Introduction
Since our business is providing fall protection to individuals working at heights, we find it important to continue to inform our clients of dangers they may experience on the job. As explained in our mission statement, we exist to save lives and we desire to help maintain a safe work environment for all our clients. During safety planning for your site you had determined there was a fall hazard that needed a fall arrest system in place. This is great to maintain safety while your team members complete their work. This post will focus on the dangers of suspension trauma and how we have designed a product that will save lives.
What is suspension trauma?
Once a fall arrest system is in place it is imperative that safety managers take Rescue into consideration as well. Unfortunately, there are times when team members fall while connected to a fall arrest system. Here is when things get tricky. The fall arrest system performed its job by protecting the worker from landing on the pavement. However, once the harness catches the worker Suspension Trauma can take place.
This condition is known by two other names, Orthostatic Intolerance or Harness Hang Syndrome. When induced the individual will experience a loss of consciousness due to being in an upright position with very limited movement. To be even more specific blood pools in the victim’s legs and does not allow for sufficient oxygen to be sent to their brain. This is caused by the harness cutting off normal circulation in a vertical position. Individuals can experience diminished blood flow, a blocked airway, cardiac arrest, or brain damage. Death can occur in as little as 10 minutes for the victim. Since the 1970s nearly 100 people have died due to suspension trauma.
HySafe’s Solution:
A rescue plan is critical to workplace safety protocols. Using suspension relief equipment can significantly increase the time window for rescue. Hysafe’s Quick-Adjust Trauma Relief prevents the effects of suspension trauma and plays a significant role in saving lives. The process is simple: the worker deploys the trauma relief webbing, connects the ends and steps onto the straps, then leans back to relieve pressure on their legs. After the worker is rescued, the trauma relief webbing can be easily repacked in the packs for future use. The Quick Adjust Trauma Relief attaches to the worker’s harness to ensure reliable performance. It’s easy to attach, simple to deploy and adjustable once deployed for proper step length.
Conclusion:
A rescue procedure is a vital part of workplace fall protection plans. A prompt rescue is required for OSHA compliance and to avoid Suspension Trauma for a fallen worker. Visit our rescue page for more options or Talk to a Specialist today to discuss custom solutions to fit your exact needs.
