Essential Maintenance Tips for Your ANSI Rated Harness?

Harnesses are critical safety tools for anyone working at height or in challenging environments. Regular maintenance ensures they continue to perform well and meet safety standards, protecting users from serious accidents. A professional ANSI rated harness is built for strength and reliability, but only if it’s well cared for and maintained according to best practices. Below are essential tips to keep your gear in top condition and ready for safe use.

Inspect Before Every Use

Before putting on your harness, give it a close inspection. Look for frayed webbing, broken stitching, rust on metal parts, and any cuts or burns. Also, check the D-rings and buckles to ensure they are not bent or damaged. If the label with the manufacturing details or ANSI compliance is missing, it’s a sign the harness should be taken out of service.

Clean Your Harness the Right Way

Keeping your harness clean helps prevent deterioration. Use lukewarm water and mild soap to remove dirt and grime. Do not use bleach, solvents, or abrasive cleaning agents, as these can weaken the webbing. Gently scrub with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Proper Drying and Storage

Once cleaned, always air-dry the harness in a shaded area. Avoid hanging it in direct sunlight or using high heat to speed up the drying process. Heat can damage the materials over time. After drying, store the harness in a well-ventilated, cool, and dry location—preferably in a gear bag or cabinet. Keep it away from sharp objects, chemicals, and extreme temperatures.

Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions

Every harness model may come with slightly different care and maintenance recommendations. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s manual. It will include important details like lifespan, usage limits, and specific cleaning tips. If you lose the manual, many companies provide them online.

Maintain a Logbook for Inspections

Create a written log for each harness. Record the date of every inspection, issues found, cleaning activities, and the name of the inspector. This record can help ensure regular checks are done and make it easier to track the harness’s condition over time. It’s also useful during safety audits or jobsite reviews.

Replace When Necessary

No matter how well you maintain your harness, it won’t last forever. If it has been involved in a fall, it should be replaced immediately—even if no visible damage is present. Check the expiration date or service life mentioned in the manual. If the harness fails an inspection, don’t risk it—replace it.

It’s worth noting that if you’re using a Full Body & Rope Access Harness, these tips apply just the same. High-risk applications require even more attention to detail during maintenance.

Conclusion

Maintaining your safety harness goes beyond compliance—it’s a critical step in protecting lives and ensuring everyday workplace safety. Simple actions like regular inspections, proper cleaning, and careful storage can greatly extend the life of your equipment and minimise safety hazards. Follow these essential tips to keep your gear reliable for every task and safeguard yourself at all times.