Usage and Maintenance of Personal Fall Protection Systems

1) Harness Donning Method – 6 Simple Steps to Save Your Life

  1. Grip the D-ring on the back of the harness, shake the harness to align all webbing straps. Inspect all components for damage. Check the label to confirm proper sizing.
  1. Unfasten straps/buckles: If the chest, waist, or leg buckles are closed, release the webbing or open the buckles.
  1. Slip shoulder straps over your shoulders, ensuring the D-ring rests centrally between your shoulder blades.
  1. Attach leg straps: Pull the leg straps between your legs. Use one hand to pass the rear leg strap from behind through the groin to the other hand. Secure the buckle and repeat for the second leg strap. If a waist strap is present, fasten it after the leg straps.
  1. Secure the chest strap at the center of your chest. Tighten shoulder straps and tuck excess webbing into keepers to prevent slippage.
  1. Final adjustments: After all straps and buckles are secured, tighten them to ensure the harness fits snugly without restricting movement. Tuck excess webbing into keepers.

2) Warnings: Failure to comply may result in life-threatening risks or severe damage to the fall protection system

First Check: Pre-Use Inspection

  • Inspect webbing fibers, seams, and stitching for integrity—no breaks, degradation, wear, or burns.
  • Ensure D-rings and metal components are free of deformation, corrosion, or rust.
  • Check energy absorber covers for cracks or warning indicators.
  • Verify safety hooks, snap hooks, and self-locking mechanisms function properly.
  • Confirm fall arresters (cables/webbing) retract freely and arrest correctly.

Second Check: Periodic Inspection

  • Annual inspection by qualified personnel per manufacturer guidelines. Document prior inspections in attached logs.
  • Increase frequency for heavy use or harsh environments as specified.

Third Check: Disposal Protocol

  • Immediately retire equipment if safety is in doubt or after a fall event. Return to the manufacturer or certified repair centers for inspection or destruction.
  • Post-inspection, the repair center will provide written authorization or rejection for continued use.
  • No unauthorized modifications—only the manufacturer or certified centers may repair PPE.