title: Evaluation of fall arrest harness sizing schemes.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This paper evaluated harness sizing schemes and anthropometric criteria for harness design applications.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  Updated harness sizing systems are needed to accommodate diverse populations in the current workforce.
  
  
  METHODS
  Three-dimensional torso scan data and human-harness interfaces from 108 women and 108 men were digitally captured. Abounding box approach was employed to quantify the effect of torso shape and size on fall harness fit.
  
  
  RESULTS
  A logistic regression model with eight equations was developed and tested to classify more than 96% of participants to the best-fitting size.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Study outcomes suggested an alternative system of two sizes for women and three sizes for men over the current four-size unisex system. In addition, thigh strap angle and back D ring location could be utilized along with current harness static fit test criteria to further enhance postfall harness fit predictions.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This research could help reduce the risk of worker injury resulting from poor fit, improper size selection, or failure to don the harness properly.
authors.affiliation: Protective Technology Branch, Division of Safety Research, NIOSH, 1095 Willowdale Rd., Morgantown, WV 26505, USA. hhsiao@cdc.gov
authors.forename: Hongwei
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Hsiao
authors.forename: Jennifer
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Whitestone
authors.forename: Tsui-Ying
authors.initials: TY
authors.lastname: Kau
mesh_terms: D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control*; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001835:Body Weight; D004867:Equipment Design / Q000379:methods; D006804:Ergonomics; D005160:Facility Design and Construction; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011482:Protective Devices; D014481:United States