Tower Rescue Trial

Various options are available to rescue someone when they are stranded atop a tower crane. Working at height training and height safety systems provider Taskmasters (UK) Ltd has completed trial runs of two of its systems.

Two Taskmasters rescuers scaled a tower crane more than 30 m high, to simulate a rescue from the crane's cab. This type of rescue would be done if, for example, the driver suffered a heart attack.

In the second simulation rescuers used the Safe Return system to rescue a victim suspended from the crane's jib. Back on the ground the rescuers demonstrated aftercare for someone suffering from ‘suspension trauma’, which can affect anyone who has been left dangling at height for more than a few minutes.

“Planning and implementation of crane rescues is currently of paramount importance in the construction industry,” said Paul Harrison, Taskmasters managing director. “The unique Safe Return system allows trained operatives to rescue themselves or their colleagues without relying on the emergency services, which we are delighted to help evolve as an industry best practice.” For more information see www.taskmasters-uk.com