Side D-rings are not intended for fall arrest.

Side D-rings are not intended for fall arrest.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Depends on model

Answer: (A)

Side D-rings are designed for positioning and securing accessories, not to absorb the dynamic loads of a fall. During a fall, the energy and force are applied to the harness through its attachment point, and the back (dorsal) D-ring is specifically rated to handle those dynamic forces. Side D-rings are not typically rated for fall-arrest loads and using them for that purpose can lead to ring or strap failure and serious injury. Always connect fall-arrest lanyards to the harness’s designated fall-arrest point according to the manufacturer’s ratings. Some harnesses may explicitly state side rings can be used for fall arrest, but absent that explicit designation, side D-rings should not be relied upon for fall arrest.

Side D-rings are designed for positioning and securing accessories, not to absorb the dynamic loads of a fall. During a fall, the energy and force are applied to the harness through its attachment point, and the back (dorsal) D-ring is specifically rated to handle those dynamic forces. Side D-rings are not typically rated for fall-arrest loads and using them for that purpose can lead to ring or strap failure and serious injury. Always connect fall-arrest lanyards to the harness’s designated fall-arrest point according to the manufacturer’s ratings. Some harnesses may explicitly state side rings can be used for fall arrest, but absent that explicit designation, side D-rings should not be relied upon for fall arrest.