Teams work best -
Although a rescue using this device can be
performed using one person, a second person is highly recommended
to assist. The rescue should always be performed above the location
where the person is suspended. If access to the location for anchoring
the system can be achieved without fall protection equipment, use
this approach first.
If fall protection equipment is the only option, the rescuer must be
a suitably trained/competent person to work at height. They should
put on an approved full body safety harness, ensuring it is correctly
adjusted, and commence the climb/descent to the location. The
rescuer shall remain fully protected from a fall at all times using
the appropriate combination of twin lanyards, SRLs lifelines or other
suitable equipment.
The second person should wait at the bottom of the work area to
assist with the descent and/or instruct and direct medical support
when it arrives, or to administer first aid.
Communication -
Keep verbal contact with the person suspended
at all times. Ongoing communication will enable you to maintain an
understanding of their physical condition and to determine if they
are deteriorating. Try to get them to remain as calm as possible but
to keep moving their legs while trying to move into a position that is
as comfortable as possible.
Suspension Trauma –
Following a fall, it is important that the
person suspended is removed from the situation as quickly and safely
as possible to reduce the chance of any impact from orthostatic
intolerance, more commonly known as suspension trauma.
Depending on the nature of the fall, the type of equipment in use
and the casualty’s physical condition prior to and during the fall, the
most severe effect of extended suspension can be death.
Suspension trauma can occur when blood circulation is impeded
from a lack of movement of the legs during suspension. This lack
of circulation is increased in risk by the restrictions of the harnesses
leg loops. Therefore, rescue must be performed as quickly as
possible to avoid this condition. It is important to understand the
special
conditions present post rescue and the first aid considerations
necessary for workers experiencing suspension trauma.
