Harnesses are some of the most essential items of safety equipment but you might not be aware of their history. While it may seem like this kind of technology will have been around for some time it is in fact far more recent. Despite their daily modern history, their development story is still incredibly interesting. In this blog, we’ll discuss all things harnesses from their initial invention right through the modern design and where they should be used. So, keep reading this blog to find out more about this fantastic piece of equipment.
The early harness
While you may think that harnesses in their modern form will have been around for some time they are in fact very new. The modern design which we see today was only pioneered mid-way through the last century and before then harnesses looked very different. In fact, the technology was so rudimentary that many climbers at the time simply tied some rope around their waist or chest and used this as their safety line. Of course, this was incredibly dangerous and led to many nasty accidents. So, when modern designs started to hit the shelf they catapulted into popularity.
The modern harness
The design which most of the climbing companies now choose to adopt was first pioneered by a Dutch climber called Jeanne Immink though the development of this technology happened elsewhere. In the 1960s a group of British climbers (Alan Waterhouse, Paul Seddon and Tony Howard) developed harness technology and came up with a finished design that was far safer than anything else. Later in the 1970s, this design of harness went into mass production and since then we have seen a steady improvement of this original concept.
What is a harness?
Essentially a harness is designed to keep climbers attached to a rope when they are up a cliff face or working something high up. When they fall the rope should catch them and they will remain secure in the harness. Now, while this technology is mostly known for the sport of rock climbing it is also used in many other professions such as tree surgery and roofing. Without harnesses, these roles would be far more dangerous than they are today. Nowadays harnesses are extremely capable and, thanks to mass production, very easy to get hold of.
If you need any advice about harnesses from a group of experienced professionals then here at Lifting & Safety Gear Ltd we can help. We have many years of experience in the industry and can certainly assist you with any questions you might have. So, feel free to get in touch with us today and speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable members of staff.
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