CIF Guidance - Rescue From Tower Cranes - Rev 1 - 15.12.2020

Sample Procedure
Version 1.0: 15th December 2020
This sample procedure is provided as a template for CIF members to adopt should they wish to do so. The information
provided serves as a guide for planning a rescue from a tower crane.
The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) accepts no responsibility for and provides no guarantees, undertakings or
warranties concerning the accuracy or completeness of the information provided and does not accept any liability
whatsoever arising from any errors or omissions.
Rescue from Tower Cranes
Contents

1.0 Purpose........................................................................................................................................................2
2.0 Legal Requirements....................................................................................................................................3
3.0 Contacting the Emergency Services...........................................................................................................4
4.0 Roles and Responsibilities..........................................................................................................................5
5.0 Contingency Planning.................................................................................................................................8
5.1 Access and Egress...................................................................................................................................9
5.2 Method Statement for Cranes.................................................................................................................9
5.3 Selection and Training of Persons for Rescue......................................................................................10
5.4 Rescue Equipment................................................................................................................................10
5.5 Inspection and Maintenance of Rescue Equipment..............................................................................11
5.6 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)..................................................................................................12
5.7 Fire Extinguishers.................................................................................................................................12
5.8 Weather Conditions..............................................................................................................................12
6.0 Rescue from Height..................................................................................................................................15
6.1 Rescue from Tower Cranes...................................................................................................................16
Appendices................................................................................................................................................................24
Appendix 1 - Definitions......................................................................................................................................24
Appendix 2 - Attributes of a Proprietary Casualty Rescue System......................................................................26
Appendix 3 - Illustrations of Latch Points on Cranes...........................................................................................29
Appendix 4 - Examples of Rescue Davits............................................................................................................30
Appendix 5 - Access Issues for Rescue from Tower Crane Cabs........................................................................31
Appendix 6 – Template Rescue Plan....................................................................................................................33
1
Version 1.0 (15th December 2020) Uncontrolled when printed

1.0Purpose
The purpose of this guidance document is to describe the procedures to be followed and the roles and
responsibilities of key personnel in the event of an incident or accident onsite, which necessitates the rescue of an
individual in or on a tower crane on a construction site.
This sample policy document is provided as a template for CIF members to adopt should they wish to do so. The
information provided serves as a guide for rescue from tower cranes. Where red text is provided, Company may
adopt the red text or alternatively remove the red text from the final revision and replace with its own text. No two
companies are the same, therefore requirements will differ depending on the needs of the company and/or clients
and/or contractors. Additional section(s) may be added or removed as deemed appropriate.
A template Rescue Plan is provided in Appendix 6; this would need to be tailored to reflect site specific layout
and arrangements.
The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) accepts no responsibility for and provides no guarantees,
undertakings or warranties concerning the accuracy or completeness of the information provided and does not
accept any liability whatsoever arising from any errors or omissions.
2.0Legal Requirements
The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 (hereafter termed ‘the Act’) requires that employers, including
self-employed persons, prepare and revise as appropriate, adequate plans and procedures to be followed and
measures to be taken in the event of an emergency or serious and imminent danger.
2

In accordance with Section 11 of the Act, the employer must provide adequate plans and procedures to be
followed and measures to be taken in the case of emergency or serious and imminent danger. Such plans shall:
• Provide the necessary measures for first aid, firefighting and the evacuation of employees and any other
individuals present in the place of work, taking account of the nature of the work being carried out and
the size of the place of work.
• Arrange any necessary contacts with appropriate emergency services regarding first aid, emergency
medical care, rescue work and firefighting.
• Designate employees who are required to implement those plans, procedures, and measures.
• Ensure a sufficient number of employees are available with adequate training and available equipment,
considering the specific hazards related to the place of work.
• In the event of an emergency or serious and imminent danger, the employer must:
o Inform all employees of the risk involved and of the steps taken or to be taken to protect them;
o Refrain from requiring employees to carry out or resume work where there is a serious or
imminent danger to their safety and health;
o Ensure that, in the absence of appropriate guidance or instruction, based on the employee ‘s
knowledge and technical means at his or her disposal, the employee must take appropriate steps
to avoid the consequences of the danger.
• In the event of serious, imminent, and unavoidable danger, an employee shall:
o Take action and give instructions to enable employees to stop work and to proceed to a safe place,
and
o Ensure that an employee who leaves the place of work is not penalised because of such action.
• Ensure that access to specifically hazardous areas is restricted only to employees who have received
appropriate training.
Under Regulation 43 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007, as
amended, all employers shall ensure that:
 All lifting operations are appropriately planned, supervised and undertaken;

 The person responsible for planning the operations should have adequate practical and theoretical
knowledge and experience of planning lifting operations;
 The plan must be based on a proper risk assessment, preparation of method statements, identification of
the resources and skills required, instituting procedures, and assigning responsibilities so that any lifting
operation is carried out safely;
 The plan should ensure that the lifting equipment remains safe for the range of lifting operations for
which the equipment might be used.
3.0Contacting the Emergency Services

The contact numbers for the emergency services in the Republic of Ireland is either: 112 or 999. 112 also works in
any EU country and from any phone, free of charge. When working in Northern Ireland, telephone 999.
Once you are connected to an emergency service operator, they will direct the call to the appropriate emergency
service. This could be any of the following:
• Ambulance
• Gardaí
• Fire brigade
• Coast guard.
When calling emergency services, you will be asked to provide the following details, so be prepared:
3

1. The exact address of the incident or emergency including your Eircode, if possible
2. Directions to the scene of the emergency and/or any noticeable landmarks nearby
3. The telephone number you are calling from
4. Details on the incident itself, the number of persons involved, the description, any visible injuries and
knowledge of any pre-existing medical conditions.
Try to stay calm and listen to the call taker’s instructions. It is also important to keep your own phone on as the
emergency service may need to contact you for further information.
It is important that you:
1. Stay calm
2. Listen carefully to the operator
3. Speak slowly and clearly
4. Only finish the call when the operator tells you.
4.0Roles and Responsibilities

There is a need to clearly outline the roles and responsibilities for positions responsible for emergency
management, noting the primary and secondary contact persons for liaison with the emergency services. All roles
pertaining to emergency management should be clearly posted onsite in an area visible to workers, with contact
details provided.
The following roles and responsibilities are outlined, which pertain to emergency management onsite:
Emergency Contacts: Primary Secondary
Name:
Position: e.g. Site Manager1 e.g. Safety Advisor
Telephone:
1
The onsite emergency contacts should be chosen to reflect site-specific arrangements.
4

Mobile No:
Radio Channel/No:
Table 1: Onsite Emergency Contacts
Emergency Services
When onsite, a member of the Emergency Services will assume the hierarchical role of Controller of Operations
(otherwise known as ‘Incident Controller or Commander’) and it is the duty of all other persons involved to
support their function.
Site Security
Site Security fulfill an essential role in terms of emergency management. Persons acting as site security should be
familiarized with this procedure, site layout and any other relevant documents. Such persons may be involved in
contacting the emergency services, notifying the On-Site Emergency Coordinator of an emergency event, meeting
the emergency services on arrival onsite, ensuring site security provisions are maintained, maintaining
communications with the Operations/Incident Controller, and for ensuring unauthorized persons are not afforded
access to site.
On-Site Emergency Coordinator

