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714 Fall Protection Program
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The Full-Body Harness

A Full-Body Harness is used in general industry, construction and any other industry where work at height is required.

How to Choose a Safety Harness.

Its use protects workers against falls from heights and allows for travel restraint, positioning, suspension and/or rescue.

The full-body harness has straps that distribute the impact of a fall over the thighs, waist, chest, shoulders, and pelvis. Full-body harnesses come in different styles, many of which are light and comfortable.

Purchasing a Full Body Harness (FBH)

Before you purchase harnesses, make sure they fit those who will use them, they're comfortable, and they're easy to adjust. A full-body harness should include a back D-ring for attaching lifelines or lanyards and a back pad for support.

Keep the following in mind:

  • The harness must be made from synthetic fibers.
  • The harness must fit the user. It should be comfortable and easy to adjust.
  • The harness must have an attachment point, usually a D-ring, in the center of the back at about shoulder level. The D-ring should be large enough to easily accept a lanyard snap hook.
  • Chest straps should be easy to adjust and strong enough to withstand a fall without breaking.
  • Use only industrial full-body harnesses (not recreational climbing harnesses).
  • The harness must be safe and reliable. It should meet ANSI Z359.11 and CSA Z259.12-11 standards.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

5-6. Where must the D-ring be located on a full-body harness?