DIN EN 813
DIN EN 813 is an important standard in the field of personal protective equipment (PPE) against falls from a height and is specifically aimed at seat harnesses used for holding functions. This standard specifies the requirements, test methods, marking and information that seat harnesses must meet in order to be used safely and reliably at height. Particularly when working in areas where there is a risk of falling, such as on buildings, scaffolding or in tree care, compliance with this standard plays a decisive role in ensuring the safety of employees.
DIN EN 813 is a European standard that defines the minimum requirements for seat belts for holding functions. Seat harnesses in accordance with this standard are specially developed to ensure comfortable and safe positioning when working at height. The harness must not only keep the user in a stable position, but must also be able to withstand certain loads in the event of a fall without endangering the user’s safety.
The sit harness is not intended for catching a fall, but primarily for holding and positioning the worker. In situations where there is a risk of falling, the sit harness must be used in combination with other personal protective equipment, such as harnesses or lanyards, to ensure complete protection.
These seat harnesses are used in many areas, including industrial climbing work, tree care and rescue operations. The strict requirements of the standard guarantee that these products are robust, comfortable and effective. The use of LUX-top®-seat harnesses not only increases safety, but also meets the legal requirements for personal protective equipment, which reduces the risk of liability claims for employers.
The standard specifies strict requirements that seat belts must meet in order to be considered safe. These requirements include
- Material quality: Seat belts must be made of robust and durable materials that can withstand both mechanical stress and the effects of the weather. The straps and seams should be made of tear-resistant material that can withstand the high loads during positioning and, in an emergency, in the event of a fall.
- Design and comfort: A seat harness must be designed in such a way that it holds the user comfortably and securely in the desired position. Comfort plays a major role here, especially when working at height for long periods. The design of the harness should avoid pressure points and enable even weight distribution.
- Attachment point: The seat harness must have a stable attachment point to which the user can securely attach themselves with ropes or lanyards. This anchor point must be able to withstand the high forces that occur during positioning and in emergency situations.
- Strength test: Seat belts must be able to withstand loads of at least 15 kN (kilonewtons) without failing. The strength test is carried out under controlled conditions to ensure that the belt meets the necessary safety requirements.
- Marking: Seat belts that meet the requirements must have a clear and permanent marking that provides information about the manufacturer, year of manufacture, serial number and compliance with the standard. This marking is essential to ensure the traceability and conformity of the product.
Compliance with DIN EN 813 offers both employers and employees numerous advantages:
- Maximum safety: The standard ensures that seat harnesses meet the highest safety requirements. This protects workers at dangerous heights from potential falls and injuries.
- Legal protection: Employers who use seat belts in accordance with DIN EN 813 fulfill their legal obligations with regard to the provision of personal protective equipment. This reduces the risk of liability claims in the event of an accident.
- Comfort and efficiency: Seat harnesses that comply with this standard not only offer safety, but also comfort. This makes it easier to work at height for long periods and helps to reduce worker fatigue, which in turn increases efficiency.
- Quality guarantee: Products certified in accordance with DIN EN 813 undergo strict tests and test procedures. This gives users the assurance that they are using a high-quality and durable product.
Conclusion
DIN EN 813 is an indispensable standard for the safe use of seat harnesses when working at height. Compliance with the strict requirements of this standard ensures that seat harnesses can be used reliably and safely in various work areas. Particularly in professions where working at height is part of everyday life, such as tree care, construction or rescue, the use of seat harnesses in accordance with DIN EN 813 is of the utmost importance in order to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of employees.
