A rescue plan is a pre-prepared, documented procedure for recovering a worker who has experienced a fall and is now suspended in their fall arrest harness.
Why prompt rescue is critical
A suspended worker is at risk of suspension trauma (orthostatic intolerance) — pooling of blood in the legs causes a rapid drop in blood pressure that can become life-threatening within minutes, even though the harness has successfully caught the fall. Recovery within 15–20 minutes is the standard target.
Legal requirement
Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, a rescue plan is mandatory wherever there is a risk of a fall. Relying on emergency services alone is generally not considered an adequate rescue plan.
Plan must specify
- Rescue method (self-rescue / assisted / mechanical / emergency services)
- Required equipment and where it is stored
- Trained rescuers on site
- Communication procedures and emergency contacts
- Means to reach the casualty quickly
- Post-rescue medical response