An individual with appropriate site-specific knowledge, experience and responsibility shall be appointed as the
on-site emergency coordinator and be communicated to all site personnel. In the event of an emergency onsite, the
individual shall assume authority to control all elements at and about the site pending arrival of the Emergency
Services. The On-Site Emergency Coordinator shall brief the Emergency Services and provide a supporting and
coordinating role onsite for the duration of the emergency response.
Controller of Operations / Incident Controller or Commander

The Controller of Operations may be defined as a person afforded authority to control all elements of its activities
at and about the site. Pending arrival of the Emergency Services, a site contact shall assume this role. The
Controller of Operations is empowered to make all decisions relating to his/her agency’s functions but must take
account of decisions of the On-Site Emergency Coordinator in so doing. Responsibilities include:
a) Establish the nature of the emergency and identify if rescue is required

b) The prompt assembly of the team and act as coordinator
c) Ensure that the project or depot security office is notified.
d) The collection and delivery to team assembly point of the rescue equipment
e) Means of communication are provided and maintained
f) Monitoring team members during the emergency
g) Maintenance and inspection of the rescue equipment, including:
i. Inspected at least every 6 months (with inspection recorded)
ii. Inspection to ensure that the kit remains complete and within certificate timelines
iii. Inspected after use or as per manufacturer’s recommendations.
h) Assessment of training requirements – refresher courses and drills to be held at suitable intervals
i) Maintain and update method statement and procedure for Rescue/Evacuation from Height ensuring that
relevant persons are informed of any modifications.
j) Ensure that the project’ management and safety team are informed of the incident.
5

Appointed Person (for Lifting Operations)

Where applicable, the Appointed Person is responsible for implementing a safe system of work and for
communicating this to all involved personnel through appropriate means. The Appointed Person is responsible
from when the crane arrives at the site entrance, for its passage through the site to the “setting up” position, for
the crane set up itself, for the lift, for the crane dismantling and for its egress from the site. The Appointed Person
is responsible for complying with all relevant Acts and Regulations, approved Codes of Practice and for
producing the necessary risk assessments and method statements.
Crane Supervisor
The crane supervisor controls the lifting operation in accordance with the method statement. They are the eyes
and ears of the Appointed Person and have suitable experience to carry out their duties which includes the
authority to stop if safety could be comprised.
Crane Operator
The duties of the Crane Operator include a responsibility to rig/de-rig the crane and operate it in accordance with
manufacturer’s operating instructions, to visually inspect the crane and to respond to signals from the designated
signaler.
Where a relief Crane Operator is onsite, they may assist the emergency services (when safe to do so); for
example, they may:
a) Climb the tower crane and safe access to the cab.

b) Make the crane safe
c) Maintain communications with the Controller of Operations and other members of the rescue team
d) Comfort and monitor the condition of the Injured Person (IP)
e) Assist in fitting the selected tower crane rescue system to the IP
f) Assist in transferring the IP from the cab to the rescue cage
g) Safe operation of the tower crane.
Signaler
The signaler is responsible for relaying the signals from the slinger to the crane operator. It is common practice to
combine the duties of the slinger and the signaler, and the term slinger/signaler is often used.
First Aid Responder (FAR) / Trained Tower Crane Rescuer

The person carrying out the rescue of an injured person should be trained as a first aid responder, to ensure
recognition of the signs and symptoms of suspension trauma for persons suspended in personal fall protection
equipment.
The FAR / Trained Tower Crane Rescuer may be responsible for any or all of the following:
a) Checking the first aid equipment

b) Safely accessing the tower and control cab
c) Providing first aid and monitoring the condition of the driver
d) Suitable anchoring and operation of the selected tower crane rescue kit
e) Anchoring the rescue basket to the crane
f) Assisting the safe landing of the rescue basket.
6

5.0Contingency Planning
In an emergency it can be difficult to think clearly. Time is precious. Prior preparation is advised through
contingency planning. Ways you can prepare for an emergency include:
• Learn the emergency numbers 112 and 999

• Be able to give the ambulance service your full address and clear directions to your site
• Know your Eircode
• Retain useful phone numbers to hand - keep your phone number on it so that others can find it easily
• Do CPR and first aid training
• Have a first aid app on your phone
• Maintain site drawings
• Undertake evacuation drills
• Provide appropriate training to appropriate persons such as Tower Crane Rescue training.
All rescue planning and operations should address the following issues:
 Contact with local fire service to determine if they can facilitate rescue
 The need for rescue in good time
 Taking account of lone worker issues and procedures
 Communication requirements
 The safety of the persons carrying out or assisting with the rescue
 Means of access to the casualty
 The medical needs that the casualty may have with respect to injury or the effects of suspension
 The anchor points to be used for any equipment
 The suitability of equipment (anchors, harnesses, attachments, and connectors) that has already arrested
the fall of the casualty for use during the rescue
 Appropriate persons are shown the actual provision for rescue (e.g. anchor points) on the site crane(s) and
familiarised with the rescue techniques to be used on these cranes
 The method that will be used to attach the casualty to the recovery system
 The direction that the casualty needs to be moved to get them to the point of safety (i.e. raising, lowering
or lateral)
 The possible needs of the casualty following the rescue.
Remember!
1) Persons trained in tower crane rescue need to know (a) the appropriate latch points on the
tower crane to be used for rescue, and (b) how to lock the crane into a safe position.
2) There should be a first aider on the rescue team who is able to reach the cab promptly. (This
person must hold a valid approved certificate of competence in first aid at work).
3) 7
The use of an Automated External Defibrillator should be considered. This should only be
Version 1.0 (15th December 2020)
used by a suitably trained person. Uncontrolled when printed

5.1 Access and Egress

Requirements for safe access and means of emergency escape are specified in product standards such as I.S. EN
13557, I.S. EN 13586, I.S. EN 14502-1 and I.S. EN 14502-2, and in standards for particular crane types such as
I.S. EN 13000. [Source: I.S. 360:2019 - Code of Practice: Safe use of cranes in the construction industry - Part
1: General].
If additional means of access/emergency escape are required on the crane, these shall be incorporated with the
agreement of the crane manufacturer and/or appropriate designer. All access, including the driving position(s) of
the crane and for inspection, maintenance, repair, erection and dismantling of the crane, should be maintained in
good condition. All access ways should be kept clear of obstructions and other hazards.
A detailed site layout map showing the location of services, the assembly points and emergency response facilities
highlighted should be displayed in a prominent location onsite and be made available to workers, visitors and the
emergency services.
The Inner Cordon: The Inner Cordon is used to define an area where the emergency services work to rescue
casualties and survivors and deal with the substance of the emergency. This is also the area where evidence will
need to be protected. Persons working inside this area should have appropriate personal protective equipment
(PPE).
The Outer Cordon: The Outer Cordon is intended to seal off an extensive area around the Inner Cordon. The
area between the Inner and Outer Cordons provides space for the Site Control Point, the On-Site Co-ordination
Centre, the Casualty Clearing Station, the Ambulance Loading Area, the Body Holding Area and the Holding
Areas of the responding services.
The Traffic Cordon: A Traffic Cordon is established to restrict vehicle access to the wider area around the site.
One of the key objectives of a Traffic Cordon is to ensure the free passage of emergency response vehicles into
and out of the site, and to prevent congestion at and around the site.
5.2 Method Statement for Cranes

A method statement must be supplied by the crane company and it must be sufficiently detailed to safely
encompass all the elements of a safe system of work.
Details of the rescue plan should be recorded in a method statement which should be specific for each type and
model of crane. The plan should include:
 Details of the rescue equipment to be used;

