THE way to survive a fall from height is to wear a full body harness, but the minutes that tick by while suspended after the fall, are just as critical to survival. While thought to be rare, suspension trauma or “orthostatic intolerance” has been blamed for the deaths of cavers awaiting rescue.
Suspension trauma sets in when the body is suspended motionlessly, affecting blood circulation. After a sustained fall, harnesses work very effectively to hold people in an upright position and if left immobile, blood can accumulate in the legs, which in turn reduces the amount in circulation.
The reduction in the quality and quantity of blood to vital organs in the body can cause the suspended worker to lapse into a state of unconsciousness. If the worker is not rescued promptly, the outcome could be fatal.
Until recently, there have been only limited options in the prevention of suspension trauma.
The first is to ensure you are working in such a way where a free fall is not possible (working in restraint).
The second is ensuring there is a rescue plan in place where the victim is recovered within a very tight time frame (less than five minutes).
Now, workers have the option of a product called “Relief Step” from Bacou-Dalloz . The Miller Relief Step’s basic design is a compact lightweight pack, which is adaptable to any type or brand of harness.
It encompasses a webbing strap and foot loop and attaches to any full body harness, by looping around the harness webbing, and attaching at the hip.
In the event of a fall, the worker can pull the Relief Step tab, deploying the webbing strap and foot loop. By placing the opposite foot into the webbing foot loop, the worker can adjust the length of the strap to suit, and commence flexing and movement of their legs. This assists in enhancing blood circulation and helps to avoid suspension trauma whilst awaiting rescue.
Two Relief Steps are recommended (one for each leg) for added comfort, balance and better circulation in both legs.
– Construction Contractor