Replies

1. 
   Scott | Jul 30, 2010 12:10am | #1

   I really don't know if it's appropriate, but I use a climbing harness and rope, which I've needed over the years for some mountaineering/glacier adventures. I've never peeled off a mountain or a house (luckily), so I can't comment on efficacy in either case.

   It's comfortable to wear and quick to clip in and out of, and it serves both purposes, so I didn't see the need to buy another setup just for building purposes.

1. 
   housenut1 | Aug 05, 2010 11:38am | #2

   Interesting idea and I may consider it.  Now I have to learn about climbing; I will ask a friend.

   Thanks

2. 
   bigred | Aug 12, 2010 09:42pm | #3

   fall Protection

   Mike,

   Climbing gear is not appropriate for fall protection, and you should never wear one of the older model waist belts.  If you were to fall with one of these belts, you can find yourself in respiratory distress in about 90 seconds.  You need a full body harness and lanyard.  You also need a lanyard that has shock asborbing capabilities so you don't come to an abrupt stop.  Also, make sure you are always tied off so that the maximum fall is less than 6 feet.  This company has a full harness kit for roofers http://www.discountsafetygear.com/roofers-fall-protection-kits.html

   Good luck and stay safe.

3. 
   kenackr | Sep 07, 2010 02:08pm | #4

   Sorry to be so late to your party, but I want to let you know Big Red is absolutely correct about getting a harness that is made for fall protection. I 'm a climber (trees & rocks) and I also go aloft on sail boats and houses when required. 

   After sometime trying to balance all of these vertical escapades from a gear standpoint, I chose a work positioning, professional rescue & fall arrest harness from Petzl (a leader in the climbing gear industry). I chose the Navaho V BOD harness shown on the link to a video (below) of it and attached still pictures as the only harness I use for all activities.

     video from Petzl on this style harness  - http://dai.ly/aNW258

   My thinking was this: While it seems expensive at first,  PETZL Navaho BOD Harness C710001B C710002B , I quickly came to the conclusion that not falling was far less expensive than almost any  fall could be, not to mention down time to heal.

   I have no affilliatiion with Petzl or any of the vendors who sell the harness and you are certainly free to choose any manufacturer you want, but this is the style of harness I wear and would recommend for anyone going aloft. BTW, not only can you have the wind iknocked out of you by a fall, but there have been many broken backs attributed to falls with only a single waist belt.

   The harness is a key component, but also consider adding a piece of gear that allows you to let yourself down (as simple as a figure 8 descender) when you fall off the roof  & are dangling while your wife & kids are out for the day shopping.

   Have fun and work safe!

   Ken

   
1. 
   housenut1 | Sep 09, 2010 05:23pm | #5

   harness tips

   Thanks Ken for the details.  I agree and will get the best because my life is worth it.

   Sincerely,

   Wayne