 Configuration of the equipment for different types of casualty, e.g. walking wounded, assisted lower,
stretcher rescue;
 The requirement that those on site who will carry out rescue should be familiarised with the provision for
rescue on the particular crane(s) used on site;
8

 Identification of anchor points on the crane for each type of planned rescue;
 Action to be taken in the event of adverse weather such as high winds.
The method statement should be used to brief those who will be working at height (and involved in the rescue
plan), who will all have received suitable training.
Remember!
A tagline should be used to control any stretcher/rescue basket.
5.3 Selection and Training of Persons for Rescue

It is essential that all rescue from height is carried out by adequately trained (competent) persons who should
always be available on site when rescue may be required. List the duties of each person and their function in
responding to emergencies and first aid. It is imperative that the employer/owner/ operator ensures that the
emergency procedures, as they relate to them, are understood by all employees onsite. If utilising the services of a
multinational workforce, where English may not be their first language, the employer must ensure that the plans
are understood, perhaps prepared inappropriate languages and, where possible, utilise pictograms to prevent
confusion.
Initial training, which should include pre-use checks of equipment, should be carried out by the supplier of the
system to be used, or by in-house trainers who have been trained and assessed by the system supplier. Trainees
should be assessed using practical exercise(s), as well as theory session(s). It is desirable to undertake a simulated
rescue on site to confirm that the training has been assimilated.
Refresher training should be carried out at intervals determined by the trainer/certification entity, followed by an
assessment of competence by carrying out a simulated rescue. This should include a review of the rescue plan, as
well as the equipment being used and its location.
It is important that trainees are not exposed to additional risk during any simulated rescue carried out during
training. It is preferable to utilise a mannequin of representative height and weight during a rescue exercise.
It is also important that persons operating or carrying out work on erected tower cranes have an appreciation of
the rescue process. This will ensure that if they must be rescued, they will know what to expect and, if conscious,
may be able to cooperate with the rescue team.
5.4 Rescue Equipment

Specific rescue equipment should always be present at the worksite. This equipment should be sufficient to carry
out a rescue of an individual on the site. Rescue systems may be designed specifically for rescue or for evacuation
and may allow only lowering, only raising or both. Rescue equipment should confirm to I.S. EN 1496.
Purchasers should be aware of the difference between testing which has been carried
out for the purposes of type approval and additional tests which can demonstrate the
suitability of a product or system for other purposes. When selecting items of
9

equipment for use in rescue situations you need to satisfy yourself that the item is suitable for your specific
application or applications.
There is a need to consider the implications of an injured person losing consciousness (through fainting or for
medical reasons) during a rescue, particularly when descending/lowering.
Not all rescue nappies will support an unconscious patient and there is the potential for a person to fall out. The
top image may not support an unconscious casualty, whereas the lower image will
provide a level of support.
Additionally, there is a need to consider provision of a full body harness for the
injured person, depending on the situation.
Note
Some rescue systems have limits on hoisting and lowering distances. A log needs to be maintained to
records such limits and shared with those maintaining such devices and for training purposes. Raising
distances are substantially lower than descending distances.
5.5 Inspection and Maintenance of Rescue Equipment

All equipment used for the rescue of persons from height must have a pre-use visual check before each use.
Damaged equipment should be taken out of service immediately. In addition to pre-use checks, equipment should
be subjected to periodic detailed inspection (and/or thorough examination) by a competent person in accordance
with a pre-determined regime specified by the equipment manufacturer. Furthermore, equipment should be
inspected after use and, if damaged, taken out of service immediately.
Equipment should be kept clean and dry and should be properly stored, in a secure place. Wet equipment should
be thoroughly dried before storage. Equipment should not be altered or repaired, unless in agreement with
standard protocols issued by the manufacturer, with records updated on the equipment maintenance log/periodic
inspection sheet/certificate.
The frequency of detailed inspection should be reviewed by a competent person to take account of storage
conditions and any damage found at pre-use and detailed inspections. Rescue equipment may be tested in two
different ways, as a whole or as individual components. In both cases the rescue equipment should conform to
appropriate European or British standards.
5.6 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Person(s) in control of a site should ensure the following arrangements for PPE:
10

 personal protective equipment is available that is appropriate for the conditions of the location, such as
helmets, safety spectacles, fall protection equipment, safety boots, ear defenders, high-visibility clothing
and life jackets or other buoyancy aids;
 equipment is inspected before and after use and maintained in good working order or replaced where
appropriate;
 a record of inspection and repairs is maintained where appropriate. Certain safety equipment, e.g.
helmets, safety spectacles and fall protection equipment, can deteriorate with age and should therefore be
considered for replacement periodically. Damaged safety equipment should be replaced immediately.
All personnel working on, visiting or in the vicinity of the crane should be made aware of the requirements
relating to their personal safety and to the use of the PPE provided. Personnel should be instructed in the correct
use of the appropriate PPE provided; this should include but is not limited to:
 Polycarbonate climbing helmet with chin strap

 Safety footwear.
 Safety Glasses
 High visibility vest.
 Gloves.
5.7 Fire Extinguishers
The selection, location, and maintenance of fire extinguishers should be made in conjunction with advice from the
relevant fire authority following a suitable and appropriate risk assessment. Potential users of fire extinguishers
should be adequately trained. Fire extinguishers supplied with a crane shall comply with Irish Standard I.S. 291.
[Source: I.S. 360:2019 - Code of Practice: Safe use of cranes in the construction industry - Part 1: General]
5.8 Weather Conditions

Ensure that sufficient consideration is afforded to varying weather conditions, particularly for work at height.
Where cranes are involved, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions, taking care that wind does not exceed
thresholds for safe operation, which are generally limited to 9.8 m/s generic maximum or 7.0 m/s for man riding.
Beware of gusting winds. Consider the use of an anemometer (either a mobile unit or that affixed to a nearby
crane) for determination of wind speed. Table 3 outlines Met Éireann criteria for severe weather warnings.
It will often be important for those who are managing an emergency to have access to accurate information on
local weather conditions and weather forecasts. Met Éireann: https://www.met.ie/ provides a 24-hour service,
which may be consulted for general or specific weather forecasts.
Table 2: Met Éireann Contact Information
11

