Aerial Rescue Walkthrough
The step-by-step response when a climber is injured or unresponsive aloft. Read it now, not on the day.
When to use it
Emergency response. Every crew member should be able to run these steps from memory.
Step by step
Step 1
Stop all work. Assess the scene for what caused the incident — energised conductors, hung-up limbs, unstable stems, a running saw.
Do not become the second casualty.
Step 2
Make voice contact. Establish whether the climber is conscious, breathing and able to self-rescue.
Step 3
Call emergency services immediately with the site address, access route, nature of injury and that a rope rescue is in progress.
Step 4
If the climber can self-rescue, coach them down and stand by to assist at the ground.
Step 5
If not, the designated rescuer ascends on an independent system with a knife, spare sling, carabiners and a descent device.
Step 6
Secure the casualty to your system, control any running saw or loose gear, and support the head and airway.
Step 7
Transfer the load onto your system, cut or release their tie-in only once they are fully supported, and lower under control.
Never cut anything that is still carrying the casualty's weight.
Step 8
Deliver first aid on the ground, hand over to emergency services and preserve the scene and gear for investigation.
Cautions
- Suspension trauma develops fast — getting them down beats perfect technique.
- Suspected spinal injury: minimise movement, support the head, still get them out of suspension.
- Practise this quarterly. An untrained rescuer is a second victim.
On-site checklist
Training aid only. Follow ANSI Z133, your employer's policy and the manufacturer's instructions for every piece of equipment.