When a fall occurs, the emergency is not over once the worker is stopped by a fall arrest system. A suspended worker may quickly face additional medical risks, including suspension trauma, making a fast, well-planned rescue essential. Every job involving work at height should have a rescue plan that is understood, practiced, and ready to implement before work begins.
This toolbox talk reviews the key elements of an emergency rescue plan, the responsibilities of the work crew, and the actions to take if a fall or other emergency occurs while working at height.
Why This Matters
- A fall arrest system prevents a fall from reaching the ground but does not eliminate the emergency.
- Prompt rescue can reduce the risk of suspension trauma and other serious injuries.
- Attempting an unplanned rescue can place additional workers at risk.
- Every worker should know their role before an emergency happens.
- Preparation and communication help emergency responders reach the scene quickly.
Common Hazards
- No rescue plan in place before work begins.
- Workers unfamiliar with rescue procedures or emergency contacts.
- Delayed rescue of a suspended worker.
- Inadequate access for emergency responders.
- Improper rescue attempts that expose others to fall hazards.
- Communication failures during an emergency.
- Blocked access routes or evacuation paths.
- Rescue equipment that is unavailable, damaged, or workers are not trained to use.
Safety Checklist
Before Work Begins
- Review the emergency rescue plan with the entire crew.
- Identify who will contact emergency services and who will direct responders to the work area.
- Confirm rescue equipment is available, inspected, and appropriate for the task.
- Verify workers know the worksite address, emergency access points, and assembly location.
- Ensure trained personnel are available to carry out the planned rescue procedures where required.
- Review communication methods and emergency contact information.
During an Emergency
- Stop all work immediately and secure the area.
- Call emergency services as soon as possible and provide accurate location details.
- Follow the site's rescue plan without creating additional hazards.
- Do not attempt a rescue unless you are trained, authorized, and it can be performed safely.
- Keep unnecessary personnel away from the incident area.
- If safe to do so, provide first aid within your level of training until emergency responders arrive.
- Do not resume work until the incident has been investigated and the area has been declared safe.
Crew Talking Points
- Who is responsible for initiating the rescue plan?
- How will emergency services be contacted?
- Where is the rescue equipment located?
- What is the planned method for rescuing a suspended worker?
- Who will guide emergency responders to the incident location?
- Speak up now if you are unsure of your role during an emergency.
Stop Work If
- No emergency rescue plan has been established for the task.
- Required rescue equipment is missing or unavailable.
- Workers have not been informed of emergency procedures.
- Communication systems are not functioning.
- Emergency access routes are blocked.
- You are asked to perform a rescue beyond your training or without appropriate equipment.
Final Reminder
Fall protection includes rescue planning. Before anyone works at height, ensure there is a clear rescue plan, the right equipment is available, everyone understands their responsibilities, and emergency help can be summoned without delay.
| Crew Member Name | Signature | Date |
|---|---|---|