Scout's Toolbox Talks

Rescue gear only works if it’s ready, reachable, and you know how to use it.

You don’t get a second chance when someone is suspended after a fall.

Why It Matters

Too often, rescue kits are stored in a trailer, buried under tools, or left uninspected for weeks.

That’s no help if someone is hanging four stories up.

To be effective, rescue gear must be:

• Close by
• In good condition
• Understood by the team

Waiting to “figure it out” during a fall event is not an option.

Key Points

• Rescue gear must be:
  • Stored within 2 minutes of known fall hazards
  • Inspected weekly for completeness and wear
  • Labeled, organized, and immediately accessible
• Only trained personnel should attempt a rescue — no improvising
• Don’t just look at the diagram — practice using your site’s rescue system
• Rescue drills should be conducted routinely and reviewed as part of the fall protection plan

✅ Don’t wait until someone’s hanging to wonder where the rope is.

Rescue Gear Readiness Checklist

✅ Rescue Equipment Is Ready If:

• Located within reach of high-risk work zones
• Clearly labeled and easy to identify
• Free from damage, tangle-free, and fully stocked
• Includes instructions and anchor points appropriate for your structure
• Inspected and logged weekly

🚫 Rescue Equipment Is NOT Ready If:

• Stored in a locked trailer or remote location
• Buried in bins or scattered with unrelated tools
• Missing components or tangled lines
• Not understood by those expected to use it
• Hasn’t been used in a drill or touched in months

Ask the Crew

• Where is our rescue gear stored right now — and how fast can we get to it?
• When was the last documented inspection?
• Who here has actually practiced using this site’s rescue kit?

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