What is the purpose of a body harness?

A body harness is primarily designed to distribute the force of a fall across the body in the event of a fall. This is critical for worker safety, particularly in environments where individuals may be working at heights or in situations where there is a risk of falling. When a person falls while wearing a harness, the design allows the harness to absorb and spread the energy generated by the fall, minimizing the risk of injury to specific body parts, such as the spine or neck.

In addition to its main purpose, harnesses can also enhance overall safety by preventing falls altogether when used in conjunction with other safety equipment, such as lanyards and anchor points. Understanding the proper use and function of a body harness is crucial for compliance with safety regulations and for protecting workers in hazardous situations.