Emergency Evacuation and Rescue Procedures.

Before any window cleaning work at height begins, a robust emergency evacuation and rescue plan must be in place. This includes clear procedures for rescuing a person who has fallen while using a fall arrest system.

The HSE makes it clear that it is no longer acceptable to rely solely on the emergency services. Employers and those in control of the work must have their own site-specific rescue arrangements, documented and ready to implement.

Rescue procedures must be included as part of the risk assessment and completed before work starts.

Cooperation and Communication.

Effective rescue planning requires full cooperation between all parties involved, including:

• Property owners and managing agents
• Window cleaning contractors
• Sub-contractors

• Workers performing the task

Clear communication ensures that everyone understands their role in an emergency and that the rescue plan is practical, coordinated, and achievable.

Employee Understanding.

Having a rescue plan is not enough — workers must:

• Be briefed on the procedures

• Understand their responsibilities

• Know how to operate any rescue or evacuation equipment

• Be trained and competent where required

Understanding must be checked and confirmed before the task begins.

Why Rescue Matters.

Prompt rescue is critical. A worker suspended in a fall arrest harness is at risk of suspension trauma (also known as orthostatic intolerance), a potentially life-threatening condition caused by restricted blood flow while hanging motionless in a harness.

For further information on this hazard please click this link:  Suspension Trauma Guidance.