Advice on Choosing a Proper Safety Harnesses

On any job site, safety is paramount. There are any number of situations in which a worker can be hurt on the job. Only with the proper precautions can everyone remain as safe as possible. That means having the right equipment.

Safety harnesses are pivotal when it comes to having the right equipment. As it turns out, there are plenty of reasons why you should have a good safety harness on hand. Here are some helpful tips that can help you make the right choice…

What is it Being Used for?

Safety harnesses come in many shapes and sizes. Each of them is created for specific uses as well, whether it be in construction, industrial, or for another use. In order to choose the proper safety harness, you first need to have a clear understanding of what the safety harness will be used for in the first place.

Each different type of safety harness has a dorsal ring, for instance. There are several lanyards to choose from and each has its pros and cons. Going into the situation knowing precisely what the safety harness will be used for should put you in the proper position to make the right choice.

Is it Comfortable?

Though it is important to know what it is being used for, a safety harness also has to be comfortable. Safety equipment is only useful if you are using it and wearing an uncomfortable piece of equipment will more often than not lead to it not being worn. Who would want to wear something that pinches, chafes, and is otherwise uncomfortable?

When choosing a safety harness, it absolutely must be comfortable. Part of that has to do with the fit (more on that below) but it can have to do with weight, material, and more. Find a harness that feels comfortable to wear and you won’t ever hesitate when it comes time to use it.

Is it the Right Size/Fit?

Speaking of comfort, size, and fit are important features worth considering. Improperly fitting safety equipment can fail for any number of reasons. Keep it too tight and the strain may result in a tear or rip rather than stopping the fall. Keep it too loose, and it might be possible to come out of the harness altogether. It has to be snug, yet firm.

You should be able to slip a few fingers (but not an entire fist) between yourself and the harness. Make sure that there isn’t excess webbing hanging, or really anything that could possibly get snagged or caught. If worn correctly, many safety harnesses will have the D-ring positioned right between the shoulder blades so that force is distributed evenly throughout your body.

Has it Been Inspected?

Finally, it is critical that a safety harness be given the proper time and attention. Even brand-new harnesses can have flaws to them, and a small flaw can have dangerous.

Even seemingly small blemishes can lead to larger tears and rips. By doing a visual inspection before each use, you can ensure that each of the safety harnesses used is up to standards. Only through vigilance can workers remain safe even when working on elevated surfaces. When something does go wrong, fall arrest equipment will be there to provide protection. Using this guide, it will take no time whatsoever to find the proper safety harness to do the job.