The simple answer is no.
A harness should be just one of many protective devices when working at heights.
Let’s take the example of a bread recipe. Is having flour at hand useful for making bread? Of course it does! Will you make bread with flour alone? We don’t recommend it.
Well, the same goes for your safety harness. Is it useful? Yes, and it could even save your life! But it’s not enough to have it to ensure the safety of a worker several meters above the ground.
It would be a good idea to list everything that should be applied before any operation at height.
Take advantage of this summary to get a head start on your procedures, but if you have any questions or concerns, call in an expert to help you draw up your plan.
What else?
Fall protection harness: An integral harness is the foundation of a fall protection system. It distributes the forces generated during a fall over the shoulders, chest and legs, thus reducing the risk of injury. The harness must be properly adjusted and inspected regularly by a competent person. You can also find out everything there is to know about fitting and maintaining a harness right here!
Guardrails and baseboards: Wherever possible, guardrails should be installed along raised platforms or edges to prevent falls. Baseboards can be added to protect against objects falling from the work surface.
Anchor points: Secure anchor points are essential for attaching lifelines or lanyards. These points must be designed and tested to withstand the anticipated load and positioned appropriately to ensure the worker’s safety.
Lanyards and lifelines: A lanyard or lifeline is a connecting device that links the worker’s harness to a safe anchorage point. It must be made of strong, durable material and of suitable length to avoid touching the ground or other hazards in the event of a fall. Kosto has thought of this for you with its certified lifelines.
Safety nets: Safety nets can be installed below the work area as a secondary means of protection in the event of a fall. They can help cushion the fall and reduce the risk of serious injury. Safety nets must be correctly installed, regularly inspected and comply with the relevant safety standards.
Personal protective equipment (PPE): In addition to the fall protection system, workers must wear other PPE as required, such as hard hats, safety glasses, gloves and non-slip footwear. PPE must be adapted to the specific task and offer adequate protection against potential hazards.
Raised work platforms: If working at height involves using equipment such as scaffolding, aerial work platforms or aerial work platforms, ensure they are properly maintained and inspected regularly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines for their use.
And though not tangible, you should always remember that training and a solid understanding of safety measures are as much a part of the worker’s mind as his lifeline on the anchor point.
Safety training and procedures: Workers must receive thorough training in working at heights, including hazard identification, correct use of equipment, emergency procedures and rescue techniques. They must also be familiar with relevant safety regulations and guidelines.
Remember that the specific equipment required may vary according to the nature of the work and the regulations in force in your province of employment. It is crucial to consult and follow the guidelines provided by safety authorities and employers to ensure a safe working environment at heights.
When in doubt, consult an SPI expert because you don’t need to think about safety from a height of several meters.
In doubt about your fall protection equipment? Don’t take any chances. Find the right one right here!