Weather Element Criteria for Red – Severe Criteria for Orange – Criteria for Yellow –
Weather Warnings Weather Warnings Weather Alerts
1. Wind Mean Speeds in excess of Mean Speeds between 65 Mean Speeds between 50
80 km/h and 80 km/h and 65 km/h
Gusts Speeds in excess of Gusts between 110 and 130 Gusts between 90 and 110
130 km/h km/h km/h
2. Rain 70mm or greater in 24 hrs 50mm – 70mm in 24 hrs 30mm – 50mm in 24 hrs
50mm or greater in 12 hrs 40mm – 50mm in 12 hrs 25mm – 40mm in 12 hrs
40mm or greater in 6 hrs 30mm – 40mm in 6 hrs 20mm – 30mm in 6 hrs
3. Snow/Ice Significant falls of snow Significant falls of snow Scattered snow showers
likely to cause likely to cause giving accumulations of
accumulations of 8 cm or accumulations of 3 cm or less than 3 cm below 250m
greater below 250 m greater below 250m AMSL. Slippery paths and
AMSL. Slippery paths and AMSL. Slippery paths and roads due to accumulation
roads due to accumulation roads due to accumulation of ice on untreated
of ice on untreated of ice on untreated surfaces; situation
surfaces; situation likely to surfaces; situation stable. improving.
worsen.
4. Low Temperatures Minima of minus 10C or Minima of minus 5C to Minima of minus 3C or
lower expected. Maxima of minus 9C expected. minus 4C expected.
minus 2C or lower Maxima of 0C or minus 1C Maxima of plus 1C or plus
expected. expected. 2C expected.
5. Fog No Criterion – not Dense fog likely to cause a No Criterion.
displayed. widespread and significant
driving hazard on national
primary routes.
6. High Temperature As Orange criterion but Maxima in excess of Maxima in excess of 27C
persisting for two or more 30C and minima in excess expected
consecutive nights. of 20C expected in a 24hr
period
7. Thunderstorms No Criterion – not Widespread thundery No Criterion.
displayed. activity over an area of
several counties.
8. Coastal Wind Violent Storm Force 11 or Storm Force 10. (Mean Gale Force 8 or Strong
Warnings greater. (Mean Speeds) Speeds) Gale Force 9. (Mean
Speeds)
12

Table 3: Criteria for Weather Warnings (Source: https://www.met.ie/met-eireann-warning-system-explained )
6.0Rescue from Height

General considerations for carrying out a rescue
The following steps will apply in most situations, whether the casualty is to be lowered or raised:
 Because the rescue system will be under tension it is prone to damage from abrasion and cutting. Risk
assessment may indicate the need to use rescue equipment that is capable of coping with these conditions
or an additional safety line may be required as a backup.
 When operating rescue equipment, it is essential that control is always maintained. Always refer to the
manufacturer's user instructions.
 The anchor for the rescue equipment should be in a position where the equipment can be operated easily
and safely. It may be preferable to site the equipment away from the edge to be able to operate it in safety.
In this situation it may be necessary to use additional equipment to redirect or align the system correctly.
 Consider any surface edges that may cause problems including abrasion of the system, increased friction
and a potential for shock loading if the edge collapses. Always maintain a steady, controlled rate of
movement at all times when raising or lowering a casualty and ensure that they do not come into contact
with obstructions. Some items of rescue equipment (e.g. certain winches and descent devices) allow
movement only in one direction, so it is important not to lift or lower the casualty into a position where
they become stranded.
 A guy line or tag line may be attached to the casualty to pull them away from any obstructions and direct
them towards the desired location.
 The person being rescued may be conscious or unconscious and the rescue plan must allow for this. It is
important that during the rescue the casualty has not moved them into a potentially dangerous situation.
Ideally, the rescuer should be able to communicate with the casualty at all times or see the casualty at all
times or communicate with someone who can see the casualty at all times.
General procedure for casualty recovery

1. Assess the situation fully before commencing a rescue operation
2. Request medical assistance
3. Identify proper position from which to carry out the operation
4. Identify proper anchorage points
5. Identify a point of safety to move the casualty to
6. Make sure all involved are aware of the procedure to be carried out and their role(s)
7. Ensure personnel have been trained in rescue procedures are competent to carry out their role
8. Carry out the rescue steadily and in a controlled manner
9. Make sure communication is always maintained
10. Always monitor the casualty’s condition, and where appropriate, provide the necessary first aid
11. Conduct a review of the entire situation to identify areas of improvement.
13

Remember – risk of suspension trauma!
The longer the casualty is suspended without moving, the greater the chances are of suspension trauma
developing and the more serious it is likely to be. Some references give the period for ‘suspension trauma’
as short as 10 minutes and can result in death.
All users of personal fall protection systems, and others involved with work at a height, should be aware of the
following precautions that might need to be taken in the event of a casualty being in a suspended position. The
longer the casualty is suspended without moving, the greater the chances are of suspension trauma developing and
the more serious it is likely to be. Therefore, an injured person hanging in a harness awaiting rescue should be
removed from upright suspension as quickly as possible. The aim should be to do this within 10 minutes. This is
particularly important for a casualty who is motionless. A conscious casualty should be encouraged to exercise
their legs gently, to stimulate circulation of the blood.
Regarding the position of the casualty:
• During rescue, a position with the lower limbs slightly elevated may be preferable.
• If the emergency services have not arrived yet, the designated first aid responder shall administer first
aid as per the training they have received. Gather as much information regarding the injured person
and the rescue process before deciding on what medical attention to administer. If suspension trauma
is a possibility, alert medical agencies immediately and advise them of the issues, the casualty might
need dialysis to protect the kidneys
• Users of personal fall protection equipment should be aware of the issues surrounding suspension
trauma. In addition, some staff will require training in rescue techniques or alternatively it may be
necessary to create a specially trained rescue team on site to be available at short notice.
6.1 Rescue from Tower Cranes

The HSE (UK) Construction Plant-hire Association – Rescue of Personnel from Height on Tower Cranes
recommends the following measures to ensure a safe system of work, notwithstanding the requirement to ensure
appropriate persons are suitably trained and rescue equipment inspected and maintained:
1. Identify the task to be undertaken;

2. Identify the hazards associated with the task;
3. Assessment of the risks involved with the rescue operation;
4. Identification of the required control measures;
5. Develop the method to be used, including identification and provision of equipment, identification and
training of suitable persons, availability of appropriately trained persons, and liaison with the local fire
and rescue service;
6. Record the planning in a Method Statement;
7. Communicate the plan to all those involved; and
8. Review the plan at intervals, incorporating any changed circumstances and undertake periodic refresher
training.
14

There is a hierarchical order to be considered for a rescuing an individual from height, which is listed in
descending order of preference as follows:
1. Lower a casualty;
2. Raise a casualty;
3. Self-rescue by use of emergency equipment; and
4. Specialist techniques only undertaken by specially trained persons.
Allowance for the evacuation and/or rescue of persons must be considered wherever cranes are being operated,
erected, altered, maintained, inspected or dismantled. The responsibility for planning for rescue from height rests
with the Principal Contractor, who may take advice from the crane provider and/or subcontractors.
It is essential that rescuers are shown the actual provision for rescue (i.e. anchor points) on the site crane(s) and
familiarised with the rescue techniques to be used on these cranes
Table 4 provides an indicative list of activities during which persons may require rescue from height, the persons
who may require rescue and the types of emergency that may precipitate the need for rescue. Please note that an
Operator may also include a tick for ‘Maintenance’ if responsible for undertaking greasing and other routine
maintenance when operating a crane.
15

Table 4: Circumstances Requiring Rescue from Height [Source: HSE (UK) Construction Plant-hire Association –
Rescue of Personnel from Height on Tower Cranes]
Tower crane supply companies may use a self-contained proprietary rescue system, taken up the crane by the
erection team and kept there whenever fall arrest systems are in use.
In the event of a person falling and being suspended in the fall arrest system his colleagues will attach a rescue
device to the crane structure and clip one end of the rescue rope to the casualty’s harness D-ring using the
telescoping pole provided. The casualty can then be raised back up to the crane structure or lowered to the ground
(after the casualty’s harness lanyard has been disconnected). See Annex 1 for the desired attributes of a
proprietary casualty rescue system.
There are various steps that a suspended casualty can take to reduce the risk of further injury such as keeping
limbs moving, flexing leg muscles, transferring body weight from side to side and using foot straps if they are
available. The extent to which such measures can be used will depend on the nature and extent of any injuries.
An alternative system is the use of a specially designed rescue man riding carrier (see Figure 1) suspended from
the crane on which the rescue is being carried out or a nearby crane. The advantage of this system is that the
casualty can be speedily recovered and lowered to the ground.
Standard man riding carriers may be used for rescue if the operation is formally planned, following a risk
assessment, to enable a safe system of work to be put in place.
Detailed guidance on the use of cranes or the raising or lowering of persons is given in Clause 23.1 of BS 7121-
1:2006, Code of practice for the safe use of cranes - Part 1: General.
Figure 1 – Example of a Purpose Designed Rescue Man Riding Carrier [Source: HSE (UK) Construction Plant-
hire Association – Rescue of Personnel from Height on Tower Cranes]
16

