Types of Full Body Harness - IS 3521: 1999

There are numerous controversies and misconceptions about full body harnesses. This article aims to clear up any doubts regarding the different types of safety harnesses.

In this article, we will explore the types of full body harnesses according to IS 3521: 1999, the Indian Standard for safety belts.

What is a Safety Harness?

A safety harness is a piece of personal protective equipment consisting of a waist belt, shoulder straps with a lanyard, and an anchoring hook. It is used for fall arrest during work at height or for rescue operations.

Components of a Full Body Harness:

- Shoulder Strap

- Fall Arrest Attachment

- Shoulder Strap Retainer

- Pelvic Strap

- Thigh Strap

- Buckles

- Lanyard

- Hook

What is a Lanyard?

A component of the safety harness used to connect the harness to an anchoring point.

What is a Lifeline?

A medium to anchor the lanyard hook of the safety harness.

Webbing/Material of Safety Harness:

Nylon or polyester

Width & Thickness of Straps:

- Width: 40mm

- Thickness: 3mm

Strength or Breaking Strength of Straps:

- 19 kN (2000 kg)

Breaking Strength of Lanyard:

- 19 kN (2000 kg)

Length of Lanyard:

- Maximum 3 meters

Types of Full Body Harness

There are five main types of full body harnesses:

Classification of Safety Harness:

Class A - Fall Arresting
Class D - Controlled Descent
Class E - Confined Entry and Exit (Raising and Lowering)
Class L - Ladder Climbing (Frontal Attachment)
Class P - Work Positioning

Class A - Fall Arresting Safety Harness

The most commonly used type, designed to arrest the fall of a person working at height (above 1.8 meters). It is equipped with a D-ring on both shoulder straps at the back or front, to which the lanyard is attached.

Class D - Controlled Descent

Used to control or support a person while descending or lowering from height. This type also meets the Class A requirements and typically has a single D-ring at the front or side, but not at waist level.

Class E - Confined Entry and Exit (Raising and Lowering)

Commonly used for rescue operations or confined space entry, it meets Class A requirements and is equipped with D-rings on each shoulder strap.

Class L - Ladder Climbing (Frontal Attachment)

Used for ladder or tower climbing, it meets Class A requirements and has one or two D-rings at the front of the harness.

Class P - Work Positioning

Supports a person in a specific position while working at height (in a hanging position). It meets Class A requirements and has a D-ring at waist level.

ADCs of Fall Protection

There are three major components of a fall protection system:

A - Anchorage (Lifeline)
B - Body Wear (Harness)
C - Connecting Device (Lanyard)

FAQ's

SWL of Safety Harness?

The Safe Working Load (SWL) of a safety harness typically depends on its design and the materials used. However, for most standard harnesses, the SWL is around 140 kg (308 lbs).

Diameter of Lanyard?

The diameter of a lanyard can vary, but it usually ranges from 10 mm to 12 mm depending on the specific design and application.

When Does a Safety Harness Expire?

The lifespan of a safety harness is generally 5 years from the date of first use. However, this can vary depending on the manufacturer’s guidelines and the conditions under which the harness is used. Regular inspections are necessary to ensure safety.

Validity of TPI for Safety Harness?

Third-Party Inspection (TPI) validity for safety harnesses is typically one year. However, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and conduct periodic inspections to ensure the harness remains in good condition and safe for use.

Conclusion

There are five types of full body harnesses, classified based on their use and purpose. While there are slight differences between them, all meet the requirements of Class A - Fall Arresting harnesses, featuring at least one D-ring at the back strap joint or front.

Note: The types of full body harnesses discussed are as per IS 3521: 1999; classifications may differ according to other standards.

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