A full body harness can have more than one classification – but all full body harnesses in Canada need to meet Class A requirements.
Full body harnesses must include a built-in fall arrest indicator that activates to give a permanent, readily visible warning after the full body harness has arrested a fall (or has been subjected to an equivalent force).
Full body harnesses ARE classified as follows:
- Class A: fall arrest;
- Class D: suspension and controlled descent;
- Class E: limited access;
- Class L: ladder climbing; and
- Class P: work positioning.
Class A full body harnesses are designed to support the body during and after the arrest of a fall and have one dorsal Class I connector affixed to both shoulder straps.
Class D full body harnesses are designed for suspension or controlled descent from a height.
In addition to the connector required for Class A, all Class D full body harnesses shall have:
- (a) one or two frontal Class I connectors;
- (b) two side-mounted Class I connectors that originate below waist level; or
- (c) one sternal Class I connector.
Class E full body harnesses are designed to support a worker in a position that reduces the worker’s profile during passage through a limited access area. Hoisting of the worker is usually involved. In addition to the connector required for Class A, all Class E full body harnesses must have two Class I connectors. A connector as required for Class E shall be located on each shoulder strap, with a provision for the connector to slide on the shoulder strap
Class L full body harnesses are designed for use with fall restrict systems involving the use of a Class AS or FRL fall arrester that travels on a vertical lifeline or rail, as described in CAN/CSA-Z259.2.1. These systems are typically mounted on or adjacent to ladders or towers.
Class P full body harnesses are designed to position the worker during a work operation. In addition to the connector required for Class A, all Class P full body harnesses must have two Class I connectors mounted at waist level.
Levitt-Safety carries harnesses from 3M, Honeywell, and MSA that meet or exceed local standards. If you need help selecting the appropriate harness for your employees, get in touch with us today.