Key information about fall arrest harnesses

What is a fall arrest harness and what is it used for?

Fall arrest harnesses are a central component of personal fall protection equipment and secure users during work at height. They connect the user via a lanyard, a guided type fall arrester or another safety system to a suitable anchor point and are designed to safely absorb and distribute the forces that occur in the event of a fall.

A SKYLOTEC fall arrest harness is used wherever there is a risk of falling – for example in construction, industry, maintenance, in wind energy, on masts, roofs or in rope access work. Key factors include not only compliant safety, but also comfort, easy adjustment and reliable performance in daily use.

Which standards must a fall arrest harness meet?

A fall arrest harness must meet the requirements of EN 361. This standard defines fall arrest harnesses as part of personal fall protection systems and ensures reliable performance in the event of a fall. Depending on the application, additional standards may apply, such as EN 358 for work positioning and restraint or EN 813 for sit harnesses in rope access work.

When selecting a harness, the specific tasks must always be considered. A simple EN 361 harness is suitable for standard fall protection, while more complex work often requires harnesses with additional attachment points. SKYLOTEC offers a range of harness solutions designed for construction, maintenance, industry, rescue, wind energy and rope access depending on the model.

Which harnesses are suitable for construction, industry and maintenance?

Robust, easy-to-adjust and comfortable harnesses are required in construction, industry and maintenance. The focus is on reliable basic equipment that can be quickly put on, fits securely and can be combined with standard safety systems. Central attachment points, accessible adjustment elements and stable fit during long working periods are particularly important.

SKYLOTEC harnesses such as IGNITE ION, IGNITE ION STRAP, ARG 30, ARG 30 E or ARG 40 are designed for typical applications in construction and maintenance. Depending on the model, they offer features such as textile loops, front attachment points, adjustable back D-rings or quick-release buckles.

Which harnesses are suitable for rope access, industrial climbing and rescue?

For rope access, industrial climbing and rescue, simple harnesses are often not sufficient. These applications require systems that combine fall protection, positioning and mobility. Multiple attachment points, ergonomic load distribution and high comfort are essential.

Depending on the application, full body harnesses, sit harnesses or modular systems are used. SKYLOTEC products such as IGNITE NIOB 2.0 or XARRIER support demanding rope work and rescue scenarios.

What is the difference between fall arrest, work positioning and sit harnesses?

Fall arrest harnesses are designed to safely stop a fall. They are used with lanyards, energy absorbers or guided fall arresters. Work positioning harnesses are used to maintain a stable working position, but do not replace a full fall arrest harness.

Sit harnesses are mainly used for suspended work or rope access. Combined with chest harnesses, they can be upgraded to full fall arrest systems.

How do you choose the right harness?

The right harness depends on risk assessment and application. Key factors include type of work, duration, anchor point position, required attachment points, user weight, mobility and system compatibility.

Lightweight harnesses are sufficient for occasional work, while ergonomic systems with padding and multiple attachment points are required for long-term or complex applications.

Why are ergonomics and fit important?

Ergonomics and fit determine whether a harness is used safely in daily work. Poor fit can restrict movement or cause pressure points. Adjustable straps, proper sizing and stable construction are essential.

SKYLOTEC harnesses offer features such as padding, breathable materials, quick-release systems and ergonomic design to improve safety and comfort.