Safe Work Procedure: Arrested Fall Recovery Plan

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]
Revision Date: [DATE]
Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]
Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This procedure covers the steps and safety measures required for the recovery of a worker following an arrested fall using a personal fall arrest system. It applies to all work environments where fall arrest systems are used, including construction sites, maintenance operations, and any elevated work areas.

This procedure should be used in conjunction with other safety documents such as the fall protection plan and emergency response plan.

2. Definitions

Arrested Fall
A fall that has been stopped by a fall arrest system before the worker reaches a lower level.

Fall Arrest System
A system designed to stop a fall in progress and minimize the impact force on the worker.

Rescue Plan
A pre-planned procedure to safely retrieve a worker after a fall has been arrested.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure all workers are trained in fall arrest and rescue procedures.
Verify that rescue equipment is available and in good condition.
Coordinate with emergency services if needed.

3.2 Workers

Participate in training sessions for fall arrest and rescue procedures.
Inspect personal fall arrest systems before use.
Report any incidents or equipment defects immediately.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Assist in the development and review of the fall recovery plan.
Monitor compliance with safety procedures.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Suspension Trauma	Loss of consciousness, injury	Implement prompt rescue procedures, use trauma straps
Equipment Failure	Fall, injury	Regular inspection and maintenance of equipment
Inadequate Training	Ineffective rescue, injury	Comprehensive training programs

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential for safety during fall arrest and recovery operations.

Full Body Harness - Must be properly fitted and rated for the worker's weight.
Helmet - Protects against head injuries during a fall.
Gloves - Provides grip and protection during rescue operations.
Safety Boots - Offers foot protection and stability.

Inspect PPE before each use and replace any damaged or worn items.

6. Equipment and Tools

Proper equipment is crucial for effective fall recovery.

Rescue Ladders - For reaching and retrieving suspended workers.
Descent Devices - Allows controlled lowering of the worker.
Rope Grabs - For secure attachment to lifelines.
Anchorage Connectors - Must be rated for fall arrest systems.

Regularly inspect and maintain all equipment to ensure functionality.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained in the use of fall arrest systems and rescue procedures as per WAC 296-24-88050 (5)(h) [1].

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to review the fall recovery plan, identify potential hazards, and ensure all equipment is available and functional.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clear of obstructions and that all fall arrest systems are properly set up and inspected.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Assess the Situation

Evaluate the condition of the fallen worker and the environment.

Check for immediate hazards.
Communicate with the worker if possible.
Alert emergency services if necessary.

Step 2: Implement Rescue

Use appropriate rescue equipment to retrieve the worker.

Deploy rescue ladder or descent device.
Securely attach to the worker's harness.
Lower the worker to a safe level.

Step 3: Provide First Aid

Once the worker is safely on the ground, provide first aid as needed.

Monitor for signs of suspension trauma.
Administer CPR if required.
Await emergency medical personnel.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Prompt Rescue - Ensure rescue is initiated immediately to prevent suspension trauma.
Equipment Inspection - Regularly inspect all fall arrest and rescue equipment.
Training - Conduct regular training sessions for all personnel.
Communication - Maintain clear communication during rescue operations.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

Activate the emergency response plan and contact emergency services.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Unconscious Worker - Use descent device to lower safely.
Equipment Failure - Implement backup rescue plan.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all fall incidents immediately and conduct a thorough investigation to identify causes and prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

WAC 296-24-88050
General Regulation (N.B. Reg. 91-191)

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]
Date: [APPROVAL DATE]