What is a scaffold harness?

A scaffold harness is a type of personal protective equipment (PPE) worn by workers when working at heights on a scaffold. The harness is worn around the worker’s body and attaches to a secure anchor point on the scaffold. In the event of a fall, the harness will keep the worker from hitting the ground, preventing serious injury or death. It is important that scaffold harnesses are properly fitted, inspected, and maintained to ensure they will function correctly in the event of a fall.

When does a scaffold harness need to be worn in the UK?

In the UK, a scaffold harness must be worn by any worker who is at risk of falling more than 2 metres (6.5 feet) while working on a scaffold. This includes workers who are accessing or working on the scaffold, as well as those who are working near the edge of the scaffold. The harness must be properly secured and attached to an appropriate anchor point. It is the employer’s responsibility to provide the appropriate safety equipment and ensure that it is being used correctly.

How to use a scaffold harness, UK

In the UK, the proper use of a scaffold harness includes the following steps:

Inspect the harness before use to ensure that it is in good condition and free of damage.

Put the harness on by threading your arms through the straps and fastening the buckle around your waist.

Adjust the straps so that the harness fits snugly but is not too tight.

Connect the harness to the scaffold’s tie-off point or fall arrest system. This is typically done by attaching a lanyard or connecting the harness to a horizontal lifeline.

Make sure that the connection point is secure and that the harness is not twisted or twisted.

Double-check the harness and all connections before beginning work to ensure that everything is secure and in the correct position.

Always work within the guidelines of the manufacturer’s instructions and the safety regulations of the site.

Always ensure that the harness is properly secured and connected to an appropriate anchor point while working on the scaffold.

It is important to note that a scaffold harness is only one part of a complete fall protection system and should be used in conjunction with other safety measures, such as guardrails, to provide maximum protection for workers on scaffolding.