Following a study conducted by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, falls account for approximately 39.2 percent of the construction industry’s occupational deaths. With the use of a suitable harness safety kit, these deaths can be prevented. Usually, falls occur into holes on floors, from the overhead platform, or at elevated workstations. Given the importance of a harness safety kit, it is essential to read the buying guide below before you shop for it.  

Application
When shopping for a harness safety kit, the first thing you need to consider is the purpose for which you need the harness. It is indeed one of the most straightforward aspects of the purchasing process because the job is usually specific. Typically, the harness safety kit is required for jobs such as tree care, tower climbing, construction site, or cleaning at a height. After your application is narrowed down, decide what kind of job you are doing that requires specialized equipment, such as rope access, rescue, and welding. These two factors will determine the type of harness you need. 

Size
When it comes to buying safety harness kits, there is no one-size-fits-all concept. The harness can indeed be adjusted to an extent, but not to the point that a size small or big enough can encompass every body type. Although this may seem like common sense to you, we have seen companies that order harness kits in one size for all their employees. If the harness is not a snug fit, the person wearing it is completely unprotected. However, bear in mind that the harness should be a snug fit but must not be too tight. The chest straps should sit at the chest and not the stomach, D-rings must sit between the shoulder blades, and you should comfortably be able to slide a flat hand (and not a fist) between the leg and the leg strap.  

Check the padding
Safety harness kits comprise a few straps that will come in contact with sensitive body parts. Thus, padding is a vital factor of consideration. Having cushioned legs, hips, and shoulder straps will ensure minimum pressure. A well-padded strap will enable the worker to work more comfortably and for a longer duration. In the event of a fall, the padded strap will conveniently adapt the shock and distribute the weight. Padding can be either removable or built-in, as per your need. 

Stitching quality
The kit’s stitching quality directly determines its durability. You must opt for a harness that has double box stitching. This is the kind that will assure maximum strength to accommodate your weight. It also accentuates durability as the sewn-in quality will last longer.