Rescue From Height (RWAH01)

This course provides essential training for personnel who work at height and are required to implement rescue plans and carry out rescue operations safely.

The programme focuses on rescue planning, equipment selection and practical rescue techniques. It combines theory with practical exercises to develop the knowledge and hands-on skills required to respond to emergencies involving suspended or fallen workers.

Rescue training is critical because work at height activities legally require suitable rescue arrangements to be in place. The course supports safe rescue planning, equipment selection and safe casualty recovery methods.

What can I expect from this Rescue from Height course?

Participants will develop practical and theoretical knowledge across key rescue from height topics.

Legislation, Planning and Rescue Principles

• Legal requirements for rescue planning when working at height
• Understanding rescue responsibilities and emergency response procedures
• Hazard awareness and dynamic risk assessment during rescue
• Rescue planning and preparation

Rescue planning forms a key part of working at height safety and must be considered before work begins.

Fall Protection and Rescue Equipment

• Practical use of fall protection and work positioning equipment
• Rescue kit awareness and equipment selection
• Pre-use inspection of rescue equipment
• Understanding equipment limitations and safe application

Rescue training commonly includes equipment checks, rescue kit awareness and anchor selection to ensure equipment is suitable for emergency use.

Practical Rescue Techniques

• Practical use of Constant Rate Descender rescue kits
• Ladder rescue techniques
• Over-edge casualty rescue techniques
• Casualty lowering and controlled descent techniques

Practical rescue training typically includes lifting or lowering casualties using rescue systems and controlled descent equipment.

Roof and Edge Safety Awareness

• Edge protection awareness
• Roof access and egress hazards
• Safe positioning while carrying out rescue tasks

Working safely near edges and roof access points forms part of practical rescue preparation.

Casualty Care and Suspension Trauma Awareness

• Suspension syncope awareness
• Post-rescue considerations
• Safe casualty handling during rescue

Suspension trauma awareness is a key consideration when rescuing someone suspended in fall arrest equipment.

Practical Skills Development

• Rescue equipment setup and inspection
• Performing ladder and edge rescue scenarios
• Safe movement while connected to fall protection systems
• Carrying out controlled casualty lowering or recovery

Training typically combines classroom learning with practical rescue scenarios to build real-world competence. 

Who is this Rescue from Height course suitable for and are there any entry requirements?

This course is designed for:

• Utilities and infrastructure workers
• Telecommunications engineers
• Construction and maintenance personnel
• Anyone required to implement or support rescue from height procedures

Participants must:

• Be physically capable of completing practical rescue exercises
• Have suitable understanding of written and spoken English
• Normally hold valid working at height and PPE training appropriate to the rescue tasks

Rescue training normally requires existing working at height competence due to the technical and physical nature of rescue operations. 

Assessment is completed through:

Theory Assessment

• Written knowledge assessment covering legislation, rescue planning and equipment use

Practical Assessment

• Demonstration of rescue equipment setup
• Ladder and edge rescue scenarios
• Safe use of rescue systems and techniques

Rescue training typically includes both written and practical evaluation.

On successful completion, participants typically receive:

• Training certification confirming rescue from height competence
• Industry recognised proof of training
• Certification valid for 3 years