How to Put On a Full Body Safety Harness

Full body safety harnesses are essential for working at heights or in other hazardous environments. They provide a secure connection to a lifeline or anchor point, preventing falls and ensuring worker safety. This guide will walk you through the steps of inspecting and putting on a full body safety harness correctly.

1. Inspecting Your Harness

Before using any safety equipment, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough inspection. This ensures the harness is in good condition and can safely support your weight.

Check for wear and tear: Look for any signs of fraying, cuts, or tears in the webbing or straps. Examine the buckles, D-rings, and other metal components for signs of corrosion or damage.
Inspect the stitching: Ensure all stitching is intact and secure. Any loose or unraveling stitching could compromise the harness’s strength.
Test the buckles and D-rings: Make sure all buckles and D-rings function smoothly and securely. Try to open and close them several times to ensure they are not jammed or damaged.
Check for proper labeling: The harness should have a label indicating its size, weight capacity, and manufacturer. Verify that the information is accurate and legible.

2. Putting on the Harness

Once you’ve confirmed your harness is in good condition, follow these steps to put it on correctly:

Locate the chest strap: Identify the chest strap, which typically has a buckle located near the center of the harness. Make sure the chest strap is facing outward.
Adjust the leg straps: Position the leg straps around your thighs. Ensure the straps are snug but not too tight. The leg straps should be positioned so that the D-rings are located at the back of your thighs.
Fasten the chest strap: Securely fasten the chest strap buckle. The chest strap should fit snugly against your chest, but not restrict your breathing.
Attach the dorsal D-ring: The dorsal D-ring is located at the back of the harness. This is where you will attach your lifeline or lanyard.
Adjust the shoulder straps: The shoulder straps should fit comfortably and securely around your shoulders. They should not slip or slide down.
Double-check the connections: After putting on the harness, double-check that all straps, buckles, and D-rings are securely fastened and in their correct positions.

3. Additional Safety Tips

Use a harness specifically designed for your work: Different harnesses are designed for different applications. Choose a harness appropriate for the specific task you will be performing.
Never use a damaged harness: If you notice any damage to your harness, do not use it. Replace it with a new one.
Inspect your harness regularly: Before each use, inspect your harness for any signs of wear or damage. A regular inspection schedule is important for maintaining the safety of your equipment.
Receive proper training: Always receive proper training on how to use and inspect your safety harness. This will ensure you are using the equipment correctly and safely.

By following these steps, you can ensure you are using a full body safety harness correctly and safely. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working at heights or in hazardous environments.

How to Put On a Full Body Safety Harness