Fall Arrest Belts and Safety Harnesses for Working Safely at Heights

Working at heights in construction and industry involves specific risks. When there is a risk of a fall, personal fall protection is essential to prevent injury. A fall arrest harness plays a key role in this regard. It is an essential component of personal protective equipment when working on scaffolding, work platforms, or in an aerial work platform. In addition to the fall arrest harness, a full-body harness is also used, depending on the nature and duration of the work. At All Safety, you’ll find professional solutions for working safely at heights, tailored for intensive use in construction and industry.

Fall Arrest Harness for Construction and Industry

A safety harness is widely used for work where employees are at height, such as on scaffolding, roofs, or in an aerial work platform. In these situations, it is important that the harness is properly secured and suited to the work environment.

A fall arrest harness for construction and industry is designed to remain securely in place during work without unnecessarily restricting freedom of movement. Especially when working in an aerial work platform, a safety harness is often required based on the Risk Assessment and Evaluation (RI&E) and applicable safety regulations. Proper attachment to a suitable anchor point prevents a worker from being thrown out of the work platform in the event of unexpected movements.

The choice of a suitable fall arrest harness depends on factors such as working height, duration of the work, and the company’s risk assessment.

What is the difference between a fall arrest harness and a full-body harness?

The difference between a fall arrest harness and a full-body harness lies primarily in the level of protection and force distribution in the event of a fall.

A fall arrest harness supports the body around the waist and is often used for positioning work or in combination with specific work methods. A full-body harness, on the other hand, encircles the upper body and distributes the forces across the shoulders, chest, and legs. This better absorbs the impact of a fall and reduces the risk of serious injury.

For work involving an increased risk of falling or when working at heights for extended periods, a full-body harness generally offers a higher level of safety. The choice between a fall arrest belt and a full-body harness is determined by the risks within the work environment and the requirements outlined in the Risk Inventory and Evaluation (RI&E).

Safe Use, Fit, and Certification

Working safely at heights requires not only the right fall arrest harness but also its correct use and proper adjustment. A well-fitting harness fits snugly without pinching and allows sufficient freedom of movement while working.

Fall arrest harnesses and full-body harnesses must comply with relevant European standards, such as EN 361 for fall protection. Regular inspection is essential to detect wear, damage, or aging in a timely manner. Only well-maintained and correctly used equipment provides the protection for which it was designed.

In practice, a fall arrest harness is often used in combination with a lanyard or fall arrest device, depending on the application and work situation. It is important that all components are compatible with one another and suitable for professional use in construction and industry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fall Arrest Harnesses and Safety Harnesses