Fall protection in the workplace: what to do if a coworker falls?

A momentary lapse of attention, a misjudgement, or simply bad luck—and suddenly a colleague is hanging from a harness. The fall arrest system has prevented a fatal fall, but the danger is far from over.

When a person is suspended in a harness, two serious risks quickly arise

Suspension trauma: After just 5 to 10 minutes, blood can pool in the legs, reducing the oxygen supply to the brain and vital organs. The person may lose consciousness and, in the worst case, suffer cardiac arrest.

After rescue: The greatest danger often arises after the rescue. When the person is released from the harness and laid flat, the pooled blood suddenly rushes back to the upper body. This can lead to a drop in blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmia, and cardiac arrest.
So, what do you do if someone falls?

Here are the steps that can save a life.

1. Assess and secure the situation: First and foremost, make sure no one else is putting themselves in danger.

• Stop all work in the area.
• Assess whether it is safe to approach the person.

2. Alert others and call for help: Even if the person appears unharmed, you must always call 113. Hanging injuries and other complications can arise quickly and without warning.

3. Rescue: Get the person down quickly and correctly. Time is of the essence, but the rescue must be performed correctly to avoid further injury:

• Is the person conscious? Encourage them to move their legs to maintain blood circulation.
• Use available rescue equipment, such as ropes, hoists, or rescue harnesses.
• Work quickly, but in accordance with the rescue plan.

4. After the rescue: Avoid too rapid a return of blood flow. Once the person is on the ground, it is important that blood does not flow back to the upper body too quickly.

• Do not lay the person flat! Keep them in a semi-seated position. Monitor breathing and consciousness until medical personnel take over.
• Anyone who has suffered a suspension injury, even if they appear to be in good condition, must be taken to the hospital.

5. Report and evaluate: All fall accidents, even those without visible injuries, must be reported and investigated:

• Fill out an injury report.
• Review the sequence of events—was it equipment failure, misuse, or lack of procedures?
• Update the rescue plan if necessary.

See also Legislation for work at heights.

Are you prepared?

Many workplaces have fall protection equipment, but how often do you practice rescue procedures? And can everyone use the fall protection equipment correctly? A detailed rescue plan and regular training can mean the difference between life and death.

The most important measure for a safe workplace is proper training. Want to learn more about fall protection and rescue?

Read more about Trainor’s fall protection course.

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