Falls are a leading cause of workplace fatalities, especially in construction. Annually, falls cause hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries. Whether for recreation or work, understanding fall protection equipment is crucial for safety. This guide covers the essentials:
**How Full Body Harnesses Work:** A full-body harness distributes fall forces across the thighs, chest, pelvis, and shoulders. Straps secure the torso and thighs, connecting to D-rings linked to the fall-arrest system. Avoid body belts for fall protection; they offer inadequate protection and can cause internal injuries during a fall.
**Understanding the Need:** Beyond legal or workplace mandates, understand the specific risks in your situation. This knowledge informs harness selection and reinforces safe practices. Recognizing potential dangers ensures consistent and proper harness usage.
**Selecting a Comfortable Harness:** Harness comfort is vital. Discomfort can lead to improper adjustments, compromising safety. Features like shoulder and back pads enhance comfort. Modern harnesses, such as the ExoFit and Delta II No Tangle Tower models, are designed for improved comfort and ease of use.
**After a Fall: Suspension Trauma:** Plan for post-fall scenarios before work begins, especially if rescue is necessary. Suspension trauma (orthostatic intolerance) can occur when suspended at height after a fall. Blood pools in the legs, potentially causing unconsciousness and, without prompt rescue, serious injury or death. OSHA mandates prompt employee rescue after a fall. Use a Suspension Trauma Safety Strap to mitigate suspension trauma while awaiting rescue.
**Training, Inspection, and Maintenance:** Supplement employer-provided training with manufacturer instructions. Revisit instructions when work conditions change. Inspect equipment before each use and have it professionally inspected annually. Check for cuts, tears, missing parts, illegible markings, pulled stitches, abrasions, kinks, or excessive oiliness. Remove any deteriorated equipment from service.
Though the risks of bodily harm or death should motivate full body harness wearers to seek information, this is not always the case. Comprehensive fall-protection training and information are available online and through on-site programs. Begin with these basic steps to take responsibility for your safety. When full-body harnesses are required, your life depends on it.