What is the primary purpose of a harness in a fall protection system?

The primary purpose of a harness in a fall protection system is to distribute fall forces over the body. When a worker falls, the harness is designed to spread the impact of the fall across larger areas of the body, particularly the thighs, chest, and pelvis. This distribution helps to mitigate the risk of injury that can occur from a sudden stop during a fall. By having a properly fitted harness, the likelihood of serious injuries, such as those to the spine or internal organs, is significantly reduced. The harness serves a vital safety role, ensuring that the protective measures in place during work at heights are effective and can uphold the safety standards required in the telecommunications industry.