What is the purpose of a seat harness in rope rescue operations?

In rope rescue operations, the primary function of a seat harness is to support the pelvic region and provide a secure attachment point to the rope. This ensures that the rescuer or victim is safely connected to the rescue system, allowing for controlled movement and secure positioning during the operation. The harness is designed to distribute the load across the body, reducing the risk of injury in case of a fall or sudden movement.

While comfort and restricting movement may be secondary effects of a harness, they do not encapsulate the critical safety function it serves in securing a person in a vertical environment. Additionally, although preventing falls is vital in rescue scenarios, the harness itself is not a fall protection device in the traditional sense but rather a means of securing individuals during the rescue process.