On-Site Rescue
Because most rescue service providers are unable to rescue within the four-minute time limit, most employers develop their own rescue teams. At least one on-site rescue team member should be trained in first aid and CPR. Each member of the rescue team should be trained to:
- properly use and maintain PPE and rescue equipment
- act as a rescuer in annual simulated emergencies
- assume individual roles and take on any emergency
Off-Site Rescue
Remember that while the window of opportunity for a rescue is very brief (only four minutes), the response time for an off-site rescue team may be considerably longer. After four minutes have lapsed, the victim could suffer brain damage or die. In some emergencies, rescuers may have even less than four minutes to act. Other situations may allow more time. To make sure your confined rescue plan is effective, make sure you:
- Arrange for local rescue/fire departments to provide rescue services.
- Supply the number and description of each permit required confined space in the facility ahead of time.
- Disclose all known hazards associated with the space(s) so that appropriate rescue plans can be developed.
- Provide access to the space so that off-site rescue personnel can familiarize themselves with the site, develop a rescue plan in advance, and practice rescue operations.
For Employers
Calling emergency responders to provide rescue services can be a suitable way of providing for rescues in a permit-required confined space. Pre-planning will ensure that the emergency service is capable, available and prepared. Prior to the start of the rescue work operation, employers must evaluate prospective emergency responders and select one that has:
- Adequate equipment for rescues, such as: atmospheric monitors, fall protection, extraction equipment, and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) for the particular permit-required confined spaces. The ability to respond and conduct a rescue in a timely manner based on the site conditions and is capable of conducting a rescue if faced with potential hazards specific to the space. Such hazards may include:
- Atmospheric hazards (e.g., flammable vapors, low oxygen)
- Electrocution (e.g., unprotected, energized wires)
- Flooding or engulfment potential
- Poor lighting
- Fall hazards
- Chemical hazards
- Agreed to notify the employer in the event that the rescue team becomes unavailable.
Employers must also:
- Inform the emergency responders of potential hazards when they are called to perform a rescue at the worksite; and
- Provide emergency responders with access to all permit-required confined spaces. Access may include:
- Information on access routes, gates or landmarks
- A project site plan if necessary
- GPS coordinates if in a remote location
Employers should also ensure that:
- The most efficient means to contact emergency responders is available;
- Any changes to the project site conditions are communicated to the rescue service; and
- Emergency responders are willing to visit the site and conduct a joint training exercise with the employer.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
8-6. What should an employer do if a rescue service provider cannot rescue within the four-minute time limit?
You forgot to answer the question!