Fall protection harnesses are essential safety equipment for women who work at heights. While selecting the right harness is crucial, it is equally important to ensure that it fits properly to provide maximum protection in the event of a fall. Although there are some challenges associated with properly fitting fall protection harnesses for women, the notion that a harness designed specifically for females is necessary is simply a myth or marketing ploy. Universal fall protection harnesses are designed to fit both male and female bodies, but they must be appropriately sized and correctly fitted.
How to Properly Fit a Fall Protection Harness for Females
Here are some steps to follow to properly fit a traditional fall protection harness for women:
- Measure the torso: Measure the length of the torso from the base of the neck to the top of the hips. This measurement will determine the size of the harness required.
- Adjust the shoulder straps: The placement of shoulder straps can be a challenge for women because women’s shoulders tend to be narrower than men’s. This can cause the shoulder straps to slip off or rub uncomfortably against the neck. Once the harness is on, adjust the shoulder straps so they are snug but not too tight. The straps should not rub against the neck or cut into the shoulders. The rule of thumb is that the chest, shoulder, and leg straps should be snug enough that you CANNOT easily slip your palm of the hand through.
- Select the right size: One of the biggest mistakes women make when choosing fall protection equipment is incorrect sizing, which can lead to discomfort, chafing, and safety issues. Based on the measurements, choose a harness that fits snugly but comfortably. The shoulder straps should be positioned in the center of the shoulder, and the waist belt should sit just above the hips.
- Adjust the chest strap: The position of the chest strap is particularly important for woman. The chest strap should be positioned just above the bust and should be snug but not too tight. To ensure the best placement of the chest strap, select a harness that you can adjust the length of the torso strap as well as the chest strap. This will allow the harness to fit properly not only at the chest but also in the leg and hip area. The strap should be tight enough to prevent the harness from riding up in case of a fall.
- Adjust the leg straps: Legs straps can also be a challenge for women, especially those with wider hips. The straps may not fit properly, causing discomfort and even restricting movement. The leg straps should be snug but not too tight. They should be positioned just above the thighs and should not cut into the groin area.
- Check for proper fit: After adjusting the shoulder, chest, and straps, perform a final check to ensure that the harness fits properly. The harness should be snug but comfortable, and there should be no loose or twisted straps.
- Practice using the harness: Once the harness is properly fitted, practice using it in a controlled environment to ensure that it is comfortable and easy to use.
- Make sure the harness is CSA approved: Some universal fall protection harnesses, designed for to fit both male and females, may not meet CSA standards, putting them at risk of injury in event of a fall.
Fall protection harnesses should be inspected regularly for signs of wear and tear before each use. If any damage is found, the harness should be replaced immediately.
By following these steps, women can properly size, fit, and wear universal fall protection harnesses like Dentec’s NEW Koala Behr Harness comfortably and confidently, ensuring they are adequately protected while working from heights.
Dentec’s Saved a Life Program Dentec Safety is committed to protecting people, which is why if an individual falls while wearing a Dentec Safety harness and lanyard, we will provide them with free replacement products that were used to save their life. Simply return the used harness and lanyard to Dentec with a letter providing the details and date of the fall, and we will send a new replacement harness and lanyard FREE of charge along with a saved a life certificate.
Dentec Safety is a leading manufacturer and distributor of safety products in the North America since 2004. Dentec Safety is dedicated to providing the highest quality safety products and solutions delivering enhanced value and comfort. Our expertise from decades of experience in Industrial Safety and our innovative design technologies have solidified us as thought leaders in the field. Protection and comfort are at the core of everything we do at Dentec. As a leading manufacturer of Safety Solutions, it is our mission to help organizations do the right thing, keep their employees safe and exceed Industry Health & Safety Standard.
