What can happen to an employee if they are suspended in a harness too long?

When an employee is suspended in a harness for an extended period, the most significant risk is suspension trauma. This condition occurs due to a combination of factors, including blood pooling in the legs and a lack of venous return to the heart, which can drastically reduce blood flow and oxygen delivery to vital organs.

The harness holds the individual upright, which prevents movement and can lead to a dangerous accumulation of blood in the lower extremities. As circulation is compromised, it can cause faintness, loss of consciousness, and even potentially fatal consequences if the person is not rescued promptly. The body's position in the harness along with the constriction from the straps can exacerbate this issue, making suspension trauma a serious concern in situations where workers are suspended for long durations without relief.

Understanding the risks associated with prolonged harness suspension emphasizes the importance of timely rescue and regular breaks to mitigate the dangers of this hazardous situation.