How To Use Safety Harness and Lanyard

A safety harness is a piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) intended to protect workers from falls when working at heights or in elevated positions. It is naturally made of durable nylon webbing and consists of straps, buckles, and attachment points.

A safety harness is worn around the torso and is intended to distribute the forces of a fall over the strongest parts of the body, such as the chest, shoulders, and thighs, reducing the risk of injury.

A lanyard is a flexible line or strap that connects the safety harness to an anchor point or secure structure. It is an essential component of a fall protection system. Lanyards are typically made of synthetic fibers or metal cables and are available in various lengths.

They have connectors at each end to attach to the safety harness and an anchor point. The purpose of the lanyard is to keep the worker connected to a secure point, preventing them from falling to the ground or another lower level in the event of a slip or fall.

In summary, a safety harness is worn by a worker and provides support and fall protection, while a lanyard is a connecting line that links the safety harness to an anchor point, keeping the worker secured and preventing falls.

What is Safety Harness and Lanyard?

A safety harness is a type of personal protective equipment (PPE) used to protect workers from falls when working at heights or in situations where there is a risk of falling. It is intended to distribute the forces of a fall over the body and reduce the risk of injury.

A safety harness naturally consists of straps, buckles, and add-on points. It is worn around the torso, with shoulder straps and leg straps to secure it in place. The harness is made of durable materials such as nylon webbing or synthetic fibers to provide strength and reliability.

A lanyard, on the other hand, is a connecting device used in conjunction with a safety harness. It is a flexible line or strap that attaches to the harness on one end and connects to an anchor point or secure structure on the other end. The purpose of the lanyard is to keep the worker connected to a secure point, preventing them from falling to the ground or another lower level in the event of a slip or fall.

Lanyards can be made of various materials, including synthetic fibers or metal cables, and come in different lengths and configurations to suit different working conditions. They often have connectors, such as snap hooks or carabiners, at each end to attach to the harness and the anchor point.

Together, the safety harness and lanyard form an essential part of a fall protection system, providing workers with the necessary support and fall arrest capabilities to work safely at heights.

How to Use Safety Harness and Lanyard

Using a safety harness and lanyard is an important safety practice when working at heights. Here are the general steps for correctly using a safety harness and lanyard:

Choose the Right Equipment

Ensure that you have the appropriate safety harness and lanyard for the task at hand. Select equipment that meets safety regulations and is suitable for the specific work environment.

Inspect Equipment

Before using the safety harness and lanyard, inspect them for any signs of damage, such as frayed straps, broken buckles, or worn-out stitching. If you notice any issues, replace the equipment before proceeding.

Put on the Harness

Step into the harness with both feet, ensuring it is correctly oriented. Lift the harness up and fasten the leg straps around your legs, securing them snugly but not too tight. Buckle the waist belt, making sure it is positioned comfortably above your hips.

Adjust the Harness

Adjust the straps on the harness to achieve a proper fit. Make sure the shoulder straps are snug, and the waist belt is centered on your body. The harness should be tight enough to prevent excessive movement but still allow for comfortable breathing and freedom of movement.

Attach the Lanyard

Connect one end of the lanyard to the designated attachment point on the harness. This is usually located at the back between the shoulder blades. Ensure that the lanyard is securely fastened.

Verify Connections

Double-check that all connections are properly secured and that there is no slack in the lanyard. Ensure that the lanyard is not twisted or tangled.

Test the Equipment

Before relying on the safety harness and lanyard, perform a brief test to ensure they are functioning correctly. Apply a slight amount of weight to the harness by squatting down or taking a small step to confirm that the equipment is holding you securely.

Work Safely

Once you have confirmed that the safety harness and lanyard are correctly set up and functioning properly, proceed with your work while staying connected to the anchor point at all times.

Regularly Inspect and Maintain

Throughout your work, periodically check the harness and lanyard for any signs of wear or damage. Replace any equipment that shows signs of compromise.

Remember, these steps are general guidelines, and it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and any specific safety regulations relevant to your work environment. Additionally, receiving proper training on the use of safety harnesses and fall protection systems is essential to ensure your safety when working at heights.