Following our guide on how to inspect a safety harness fully, now follow our step by step guide to fitting a safety harness correctly and safely:
Step 1 - Fitting - shoulder and chest
- Fit the harness over both shoulders and place your arms through the shoulder straps. The D ring should be positioned in the middle of the back between the shoulder blades.
- Adjust both shoulder straps to bring the chest strap squarely in line with your sternum (breast bone). Make sure both shoulder straps are adjusted to an equal length.
- Connect the chest strap and position in mid-chest area. Tighten to keep the shoulder straps taut.
Stage 2 - Fitting - legs
- Pull the harness down at the back so the sub pelvic strap sits under the buttocks.
- Connect leg buckles and adjust to a snug but comfortable fit.
- Failure to ensure that both leg straps pass between your legs, are not twisted and are adjusted so they sit into your groin, may cause serious injury during an arrested fall.
- The sub-pelvic strap should be at the top of your thigh muscle and not be at the base of your spine.
- Ensure the harness is not twisted and the ‘A’ frame is free from obstruction.
Finally, check the fit of the harness regularly – we suggest every 2 hours you check:
- Shoulder straps are evenly adjusted
- Leg and chest straps are connected
- Chest strap is positioned squarely over sternum
- D ring is positioned centrally
- Leg straps are evenly adjusted and correctly positioned
Safety Harness Training Course
The MRS Training & Rescue Safety Harness course is designed for anyone who works at height – and teaches delegates how to inspect, wear and use full body safety harnesses correctly. As with the majority of our courses, this course is highly practical and delegates learn how to use safety harnesses on purpose built facilities.
Drawing on extensive hands-on experience in confined spaces and working at height, Dan specialises in delivering bespoke training and emergency response solutions. He has worked on complex international projects and currently manages major contracts, ensuring the safety and preparedness of rescue teams across the UK.