Rescue during use, maintenance and thorough examination of the crane

The basic principles of rescue from height whilst the crane is in use are similar to those earlier outlined. There are
likely to be several different scenarios that need to be considered in the planning process. Issues to be considered
in rescuing persons from the operator’s cab include:
 cab location (e.g. side hung or within the tower);

 access/egress, (e.g. from the rear, top or trap door in the floor).
Examples of the issues with different types of tower cranes are given in Appendix 2
Before moving a casualty, a first aid assessment should be undertaken. The assessment will indicate whether there
is an immediate need for recovery, or stabilisation of the casualty whilst awaiting the rescue team or emergency
services.
Once the person being rescued has been recovered from the cab, they are generally moved to part of the crane
structure, such as the counter jib, from which they can be lowered to ground level. This is generally carried out
using either a proprietary rescue system or a man riding basket and it is sometimes possible to utilise a davit arm
and/or tag line(s) to keep the casualty clear of the tower crane structure. The casualty may either be placed in a
rescue stretcher or in a rescue harness, depending upon the injury and its severity.
The rescue equipment should always be available on site and be readily accessible by adequately trained persons.
Consideration should be given to how rescue equipment will be carried or hauled aloft, or any additional risks that
may be created if it is to be carried.
Where a fall can occur, arrangements should be made to ensure that rescue from suspension can be carried out.
Where a work restraint system is used there will be no need to recover a suspended casualty; however, lowering
may be required for other reasons, e.g. ill-health.
Note:
There are various steps that a suspended casualty can take to reduce the risk of further injury such as keeping
limbs moving, flexing leg muscles, transferring body weight form side to side and using foot straps if they
are available. The extent to which such measures can be used will depend on the nature and extent of any
injuries.
An alternative system to personal rescue equipment is the use of a specially designed man riding basket
suspended from the crane on which the rescue is being carried out or a nearby crane. The advantage of this system
is that the casualty can be speedily recovered and lowered to the ground in some comfort.
Rescue by stretcher
Certain medical emergencies or injuries may require the casualty to be lowered by stretcher (see Appendix 1).
Consideration should be given to:
17

 The type of stretcher required for the type of rescue envisaged;

 Whether a stretcher should be stored on a tower crane or in a secure and accessible location nearby;
 The security of the casualty in the stretcher during any transport phase.
Rescue Davits
A recent development to assist in the lowering of persons from a tower crane to the ground is the provision of
powered davits on the crane's counter jib. These allow the person requiring rescue to be lifted, either in a stretcher
or a harness, over the handrails and lowered to the ground using a powered winch. Two examples of these rescue
davits are shown in Appendix 3. If such a device is fitted it should be assessed to ensure that it has an adequate
rated capacity (safe working load) and should be subject to thorough examination at a maximum interval of six
months.
Recovery from suspension during erection, alteration and dismantling

The majority of tower crane supply companies use a self-contained proprietary rescue system, taken up the crane
by the erection team and kept there whenever fall arrest systems are in use. In the event of a person falling and
being suspended in the fall arrest system his colleagues will attach a rescue device to the crane structure and clip
one end of the rescue rope to the casualty’s harness D-ring using the telescoping pole provided. The casualty can
then be raised back up to the crane structure or lowered to the ground (after the casualty’s harness lanyard has
been disconnected). See Appendix 1 for the desired attributes of a proprietary casualty rescue system.
The rescue system is operated by trained members of the erection team.
An alternative system is the use of a specially designed rescue man riding carrier (see Figure 1) suspended from
the crane on which the rescue is being carried out or a nearby crane. The advantage of this system is that the
casualty can be speedily recovered and lowered to the ground.
Standard man riding carriers may be used for rescue if the operation is formally planned, following a risk
assessment, to enable a safe system of work to be put in place.
Permanent Horizontal Lines on Jibs

Where a permanent horizontal line is fitted and used, account should be taken of the number of people who can
attach to the system safely. This information should be provided by the manufacturer of the tower crane and/or the
manufacturer of the line system.
Cab Access
Different makes and models of tower cranes have different means of access to the cab. Some have rear doors
which will assist in the rescue of the operator, whilst others are accessed through a hatch in the floor or a hatch in
the roof which may cause difficulties. These factors should be considered when selecting a tower crane /
developing a rescue plan.
Load Considerations
The loads placed on some items of equipment during a rescue may be higher than they have been originally
designed for. If equipment is used for rescue either individually or in systems, the supplier should verify that it
has suitable performance and loading characteristics in that specific configuration. This applies to all parts of the
system including the anchors.
18

The anticipated loads during the rescue situation should be within the loadings specified in the manufacturer’s
user instructions. If a rescue procedure requires an operator to descend to recover a casualty there may be
additional loading on all parts of the system including the anchor, which may be required to support the load of
two persons.
Anchor points are an important part of any rescue system, they should be suitably positioned for the intended
operation and should be unquestionably sound.
Some special types of anchor device (e.g. portable horizontal lines, portable deadweights) may not be suitable for
such applications. Deadweights are unlikely to be capable of supporting the weight of two persons. Users of such
systems should consult the manufacturer for guidance.
When completing a rescue method which minimise the risk to rescuers are preferred. Always avoid placing
additional personnel at risk.
Remember!
The loads placed on some items of equipment during a rescue may be higher than they have been originally
designed for.
Some general guidelines for emergency response are outlined in table 4.
Do’s Don’ts
1. Site emergency / contingency plans must be 1. Never list the Fire Brigade or other
subject to risk assessment to ensure actions emergency service as the primary control
are appropriate and do not endanger measure/mitigation of risk on site-specific
additional persons. risk assessments.
2. Site emergency / contingency plans should 2. Never drag accessories along the ground –
allow for access and egress of emergency carry them or use mechanical aids.
services and sharing of plot plans etc. 3. Never use unauthorised lifting accessories,
3. Take time to stand back and evaluate the task always ensure they have test certificates and
4. Before moving an injured person, a first aid as appropriate, a 6 monthly thorough
assessment should be undertaken. examination report.
5. Check lifting points are strong enough for the 4. Never guess the weight of the load.
job. 5. Never shorten any accessory by twisting or
6. Obtain the weight of the load and check the knotting.
SWL of the accessories. 6. Never ride on the load or in the accessories.
7. Select the correct accessory. 7. Never walk/work underneath any load.
8. Check the centre of gravity of the load 8. Never leave accessories lying around on the
9. Inspect the condition of the accessories. ground – pick them up.
10. Check the loads are slung correctly. 9. Never leave damaged or condemned
11. Stand clear of the load being lifted accessories where they could be used by
12. On supported loads use packing where sharp others.
edges are present. 10. Never place hands or feet near the bight / knot
13. Take the strain before lifting the load. / tightening loop of any accessory.
19

