There is so much to love about lanyards. But because of how cheap and seemingly dispensable they are, there might be questions about how durable they might be. There is no straightforward answer to this, other than the fact that the lifespan of a lanyard can vary depending on many factors. It could depend on the materials used, the quality of construction and, of course, the wear and tear it experiences overtime.
Factors Affecting Lifespan
Generally, lanyards are designed to be durable and withstand regular use, but they are not indestructible. Indeed, the specific life expectancy of a lanyard can vary wildly. Let explore some factors that could have an influence on just how long your lanyard can last:
Material
The choice of material plays a major part in determining the lifespan and overall durability of a lanyard. It impacts how well the lanyard withstands wear, tear and external factors over time. With high-quality materials, a lanyard is assured of a longer lifespan, unlike when cheaper or inferior materials are used.
Nylon and polyester are indeed common choices known for their robustness. Nylon’s strength and resistance to abrasion make it a popular option for lanyards, especially those subjected to frequent use and stress. Polyester, with its durability and color retention, is often preferred for custom printing and branding. In all, both materials have the ability to endure everyday wear and maintain their appearance.
On the other hand, lower-quality materials, such as cotton or thin fabrics, might succumb more readily to friction, stretching or exposure to elements. While cotton lanyards, for example, offer a softer feel, they wear out faster under strain.
Stitching
Stitching is a fundamental element that profoundly influences the durability and longevity of a lanyard. The quality of stitching is vital in ensuring that the lanyard withstands the stress of regular use while maintaining its structural integrity over time.
Th stitching type, density and thread quality all impact the lanyard’s lifespan. Double stitching, for one, reinforces the connection points and edges. What this does is it reduces the risk of the lanyard fraying or unraveling over time. Higher stitch density enhances the lanyard’s ability to distribute stress evenly, while quality threads – often made from robust materials like polyester or nylon – resist breakage and contribute to the lanyard’s resilience.
All of these matter when it comes to the long-term durability of your lanyards. Because a well-stitched lanyard can withstand the rigors of frequent use, resist fraying, and maintain its overall appearance over an extended period.
Lanyard Hardware
Hardware is a crucial factor that significantly influences the lifespan and functionality of a lanyard. The quality and design of the hardware components, such as clips, hooks and attachments, play a pivotal role in how well the lanyard withstands everyday use and wear.
In the case of a personal protective equipment like fall restraint lanyards or safety harnesses, this is especially critical. A faulty lanyard or fall protection gear in this scenario could be the difference between life and a dangerous, life-risking fall for the user concerned. That’s why the quality of hardware on lanyards or similar fall protection equipment is very important. You shouldn’t compromise on the quality of safety equipment of this kind.
High-quality metals like stainless steel or nickel-plated steel offer resistance to corrosion and breakage, ensuring the lanyard remains structurally sound over time. It’s important to remember that the strength and load capacity of the hardware should match the lanyard’s intended use to prevent premature failure or damage.
Usage
Usage patterns are a critical determinant of a lanyard’s lifespan. How a lanyard is employed directly impacts its wear and tear over time. The frequency, intensity and manner in which a lanyard is used can significantly influence its durability and overall longevity.
Frequent use can accelerate wear and strain on the lanyard. Lanyards subjected to constant attachment and detachment, tugging and rough handling are more likely to experience fraying, tearing and hardware failure. Similarly, heavier loads or items attached to the lanyard can increase stress on the materials and components, potentially reducing their lifespan. This is something to be mindful of.
Environmental Conditions
Environmental conditions wield a significant influence over the lifespan of a lanyard, as exposure to various external factors can accelerate deterioration and eventual failure. The environment in which a lanyard is used or stored can impact its materials, stitching and hardware.
Sunlight, for instance, can lead to fading and degradation of lanyard materials, weakening their structural integrity. Moisture on the other hand can cause mold, mildew and rot, ultimately eroding the lanyard’s strength and appearance. In all, extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can make materials brittle and more susceptible to wear and tear.
Chemical exposure is another key consideration. Contact with harsh chemicals, solvents or cleaning agents can trigger reactions that weaken materials and cause color fading or loss of strength with your lanyards. In coastal or marine environments, saltwater and salt-laden air can corrode hardware and accelerate material breakdown.
Replacing a Lanyard
No matter how durable lanyards are overall, they aren’t indestructible. So, it’s important to do a periodic inspection for signs of wear, such as fraying, weakened stitching or damaged hardware (such as clips or hooks). Check all metal or plastic components to ensure they are still in solid working condition. If you notice any significant wear or damage, it’s a good idea to replace the lanyard to ensure safety and functionality. It’s important to be firm with your inspection and maintenance criteria.
Don’t hesitate to go lanyard shopping and pick yourself a new one if you find that your current lanyards are at the end of their service life.
You deserve it.