Webbing used in fall-protection equipment is safety-critical, but the strap is only one element of the system. Harness geometry, lanyards, energy absorbers, connectors, anchor devices and instructions for use all contribute to the performance of the final PPE.
Different PPE components are covered by different standards
Lécuyer manufactures straps and assemblies used in harnesses, lanyards, lifelines and energy-absorbing applications. In the UK, commonly referenced standards include BS EN 361 for full-body harnesses and BS EN 354 for lanyards. Energy absorbers and connectors are covered by their own standards. The exact standard applies to the finished PPE or component defined by its scope, not automatically to raw webbing.
| Equipment / component | Common reference |
|---|---|
| Full-body harness | BS EN 361 |
| Lanyard | BS EN 354 |
| Energy absorber | BS EN 355 |
| Connector | BS EN 362 |
| Anchor device | BS EN 795 (within its scope) |
| Instructions, marking and periodic examination framework | BS EN 365 |
The webbing specification supports the performance of the finished PPE
Material, width, thickness, elongation, weave stability, abrasion behaviour and compatibility with sewing and fittings all influence how the final product performs. A component supplier should therefore work from the PPE manufacturer’s design and test requirements rather than applying a generic “PPE webbing” label.
Strength is necessary but not sufficient
A harness strap must also route through buckles, remain positioned on the body, tolerate repeated adjustment and maintain its characteristics through the expected environment. A lanyard may have different requirements for flexibility and integration with energy-absorbing elements.
Hardware and stitching must be validated with the textile
Buckles, connectors and sewn terminations introduce local stresses. The complete configuration should be tested because performance cannot be inferred from the raw-webbing breaking strength alone.
Traceability and marking support safety management
Safety equipment depends on clear product identification and controlled manufacturing. Traceability helps link finished products to material batches and production records. The finished PPE manufacturer remains responsible for the conformity assessment and information required for the final product.
Inspection and use are part of the system
HSE guidance on work at height emphasises using suitable equipment, maintaining it and checking it regularly. The webbing design should therefore support visual inspection and the intended maintenance regime of the finished PPE.
Specify the application before the webbing
- type of PPE and applicable product standard;
- webbing function within the assembly;
- required mechanical and elongation behaviour;
- width, thickness and buckle compatibility;
- abrasion and environmental exposure;
- sewing or termination method;
- traceability and identification needs;
- validation tests required on the finished assembly.
Component expertise supports, but does not replace, PPE certification
Lécuyer’s PPE strap capabilities include high-performance materials, custom weaving and assembly. These capabilities can support the development of certified PPE, but the final conformity assessment must be based on the complete product and applicable regulatory framework.
Frequently asked questions
Does BS EN 361 certify raw webbing?
No. BS EN 361 is a standard for full-body harnesses. Raw webbing is a component whose characteristics contribute to the performance of the finished harness.
What is the difference between a lanyard and an energy absorber?
A lanyard connects elements within a personal fall-protection system, while an energy absorber is designed to dissipate energy during fall arrest. They are covered by different product standards.
Why must webbing be tested with buckles and stitching?
Hardware and sewn terminations change the load path and create local stresses, so raw-webbing strength alone does not describe the performance of the finished assembly.
Who is responsible for certification of the final PPE?
The manufacturer placing the finished PPE on the market is responsible for the applicable conformity assessment, product information and regulatory obligations.