Safety Harnesses

A safety harness does not have an official OSHA expiration date, but most manufacturers recommend replacing it every 5 years, regardless of visible wear. However, if a harness shows signs of fraying, broken stitching, D-ring distortion, burns, or chemical damage, it must be removed from service immediately. Regular inspections should be done before each use and documented annually by a competent person.

OSHA requires that personal fall arrest systems—including safety harnesses—comply with 29 CFR 1926.502(d). The harness must distribute fall forces across the thighs, pelvis, chest, and shoulders and be part of a complete fall arrest system that limits maximum arresting force to 1,800 lbs. Equipment must also meet applicable ANSI Z359.11 standards and be inspected regularly for damage and proper function.

To properly put on a safety harness, follow these steps:

1. Hold the D-ring and shake the harness to untangle straps.
2. Slip the shoulder straps on like a vest.
3. Connect the chest strap and adjust for snug fit across the chest.
4. Reach between your legs and buckle both leg straps securely.
5. Adjust all straps to remove slack but allow full range of motion.

For a full video demonstration, check out our How to Wear a Safety Harness YouTube Playlist.

While safety harnesses save lives, improper use or extended suspension can be dangerous. Suspension trauma (orthostatic intolerance) occurs when a worker is left hanging in a harness too long after a fall, reducing blood flow and potentially causing unconsciousness or death. This is why it's critical to implement a rescue plan with trained personnel who can respond quickly.

To reduce the risk of suspension trauma, KwikSafety offers Marmoset Suspension Straps—lightweight, compact trauma relief straps that attach to any harness and allow suspended workers to relieve leg pressure while awaiting rescue.

Proper fit, prompt rescue, and the use of suspension straps are essential for staying safe after a fall.

The three main classes are: Class 1 (body belts) used for positioning only, Class 2 (chest harnesses) used in limited fall hazard areas like confined spaces, and Class 3 (full-body harnesses) designed for complete fall arrest systems. Class 3 is the standard for most jobsite applications.

Full-body rope harnesses are commonly used in recreational climbing, arborist work, or rescue operations. For jobsite use, they must meet ANSI Z359.11 and OSHA standards. Without certification, they are not considered safe or compliant for fall arrest in construction or industrial settings.

The five levels are: 1) Fall Elimination, 2) Fall Prevention, 3) Fall Arrest, 4) Controlled Descent, and 5) Rescue. This hierarchy ensures the safest solution is always considered first and that proper PPE and rescue plans are in place when working at height.