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Harnesses and Lanyards

A harness and lanyard can save a life, but only when they fit, are in good condition and are connected the right way. That takes training from someone qualified, not guesswork.

What do harnesses and lanyards do?

A harness spreads the force of a fall across the body. A lanyard or lifeline connects the harness to an anchor. Together with the anchor, they make up a personal fall arrest system. Some setups are used instead to restrain a worker so that an edge cannot be reached.

They are different tools for different jobs. Using a restraint setup as if it were fall arrest, or the other way around, can lead to injury. Read the manufacturer's instructions for the exact purpose of your equipment.

Types of harness and attachment points vary by use, which is another reason to rely on the instructions that came with yours.

How should a harness fit?

Fit is not a matter of comfort alone. A harness that is loose, twisted or worn incorrectly may not do its job during a fall. The manufacturer's instructions explain how to put it on, where each strap goes and how to adjust it.

Ask a trained person to check your fit before the first use and again if your clothing, body or tasks change. I am not giving measurements or settings here, since they depend on the model.

Check fit when wearing the clothing you will really work in, such as winter coats or coveralls. Fit changes with the season.

• Both sets of straps are worn as the instructions show.
• Buckles are fastened and straps are not twisted.
• Someone trained has looked you over.

What should you inspect?

Inspect before every use, and keep records of regular checks as the maker recommends. Look at webbing, stitching, buckles, D-rings, hardware and labels. Look at the lanyard along its whole length.

If anything looks cut, frayed, burned, chemically stained, stiff or distorted, take it out of service and tag it. Equipment that has arrested a fall should be removed from use until the manufacturer or a qualified person says otherwise.

• Webbing: cuts, fraying, glazing, chemical or heat damage.
• Stitching: broken or pulled threads.
• Metal parts: cracks, rust, bends, sharp edges.
• Labels: legible, with dates and instructions.
• Connectors: operate smoothly and close fully.

What conditions damage this gear?

Farms are hard on equipment. Sunlight weakens synthetic fibers over time. Fertilizer, pesticides, solvents and animal waste can attack webbing. Heat from welding or equipment exhaust can cause damage you may not see.

Store gear in a clean, dry place away from sun, chemicals and sharp objects. Do not leave it in a truck bed or hanging in a hot shed.

If gear gets wet, dirty or exposed to a chemical, follow the cleaning instructions from the maker, and do not use household solvents or bleach unless they allow it.

Why does connection matter so much?

The harness is only as good as what it is connected to. Attaching a lanyard to a railing, a pipe or a piece of equipment that was not designed as an anchor can lead to failure. Anchor points are covered in a separate guide on this site, and rules about them should come from OSHA and the maker.

Also be careful with connectors and lengths. A lanyard that is too long or used in the wrong location may allow a fall that equipment cannot handle. Training is the way to learn what is right for your work.

Keep a short list of approved connection points for each task and post it where gear is stored.

What happens after a fall?

A person hanging in a harness can be in danger even without other injuries. Call 911 immediately. Do not assume the person is fine because they are conscious. Rescue should follow a plan made in advance and carried out by trained people.

Do not attempt to climb up or lower someone without training. Follow the dispatcher's instructions and let the professionals take over.

Afterward, the person should be seen by a medical professional even if they feel well.

• Call 911 first.
• Follow the dispatcher's instructions.
• Keep others away from the area.

Who should train you?

Choose a trainer who offers hands-on practice and who is recognized by a known safety organization or an extension program. Training should use equipment like yours and cover inspection, fitting, connecting and rescue planning.

Ask your insurer whether they offer or recommend classes. Check with your state occupational safety agency and OSHA for guidance on training for employees.

Refresh your training periodically, and after any near miss.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Safety Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.