If metal hardware is dropped from a height over what distance, must it be removed from service?

When metal hardware is dropped from a significant height, it can sustain internal damage that may not always be externally visible. The critical threshold for this concern is when it falls from a height of 3 feet or more. At this height, the impact is likely to compromise the integrity of the hardware, resulting in a potential failure during use, which poses hazards in operational situations.

Removing hardware that has been dropped from a height of 3 feet ensures that any latent damage is accounted for, thereby maintaining safety standards and operational reliability in the field. This practice is aligned with safety protocols that prioritize preventing equipment failure and protecting firefighters and others who rely on this gear during critical operations.