How often do you replace your safety harness?

[sgrogg]

My SOP harness is about 10 years old.  It seems to still be in good condition but I would rather be safe than sorry.  I'd replace it if necessary but, don't want to spend money I don't need to.  Anybody know the manufacturer's recommendations?  Also wondering what most industrial outfits' policies are regarding this issue.

[recurve_shooter]

I've got a couple that are nearly that old and I still use them.

As long as the stitching and fabric is still sound, I think it will be fine, however, if it has been stressed by catching your fall, it may be a good idea to replace it.  I think most companies recommend replacing if it has been used to break your fall.  Replacing is cheap insurance compared to it breaking on you.

[sgrogg]

Never had a fall (knock on wood)         .  The stitching and fabric seem to be fine.  Thanks!

[Mr.Magoo]

Most climbing ropes, harnesses etc... are rated for "x" falls.  If your harness hasn't been stressed or left for extended periods in UV light and still looks and feels new (not frayed, stiff, cracked etc...) it should be fine.

[rraming]

I replace mine every time I fall - never replaced one yet! My SOP harness still looks new - except the label

[Coop]

I just watched the DVD that came with my LoneWolf and it says harness have an expiration date and should always be replaced if past that date. I always just figured if I didn't fall then they were still safe to use. I have a HSS vest and I don't plan to replace it unless I fall.

[Fallguy]

The harnesses we use at work only get replaced after a fall or if the is actual damage to the webbing or stitching. They are used everyday for 8-10 hours. The one I have now is over 10 years old. If your has not taken fall inspect it for wear.

[sgrogg]

ttt

[dagwood64]

Never. I don't wear one. Not too afraid of falling out of my ground blind    

Duane

[JSimon]

I believe that the manufacturer's recommendation is a big catch-all for liability issues. I think the tag on my treesaddle says to replace everything after 3 years or you risk death by using it. There is no way I'm going to replace it after three years unless there is visible damage to some part of it, but I might consider replacing it after 10 years depending on how much I use it. They have to put something on it so that people don't think it's OK to use a 50 year old harness. In my case, they probably picked 3 years because it would be nearly impossible to wear it out in that time, but if someone used it every day for more than three years, they may wear it out.

[Mike Gerardi]

If I had doubts , I would replace it. You have to trust your gear.

[Red Beastmaster]

It is recommended to replace seat belts if you are involved in an accident. I would think the stress from a fall would be reason to change your harness.

Besides, you probably soiled the thing something awfull!