Choosing The Right Australian Standard Safety Harness For You

Safety should always come first when working at heights or in hazardous environments. A safety harness is an essential piece of equipment to protect workers in these situations. However, not all safety harnesses are created equal, and selecting the right one for your needs is critical. So, let’s go over the key factors to consider when choosing the best Australian standard safety harness to keep your employees safe.

Understand the Types of Safety Harnesses

There are three main styles to consider: full-body, multi-purpose, and specialty harnesses.

Full-Body Harnesses

Full-body harnesses are the most common type and are suitable for general use in various industries and applications. These harnesses are designed to distribute the impact forces throughout the body in the event of a fall, providing maximum protection.

Multi-Purpose Harnesses

Multi-purpose harnesses offer versatility and can be used in various industries and applications. These harnesses are designed to provide fall protection while catering to other needs, such as tool-carrying capabilities or additional attachment points.

Speciality Harnesses

Speciality harnesses are designed for specific tasks or working environments with unique safety requirements. For example, tower climbing harnesses are specifically engineered to provide support and protection when working at heights on telecommunications towers or wind turbines.

Understanding the various types of safety harnesses available allows you to select the one that best fits your specific working conditions and requirements. It is critical to consider the nature of your tasks, potential hazards, and any specialised equipment or attachments you may require.

Consider Comfort And Fit

A safety harness should provide safety and ensure comfort and a proper fit. Look for harnesses that offer adjustable straps, allowing you to customise the fit to your body size and shape. You should also opt for harnesses with padding in critical areas, which can help distribute pressure and alleviate discomfort.
It’s important to try on different harnesses and assess their fit before making a final decision. Ensure that the harness fits snugly but not too tightly, as overly tight harnesses can restrict movement and lead to discomfort or fatigue. Conversely, a loose-fitting harness may compromise safety and fail to provide adequate support in the event of a fall.

Check Weight And Mobility

Depending on your specific work environment and tasks, different factors related to weight and mobility should be considered when selecting a harness. If you’re required to move around frequently or work in tight spaces, a lightweight and compact harness may be preferable.
By selecting a lightweight and compact harness with easy-wearing attachment points, you can ensure greater mobility and flexibility in your work environment. This improves your comfort, increases productivity, and decreases the amount of time spent on harness-related tasks, allowing you to focus on your primary job responsibilities.
It is important to note that while weight and mobility are essential considerations, they should not jeopardise the harness’ safety and performance. Always ensure that the harness you select meets the safety standards and provides fall protection for your work environment.

Evaluate Durability And Quality

When it comes to safety harnesses, durability and quality are paramount considerations. Investing in a high-quality harness ensures its longevity and reliable performance in protecting workers. Choose harnesses made of durable materials that can withstand wear and tear, reinforced stitching at critical stress points, and corrosion-resistant hardware.
Furthermore, safety harnesses for Australian standards should comply with AS/NZS 1891.1:2007, which sets the requirements for industrial fall-arrest systems and devices. Look for clearly labelled harnesses that have been independently certified to meet this standard.

Consider Additional Features

While the primary purpose of a safety harness is fall protection, some harnesses offer additional features that can enhance safety and convenience. These may include built-in tool belts, accessory attachment points, reflective strips for visibility, and rescue handles for emergencies. Assess your needs and consider whether these additional features would benefit your work environment.
When considering additional features, it’s important to assess your specific work environment and tasks to determine their relevance and usefulness. Not all features may be necessary or suitable for your particular needs. However, if any of these features align with your requirements and can enhance your work operations, they are worth considering when selecting a safety harness.

Don’t Forget Training and Compliance

Remember, a safety harness is only as effective as the knowledge and compliance of the individuals using it. Prioritising proper training and compliance with safety guidelines is crucial to harnessing the full potential of the safety harness and ensuring the well-being of workers in hazardous environments.
As such, ensure you and your workers receive proper training on correctly wearing and using the harness. Familiarise yourself with the Australian Standards For safety harness guidelines to ensure compliance and proper harness usage.

Source Your Australian Standard Safety Harnesses From LiftQuip

When it comes to sourcing Australian Standard safety harnesses, LiftQuip is your trusted partner. With a reputation for providing high-quality safety equipment, LiftQuip offers a wide range of harnesses that comply with The Australian Safety Standard. Contact us today to learn more.