This specification covers the tests and corresponding performance and design requirements for climbing harnesses used in the sports of rock, ice, and snow climbing. Three types of harnesses are covered by this specification: full body harnesses, sit harnesses, and chest harnesses. Representative samples of harnesses shall be tested for minimum strength to evaluate their suitability for use in climbing.

1.1 This specification covers harnesses for human use in technical rope rescue and climbing, mountaineering, caving, canyoneering, and other rope-based sport activities. It establishes requirements for the testing, performance, and marking of harnesses and for the instructions that are supplied with them.

1.2 This specification may contain test methods that do not entirely simulate real-life situations. The test methods are designed to give reproducible results in a laboratory and, thereby, a means for product comparison.

1.3 Three types of harnesses are covered by this specification: full body harnesses, sit harnesses, and chest harnesses.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.