Is Pull Out Testing Used For?
- How Often Should You Perform Pull Out Testing on Lifting Anchors?
What Is a Pull Out Test?
A pull out test is a method used to assess the strength and reliability of anchor points, bolts, and fixings. Anchor points and fixings are commonly used for securing ropes and fall arrest systems in lifting industries, so the strength and stability of each anchor are integral to maintaining safety, complying with regulations, and preventing accidents. Pull out testing ensures that anchor points can withstand the forces used in operation without damage or failure.
What Are Anchor Points in Lifting Operations?
An anchor point is a secure, fixed location designed to support the attachment of lifting equipment or loads (including people), such as crane and hoist operations. These points help distribute forces more effectively when lifted.
There are different types of anchor points depending on the lifting requirements:
- Structural Anchors – Fixed points integrated into buildings or steel structures, designed to handle specific load capacities.
- Anchor Loops or Rings – Purpose-built attachment points installed for hoisting and lifting tasks.
- Temporary Anchors – Portable or removable anchors used when a permanent fixed point is unavailable.
What Is Pull Out Testing Used For?
The test is used primarily to check for wear, material fatigue, or defects in anchor points. Most commonly, pull out testing is used for:
- Lifting equipment – Ensure anchor bolts and fastenings can handle operational loads.
- Construction and structural support – Test the integrity of fixings in buildings, bridges, and other structures.
- Fall protection systems – Verify that safety harness anchor points are secure to protect staff working at height.
By simulating real-world forces with a pull tester or tensile tester, a pull out test helps prevent failures that could lead to structural damage, dropped loads, or workplace injuries.
How Is a Pull Out Test Done?
Pull out testing is conducted using specialised testing devices called tensile testers. One of the best tensile testers is a Hydrajaws pull tester (we use the Hydrajaws M2050), which applies a measured force to an anchor or fixing to assess its load capacity. The results indicate whether the fixing meets anchor bolt pull out test standards, such as BS 8539, and operational load requirements to ensure it can perform safely.
How Often Should You Perform Pull Out Testing on Lifting Anchors?
The frequency of pull out testing depends on industry-specific regulations, environmental exposure, and how often the lifting anchors are used. As a general guide, below are the key factors influencing testing intervals. However, in any case, we recommend regular testing to ensure safety, compliance, and equipment longevity as this minimises the risk of damage that could cause load drops, injuries, and costly repairs.
Routine Testing
As a general rule, lifting anchors should undergo pull out testing at least once a year as part of scheduled safety inspections. Annual testing ensures that anchors maintain their load-bearing capacity and have not been compromised due to wear and tear. An annual routine test will also help your business comply with industry regulations like LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) and insurance requirements.
Heavy-Use Environments
In industries where lifting anchors are used frequently, such as construction, manufacturing, and offshore operations, testing intervals should ideally be shortened to every six months.
- High-load operations: If anchors are consistently working with maximum or near-maximum loads, they experience greater stress and should be tested more often.
- Harsh working conditions: Exposure to corrosive environments, like marine locations, chemical plants, or extreme temperatures, can weaken anchor bolts over time. More regular testing helps spot early signs of damage and material degradation.
Post-Installation Testing
Any newly installed or relocated anchor should undergo an initial pull out test before being put into service. A test should also be carried out after an anchor has been repaired or re-installed for any reason.
Regulatory Compliance
Several industry standards and regulations dictate the frequency of pull out testing:
- LOLER – Requires lifting equipment to be examined at specified intervals to ensure safety.
- BS 8539 – Governs the installation and testing of anchors used in construction, specifying that anchors must be tested after installation and regularly thereafter.
- PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998) – Ensures work equipment is maintained in a safe condition and regularly inspected.
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines, equipment failure, and workplace accidents. Testing ensures that lifting anchors remain legally compliant and protects your business and insurance policy.
After an Incident or Structural Change
Lifting anchors require additional tests in some cases:
- Excessive load or impact – If an anchor has experienced an overload situation or accidental force beyond its rated capacity, it may have weakened structurally.
- Environmental damage – Rust, chemical exposure, or structural deterioration can reduce an anchor’s effectiveness.
- Modifications or relocation – If the surrounding structure or anchor itself has been altered, moved, or repaired, its strength and integrity will need to be re-tested.
While annual testing is a basic recommendation, factors such as heavy use, environmental exposure, and regulatory requirements may be cause for more frequent checks. By following a structured testing schedule with a reputable pull testing service, businesses can prevent expensive failures, comply with safety standards, and ensure the longevity of their lifting equipment.
Book a Pull Out Test with Bramley Engineering
At Bramley Engineering, we specialise in pull out testing across industries including lifting, construction, and engineering. We provide easy, convenient services backed by industry-leading standards.
Contact us today to schedule your test and ensure your fixings meet the highest safety requirements. Call us on 01525 375225 or drop us an email at enquiries@bramleyengineering.co.uk.
