Rescue from Heights

• Rescue planning principles and scene assessment prior to commencing a height rescue operation.
• Roles and responsibilities of rescue team members during a height rescue.
• Suspension trauma; recognition, risks and response considerations for a suspended casualty.
• Types of height rescue equipment and their applications, including function, ratings and pre-use inspection checks.
• Rescue system setup, including anchor points, pulleys, and lowering devices using preset systems.
• Knot selection; advantages, disadvantages and appropriate application in rescue from heights activities.
• Stretcher selection for given rescue scenarios and principles for their safe use.
• Spinal board use and application in height rescue scenarios.
• Execution of first-response rescue procedures in simulated elevated work environments.
• Post-rescue care and reporting requirements.

This course is delivered through a blend of:

• Facilitator-led classroom sessions to introduce rescue planning principles, equipment knowledge, and safety requirements.
• Hands-on equipment practice covering inspection, setup, and operation of height rescue systems in ERGT Australia's simulated work environments.
• Practical rescue scenario-based exercises requiring learners to execute rescue procedures safely and effectively.
• Group discussion and trainer demonstration to reinforce technique, terminology, and decision-making at the scene.
• Performance-based assessments against ERGT Australia's performance standards to confirm competence across all rescue from heights skills.

The Rescue from Heights course is designed for workers in high-risk industries,  including oil and gas, mining, construction and maritime, who may be required to perform emergency rescue operations at height. This includes operational staff, Emergency Response Team (ERT) members, safety personnel, and support staff working on elevated work platforms, offshore installations, construction sites, or other environments where working at heights is a regular activity.

This course is suitable for learners seeking to gain initial rescue from heights competence as well as those looking to refresh existing skills. It is particularly valuable for ERT members who require height rescue capability as part of their broader emergency response role.

Participation Requirements:

To participate fully in the program, learners should be aware of the following:

Physical Requirements:

This is a physically active one-day course conducted at height in a simulated work environment. Learners must be able to:

• Work safely at heights, including climbing to and operating from elevated positions while wearing a harness and other required PPE.
• Set up, operate, and manage height rescue equipment, including anchor systems, pulleys, and lowering devices.
• Handle and deploy stretchers and spinal boards, including in elevated or awkward positions.
• Perform or assist in the physical management of a casualty during rescue scenario exercises.
• Sustain physical activity including standing, climbing, manoeuvring, and equipment handling across a full day of practical training.

Psychological Requirements:

This course involves working at height in realistic training conditions. Learners should be prepared to:

• Work at elevation for sustained periods during practical exercises, which requires composure and focus in exposed environments.
• Respond to suspension trauma scenarios, including the recognition of a suspended casualty and the urgency of a time-critical rescue response. Learners should be aware that suspension trauma content,  covering the physiological risks to a suspended person, may be confronting for some participants.
• Perform rescue procedures under realistic conditions, including working with a simulated casualty and managing the practical and emotional demands of an emergency response scenario.

 Behavioural Requirements:

• Follow facilitator instructions and all safety procedures precisely during practical exercises, particularly when working at height or operating rescue systems under load.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with team members throughout scenario-based activities.
• Adhere to ERGT Australia's site safety rules and height safety protocols at all times.
• Report any health, fitness, or equipment concerns to the facilitator before or immediately during a session.
• Behave professionally and respectfully toward all participants and facilitators throughout the course.

Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital 

Learners must have basic Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital (LLND) skills to understand safety procedures and complete assessments. Learners must be able to access and navigate a digital device to log in and access the course materials. Support for learners is available on request. More information is available on our website under "Learner Support"..