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Fall Protection Use & Care
Greater safety and compliance when working at heights
How to wear a vest-style full body harness correctly
3M full body harnesses are designed to provide maximum protection when properly worn in combination with other suitable fall protection components such as lanyards and anchorages. To ensure complete fall coverage and compliance with safety regulations, make sure to follow these steps when putting on your vest-style full body harness.
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1. Inspect the harnessInspect prior and after each use and conduct a detailed inspection once every 6 months. Check that there are no markings, cuts, burns or damage and that all labels are present.
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2.Slip on the harnessHold the harness by the D-ring and make sure the webbing is untangled and buckles are undone. Hold the shoulder straps and slip the harness on like a jacket. Check that straps are untangled and hang freely.
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3.Position the sub-pelvic strapThe positioning of the sub-pelvic strap is critical. Adjust shoulder straps to ensure the sub-pelvic strap is positioned directly below the buttocks. Ensure that straps on both sides are adjusted to the same length.
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4.Position the leg strapsPass left leg strap between legs. Ensure they are not twisted and fasten the buckle. Repeat for the right leg. Make sure webbing does not cross between legs and adjust so that a flat hand can be placed between the leg and leg strap.
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5.Position the chest strap and waist beltPosition chest strap across the middle of the chest with a spacing of three fingers from the base of the sternum. Shoulder straps should be vertical, not pulled into the centre. Connect the waist buckle and ensure webbing straps are not twisted.
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6.Make the final adjustmentsPosition chest strap across the middle of the chest with a spacing of three fingers from the base of the sternum. Shoulder straps should be vertical, not pulled into the centre. Connect the waist buckle and ensure webbing straps are not twisted.
Are you qualified to use your fall protection equipment yet?
Be trained in the proper use, inspection and maintenance of your 3M fall protection gear and stay compliant to the latest safety regulations with our programs.
Caring for your 3M full body harness
Regularly cleaning and caring for your webbed 3M full body harness helps to extend its life and ensure consistent performance over time. However, keep in mind these tips to make sure your equipment does not suffer any unwanted damage in the process.
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Clean with water and mild soapWhen laundering or spot cleaning your harness, use a mild, bleach-free cleaning solution that won’t damage the webbing. For safe, effective cleaning, rinse and wash in water at a temperature of less than 70°C.
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Air or tumble dry on low heatThe harness and pads can be air dried in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or tumble dried on low heat below 90°C. Fabric softener or dryer sheets should not be used when laundering or drying.
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Store in a cool and dry environmentStore your 3M full body harness in a cool, dry and clean environment, away from direct sunlight. Avoid placing the harness on the ground, or in areas where chemical vapours exist.
