Why Rescue Planning Is Critical
OSHA requires that employers provide for "prompt rescue" after a fall. This is because:
- A worker suspended in a harness can develop serious medical problems within minutes
- Self-rescue may not be possible after a fall
- Emergency services may not have the proper equipment or training
- Improvised rescues often lead to additional injuries or fatalities
Understanding Suspension Trauma
What Is Suspension Trauma?
Also called "harness hang syndrome" or "orthostatic intolerance," it occurs when a person is suspended motionless in a harness and blood pools in the legs, reducing blood flow to vital organs.
Timeline of Danger
- Symptoms can begin in as little as 3-5 minutes
- Unconsciousness can occur within 5-30 minutes
- Death can occur shortly after unconsciousness
- The longer the suspension, the greater the risk
Symptoms to Watch For
- Faintness
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Paleness
- Increased heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Confusion
- Weakness
Types of Fall Rescue
Self-Rescue
The worker rescues themselves without assistance:
- Using controlled descent devices
- Climbing back onto the working surface
- Using ladder climbing devices
Assisted Self-Rescue
The worker performs most of the rescue with minimal help:
- Coworkers helping guide a worker back to the work surface
- Operating a mobile elevated work platform to reach the worker
- Placing a ladder for the worker to reach
Mechanically Aided Rescue
Using equipment to rescue the suspended worker:
- Raising or lowering with a controlled descent device
- Using pre-rigged rescue systems
- Using rope rescue equipment
- Employing lift equipment like boom lifts
Technical Rescue
Using specialized teams and equipment:
- Emergency services with technical rescue training
- Rope rescue teams
- Confined space rescue teams
- High-angle rescue specialists
Elements of a Good Rescue Plan
A proper rescue plan must include:
Identification of Rescue Methods
- Specific methods for different work areas
- Primary and backup methods
- Equipment needed for each method
Assigned Rescue Personnel
- Who is responsible for each rescue task
- Training requirements for rescue personnel
- Communication protocols during rescue
Equipment Availability
- Location of rescue equipment
- Inspection requirements
- Training on equipment use
Communication Methods
- How to alert rescue team
- Communication with suspended worker
- Communication with emergency services
Medical Considerations
- First aid procedures
- When to call emergency medical services
- Treatment for suspension trauma
Training and Practice
- Regular practice of rescue procedures
- Documentation of training
- Evaluation and improvement process
Suspension Trauma Prevention
For Workers Wearing Harnesses
- Use harnesses with suspension trauma straps
- Know how to deploy and use these straps
- Keep moving your legs if suspended
- If possible, push against any available surface
- Try to keep legs elevated to horizontal position
For Rescue Personnel
- Prioritize quick rescue (within 15 minutes if possible)
- Monitor suspended worker continuously
- Have first aid supplies ready
- Know symptoms of suspension trauma
- Be prepared for possible cardiac problems during rescue
After-Rescue Medical Considerations
Handling the Rescued Worker
- Do not lay a suspended worker flat immediately
- Keep them in a seated position for 30 minutes
- Monitor closely for symptoms of shock
- Have them evaluated by medical professionals
- Consider transportation to hospital even if symptoms improve
Equipment Handling
- Remove harness from service after a fall event
- Inspect all components before returning to service
- Document the incident and equipment condition
- Replace any equipment showing signs of damage
Simple Rescue Equipment to Have on Site
For General Construction
- Ladder of adequate length
- Mobile scaffold or lift
- Extension poles with hooks
- Rescue rope bags
- Trauma straps for all harnesses
For More Complex Sites
- Pre-rigged rescue systems
- Controlled descent devices
- Portable anchor points
- Patient packaging equipment
- Technical rope equipment if trained
Sample Rescue Scenarios
Scenario 1: Worker Suspended From Roof Edge
- Secure rescuers with fall protection
- Deploy extension ladder to reach worker
- Secure ladder to structure
- Help guide worker to ladder
- Assist worker down ladder
Scenario 2: Worker Suspended in Interior Atrium
- Deploy mobile lift or scaffold
- Position under worker
- Raise platform to worker
- Connect worker to platform fall protection
- Release worker's original lanyard
- Lower platform with worker