Harness Weight Capacity Ratings- Did you know?

Harness Weight Capacity Ratings- Did you know?

Valerie Boyd

Harness labels often specify weight ratings of both 310 lbs and up to 425 lbs due to differing standards set by regulatory bodies. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) safety standards do not specify a specific weight range for harnesses, allowing manufacturers the flexibility to set these ranges based on their testing results. ANSI (American National Standards Institute), on the other hand, specifies that harnesses should be rated between 130 lbs and 310 lbs.

Manufacturers design their harnesses to meet both OSHA standards, which can include higher weight capacities up to 425 lbs, and ANSI standards, which cap at 310 lbs. By achieving compliance with both sets of standards, manufacturers can mark their harnesses with both weight ratings. This dual compliance ensures transparency and provides customers with a clear understanding that the harness is suitable for use within the specified weight ranges set by both OSHA and ANSI.