Do’s Don’ts
14. Check accessory and lifting point attachments 11. Never drag accessories from underneath a
on suspended loads. load it could pull the load over and damage
15. Give clear & unambiguous the gear – use bearers.
signals/instructions to the crane operator.
16. Stand where you can be seen by the crane
operator when giving signals.
17. Use a tag line to control long/awkward loads.
Table 4: Do’s and Don’ts for Emergency Rescue Planning
20

Appendices
Appendix 1 - Definitions
appointed person: person nominated (typically by the employing organisation) to plan, and to have overall
control of the lifting operation [SOURCE: BS 7121-1:2016]
carrier / manrider / man riding basket: device that supports persons during lifting and lowering [SOURCE: BS
7121-1:2016]
centre of gravity: point at which the total mass of a body may be regarded as being concentrated, or about which
the parts of a body exactly balance each other [SOURCE: ISO 12480-1:1997, 3.6]
command: The process of directing the operations of all or part of a particular service (or group of services) by
giving direct orders.
competent person: person deemed, in respect of the task they are required to perform, to possess the skills,
relevant experience and qualifications considered necessary and appropriate to the nature of the work to be
undertaken [SOURCE: I.S. 360:2019]
controller of Operations: the person given authority by a principal response agency to control all elements of its
activities at and about the site.
duty holder: any person or organisation holding a legal duty
evacuation: typically carried out by a user to escape unaided in an emergency from a remote situation such as a
tower crane using a standard method of egress [SOURCE: CPA, TIN 013: 2016]
fall arrest: preventing the user of a personal fall protection system from colliding with the ground, structure, or
any other obstacle during free fall [SOURCE: EN 363: 2008]
fall arrest system: personal fall protection system which limits the impact force of the body on the user during
fall arrest [SOURCE: EN 363: 2008].
fall prevention: preventing the user of a personal fall protection system from going into a free fall [SOURCE:
EN 363: 2008].
hazard: Any phenomenon with the potential to cause direct harm to members of the community, the environment
or physical infrastructure, or being potentially damaging to the economic and social infrastructure.
hazard Identification: A stage in the Risk Assessment process where potential hazards are identified and
recorded.
hazard Analysis: A process by which the hazards facing a community, region or country are analysed and
assessed in terms of the threat/risk which they pose.
lift: movement of loads or persons that involves a change of height [SOURCE: I.S. 360:2019]
21

lifting accessory: accessory for lifting work equipment for attaching loads to machinery for lifting but excluding
features of the load. Examples include chain slings, rope slings, ring hooks, shackles, swivels, spreader beams and
spreader frames [SOURCE: I.S. 360:2019]
lifting equipment: work equipment for lifting or lowering loads, including attachments used for anchoring, fixing
or supporting the load [SOURCE: I.S. 360:2019]
load: force on the crane arising from the weight lifted, the weight of wire ropes, hooks and all other work
equipment, and any other forces, such as suction [SOURCE: I.S. 360:2019]
major Emergency: Any event which, usually with little or no warning, causes or threatens death or injury,
serious disruption of essential services, or damage to property, the environment or infrastructure beyond the
normal capabilities of the principal emergency services in the area in which the event occurs, and requiring the
activation of specific additional procedures to ensure effective, co-ordinated response.
method statement: document produced for or by the appointed person to describe how the lifting operation is to
be carried out [SOURCE: ISO 22846-2:2012, 2.23 – modified to include "appointed person" and removed notes]
risk: The combination of the likelihood of a hazardous event and its potential impact.
risk Assessment: A systematic process of identifying and evaluating, either qualitatively or quantitatively, the
risk resulting from specific hazards.
signaller: person responsible for directing the crane operator to ensure safe movement of the crane and load
site operator: person or organisation in overall control of the site. This could be the owner of the site, or a person
or organisation operating the site on their behalf. [SOURCE: BS 7121-1:2016]
slinger-signaller: person responsible for attaching and detaching the load to and from the crane, correct
identification and use of lifting accessories in accordance with the specifications of the appointed person,
initiating the movement of the load and directing the crane operator to ensure safe movement of the crane and
load
tag line: rope used to guide the movement of a load with one end attached to the load and the free end held by a
person on the ground
weight: vertical force exerted by a mass as a result of gravity.
Appendix 2 - Attributes of a Proprietary Casualty Rescue System

The HSE (UK) Construction Plant-hire Association – Rescue of Personnel from Height on Tower Cranes
recommends that rescue systems may consist of some or all of the following: -
 A suitable number of rescuer harnesses

 A suitable number of casualty harnesses2
 A suitable casualty stretcher
2
Consider harnesses with top D-ring for vertical descent / ascent.
22

 A reach and recovery mechanism that will allow an individual to access and recover a fallen worker and
then either lower or raise that person to a point of safety and/or
 A controlled descent device which will allow an individual to self-rescue or be rescued by attaching it to a
suitable anchor point and controlling the descent of that individual in suspension to the ground 3.
A rescue kit will be compact and simple to use, easily carried and may consist of some or all of the following:
 A locking, extendable rescue pole allowing easy connection to a person hanging suspended after a fall
 A controlled rate lowering device with lifting capability and maximum speed limiter, designed to rescue
casualties by lifting or lowering
 A universal fitting casualty harness
 A pulley, providing mechanical advantage to raise a load or deviate a rope
 Sufficient slings suitable for the application4.
Note!
3 Using a single
Potentially with a line only,
rescue even for an emergency rescue, is not best practice. A second (back-up) line is also
basket.
4 required under Regulations
Rope kit should be longer that the110 & 111between
distance of the Safety, Health
ground and andfeeding
jib (for Welfare at on
rope Work (General
descent Application)
for injured person).
Regulations 2007, as amended. Both lines may be attached to the single attachment point on a full body
harness. 23

A rescuer harness will be quick and easy to fit, taking into account the locations in which it may be required to be
put on and will be constructed with: -
 Suitable attachment points to allow quick connection to a system for lowering, raising and/or suspension
 Suitable accessory loops to allow attachment of ancillary equipment such as a torch, radio, etc.
A rescue stretcher will: -

 Meet appropriate standards
 Be suitable for both horizontal and vertical lowering
 Provide protection to the casualty
 Provide security to the casualty5
 Be sufficiently stiff to support the casualty
 Where necessary, be able to incorporate spinal immobilisation equipment
 Be easy to lift whether manually or by crane, e.g. lifting bridle
 Be easy to wash and disinfect
 Be easily stored and transportable.
5
Consider using a rescue stretcher/basket that incorporates a harness system.
24

Consultation with equipment manufacturers/suppliers, training providers and local fire and rescue services will
enable suitable equipment and training to be procured and appropriate systems of rescue to be implemented and
maintained.
Appendix 3 - Illustrations of Latch Points on Cranes

It is essential that the appropriate latch points on the tower crane(s) are identified and known to the rescue team
members. Additionally, these should be photographed and explained in the rescue plan.
25

Insert photographs to illustrate latch point(s) on tower crane(s) here.
Appendix 4 - Examples of Rescue Davits
26

Appendix 5 - Access Issues for Rescue from Tower Crane Cabs
27

28

Appendix 6 – Template Rescue Plan
Site-Specific Details:
Site Reference:
Site Address:
First Aid Responder(s)*

