Rescue Plan Requirements
A Rescue Plan under WorkSafeBC is a written, risk-based set of procedures, training, equipment, and assignments ensuring prompt and safe rescue or evacuation from hazardous situations like high-angle work, confined spaces, hazardous substances, underground work, and work on or over water. It is a mandatory component of emergency planning and safe work procedures for many shop-floor and manufacturing tasks in B.C.
In a manufacturing or shop-floor environment, a compliant rescue plan includes task-based risk assessments for confined spaces, elevated work, hazardous substances, and water-related tasks. Written rescue procedures are integrated with safe work procedures, specifying roles, communication, and step-by-step actions. Designated, trained rescue personnel are identified, with simulated exercises and regular retraining. Rescue equipment (e.g., tripods, winches, ropes, harnesses) is staged and inspected post-use, with records tracked. Emergency exits, annual drills, and effective communication are maintained. The plan integrates with emergency transportation and first aid, and consultation with the joint health and safety committee ensures continuous improvement.
When does an employer have a legal obligation to develop a written rescue plan under WorkSafeBC?
An employer must conduct a risk assessment whenever rescue or evacuation may be needed. If the assessment shows such a need, the employer must develop and implement appropriate written procedures and assign a worker to coordinate their implementation. Written procedures are explicitly required for high-angle work, confined spaces/entrapment risk, hazardous substances, underground work, work on/over water, and workplaces with mobility-challenged persons.
How detailed must a rescue plan be for high-angle work versus confined space work?
For high-angle work, the plan must include fall scenarios, rescue methods, equipment specifications (static kernmantle ropes, harnesses meeting NFPA/CSA standards), and trained rescuers with simulated exercises. For confined space work, the plan must integrate with the entry program, define non-entry rescue capability, specify rescuer PPE and respiratory protection, and include training simulating worker incapacitation inside enclosures.
What are the technical requirements for rope and harness systems used in rescue under WorkSafeBC Part 32?
Ropes must be low-stretch (static) kernmantle construction, with a minimum safety factor of 10:1 based on a one-person load of 140 kg, and replaced per manufacturer instructions, not exceeding 5 years. Harnesses must meet IUA, NFPA, or CSA standards. Ropes and equipment must be visually and physically inspected by qualified workers after each use, with records of damage and maintenance.