Do You Have the Right Harnesses and Do Your Construction Workers Know How to Use Them?

The safety harness of a construction worker is their first line of defense if they are to fall. It is the main component of a personal fall arrest system, sometimes referred to as PFAS, and it’s essential that it’s selected with extreme care. At Grove Hardware, we offer a full range of construction and job site supplies and can help you select the right harness. Keep reading to learn more and then feel free to give us a call at 909-544-4331 or stop by our convenient location.

Essential factors to consider when choosing a harness

There are a number of things you’ll want to consider when choosing construction harnesses, including the following:

• Choose a harness that’s made to distribute force over the pelvic region, thighs, shoulders, and chest.
• The harness should be comfortable. If it’s not, then you run the risk of your workers taking off the harness when you’re not looking.
• You should choose the harness based on the type of work you’ll be doing. For example, there are different harnesses for construction, tower work, roof work, ladder work, etc. We can help you find the right harness for your job.
• You need a harness that fits as well as possible. These are not one-size-fits-all products. They are adjustable though, so make sure your employees know how to adjust them.
• Make sure the harness you choose has the components you need. This may include webbing, rear and frontal d-rings, lanyard rings, etc.
• Consider all potential hazards your worker may encounter. For example, are there issues with flash fire, water, or arc flash?
• Take a look at the instructions and cleaning procedures provided from the manufacturer for ongoing maintenance.
• Inspect the harnesses for any sign of wear, including issues with D-rings, rivets, frames, loose stitching, corrosion, damage, or general wear and tear. Make sure your employees know to do the same.

If a harness is ever involved in a fall then it needs to be replaced. If a worker shows concern about the condition of a harness then it should be removed from use until you can replace it or confirm that it’s safe.

The right equipment is just the first step

It’s not enough to have the right equipment – your employees must also know how to use it. This is why training is essential. Make sure that every worker who may potentially use a harness knows how to use it correctly. The harness you purchase should provide clear instructions from the manufacturer on how it should be used. Review them closely and make sure your employees do as well.

The right harness keeps your job site safe and your workers secure. Whether you already have a system you like and just want an update, or you’re starting from scratch and don’t know what to look for, we can help. Stop by our convenient location or contact us at 909-544-4331 with any questions.