Elevated Work Platform, Pole and Tower Rescue Procedure

Purpose. This procedure sets the requirements for working from elevated work platforms, poles and towers and for rescuing a worker who is injured or incapacitated at height.

1.Before working at height

The job risk assessment must identify the height task, the fall arrest or restraint system, the rescue method, the rescue equipment on site and the two rescue competent workers present. Harnesses, lanyards, pole straps and rescue kits must be inspected before use and the inspection recorded. Elevated work platforms must have a current inspection and the operator must hold the licence and authorisation for the machine and the insulated rating required for the work.

2.Elevated work platform operation

Set up on firm level ground with outriggers deployed and the exclusion zone barricaded. Maintain safe approach distances from the bucket, boom and any tool or material for the voltage of the apparatus. Insulated platforms must be tested to the schedule and not used above their rated voltage. A ground person must remain at the base with the lower controls available at all times.

3.Pole work

Poles must be tested for soundness before climbing or before an elevated work platform is positioned against them. Climbing will use a pole strap and a fall arrest lanyard at all times above two metres. Workers must not climb poles under strain from conductors being cut or transferred unless the pole is supported.

4.Tower work

Transmission tower climbing will use twin lanyards and the tower's fall arrest system where fitted. Climbers must maintain safe approach distances from live conductors and insulators and must not climb in high wind or lightning. A tower rescue kit and two tower rescue competent workers must be at the base.

5.Rescue

If a worker becomes incapacitated at height, the crew must first make the electrical situation safe, including requesting emergency de-energisation from the network controller where contact with apparatus is possible. The rescue will follow the method on the job risk assessment: lower the elevated work platform by the ground controls, or lower the worker from the pole or tower with the rescue kit. Begin first aid and call emergency services. Do not delay a controlled descent to wait for emergency services.

• Make the electrical situation safe first
• Use ground controls to lower an elevated work platform
• Lower a pole or tower casualty with the rescue kit
• First aid and emergency services
• Report immediately and preserve the scene

6.Drills and records

Every crew will complete an elevated work platform rescue drill and a pole top or tower rescue drill every six months. Drills are recorded on the training matrix and the authorised persons register.