Emergency Rescue Flashcards

After rescuing a person who has been suspended in a harness, what position should they be placed in?

Answer: In a seated or W-position with knees raised for at least 30 minutes, NOT laid flat

A person rescued from harness suspension should NOT be laid flat immediately, as this can cause a sudden rush of toxin-laden blood from the legs to the heart and organs (rescue death). They should be kept in a seated or W-position with knees raised for at least 30 minutes while medical help arrives.

What equipment should be readily available at ground level for MEWP emergency rescue?

Answer: Relevant rescue equipment including the machine key, an emergency lowering guide, and a first aid kit

Ground-level rescue equipment should include the machine key (or knowledge of keyless override), the manufacturer's emergency lowering procedure guide, communication devices, and a first aid kit. Additional equipment may include a rescue descent device depending on the site risk assessment.

During an emergency rescue, the ground-level controls are not functioning. What alternative rescue method should be considered?

Answer: Use an adjacent MEWP to reach the stranded operator, or deploy a secondary rescue system

If ground-level controls fail, the rescue plan should include alternative methods such as using an adjacent MEWP to reach the stranded operator, a rope rescue system, or a secondary lowering device. Climbing down the boom is extremely dangerous and must never be attempted.

What communication method should be established between a MEWP operator and ground personnel for emergencies?

Answer: Two-way radios or an agreed signal system, tested before work begins

A reliable two-way communication system (such as radios or an agreed visual/audible signal system) must be established and tested before work begins. At height, wind noise and distance can make shouting unreliable, and the operator may be unable to use a phone if incapacitated.

A MEWP operator has a medical emergency while elevated on a boom lift. In what order should the rescue proceed?

Answer: Lower the platform using ground controls, call 999, then administer first aid on the ground

The priority is to lower the platform to ground level using the emergency controls (fastest way to access the casualty), call emergency services (can be done simultaneously by another person), then administer first aid once the casualty is at ground level where treatment is safer and more effective.

What should be included in a MEWP emergency rescue drill?

Answer: A practical simulation including activating ground controls, lowering the platform, and casualty handling

Rescue drills must be practical and simulate real emergency conditions. They should include locating and operating the ground-level emergency controls, lowering the platform, extracting the casualty, applying appropriate first aid positions, and communicating with emergency services.