Body belts are used in the construction industry for personal fall restraint and body positioning. Body belts come in two basic types, standard and full float. Standard body belts are less expensive but do not allow the D-rings to float on the belt. Full float body belts are made of much more durable materials and allow the D-rings full float.

In 1998, the Federal Government set new standards for the use of body belts. They can be used for personal fall restraint systems and body positioning only. Body belts can no longer be used for fall arrest protection according to OSHA construction regulations. As you consider your body belt needs, keep the following in mind:

1. Purchase basic body belts

2. Find a wholesale vendor

3. Locate full floating body belt providers

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find body belts providers

When you're dealing with a tight budget, a standard body belt will be sufficient for positioning and stabilization. Standard body belts are made from heavy duty polyester webbing. Standard belts come in sizes from small to XXL.

I recommend: LSS is a body belts provider that carries single and double D-ring body belts, as well as many other fall and safety protection supplies. MSA is the world's leading manufacturer of safety supplies and products. They carry body belts and many other items for worker safety.

Purchase body belts from a wholesale dealer

Whether your business is purchasing body belts to use or to resell, you will want to get the most for your money. Shop with a dealer that offers wholesale pricing to get the best deal on body belts.

I recommend: Wholesale Industrial Supply is a wholesaler of body belts. Find body belts in sizes small to large, with options of double, single or no D-rings. Register with their site to get member only discounts. Fastenal is a wholesaler of body belts. The belt they sell is for 40 to 48 inch waists and has no D-rings.

Select a full float body belts provider

Full float body belts are constructed of durable leather. The D-rings on the full float body belts are secured onto a strip of leather that allows the rings to easily and smoothly float.

I recommend: Buckingham is a manufacturer of safety supplies and full float body belts. Find several different models of full float body belts that are manufactured from top grade leather and nylon. Find body belts with back savers and Drilex liners on their site. My Tool Store is another provider of full float body belts. Their belts meet or exceed the standard set by OSHA, ASTM, and CSA.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When searching for body belts information online, keep the sizes of your employees along with your body belts list handy. When you come across a good deal you will want to be able to make the purchase immediately instead of running around to find sizes before making the purchase.