When anyone in your organization works at heights, it's critical to have a formal fall protection plan and rescue procedures.

Protect Your Team. Exceed Compliance. Execute with Confidence.

When every second counts, preparation can be the difference between a rescue and a tragedy. Whether you’re maintaining a transmission tower in BC’s rugged interior or working wind installations in Alberta, your fall protection plan must be airtight, and your rescue protocols bulletproof.

At Height Works, we build systems that don’t just meet the code. They beat the clock.

What is a Fall Protection Plan?

A Fall Protection Plan outlines how workers are protected from falling hazards when working at height involves more than just a checklist; it is a legally required document under CSA Z259 and OHS Regulations. These regulations must be tailored to each specific job site.

What to include:

• Site-specific hazard assessments
  
• Control measures (guardrails, travel restraints, fall arrest)
  
• Equipment lists
  
• Emergency contacts
  
• Rescue procedures
• Proof of worker training

This applies to each and every team member.

1. All general work at height activities,

2. And highly technical situations that should each have their own distinct and separate procedures written for each unique technical situation that may occur.

Rescue Plans: Passive vs. Active

Not all rescue plans are created equal.

Passive Rescue Systems rely on fixed structures like self-rescue devices. Fast and hands-free, but not always enough.

Active Rescue Systems require a trained team to deploy gear such as:

• JAG Rescue Kits
  

• Podium Seats
  

• Haul Kits
  

• Auto-locking descenders
  

If your worker is unconscious, suspended in fall arrest, and waiting on a rope, how fast is your crew ready to respond?

Essential Equipment for Rescue

At a minimum, your rescue protocol should include:

CSA & OH&S Requirements

To remain compliant, your plan must align with:

• CSA Z259.2.2, Z259.10, Z1006
  

• OH&S Part 9 (Fall Protection), Section 141–158
  

• BCWS or AER guidelines for high-risk energy zones
  

Training, Drills & Documentation

A rescue plan is only as good as the people who run it.

We recommend:

1. Quarterly simulation drills
   
2. Refresher certifications every 12 months. This aligns with your inspections, too!
   
3. Documentation of all team members trained
   
4. Role-specific protocols (Supervisor, Rescuer, Spotter)
   

Every second matters. Drills build muscle memory.

Emergency Preparedness for Energy & Public Works

When working at height in remote or high-risk environments like:

1. Oil and gas sites
   
2. Wind turbine installations
   
3. Bridge inspections
4. Transmission line work
   

You need:

• Reliable communication tools
  
• Emergency access planning
  
• Pre-designated rescue leaders
  
• Clear evacuation routes
  
  

Safety delays are project delays. We help you stay both compliant and operational.

Solutions That Speak for Themselves

“Our team faced a rescue situation 65 feet above a pipeline crossing. The JAG system we purchased from Height Works worked flawlessly. Their training plan made the difference.”

— Bryce M., HSE Manager, Energy Services

“Height Works didn’t just sell us gear—they built our plan. They walked our team through it line by line. We passed our audit and now sleep better at night.”

— Laura S., Regional Safety Officer, Municipal Infrastructure BC

Your Questions, Our Expertise

Do I need a rescue plan for every site?

Yes. A site-specific fall protection and rescue plan is legally required under most Canadian provincial OH&S regulations.

How often do I need to train my crew?

Annually at minimum, and after any near-miss or change in work location or scope.

What happens if we don’t have a rescue plan?

You’re exposing your team to high risk, and your company to liability, shutdowns, or fines.

What is the best rescue kit for remote fieldwork?

We recommend the JAG Rescue Kit for its compact form and fast deployment in solo or two-person rescues.

Our Go-To Gear for Height Safety & Compliance

• JAG Rescue Kit → For fast, efficient vertical rescue
  

• Petzl Podium → For extended positioning
  

• Derope T Descent Device → Multi-directional for complex use, this Derope T descent device includes: 6 ft. (1.8 m) vinyl covered wire rope sling, 5/8 in. (16 mm) autolocking carabiner, J-knife-KSOS, rescue/rope bag. Available in 5 rope lengths.
  

• Fall Arrest Anchors → Temporary & permanent options
  

Ready to Build a Bulletproof Fall Protection Rescue Plan?

Don’t wait for the incident. Plan for it. Work with our Safety Experts

If you want to discover how to create a formal fall protection plan for working at heights for your organization, contact a fall protection safety expert at Height Works today!