1️⃣ Introduction

Working at height is common in opencast and underground mines, such as while performing maintenance on high structures, conveyors, or machinery. To ensure worker safety, use of approved Safety Belts or Full Body Harnesses is mandatory under DGMS and Mines Regulations. Unapproved or substandard equipment can fail under load, leading to fatal falls. Hence, only DGMS-approved and BIS-certified harnesses are permitted for use in mines.

2️⃣ DGMS Safety Concern

DGMS has reported several fatal accidents where workers fell due to defective or non-certified safety belts. Inadequate testing, improper fitting, or use of unapproved belts are major causes. Therefore, DGMS mandates that all safety belts and harnesses must be tested, certified, and approved by competent authorities before procurement or use.

3️⃣ Legal Framework

4️⃣ Objective

• Ensure all safety belts and harnesses used in mines are BIS-certified and DGMS-approved.
• Prevent fall-related accidents in both surface and underground environments.
• Standardize design, testing, and inspection of PPE for height work.
• Improve compliance and safety culture in mining operations.

5️⃣ Classification

6️⃣ Approval and Testing Process

🔧 Testing Requirements: All safety belts/full-body harnesses must be manufactured as per IS 3521:2021, tested at DGMS-approved labs (CIMFR, NTH, BIS), and pass static (1,200 kg for 3 min) and dynamic (1.8 m drop) load tests.

📝 Approval Procedure: Manufacturer submits technical details and test reports to DGMS. DGMS issues a Type Approval Certificate, and the approval number must be printed on the harness tag for traceability.

7️⃣ Inspection and Maintenance

• Conduct visual inspection before every use (for cuts, wear, corrosion).
• Replace after any fall incident or visible damage.
• Maintain records of issue, use, and inspection.
• Store in dry, clean conditions away from chemicals and sunlight.

8️⃣ DGMS Guidelines

• Only full-body harness should be used for working at height (waist belt not allowed for fall arrest).
• Use double lanyard for continuous anchorage.
• Harness must have an energy absorber to reduce impact load.
• Anchor point strength ≥ 15 kN (1500 kgf).
• Mandatory training on harness use and rescue procedure.

⚙️ QUICK ONE-LINERS (Revision Points)

• DGMS Circular 08/2015 → Full-body harness mandatory.
• IS 3521:2021 → Harness testing standard.
• Static load test = 1,200 kg for 3 min.
• Dynamic drop test = 1.8 m fall.
• Energy absorber reduces impact load.
• Anchor point strength ≥ 15 kN.
• DGMS issues Type Approval Certificate.
• Replace harness after any fall incident.
• Visual inspection before every use.
• Record and maintain PPE inspection register.

🧩 DESCRIPTIVE MODEL QUESTION & ANSWER

🧮 25 DGMS-Based MCQs