Safe Use of Harnesses and Lanyards Toolbox Talk (TBT)
Introduction
Good morning, everyone. Today’s Toolbox Talk focuses on the Safe Use of Harnesses and Lanyards, an essential part of fall protection. Falls are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities, especially in construction, oil & gas, and industrial work environments.
Proper use of harnesses and lanyards can save lives by preventing falls or reducing the impact if a fall occurs. However, incorrect usage, damaged equipment, or lack of training can lead to severe consequences.
In today’s discussion, we will cover:
- Why fall protection is important
- Understanding full-body harnesses and lanyards
- When to use a harness and lanyard
- How to properly inspect equipment
- Correct way to wear a harness
- Types of lanyards and how to use them
- Common mistakes and hazards
- Proper storage and maintenance
- Emergency procedures and rescue planning
- Your role in fall protection safety
Let’s go through these topics in detail.
1. Why Fall Protection is Important
Falls from height are one of the most common causes of workplace deaths. Many of these accidents occur because workers:
❌ Fail to wear fall protection equipment
❌ Use damaged or worn-out harnesses and lanyards
❌ Attach lanyards to weak or improper anchor points
❌ Do not properly adjust their harnesses
❌ Work in unsafe conditions without proper precautions
🚨 Properly using a harness and lanyard can mean the difference between life and death.
2. Understanding Full-Body Harnesses and Lanyards
A fall arrest system consists of:
✔ Full-body harness – Worn by the worker to distribute fall impact evenly.
✔ Lanyard – A connecting device that absorbs shock and prevents sudden stops.
✔ Anchor point – A secure structure where the lanyard is attached.
🚨 Never rely on just one piece of equipment—always ensure the full system is in place!
3. When to Use a Harness and Lanyard
🔹 Working at height (above 6 feet in general industry, 4 feet in construction)
🔹 Working near edges, ledges, or open holes
🔹 Using ladders, scaffolding, or aerial lifts
🔹 Performing tasks where fall hazards exist
🚨 If there is ANY chance of a fall, you must wear a harness and lanyard!
4. How to Properly Inspect Equipment
Before using a harness and lanyard, always inspect them for damage.
🔹 Check the Harness:
✔ Look for cuts, frays, burns, or broken stitching in the straps.
✔ Ensure metal buckles and D-rings are not cracked or bent.
✔ Pull the straps—if they feel stiff or brittle, replace the harness.
🔹 Check the Lanyard:
✔ Look for tears, knots, or frayed webbing.
✔ Ensure snap hooks and carabiners lock securely.
✔ For shock-absorbing lanyards, check for signs of deployment (stretched or damaged fabric).
🚨 Never use damaged or defective equipment. Report it immediately!
5. Correct Way to Wear a Harness
- Hold the harness by the D-ring and shake it to untangle the straps.
- Slip the shoulder straps over your arms like a jacket.
- Adjust the leg straps and fasten them securely.
- Buckle the chest strap at mid-chest level.
- Tighten all straps so they fit snugly, but allow movement.
- Ensure the D-ring is centered between your shoulder blades.
🚨 A loose or improperly worn harness will NOT protect you in case of a fall!
6. Types of Lanyards and How to Use Them
There are different types of lanyards for various tasks:
| Type of Lanyard | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Shock-absorbing lanyards | Reduce fall impact by stretching to absorb energy |
| Self-retracting lifelines (SRL) | Automatically lock to prevent free falls |
| Positioning lanyards | Allow controlled movement while working at height |
| Rescue lanyards | Used in emergency descent and evacuation |
✔ Always attach your lanyard to a strong anchor point capable of holding 5,000 lbs.
✔ Never tie a lanyard to itself—use proper connectors.
✔ Keep lanyard slack minimal to reduce fall distance.
🚨 Incorrect lanyard use can result in serious injury or death!
7. Common Mistakes and Hazards
❌ Wearing a harness too loose or too tight
❌ Attaching the lanyard to a weak or unstable structure
❌ Using a lanyard that is too long
❌ Not inspecting equipment before use
❌ Misusing or modifying fall protection gear
🚨 One small mistake can lead to a fatal fall! Always double-check your safety.
8. Proper Storage and Maintenance
✔ Store harnesses and lanyards in a clean, dry area away from chemicals and direct sunlight.
✔ Never drag or step on lanyards—they can weaken over time.
✔ Replace equipment if it has been involved in a fall, shows wear, or is expired.
🚨 Well-maintained equipment = safer workers!
9. Emergency Procedures and Rescue Planning
If a worker falls while wearing a harness and lanyard:
- Do not panic—stay as still as possible to avoid swinging.
- Coworkers should activate the emergency response plan.
- Use a rescue ladder or descent system to safely retrieve the worker.
- If rescue is delayed, use relief straps to reduce pressure on the legs.
🚨 Never work alone when using fall protection—ALWAYS have a rescue plan!
10. Your Role in Fall Protection Safety
✅ Wear your harness properly—every time!
✅ Inspect equipment before every use.
✅ Use the right lanyard for the task.
✅ Ensure you are attached to a strong anchor point.
✅ Follow all company fall protection policies.
🚨 Your safety is in your hands—make sure you are protected at all times!
Conclusion
Wearing a harness and lanyard correctly can save your life. Never take shortcuts when working at height. If you see a coworker using fall protection incorrectly, speak up—you could prevent a serious injury or fatal accident.
🔹 Does anyone have any questions or experiences to share about using harnesses and lanyards?
Remember: Safety First!
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