Department: HSEQ — Health, Safety, Environment & Quality
Document: FALLS EMERGENCY RESCUE PLAN — PSW-PLN-HSEQ-0X
Document (site copy): Falls_emergency_rescue_plan.docx (internal Drive)
This is an official notification to all technical staff regarding the Falls Emergency Rescue Plan (PSW-PLN-HSEQ-0X). The plan has been issued and updated, and it is now the company standard for responding to falls from heights.
What this update is about
This is an official notification to all technical staff that the Falls Emergency Rescue Plan PSW-PLN-HSEQ-0X has been issued/updated and is now the company standard for responding to falls from height. The plan establishes the required procedures, responsibilities and equipment for safe rescue of personnel suspended in fall arrest systems, and must be used at every site where work at heights (>2 m) is undertaken.
Why this matters
The Plan sets mandatory controls to protect both the injured worker and rescue personnel — including pre-planning, site-specific rescue plans, competence requirements, and emergency response steps. Following the Plan reduces the risk of suspension trauma and other fall-related injuries, ensuring rescues are performed safely and in compliance with our HSEQ obligations.
Summary — purpose, scope & key procedures
Purpose & scope: Defines rescue requirements for falls of two (2) metres and above and requires inclusion of the Plan in risk assessments and SWMS for any applicable work.
Key procedures:
- Rescue options include self-rescue, assisted self-rescue, mechanically aided rescue, aerial work platform/crane-assisted rescue, and team rescue; all must be pre-planned for the site conditions.
- Responsibilities for organisation, rescue personnel and supervisors, plus inspection, assembly and maintenance of rescue equipment.
How it protects personnel: Pre-planning, competent trained rescuers, prescribed equipment, and rehearsal of emergency procedures minimise time suspended, control suspension-trauma risk, and protect rescue teams.
Key changes (please note)
- New rope rescue procedures — The Plan now formalises rope-based rescue methods (including pre-rigged descent/control devices and vertical rescue/escape systems) as recognised rescue options and defines competency and pre-rigging requirements.
- Updated equipment requirements — The equipment list has been revised to specify fibre/rescue rope, round slings, pre-rigged control descent devices, triple-lock karabiners, winches, rescue stretchers and other items that must meet relevant standards. Ensure all items meet manufacturer and inspection requirements.
Mandatory actions for technical staff
Attend mandatory training: All technical staff and nominated rescue personnel must attend the company rescue training on 8 December 2025 (attendance compulsory).
Update personal rescue kits: Review and update personal rescue kits to comply with the Plan’s revised equipment list prior to 8 December.
Review the Plan: Read PSW-PLN-HSEQ-0X in full and ensure site SWMS and rescue plans are updated before commencing any work at height.
Questions / Confirmation
For questions or to confirm training attendance and kit compliance, contact: HSEQ Department or Mark Rutherford — [email protected]
Issued by:
McKercher Corporation – Safety and Compliance Division
