When working at heights, the proper use of a fall arrest harness can be a lifesaver. It’s not enough to simply wear a harness—you need to make sure it’s correctly fitted and properly secured. Here’s a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to safely put on a fall arrest harness to ensure your safety on the job.
1. Inspect the Harness Before Use
Before even attempting to put on your fall arrest harness, inspect it thoroughly for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Look for:
- Frayed straps
- Damaged buckles
- Cracked D-rings
- Stretched or torn stitching
If you find any defects, do not use the harness. Replace it immediately with a compliant and well-maintained one.
2. Hold the Harness by the D-ring
The D-ring is located on the back of the harness, between the shoulder blades. Start by holding the harness by the D-ring and give it a good shake. This will help straighten out the straps and prevent tangling.
3. Step Into the Leg Straps
Locate the leg straps and step into them one leg at a time, similar to how you’d put on a pair of pants. Be sure the straps are not twisted and are comfortably placed around your thighs.
4. Put on the Shoulder Straps
Lift the shoulder straps and pull them over your shoulders like a vest. Make sure the straps lie flat without any twists or tangles. The D-ring should sit squarely between your shoulder blades.
5. Connect the Chest Strap
Find the chest strap and buckle it across your chest. The chest strap should sit at mid-chest level—too low, and it won’t provide the necessary support; too high, and it could choke you during a fall.
6. Fasten the Leg Straps
After the chest strap is buckled, connect the leg straps. Many harnesses use quick-connect buckles, while others require threading the strap through a buckle. Either way, make sure each leg strap is secure and tight but still allows for a full range of movement.
7. Adjust the Harness for a Snug Fit
The harness should feel snug but not uncomfortable. Adjust the leg, chest, and shoulder straps so the harness fits securely. You should be able to fit a flat hand between your leg and the strap, but no more.
A harness that’s too loose can shift dangerously in the event of a fall, while one that’s too tight can cause discomfort or restrict movement, potentially leading to muscle strain.
8. Perform a Final Inspection
Before using the harness, perform a final check:
- Ensure all straps are flat and not twisted.
- Make sure all buckles are properly fastened and locked.
- Confirm that the D-ring is positioned correctly between your shoulder blades.
9. Test Mobility
Move around a bit to test the harness. Can you bend, stretch, and move freely? If you feel restricted or uncomfortable, re-adjust the straps for a better fit.
10. Attach to an Anchor Point
Once you’ve securely fitted the harness, you can attach it to a suitable anchor point using a lanyard or a self-retracting lifeline. Always ensure that the anchor point can support at least 5,000 pounds per worker.
Final Thoughts
Wearing a fall arrest harness properly is critical for ensuring your safety when working at heights. A properly fitted harness distributes the force of a fall evenly across your body, minimizing injury. Always follow your company’s safety guidelines and ensure you’re trained in the correct use of fall arrest systems.
Remember, your harness is your last line of defense—don’t take shortcuts when it comes to safety!
Stay safe, stay compliant!