Scout's Toolbox Talks

A fall doesn’t end when the harness catches you.

If you’re left hanging too long, it can become fatal.

Why It Matters

Suspension trauma occurs when blood pools in the legs while hanging in a harness, cutting off circulation to the rest of the body.

Even if the fall is arrested, a worker can lose consciousness or die in under 10 minutes if not rescued quickly.

The harness saves the fall — but a rescue plan saves the life.

Key Points

• Rescue must occur within 5 minutes of the fall — speed matters
• Know the signs of suspension trauma:
  • Nausea or lightheadedness
  • Sweating or confusion
  • Numb or tingling legs
  • Rapid breathing or fainting
• Use relief straps or stirrups to keep pressure off the legs during suspension
• After rescue, keep the worker:
  • Calm and seated upright — not lying flat
  • Monitored for symptoms of trauma or shock
  • Ready for EMS transfer — follow medical guidance

✅ Getting caught is not enough — getting down fast is what saves lives.

What to Do After the Fall

✅ DO:

• Initiate the rescue plan immediately
• Use rescue gear to relieve leg pressure if available
• Keep the worker upright with back support during recovery
• Call EMS even if the person appears okay — internal damage is possible
• Document the fall and report the event as required

🚫 DON’T:

• Assume they’re fine once rescued
• Lay the person flat — this can cause a dangerous blood rush to the heart
• Delay the rescue or leave someone hanging while “getting help”
• Reuse the harness involved in the fall — it must be removed from service

Ask the Crew

• How long would it take us to reach someone hanging right now?
• Do we have rescue straps or trauma-relief devices available?
• Have you been trained to recognize the signs of suspension trauma?

‍