WHEN it comes to managing PPE, there's a new digital solution in town. Introducing Petzl's ePPEcentre, an application designed to help tree care workers keep track of their harnesses, ropes, and helmets.

Enabling users to manage and inspect their PPE, the app is available on both desktop and mobile, and is packed with a host of features to ensure your kit remains in top condition. 

As well as detailing when PPE needs inspected, it also reveals which items are approaching the end of their lifespan. 

Forestry Journal: Users simply have to scan a Petzl product's datamatrix to add it to the app Users simply have to scan a Petzl product's datamatrix to add it to the app (Image: Supplied)

Add a Petzl product by simply scanning its datamatrix: all information related to the product will automatically show up on the dedicated page, grouping all the information necessary for management and tracking. Products from other brands can be logged manually. 

A statement from the manufacturer added: "The PPE database can be structured according to different work methods or to meet specific industry needs. You can group products based on location, users, or even product families." 

Elsewhere, arborists are being urged to stop using a Petzl adjustable lanyard after a fault was discovered in some models. 

Climbers should remove any Grillon products that were manufactured between October and December 2023 from their kit and immediately carry out an inspection. 

This includes the Grillon, Grillon Anchor, Grillon Hook, and the Hook European version.

Forestry Journal: The s packed with a host of features to ensure your kit remains in top condition. The s packed with a host of features to ensure your kit remains in top condition. (Image: Supplied)

The warning from the manufacturer comes after the detection of ropes mounted incorrectly in the rope adjuster. Petzl says a total of eight faulty products have been detected in a single batch. While no injuries have been reported (as of January 2), the firm says the issue could lead to harm. 

Anchor systems like the Grillon, described as an “adjustable lanyard for work positioning” on Petzl’s website, are a critical tool for climbers.

Essentially, they tether the climber to something, freeing up the hands for other tasks. Often, they’re used by climbers as a primary form of safety while they build more complex anchors for their climbing partner below.

For more information and the full inspection guide, visit the the Petzl website to view the safety alert.