1. 2.
3. 4.
Rescue Team Members*

1. 2.
3. 4.
5. 6.
7. 8.
9. 10.
*Suitable cover arrangements must be in place to ensure that deputies for the team members listed below are
available should they be needed.
Procedure:
1. The alarm will be raised by radio. The Slinger/Signaler will alert the Site Manager by radio or phone.
2. A three-man team trained rescue team will mobilize, with two members deploying to the top of the
crane (one of which will be a qualified first aider) and the third member remaining at ground level to
cordon off / prepare the area.
3. Access to the cab will be through the door of the cab.
4. The condition of the casualty to be assessed by the first aider before any rescue is attempted. The
rescue team will stay in contact via radio or mobile phone.
5. The rescue team will notify the emergency services of the situation and details of the injured person.
6. Where the operator must be rescued from the Tower Crane cab, one crew member (A) will enter the
cab. The selected rescue equipment will be given out to the second member (B) who will affix it to
the Tower Crane structure as shown below.
7. The rope will be carefully lowered from the crane and monitored to ensure it runs freely (with no
kinks). There will be a third member of the rescue team located on the ground for observation.
8. In the event the casualty is conscious, the casualty will be placed in the selected rescue equipment
(e.g. rescue basket / nappy). Note: there is a need to consider the risk of a casualty losing
consciousness during decent/lowering and to select appropriate equipment.
29

9. The rescue device will then be engaged to lift the casualty until they are suspended off the floor and
above the adjacent handrail.
10. When their weight is fully taken by the rescue system, the rescue device is locked off by the use of
the friction of the pigtail and cleat on the opposite side of the device to the wheel.
11. At this point the casualty can be lowered using the rescue equipment, if safe to do so. Preference is to
lower the casualty without transferring.
12. If using the nappy is not practical the casualty will be transferred to a rescue basket/stretcher. If
transferring, the rescue basket/stretcher will be laid out just behind the driver cab, the casualty will be
hoisted out of the cab aided by the triangle, lay the casualty in the stretcher with their shoulders
approximately level with the carry loops.
13. Secure the casualty by the internal fully body harness that passes under the groin and over the
shoulders to meet quick release chest buckles. The leg loops are threaded between the legs and clip
into the two shoulder straps.
14. The rescue basket/stretcher should be fitted in the horizontal position and attached to the selected
controlled descent/rescue system
15. Lower the casualty to the ground carefully, controlling the rate of descent of the casualty with
assistance from the other members of the response team using tag lines and/or physical assistance in
keeping the casualty away from obstructions.
16. The 3rd rescue operative at the base of the tower crane will use the tag line on the casualty to guide
the casualty away from the mast of the crane or any other obstacles.
17. Emergency services will take over once the casualty has reached the ground.
Risk Assessment
30
Risk Rating Residual Risk Rating Additional Control
Hazard Risk Control Measures
(High/Medium/Low) (High/Medium/Low) Measures
Operator in cab  Unable to rescue  Rescue equipment to be located
requiring rescue – operator from in the stores.
conscious cab  Rescue crew to be trained and
 Rescue crew available on site to ascend crane
unaware of and undertake rescue.
rescue plan.  Cab assessed to ensure that rescue
 Rescue crew not triangle and rope system can be
training / not used to remove driver from cab.
available  Crew to fit rope system above
 Rescue cab, fit rescue triangle operator
equipment not and hoist operator out of cab.
sufficient  Operator then to be lowered to
the ground.
Operator in cab  Unable to rescue  Rescue equipment to be located
requiring rescue – operator from in the stores.
unconscious cab  Rescue crew to be trained and
 Rescue crew available on site to ascend crane
unaware of and undertake rescue.
rescue plan.  Cab assessed to ensure that rescue
 Rescue crew not triangle and rope system can be
training / not used to remove driver from cab.
available  Crew to fit rope system above
 Rescue cab, fit rescue triangle operator
equipment not and hoist operator out of cab.
sufficient  Operator then to be lowered to
the ground.
Operator or  Unable to rescue  Rescue equipment to be located
maintenance persons casualty in stores
suspended in harness  Rescue crew  Rescue crew to be briefed and to
from crane unaware of have signed acknowledging
rescue plan. briefing
 Rescue crew not  Rescue crew (including additional
trained / not cover) to be trained and available
available on site to ascend crane and
 Rescue undertake rescue.
equipment not  Rescue equipment to be checked
sufficient to be appropriate.
 Rescue equipment to be routinely
checked
 Crew member wearing suitable
31


harness to fit rescue system to
crane above location of casualty.
 Crew member to lower himself to
the casualty and attaches the
casualty to their harness. Cut the
casualty’s harness and lowers
both to the ground level.
 Emergency services to meet
casualty at ground level
(contacted in interim).
By their nature
situations that require No rescue / evacuation operation to
rescue or evacuation start without authorisation from both
Access to point of
are Incident Controller and First Aid
rescue/ evacuation
unpredictable Responder/Trained Tower Crane
Fatality / injury / Rescuer.
Damage to structure
Structure may be No rescue operation or training
unstable exercise to be carried out if structure
due to collision, is identified as unstable.
Instability of structure
explosion, wind etc. Person in charge must send for, and
Fatality / injury / await, emergency services.
damage to property
Member of external
All members of Rescue Team to be
team in need of
medically fit.
Phobia – fear of assistance
All members must inform Project
height/blood etc. during operation.
Management
Fatality / injury /
of any phobia.
damage to property
Emergency Services Escorted by Controller of
Lack of awareness of
not knowing where to Operations/Incident Controller and
access routes
go to IP On-site Emergency Coordinator.
Collapse or Situation requiring All team members to be medically fit.
incapacitation of rescue Any member of rescue team on
member of RTM or evacuation will be medication for whatever
stressful. reason must inform the Controller of
(Poor physical/mental Collapse due to Operations/Incident Controller and
Health) illness/heart attack On-site Emergency Coordinator
etc. immediately.
32


Their ability to carry out rescue duties
Fatality / injury
will then be assessed.
Rescue team members to be
Physical requirements Injured or
physically fit.
of rescue/evacuation unconscious
No rescue team member to put their
(e.g. weight of injured person may be in an
own health at risk when assessing the
person, carrying of awkward position.
movement of persons or equipment.
rescue/evacuation An unconscious
Rescue team members to have
equipment and person weighs in
undertaken training in manual
stretcher) excess of 80kg.
handling.
Suitable equipment purchased, to
Failure or misuse include appropriate PPE, head
of Use of ‘home made’ protection, gloves, footwear,
rescue/evacuation or untested harnesses etc.
equipment - Lack of equipment Equipment to include basic first aid
suitable Fatality / injury. requirements
equipment - identified and securely located with
access only to Rescue team.
Failure of equipment
Equipment to undergo regular
in use; missing
inspections.
Poor maintenance of elements of required
Transportation/first aid basket to be
equipment equipment;
easily identified, located, and
damaged equipment
accessed.
Fatality / injured
Suitable PPE to be identified and
supplied
Suitable storage facilities for PPE to
be provided
Failure of PPE in
Poor use/maintenance All rescue team members to received
operation
of PPE training in the use and maintenance of
Fatality / injury
PPE. Harnesses to be subject to
regular inspection (inspections to be
recorded at least every 6 months or as
required).
Poor communication
between team
members
Confusion over All rescue team members to have
operational radio/telephone communication.
33


