5 Types of Safety Harnesses and How to Choose the Right One

When working at heights, using the correct safety harness is crucial for minimizing the risk of injury or death. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of safety harnesses available and explain when and why you should use each one to stay safe.

Why Safety Harnesses Are Essential

The importance of safety harnesses extends beyond simply keeping workers safe—they are a life-saving tool. Harnesses are designed to protect workers from severe injuries or fatalities, particularly in high-risk environments like construction sites.

According to WorkSafe NZ, investigations by the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment reveal alarming statistics about falls. More than 50% of falls happen from heights of less than three meters, and approximately 70% occur from ladders or roofs. These incidents cost an estimated $24 million annually, not to mention the human toll they take. Additionally, residential construction sites report the highest number of injuries in the sector.

Some of the main hazards workers face include:

Falling from height: This is one of the most dangerous risks on construction sites. A proper safety harness can help minimize the impact of a fall.
Being struck by an object: Tools, debris, and materials can pose serious risks on busy construction sites.
Electrocution: Electrical hazards are prevalent in many work environments, especially construction sites.
Trips and falls: These are common causes of injury, highlighting the need for awareness and vigilance on the job.

Harnesses offer a critical layer of protection against these dangers and help reduce the likelihood of serious harm.

5 Types of Safety Harnesses and Their Uses

While there are many types of safety harnesses available, the most common is the fall arrest harness, which is specifically designed to minimize the risk of injury or death in the event of a fall. However, other types of harnesses are suited for different types of tasks and environments. Here’s a rundown of the most common options:

Construction Safety Harness
This harness is designed for general construction work. It is versatile and can be used for a range of tasks, though it is not intended for high-risk fall scenarios.
Fall Arrest System
A fall arrest system typically includes a harness, lanyard, and anchor point. It is crucial for workers at height, as it minimizes injury in case of a fall.
Tower Climbing Harness
Designed specifically for workers on towers or elevated structures, this harness provides additional support and safety features for high-altitude tasks.
Rappelling Harness
Used in activities like rappelling or abseiling, this harness is designed for controlled descent down vertical surfaces.
Rescue Harness
A rescue harness is used in emergency situations to safely extract workers who are stranded or in unsafe positions.

Each type of harness has its unique features and is suited for different applications. It is vital to choose the right one based on the specific task at hand, as using the wrong harness can increase the risk of injury.

When to Use Each Type of Safety Harness

Choosing the right safety harness depends on the nature of the work and the specific risks involved. Here’s a guide to help you determine which harness to use:

Fall Arrest Harness: This is essential when working at height, particularly where there is a risk of falling. A fall arrest harness is typically used in combination with a lanyard attached to a secure anchor point.
Work Positioning Harness: Used when working in precarious or elevated positions, this harness allows workers to stay safely positioned while working, often with multiple attachment points to secure them.
Rescue Harness: This is crucial for workers involved in rescue operations, offering a range of attachment points for various types of extractions.

How Safety Harnesses Help Prevent Injuries

Falls are one of the leading causes of death and injury in construction, and safety harnesses play a key role in reducing these risks. By preventing falls, harnesses also help protect workers from other hazards, such as electrocution, chemical burns, and other injuries that may arise when working at height.

Harnesses should be an integral part of any workplace safety plan. However, they are not a substitute for other safety measures. Proper training and awareness are necessary to ensure harnesses are used effectively and correctly.

The Risks of Working Without a Safety Harness

Working at height without a safety harness is extremely dangerous. A fall from any height, even as low as a few meters, can lead to severe injury or death. By using the appropriate safety harness, workers can greatly reduce the risk of injury.

The key to safety is choosing a harness that fits comfortably and securely. Additionally, workers should be properly trained in how to use their harness and other fall protection equipment.

Best Practices for Using Fall Protection

It’s not enough for workers to simply wear a harness—they need to understand how to use it properly. Inadequate training can lead to improper use, increasing the risk of injury. Make sure workers are trained on how to properly secure and adjust their harness and are familiar with the different types of safety equipment available.

Additionally, it’s important to understand the difference between a Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) and a fall restraint system. PFAS is designed to stop a fall before the worker reaches the ground, while a fall restraint system is meant to prevent a worker from reaching the edge of a dangerous height in the first place. Understanding these systems can help you choose the right solution for your work environment.

How to Choose the Right Safety Harness

When selecting a safety harness, several factors should be considered:

Worker Weight and Height: Choose a harness that is designed to fit the individual worker. The harness should be adjustable to ensure it provides a snug, comfortable fit.
Type of Work: The nature of the job will dictate the type of harness required. For example, workers on construction sites or scaffolding will need a different harness than those working indoors or in confined spaces.
Environment: Consider environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and the presence of chemicals or dust. These factors may require specialized harnesses to ensure comfort and safety.
Duration of Use: For long-duration tasks, comfort is key. A harness with additional padding and features to reduce fatigue is essential.
Budget: While you may be on a budget, never compromise on safety. Choose a harness that meets industry standards and provides the protection workers need.

Final Thoughts

Under New Zealand’s Health and Safety in Employment Act (HSE Act), it is the responsibility of employers to ensure that workers are protected from falls and other hazards while working at height. Using the right safety harness is a fundamental part of this protection. By selecting the appropriate harness, training workers on its proper use, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations, you can create a safer work environment for everyone on site.

Check out our range of safety harnesses to find the best fit for your needs. Browse through our collection and invest in the right gear to keep yourself and your team safe.