What is a Pole Top Rescue Training Course?
- Posted by craigshepherd
- Categories Training and Assessment
- Date April 27, 2023
A pole top rescue course is a class that teaches people how to safely bring down a person who has climbed onto the top of a building or nearby structure. This course applies to people in various industries. But is particularly important for those working within the state’s energy distribution networks.
Needless to say, most people would never find themselves in a position to rescue somebody from a tall structure. However, for those regularly dealing with power lines and other dangerous structures, a pole top rescue course could be the difference between life and death.
What is a pole top rescue?
If a person becomes stuck on a pole or high structure, emergency responders use pole top rescue as a procedure to assist them. Electrocution or injury are common reasons why workers may require a rescue, they usually can’t safely climb down themselves. Alternatively, there may have been a failure with safety equipment, meaning a worker needs assistance descaling a tall structure.
The pole top rescue course teaches participants how to safely deal with these situations. Even if you’re experienced with harnesses, assisting another person at height is different. That’s exactly why this rescue course exists.
What does a pole top rescue course include?
A pole top rescue course usually consists of both theoretical and practical sessions. The theory section of the course is held in a classroom or office. Then the practical session takes place at a training facility. It is only a half-day course, too, so there is no huge time investment to ensure you’ve got the skills to respond in an emergency.
The prerequisite for this course is completing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training. But this is usually included in the course, too.
Understand the course may be stressful
While all these courses occur in safe, controlled environments, it’s worth mentioning that the course can be stressful. It mimics real-life situations, and this can be difficult for some people. There is naturally the physical stress of climbing. But if participants have witnessed traumatic height-related events on the work site, the course may serve as a reminder. If you have sensitivities in this area, always speak to your instructor.
Need a pole top rescue course near you?
Here at IAC Safety Services, we value the safety of all workers. Whether it’s the telecommunications industry, electrical contracting or working in the energy distribution network, a pole top rescue course is valuable for everybody. To ensure all of your workers are highly skilled and capable of dealing with these types of emergency situations, contact the team at IAC Safety Services today. We can organise appropriate courses for all your workers, and you can even easily book online.