When you’re working at heights on a construction site in Nairobi or maintaining telecommunication towers in Mombasa, your full-body safety harness isn’t just equipment—it’s your last line of defense.
A poorly worn harness is almost as dangerous as wearing none. If too loose, you could slip out or get hurt. If tangled, it may not work properly.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the exact steps to use your harness correctly. By following these steps, you’ll meet OSHA standards and help ensure you return home safely every day.
Before You Start: The 60-Second Inspection
Before putting the safety harness on, you must “check the gear.” Never use a harness that shows:
- Frayed Webbing: Look for cuts, burns, or chemical damage.
- Distorted D-Rings: Ensure the metal isn’t bent or cracked.
- Missing Labels: If the safety certification (like EN 361) is illegible, the harness must be retired.
Step-by-Step: How to Don a Full Body Harness Correctly
1. Identify the Dorsal D-Ring
Hold the harness by the back (dorsal) D-Ring and give it a gentle shake. This allows the straps to fall into their natural positions. Unbuckle all straps at this stage.
2. Slip it on Like a Vest
Slide the straps over your shoulders just like you’re putting on a jacket. The D-ring should now be positioned exactly between your shoulder blades.
Pro Tip: If the D-ring is resting on your neck or lower back, your shoulder straps need to be adjusted.
3. Secure the Leg Straps
Reach between your legs and pull the leg straps forward. Connect them to the buckles on your hips.
- The “Hand Test”: You should be able to fit a flat hand between the strap and your thigh, but not a fist.
4. Connect the Chest Strap
Fasten the chest buckle. It should sit across the mid-chest area (about 15 cm below your shoulders). If it’s too high, it could choke you during a fall; too low, and you might fall out of the harness headfirst.
5. The Final Adjustment
Stand up straight and adjust the torso length so the harness is snug but allows a full range of motion. Ensure that all “tails” (loose ends of straps) are tucked into the plastic keepers to prevent them from getting caught in machinery.
Why Kenyan Contractors Trust Safety Hub Kenya
Safety at height requires gear that is built for rugged environments. At Safety Hub Kenya, we don’t just sell equipment; we provide peace of mind.
Whether you need a heavy-duty full-body harness belt for construction or a specialized industrial model with double lanyards, we ensure all our gear meets international EN and ANSI standards.
Key Features of Our Harnesses:
- High-Strength Polyester: Resistant to the harsh Kenyan sun and abrasion.
- Ergonomic Padding: Designed for all-day comfort for workers in high-heat environments.
- Corrosion-Resistant Fittings: Ideal for coastal or industrial applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the price of a safety harness in Kenya?
The safety harness price in Kenya varies depending on the number of attachment points and whether it includes a shock-absorber lanyard. At Safety Hub, we offer competitive rates starting from KSh 3,500 for basic models to premium options for specialized rigging.
How often should a safety harness be replaced?
Most manufacturers recommend a lifespan of 5 years, but this depends on usage. In dusty or chemical-heavy environments, you may need to replace it sooner. Always perform a pre-use inspection!
Can I wash my safety harness?
Yes, using mild soap and water. Avoid harsh detergents or bleach, as these can break down the synthetic fibers of the webbing.
Secure Your Team Today
Don’t compromise on safety. Browse our full range of fall protection gear and get the best deals on bulk orders.
View Our Full Body Harness Collection Here
Looking for a quote? Call us at +254 111 056 220 or visit our shop in Nairobi for a demonstration.
Blue Vaultex Safety Helmet 
