OSHA and ANSI Z359 both require a rescue plan whenever workers are exposed to fall hazards. Not "we'll call 911." An actual written procedure with named rescuers, equipment locations, and drilled response times.
What OSHA And ANSI Require
OSHA 1926.502(d)(20): "The employer shall provide for prompt rescue of employees in the event of a fall or shall assure that employees are able to rescue themselves."
ANSI Z359.2 goes further, requiring:
- Written rescue plan for each work location and task
- Rescue equipment identification and location
- Rescuer identification and training documentation
- Rescue drills and documentation
- Response time targets
Types Of Fall Rescue
- Self-rescue — worker uses controlled descent device to lower themselves
- Assisted rescue — coworkers use pre-rigged rescue system
- Technical rescue — fire department or rope rescue team
Most tower and wind turbine rescues rely on self-rescue with controlled descent devices, backed up by assisted rescue if the worker is incapacitated. Waiting for external rescue in a suspension trauma scenario is fatal — suspension trauma can incapacitate a worker in as little as 15 minutes.
What's In The Forbes Rescue Plan Pack
- Fall protection rescue plan template
- Wind turbine tower rescue plan (external climb, internal ladder, nacelle, hub)
- Transmission tower rescue plan
- Confined space rescue plan (non-entry, entry, technical)
- Rescue drill documentation template
- Rescue equipment inspection log
- Suspension trauma response procedure
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does OSHA require a written rescue plan?
OSHA 1926.502(d)(20) requires the employer to 'provide for prompt rescue' but doesn't explicitly require a written plan. However, in practice, without a written plan you can't demonstrate you've provided for rescue. ANSI Z359.2 does require a written plan. Best practice and effective compliance both require written.
What's suspension trauma and how fast does it kill?
Suspension trauma (or orthostatic intolerance) occurs when a worker hangs motionless in a harness. Blood pools in the legs, reducing blood return to the heart. Loss of consciousness can occur in 5-30 minutes. Death can follow within an hour if not rescued and properly repositioned.
Can I use the fire department as my rescue plan?
Depends. If the fire department can reach your worker within response time and has appropriate technical rescue capability, yes. If your work is at 300 feet on a wind turbine and the nearest technical rescue team is 45 minutes away, no. Response time must match the hazard — for suspension trauma, that's 15 minutes maximum.
How often do we need to drill rescue?
ANSI Z359.2 recommends annually minimum, more frequently for high-risk work. OSHA doesn't specify a frequency but requires that rescue equipment be readily available and that rescuers be capable. If you haven't drilled in 12+ months, capability is questionable.
Does every worker need their own rescue kit?
For controlled descent self-rescue, yes — each worker needs a controlled descent device rated for their weight plus tools. For assisted rescue, one team-shared kit is acceptable if it's accessible and personnel are trained on its use.
What about rescue from a wind turbine hub?
Hub rescue is one of the hardest scenarios. Confined space entry, tight quarters, need to lower victim through nacelle floor hatch and then external tower. Requires specialized equipment (Skyed rescue kits, transfer straps) and drilled procedure. Generic 'we'll figure it out' plans fail here.