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Kiewit Companies
4.0
Fall Solutions Manual
POST-FALL AND RESCUE
Prolonged suspension from fall arrest systems can cause serious physical injury, or death. Research
indicates that suspension in a fall arrest device can result in unconsciousness, followed by death, in less
than 15 minutes. This is why a fall rescue plan is so critical.
To reduce the risk associated with prolonged suspension in fall arrest systems, plans to prevent
prolonged suspension should be developed during the workplace assessment phase. The plan should
include procedures for: preventing prolonged suspension, identifying signs of suspension trauma,
and performing rescue and treatment as quickly as possible. To ensure prompt rescue, materials
needed to affect a rescue shall be clearly identified on the fall protection work plan and staged in the
work area.
Miller Fall Protection introduced the Relief Step Safety Device which is
designed to assist a worker suspended in a full-body harness avoid the effects
of orthostatic intolerance/suspension trauma. The Relief Step easily deploys
when the worker activates a clearly-marked tab. The worker inserts one foot
into the web loop-step enabling them to alternate between standing and
hanging while awaiting rescue. This movement permits leg muscles to flex,
stimulating blood flow and eliminating the cause of orthostatic
intolerance/suspension trauma. The Relief Step Device should in no way be
considered an alternative to developing an aggressive Rescue Plan. Employees
who have fallen still need to be rescued as soon and efficiently as possible,
primarily because they may be unconscious.
Regulatory agencies require employers to train workers to use fall arrest systems correctly while
performing their tasks.
Individuals, who wear fall arrest devices while working, and those who may perform rescue activities,
should also be trained in:
1. How suspension trauma may occur;
2. The factors that may increase a worker’s risk;
3. How to recognize the signs and symptoms of suspension trauma; and
4. The appropriate rescue procedures and methods to diminish risk while suspended.
Rescue procedures must provide for prompt rescue of employees in the event of a fall or shall assure
employees are able to rescue themselves. Rescue procedures should also address how the rescued
worker will be handled to avoid any post-rescue injuries.
Rescue procedures should include the following contingencies based on actions:
1. If self-rescue is impossible, or if rescue cannot be performed promptly, the worker should be
trained to “pump” his/her legs frequently to activate the muscles and reduce the risk of venous
pooling. Relief Step Safety Devices or a rescue ladder can be used to alleviate pressure, delay
symptoms, and provide support for “muscle pumping.”
2. Continuous monitoring of suspended worker for signs and symptoms of suspension trauma.
REVISED June 2007
Section A: Policy 4.0 / Page 1 of 5