The construction industry remains one of the most dangerous professions to work in. Falling incidents remain the second-leading cause of non-fatal injuries, behind eye injuries.
Each year, many construction workers make the painful choice to undergo an amputation due to their fall protection harness failing.
Some of these can be avoided if people know how to choose a fall protection harness. Read on to discover the factors to consider when buying the best fall protection harness.
1. Choose the Correct Harness System
When looking at different types of fall protection harnesses, it is essential to consider the type of work being done, the environment, the user's size and weight, and the level of protection needed. The type of activity being performed should be taken into account.
A full-body safety harness is the most advanced type of harness available. When you shop for full body harnesses, check all of the components, such as shoulder pads, leg straps, chest straps, a waist belt, and two safety lanyards.
On the other hand, restraint harnesses are used to keep someone in the same place. Also known as a body belt, these harnesses are used when working at height, on a structure, or during rope courses. The user's safety is ensured by using a tether.
An overhead system might be used to confine someone's upper body. Whatever type of system is chosen, it should be adjustable and easy to monitor in order to ensure the safety of the person being restrained.
2. Assessing Comfort and Fit for Maximum Safety
Choosing a selection that accurately fits allows you to focus all your attention on your work, not the safety equipment itself. An improperly fitted fall protection harness can cause irritation and discomfort, leading to fatigue and distraction.
To ensure the highest level of safety, it is important to take the time to select a harness that best suits your individual body size and weight. When trying on a harness, make sure that the hips and legs are secure. Consider the size of the buckles to ensure all straps can be tightened without difficulty.
The dorsal, chest, and shoulder straps should be snugly secure but not overly tight or pinch any area of the body. It is also important to ensure that the back support pad is wide and long enough to keep your back in a neutral position.
3. Confirming Harness Compliance With Safety Standards
When choosing a harness for fall protection, things to consider include the circumference of the harness, the type of hardware used, the height of the harness's lanyard, as well as the maximum load capacity of the harness.
It is also essential to check the ratings of the harness and ensure they meet the requirements of the safety standards. Ensuring the construction and materials used in the harness are up to the standards is also important.
Lastly, the manufacturer should be recognized for quality assurance, as this will give the user peace of mind and confirm the harness's compliance with the safety standards.
The Right Fall Protection Harness Ensures Your Safety
A fall protection harness is an important piece of equipment to protect workers in many industries. It is important to select one that is comfortable, meets industry standards, offers adequate fit, and provides the desired protection levels.
A fall protection harness should always be used in conjunction with other fall prevention methods to ensure the safety of any worker at height.
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