Working at heights carries significant risks, making dependable fall protection equipment necessary for workers in construction, maintenance, industrial, and other high-risk settings. A properly chosen body harness and lanyard can assist lower the risk of serious injury by supporting the worker and linking them to an adequate fall protection system. 

However, not every harness or lanyard provides equal level of protection. Safety standards and certifications assist customers in identifying equipment that has been tested and manufactured in accordance with recognized specifications. Understanding these guidelines will help you purchase appropriate equipment for your workplace. 

Why Are Safety Standards Important? 

Safety standards outline the design, testing, performance, and application of fall prevention devices. A certified body harness and lanyard must meet particular standards for strength, durability, energy absorption, attachment points, and overall performance. 

Choosing equipment that meets established standards increases confidence that it has been properly tested. It also assists firms in implementing improved workplace safety standards and selecting equipment appropriate for the intended application. 

Key Standards to Look For 

Various areas and sectors have varying safety regulations. Before purchasing a body harness and lanyard, make sure you know which requirements apply to your job. 

EN 361: Full Body Harnesses 

EN 361 is a well-known European standard for full-body harnesses used in personal fall protection systems. It focuses on the criteria and testing techniques for harnesses used to safeguard workers from falls. 

When purchasing a harness, look for relevant certification indications and ensure that the equipment is designed for fall arrest applications. 

EN 355 - Energy-Absorbing Lanyards 

EN 355 covers energy absorbers used in personal fall prevention equipment. Energy-absorbing lanyards are intended to lessen the forces encountered by workers during a fall. 

For applications requiring fall arrest, selecting an appropriate lanyard with an energy absorber can be a crucial component of a well-designed protective system. 

EN 354 – Lanyards 

EN 354 applies to lanyards used as part of personal fall protection systems. These lanyards can be utilized for a variety of reasons, depending on the overall system design. 

It is vital to remember that a lanyard should not be chosen independently of the rest of the fall prevention system. The harness, lanyard, connectors, anchor point, and other components should all be suitable and appropriate for the intended purpose. 

EN 362 - Connectors 

EN 362 covers connectors such as hooks, karabiners, and other connection devices. These components connect different aspects of a fall protection system. 

A sturdy harness and lanyard will not provide adequate protection if the couplings are incorrect, broken, or mismatched. Before using any connector, always double-check its specifications and locking mechanism. 

ANSI/ASSP Standards 

In businesses that adhere to American standards, ANSI/ASSP rules may also be applicable. ANSI/ASSP Z359 standards encompass a wide range of personal fall protection system components, including harnesses, lanyards, connectors, and related equipment. 

When purchasing equipment for a specific project, firms should consider the relevant regional and industry criteria rather than presuming that a single certification is appropriate for every workplace. 

Check the Product Markings and Documentation 

Certification should not be based just on the appearance of a product. Before purchasing a body harness and lanyard, review the product label, manufacturer information, certification data, model number, and usage instructions. 

Reliable items should come with proper paperwork that explains their intended usage, limitations, inspection requirements, and maintenance procedures. If the certification information is unclear or missing, obtain clarification before using the device. 

Consider the Application Before Purchasing 

The appropriate certification is only one aspect of choosing fall prevention equipment. Consider the sort of job to be done, working height, potential fall distance, anchor placement, movement requirements, environmental conditions, and compatibility with other components. 

Workers who must regularly move throughout a workplace, for example, may require a different lanyard configuration than those who execute a task in a permanent position. The equipment should always correspond to the actual work environment. 

Inspect Your Equipment Regularly 

Even certified equipment might become harmful if it is damaged, worn, polluted, or not properly maintained. Before using their body harness and lanyard, workers should inspect them according to the manufacturer's guidelines. 

Inspect for cuts, burns, broken stitching, excessive wear, corrosion, damaged hardware, or other evident flaws. Equipment that has been involved in a fall should be removed from service and evaluated in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. 

Final Thoughts 

Safety certifications are a useful starting point when selecting a body harness and lanyard, but they do not guaranty safe use. Businesses should choose equipment based on applicable regulations, workplace conditions, manufacturer instructions, and the needs of the entire fall protection system. 

Employers can make better judgments and establish safer working environments for people who work at heights by reviewing accepted standards, evaluating product documentation, selecting suitable components, and conducting frequent inspections.