Safety Harness Buying Guide 2025: Types, Standards & How to Choose

When it comes to working at height, a safety harness isn’t optional — it’s essential. Whether you’re a roofer, tower climber, or construction worker, the right harness can be the difference between life and death.
In this Safety Harness Buying Guide 2025, we’ll help you understand the different types, safety standards, and key features to look for before making your purchase.

A safety harness is a piece of fall protection equipment designed to hold a person securely in place and distribute impact forces evenly in case of a fall. It connects to an anchorage point via a lanyard or lifeline, forming part of a complete fall arrest system.

Understanding the right type of harness for your task is critical:

Type	Best For	Key Features
Full Body Harness	General construction, maintenance	Distributes fall impact across shoulders, thighs, and pelvis
Positioning Harness	Tower climbing, scaffolding	Allows hands-free work while keeping user in position
Suspension Harness	Window cleaning, rescue work	Provides comfort during extended suspension
Retrieval Harness	Confined spaces	Dorsal D-ring for rescue and lifting
Climbing Harness	Rope access, mountaineering	Lightweight and ergonomic

Before buying, ensure compliance with industry standards:

• OSHA 1910.140 / 1926.502 (USA)
• ANSI Z359.11 (USA)
• EN 361:2002 (Europe)

Always check your harness labeling for certification marks and serial numbers.

Here’s a quick checklist to guide your purchase:
✅ Match harness type to job task
✅ Verify certification (OSHA/ANSI/EN)
✅ Check fit and comfort (adjustable straps)
✅ Inspect stitching, buckles, and D-rings
✅ Choose corrosion-resistant hardware for outdoor use

Regular inspection ensures long-term safety:

• Look for frayed webbing, broken stitching, or rusted parts
• Clean with mild soap and water — avoid harsh chemicals
• Record inspection dates in a logbook
• Replace after any fall or visible damage

Safety Harness FAQs

Q: How long does a safety harness last?
A: Typically 5 years, depending on usage and manufacturer guidelines.

Q: Can I wash my harness?
A: Yes, gently with mild soap and air dry completely before use.

Q: How often should I inspect my safety harness?
A: Before each use and at least once every 6 months by a competent person.

Choosing the right safety harness means balancing comfort, safety, and compliance. Always inspect your gear, follow fall protection standards, and invest in quality equipment that protects your life at height.