The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require that a rescue plan is in place before any work at height begins. Suspension in a harness after a fall can cause fatal suspension trauma within minutes. A rescue plan ensures that a casualty can be reached and lowered to safety quickly enough to prevent death or serious injury.
Key Hazards
Suspension trauma causing death within 15 minutes of a fall arrest
Delayed rescue when no plan or equipment is available on site
Rescuers becoming casualties from inadequate rescue training
Inaccessible work locations preventing timely emergency response
Control Measures
Develop a written rescue plan specific to each work at height task before work begins.
Ensure rescue equipment such as descent devices and trauma straps are available at the work location.
Train all workers using fall arrest equipment in suspension trauma awareness and self-rescue techniques.
Designate and train specific rescue personnel who can carry out the plan without delay.
Practise the rescue plan on site before the work at height task commences.
Ensure the rescue can be completed within 10 minutes of a fall event occurring.
Include emergency service contact details and site access information in the rescue plan.
Review and update the rescue plan whenever the work location, method, or personnel change.
Brief all operatives on the rescue plan content and their specific roles before starting work.
Emergency / Rescue
If a worker is suspended in a harness after a fall, activate the rescue plan immediately. Call 999 and state suspension trauma risk. Lower the casualty to a flat surface as quickly and safely as possible. Do not leave them hanging.
Remember
A rescue plan must be in place before any work at height activity begins
Suspension trauma can kill within 15 minutes so rescue must be rapid
Rescue equipment must be readily available at the work at height location
Practise the rescue plan on site before the task starts to confirm it works
All workers using fall arrest must understand suspension trauma and self-rescue steps
Review the rescue plan whenever the task, location, or team changes
Applicable Legislation: Work at Height Regulations 2005 (Regulation 4) · MHSWR 1999 · CDM 2015 · INDG401 (HSE Guidance)