Contact details for Controller of
Operations/Incident Controller and
On-site Emergency Coordinator to be
clearly displayed onsite.
No rescue operation to begin without
authorisation from Controller of
requirements Operations/Incident Controller.
leading to RTM’s Rescue team to have authority over all
starting operation operations deemed necessary to allow
when no need rescue operation to take place safely.
Periodic drills to be carried out to

ensure team members are aware of
duties.
All members of rescue team will be

volunteers.
Members will be assessed for their
Assessment of suitability by the Controller of
Situations that require injured / Operations/Incident Controller in
rescue or evacuation unconscious person consultation with management.
are, by their nature, to take Personnel whose pastimes include
unpredictable. Any place, injury to be ‘rope access’ type hobbies should be
such situation will be treated considered
stressful Loss of concentration No pressure will be put on persons to
Fatality / injury join team to be assessed by project
management for suitability –
experience, authority, personality (to
be cool and collected).
Site to ensure adequate access to
tower crane base. Area to be clear to
prevent slip/ trip or falls. Adequate
Loose Materials Slips/ Trips
lighting provided. Report any access
issues before ascending crane.
Materials falling from Struck by falling Head protection to be worn at all times
height Items on site and when climbing mast until in
the safety of cab. Operator to stay alert
34


and keep to designated routes. Do not
enter prohibited areas or walk below
work at height or under suspended
loads.
Residual from surrounding lighting in

and around site to illuminate the mast.
Note: The use of additional lighting
Poor Lighting at Base Slips/ Trips pointing up the tower may dazzle the
driver and cause disorientation.
Lighting provided at base.
Hi-Viz to be worn at all times.

Rescue team to be inducted by site
Struck by plant or and informed of traffic arrangements/
Traffic - Moving Plant
vehicles on site pedestrian movement. Operator to
stay alert and keep to designated
access routes.
Rescue team to be trained in worked
Training - Untrained Not aware of at height and rescue from towers,
team members standards expected masts, and structures.
Refresher training to be carried out at
regular intervals
Rescue team members to be issued
with insulated waterproof gloves,
Climbing Tower Crane Slips due to icy or along with suitable rubber soled steel
- Inclement Weather wet weather toe cap boots - not to climb in icy
Conditions conditions conditions or should they be unsure
that access the cab can be achieved
safely.
Fatigue During Do not climb if feeling unwell. Recent
Ill Health
Climbing occupation health medical undertaken.
Structural steel Slips/ Trips/ Falls and Erection supervisor carries out a full
knocks assessment for slip, trip and fall
hazards and initiates action before
commissioning the crane. Operators
are instructed to practice good
housekeeping. Hard hat with chin
35


straps worn when climbing/
descending/ all areas.
Where possible all crane motions
must be stopped with the ladders
aligned.
Before the rest of the rescue team
enter the slew ring, a competent
person should ensure the crane is
parked in a safe position and braked.
Where engineering controls do not

provide sufficient protection - Keep
Entrapment
hands and feet clear of pinch points.
Moving parts Entanglement Ensure boots and gloves are in good
condition.
Maintain 3 points of contact.
Ensure good firm footing is
established on ladder rungs and
appropriate structural handholds used.
Never enter a slew ring in severe high

gusting winds where there is a risk
that the crane could suddenly move
without warning.
Areas where edge Rescue Team to wear full harness and
protection is not Falling from Height lanyards clipped on to structurally
provided sound anchor point.
First aider and rescue team to ensure
that the Tower Crane operator’s body
Confined space of cab Injury to head/ body
and head are properly supported when
being moved.
Unable to promptly Emergency basket and harnesses,

Delayed rescue
access basket and equipment to be stored in readily
response
rescue equipment retrievable location.
Effects of high winds

High Winds and Instability of Review weather conditions and assess
basket when lifted if it is safe to proceed.
36


All persons to undergo appropriate
training.
In appropriate anchor Double check ratchet straps are
point chosen to secure Sudden uncontrolled suitably secure prior to persons
basket in position on release leaving the safety confines of the
crane basket.
Lanyards attached to suitable anchor
points.
Emergency Services Escorted by the Controller of
Lack of awareness of
not knowing where to Operations/Incident Controller or
access routes
go to IP delegated person.
Rescue Team Briefing:

I have read and understood this rescue plan and will take part in a rescue if required.
# Print Name (First & Surname) Signature Date
37

# Print Name (First & Surname) Signature Date
10
38

CIF Guidance - Rescue From Tower Cranes - Rev 1 - 15.12.2020

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

CIF Guidance - Rescue From Tower Cranes - Rev 1 - 15.12.2020

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Sample Procedure

Version 1.0: 15th December 2020

Rescue from Tower Cranes

 All lifting operations are appropriately planned, supervised and undertaken;

3.0Contacting the Emergency Services

It is important that you:

4.0Roles and Responsibilities

Emergency Contacts: Primary Secondary

Position: e.g. Site Manager1 e.g. Safety Advisor

Table 1: Onsite Emergency Contacts

On-Site Emergency Coordinator

Controller of Operations / Incident Controller or Commander

a) Establish the nature of the emergency and identify if rescue is required

Appointed Person (for Lifting Operations)

a) Climb the tower crane and safe access to the cab.

First Aid Responder (FAR) / Trained Tower Crane Rescuer

a) Checking the first aid equipment

• Learn the emergency numbers 112 and 999

5.1 Access and Egress

5.2 Method Statement for Cranes

 Details of the rescue equipment to be used;

A tagline should be used to control any stretcher/rescue basket.

5.3 Selection and Training of Persons for Rescue

5.4 Rescue Equipment

5.5 Inspection and Maintenance of Rescue Equipment

5.6 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

 Polycarbonate climbing helmet with chin strap

5.8 Weather Conditions

Table 2: Met Éireann Contact Information

Table 3: Criteria for Weather Warnings (Source: https://www.met.ie/met-eireann-warning-system-explained )

6.0Rescue from Height

General procedure for casualty recovery

Remember – risk of suspension trauma!

Regarding the position of the casualty:

6.1 Rescue from Tower Cranes

1. Identify the task to be undertaken;

Rescue during use, maintenance and thorough examination of the crane

 cab location (e.g. side hung or within the tower);

 The type of stretcher required for the type of rescue envisaged;

Recovery from suspension during erection, alteration and dismantling

The rescue system is operated by trained members of the erection team.

Permanent Horizontal Lines on Jibs

Some general guidelines for emergency response are outlined in table 4.

Table 4: Do’s and Don’ts for Emergency Rescue Planning

duty holder: any person or organisation holding a legal duty

weight: vertical force exerted by a mass as a result of gravity.

Appendix 2 - Attributes of a Proprietary Casualty Rescue System

 A suitable number of rescuer harnesses

A rescue stretcher will: -

Appendix 3 - Illustrations of Latch Points on Cranes

Insert photographs to illustrate latch point(s) on tower crane(s) here.

Appendix 4 - Examples of Rescue Davits

Appendix 5 - Access Issues for Rescue from Tower Crane Cabs

Appendix 6 – Template Rescue Plan

First Aid Responder(s)*

Rescue Team Members*

Risk Rating Residual Risk Rating Additional Control

Risk Rating Residual Risk Rating Additional Control

Risk Rating Residual Risk Rating Additional Control

Periodic drills to be carried out to

All members of rescue team will be

Risk Rating Residual Risk Rating Additional Control