Start with the attachment points, because they decide what the harness can be used for. The dorsal D-ring on the back is the main fall arrest point. Sternal or front loops on the chest are also fall arrest points and help on ladders and towers. Lateral D-rings on the hips take a work positioning lanyard so the worker can lean back with both hands free. A ventral D-ring at the waist is used for rope access, and shoulder or overhead D-rings are for rescue and lifting a worker out. Karam names most harnesses by their adjustment and attachment points, for example 3 adjustment and 2 attachment points.
Then match the standards your site asks for. EN 361 is the European standard for full body fall arrest harnesses, EN 358 covers work positioning belts, EN 813 covers sit harnesses for rope work, and EN 1497 covers rescue harnesses. Many Rhino harnesses are also stated to IS 3521(Part 1):2021, the Indian standard. The PN14 to PN19 range is grouped by class: Class A for basic fall arrest, Class D for controlled descent, Class E for confined space entry and exit, Class L for tower and ladder climbing and Class P for positioning. The FAP oil and gas harnesses follow ANSI Z359.11-2021, the American harness standard, and the US OSHA rules 1926.502 and 1910.66.
Next, consider the work environment. Dienoc harnesses have non-conductive, dielectric coated fittings for electrical work. Flanil harnesses use flame retardant webbing and Kevlar stitching for sparks and molten metal splashes. The Nospark PN22(AS) uses antistatic webbing and is stated to ATEX 2014/34/EU for explosive atmospheres. Revolta harnesses add Repel webbing that resists water, oil and dirt, Elasto harnesses use stretch webbing, and the vest harnesses combine a pocketed work vest with a harness.
Finally, think about comfort and add-ons. Padding, a sit strap and a padded positioning belt matter on long shifts, and a tell-tale indicator shows if a harness has already held a fall. A harness is one part of a fall protection system with a lanyard or fall arrester, connectors and an anchor; FPS also supplies Karam suspension intolerance straps, bosun seats and belly belts. Prices are on request: call or WhatsApp +91 92440 89060.