Proper Cleaning of Your Safety Harness

This blog was originally posted on 4/9/2012 and updated on 4/17/2024.

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Inspection and maintenance of fall protection equipment is essential. As we’ve discussed here previously, a worker’s

A worker’s full-body harness is an integral element of fall protection systems. Harnesses enable workers in numerous industries to perform tasks at high heights more safely and comfortably. They allow freedom of movement and keep workers upright, preventing potentially dangerous falls. However, like any equipment, cleaning and inspecting safety harnesses is necessary to sustain their integrity and better ensure they perform optimally. 

The Importance of Maintaining Safety Equipment

Regular safety equipment maintenance is essential to protect staff and reduce the number of workplace injuries. For example, maintaining fall prevention equipment like harnesses ensures it fulfills its primary duty without malfunction. A functional harness keeps a worker upright, helping their spine remain vertical to reduce the chances of a fall. Proper maintenance also helps to ensure the equipment’s longevity. 

How to Clean a Safety Harness

A safety harness can and should be cleaned, especially if it regularly contacts substances like abrasives, corrosives, and oils that cause wear or suboptimal functioning. Cleaning also provides an excellent opportunity to inspect the harness for damage to the webbing and hardware. 

Cleaning safety harnesses requires special care. It’s also advisable to check the manufacturer’s labels for the recommended cleaning procedure. Below is a simple safety harness cleaning process that removes dirt and gunk while keeping the harness in excellent shape.

1. Start by placing the harness on a flat surface for visible inspection.
2. Mix a mild cleaning detergent, preferably one you can use to launder personal clothing, with some water. Avoid using cleaners that contain bleach, chlorine, or abrasive chemicals because these may damage the harness fibers and compromise its integrity. 
3. Use a sponge and the soapy solution to wash off any dirt, grease, and stains from the webbing, buckles, D-rings, and straps. You can also use a soft bristle brush to scrub off stubborn stains.
4. Rinse the sponge using clean water and use it to wipe down the harness to remove the suds and soap residue.
5. Air dry the safety harness in a well-ventilated area and out of direct sunlight to prevent mold growth. Avoid drying it with a mechanical heat dryer or exposing it to excessive heat because the heat can compromise the integrity of the harness fibers. If cleaning multiple harnesses, store them separately in a dry compartment. Hang them so that they are not crushed, worn, or creased.

There are also a few things you should avoid when cleaning a safety harness. These include:

• Soaking the harness: This results in excessive expansion of the fibers, which can compromise the fabric’s effectiveness and shorten the harness’s life span.
• Drying the harness: You should neither wash nor dry a safety harness in a machine. Excessive heat and tumbling can damage the harness and reduce its longevity. You should also never use gasoline or other “drying solvents” to clean harnesses.

How Often Should You Clean Your Safety Harness?

According to personal protective equipment (PPE) regulations, you should inspect your safety harness at least monthly. Cleaning it as often as you inspect it helps ensure safety and sanitation. How often you clean the harness also depends on the conditions of your workplace and how dirty it gets after every shift. Cleaning the harness regularly makes it easier to notice any issues quickly.

How Do You Know When to Replace Your Safety Harness?

Most harnesses are built to last between five and seven years. However, you may need to replace your harness sooner if you notice these visible signs of wear and tear:

• Overstretching
• Damaged threads 
• Cuts and tears
• Burned sections
• Missing components 
• General signs of aging

The frequency and intensity of use, storage conditions, and maintenance consistency all determine how long you get to use harnesses before they’re due for replacement. 

Ensuring Regulation Compliance

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards require employers to provide employees with fitting and effective harnesses. Additionally, OSHA requires employers to implement proper maintenance and sanitation procedures for safety equipment to protect their business and employees. Workers should also be trained to use, inspect, and maintain the safety harnesses and complete regular refresher training. Staying compliant with safety standards will help you gain the trust and confidence of your workers, customers, and other stakeholders. 

Check Out Rigid Lifelines® Safety Harnesses

To ensure the safety and comfort of your workers, you can start by investing in high-quality full-body harnesses. Rigid Lifelines® offers safety harnesses that comply with the current OSHA and American National Standards Institute (ANSI) fall protection standards. Our full-body harnesses are easy to clean and maintain, which ensures they continue serving you for a long time. 

To determine the best design for your unique application, contact us today or find a local representative in your area.