Harnesses

A harness is a system of straps and fasteners worn on the body to restrain, support, or connect the wearer or an animal to a load, a rope system, or a vehicle. The design distributes forces across larger areas of the body to reduce injury and to provide control or lift. Harnesses are used in a variety of contexts, from safety equipment for workers and climbers to equipment worn by animals.

Human safety harnesses include fall-arrest harnesses, which are designed to stop a person from falling and to keep them upright; work-positioning harnesses, which allow hands-free work in a suspended position; and sit or chest harnesses used in climbing and rescue. Climbing and rope-access harnesses typically feature a waist belt, leg loops, and gear attachment points, and are made from webbing, stitched and connected with buckles or quick-release buckles. Animal harnesses include dog harnesses, which distribute pressure across the chest and shoulders to avoid choking, and horse or pony harnesses that connect to a cart, plow, or carriage.

Components and materials: webbing made of nylon or polyester, reinforced stitching, adjustment buckles for the waist and legs, D-rings or gear loops for anchors or tools, and quick-connect buckles in modern designs.

Maintenance and safety: harnesses should be inspected before each use for frayed webbing, cracked stitching, or damaged buckles; washed according to manufacturer instructions; kept away from high heat and direct sunlight; replaced when wear compromises integrity. Standards and training vary by region; certified harnesses typically carry markings and must be used with compatible equipment and procedures.