Harness Know-How Choosing and Using the Right Gear for the Job By Jenny Cohen
Harnesses are a vital part of any tree trimmer’s toolkit, especially when working off the ground. From pruning to removals, the right harness helps arborists stay safe and effective aloft. But not every harness fits every climber — or every task — the same way. Understanding your gear and knowing how to adapt it to your job site is essential to working safely and efficiently. Before you pack up your harness and gear for your next job, here is what you need to know to choose the right harness, use it correctly, and stay safe in the tree. CHOOSING A HARNESS: WHERE TO START A harness must first and foremost fit you proper- ly. Fit affects not only your comfort but also your safety and endurance during climbs. “Proper fit is critical not just for safety, but for long-term comfort and reduced fatigue during climbs,” said Ryan Lusht, who works with arbor- ist product development at Buckingham Manu- facturing . Start by trying on different harnesses to find one suited to your body type. Sizing and adjustability vary between brands and models, so follow man-
ufacturer sizing guides carefully, especially the waist and leg pad measurements. “Some harnesses fit certain body types differ- ently, and adjustability is key to adapting to the climber’s preferences and body,” said Rudy Rute- miller, national sales manager at Petzl America . When trying on a harness, check the position of the hip D-rings. “The hip D-rings should be at the hips or slightly in front of them,” said Abdon Le- on-Espinosa of Bartlett Arborist Supply . “If the hip D-rings are behind the hips, you most likely will need a bigger size.” Leon-Espinosa also recommends considering sea- sonal clothing when choosing your size. “If you work in an area of the world where you are gifted with all the seasons, take into consideration how many layers are usually worn to keep warm when choosing a size,” he said. Some harnesses only come in two sizes, so look for manufacturers offering a broader size range if needed. Padding is another key comfort factor. “A light harness with great padding will save your body from bruising and hurting when spending multiple hours or climbing multiple trees in a day,” said Leon-Espinosa.
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