ERGONOMICS IN THE CONTEXT OF WORK-AT-HEIGHT HARNESSES

CONTEXT

In the context of work-at-height harnesses, ergonomics refers to the design and adaptation of harnesses to fit the human body comfortably and efficiently while ensuring safety. This involves creating harnesses that distribute weight evenly, maintain proper posture, reduce physical strain and allow for a full range of movement. The goal is to enhance the user’s comfort, minimize the risk of injury and improve overall performance during work at height.

DESIGN

Ergonomics plays a crucial role in the design of harnesses used for working at height. Harnesses are engineered to ensure that they align with the principles of human factors engineering, focusing on the interaction between the user and the equipment to promote safety, comfort and efficiency.

One of the key ergonomic principles in harness design is maintaining neutral postures. Neutral postures involve keeping the body aligned and balanced, reducing stress on joints and muscles. Well designed harnesses distribute weight evenly across the body, ensuring that when a person is suspended or working at height, their body remains in a position that minimizes strain and prevents injury. This can be done, for example, through choosing harnesses that can easily be adjusted, with good padding in well situated locations and with well placed anchoring positions of the d-links.

The ergonomic design of harnesses not only focuses on maintaining neutral postures and distributing weight evenly but also emphasizes the benefits of lightweight construction. A lighter harness enhances comfort, mobility and safety, making it a critical aspect of effective work-at-height solutions. By reducing the overall weight of the harness, manufacturers help minimize the physical burden on the wearer, which directly impacts comfort, mobility and endurance. A lighter harness allows for greater freedom of movement, enabling workers to perform tasks more efficiently without feeling weighed down. This is particularly important in jobs that require extended periods of time at height, where carrying unnecessary weight can lead to fatigue, strain and even long-term musculoskeletal issues. Additionally, a lightweight harness can improve safety by reducing the risk of improper use or adjustment. Workers are more likely to wear and correctly position a harness that feels comfortable and unobtrusive. This adherence to proper usage protocols ensures that the harness performs its function effectively, providing the necessary protection in the event of a fall.

Designers of harnesses also prioritise the selection of materials that support ergonomic principles. The materials used in the construction of harnesses, such as webbing, padding and buckles, are chosen for their ability to provide both strength and comfort. Soft, breathable fabrics reduce chafing and increase wearability, while durable yet flexible webbing allows for secure, adjustable fittings. The use of lightweight, high-strength materials ensures that the harness remains robust without adding unnecessary bulk, further enhancing comfort and mobility. This careful selection of materials contributes to a harness that is not only safe and durable but also ergonomic, supporting the user’s well-being during extended periods of work at height.

SELECTING THE CORRECT HARNESS

When selecting a harness, it is crucial to match the harness type to the specific application, as different work environments and tasks demand varying levels of support, mobility and protection. For example, harnesses designed for fall arrest work are primarily focused on stopping a fall safely. These harnesses typically feature strong attachment points and are built to distribute the force of a fall across the body to minimize injury. While they provide essential safety features, they may offer less mobility and comfort for extended use compared to other types of harnesses. On the other hand, harnesses designed for rope access work prioritise both safety and mobility. Rope access harnesses often have additional attachment points for tools, padded leg loops and greater adjustability to allow for comfortable and efficient movement while suspended for long periods. The ergonomic design of these harnesses supports the user’s posture and reduces fatigue, which is critical in demanding rope access environments.

Ergonomics is significantly influenced by the purpose of the harness. A harness tailored for a specific application ensures that workers can perform their tasks efficiently and safely without compromising on comfort. Using the correct harness for the job not only enhances safety but also reduces strain and discomfort, allowing workers to focus on their tasks rather than being hindered by their equipment.

PURCHASING A HARNESS

When purchasing a harness for work at height, several ergonomic considerations should be taken into account to ensure safety, comfort and efficiency:

? Adjustability : Look for harnesses with adjustable straps to the fit according to the user’s body size and shape. Proper adjustment reduces stress on pressure points and ensures the harness remains secure during use.

? Padding : Harnesses with strategically placed padding, especially around the shoulders, waist and legs, enhance comfort by reducing the risk of chafing and pressure injuries during extended use.

? Breathability : Materials that allow for air circulation can prevent overheating and moisture build-up, making the harness more comfortable in hot or humid conditions.

? Ease of Use : Simple and intuitive buckle systems that are easy to fasten and release can prevent frustration and save time, encouraging proper harness usage.

? Freedom of Movement : The design should allow for a full range of motion, enabling workers to move freely without the harness restricting their activities or causing discomfort.

? Anchor-Point Positioning : Ergonomic harnesses should feature well placed anchor points that do not interfere with the worker’s tasks and maintain balance when weight is applied.

? Tool Carrying Options : Integrated loops or attachment points for tools and equipment can help evenly distribute the load and keep essential items within easy reach, reducing the need for awkward movements.

? Durability : The harness should be made of durable materials that resist wear and tear while maintaining flexibility and comfort.

? Weight Distribution : Ensure that the harness is designed to distribute the load evenly across the body, preventing concentrated stress on specific areas.

SUMMARY

Harnesses are designed with ergonomic principles to ensure they support neutral postures, evenly distribute weight and reduce physical strain, ultimately enhancing the safety and comfort of workers at height. Considering these ergonomic factors when purchasing a harness will contribute to the overall safety, comfort and productivity of workers operating at height.

Picture 2 and 3: Typical positions of a trained person suspended in a harness from the sternal point (front), awaiting a rescue. Note (in Picture 1), if the worker is conscious, the harness facilitates the worker to be in a more natural and ergonomical sitting position so that he may assist the rescuer.

TECHNICAL ENHANCEMENTS OF FULL-BODY HARNESSES

Rope access harness with easy-adjust buckle for effortless fitting. Streamline webbing with padded shoulder straps, leg loops and work-positioning belt. CE and EN certified