Climbing Harness Care and Safety

Your safety depends on the condition of your harness and its proper use. The harness material (nylon) degrades with exposure to sunlight, moisture, perspiration etc. As a result, ten years is generally accepted as the lifespan of any harness.

Before You Climb

If you climb regularly, visually inspect your harness for signs of wear prior to each outing. Ensure that the webbing is not cut, abraded, or worn through. This is especially important for the fabric covering the tie-in points and the belay loop. It's time to retire it if the condition seems at all doubtful.

Note: Retire your harness after a serious fall. The webbing may have stretched beyond its elastic limit and have invisible material fatigue.

When You're Climbing

Harnesses have specific methods for tying in (threading the rope through the harness) and securing the harness around the climbers waist. Most buckles need to be doubled-back: the nylon waistbelt runs through the buckle and passes back over itself to ensure maximum security. Every time you pick up a new harness, read the instructions carefully and follow them. A surprising number of climbing accidents result from people forgetting to do up their harness! Check your buckles and check your partner's buckles every time you're putting on a harness.

When You Get Home

Harnesses should not be exposed to caustic solutions, acids, sharp implements, or excessive light. If you're a stickler for hygiene and want to wash your harness, wash it by hand with mild soap in lukewarm water and hang to dry in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place. Store your harness in a dark well-ventilated place at room temperature and regular humidity.