The Gear That Keeps You Safe, Secure, and Supported
When working at heights, your safety depends on more than just avoiding a fall—it depends on what happens if a fall occurs. That’s where the “B” in the ABCs of fall protection comes into play: Body Support.
What is Body Support?
Body support refers to the harness that a worker wears when using a fall protection system. Its primary role is to distribute fall forces across the body in a way that minimizes injury, while also keeping the worker upright and suspended safely if a fall occurs.
Unlike older-style belts, today’s full-body harnesses are designed with modern ergonomics and safety standards in mind. They protect vital areas of the body by distributing force through the shoulders, thighs, chest, and pelvis.
Why Full-Body Harnesses Matter
In a fall arrest situation, forces can reach over 1,800 pounds. A properly fitted and certified harness will spread that load over the strongest parts of the body and reduce the risk of severe injury. In fact, the difference between a good harness and a poor one can be life-changing—or even life-saving.
Key Features to Look For
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D-Rings: Most commonly found on the back (dorsal), but additional rings on the hips or chest may be needed for positioning or rescue operations.
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Adjustability: A proper fit is crucial. Look for harnesses with adjustable straps at the legs, chest, and shoulders.
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Padding and Comfort: Modern harnesses offer padded straps to improve comfort during long shifts.
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Quick-Connect Buckles: For fast, secure donning and doffing.
Best Practices for Using Body Support Equipment
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Always inspect the harness before each use—look for fraying, damage, rusted hardware, or missing tags.
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Ensure a snug, secure fit. Loose straps can cause more harm in a fall.
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Train workers on how to properly wear and adjust their harnesses.
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Replace harnesses that have been involved in a fall or show any sign of compromise.
Final Thoughts
Body support is more than just gear—it’s your lifeline. A quality harness that fits properly can mean the difference between walking away from a fall and suffering serious injury. Investing in the right equipment—and using it correctly—is critical to your safety.
At Michigan Safety Products, we offer a wide range of OSHA-compliant full-body harnesses from top manufacturers. Not sure which one you need? Our team is always here to help you find the right fit for your job and budget.