4.0 Section 4.0: Why Rescue Planning Is Not Optional

In rope access work, a fall or suspension incident doesn’t end when the ropes catch the worker — it ends when the worker is safely recovered. Rescue is not a backup idea; it’s an operational requirement. Every rope access site must have a documented, rehearsed, and realistic site-specific rescue plan in place before the first rope is deployed. Ontario’s Ministry of Labour (MOL) expects employers and workers to plan for rescue as seriously as they plan for access. Failing to prepare can turn a minor incident into a major fatality — especially at height.

4.1 MOL Expectations: Site-Specific Rescue Plans

The Ontario MOL considers rescue planning mandatory under both:

• OHSA general duty clause
• Reg. 213/G1, Sec. 26 and 14(2)

Rescue plans must be:

Site-Specific

• Tailored to the actual building, work zone, and system in use (not generic)
• Include the anchor layout, access route, rescue gear location, and communication methods

Written and Available

• Must be in writing and accessible on-site
• Workers must be trained on it before starting rope access work

Realistic and Practical

• Must allow for timely, safe recovery of a worker
• Account for height, rope length, anchor access, victim condition

Practiced and rehearsed.

• Buddy Rescue must be trained and rehearsed

Key Components of a Rescue Plan:

1. Rescue type: Self-rescue, assisted descent, or pick-off
2. Who performs the rescue: Identified competent technician (Certified Rescue Technicians)
3. Rescue gear: Location, inspection, and accessibility
4. Communication plan: Radios, hand signals, emergency contact list
5. Evacuation plan: Where to bring the injured worker, how EMS is contacted

4.2 When to Call G11

Calling emergency services should be part of your rescue plan — but not your only plan.

You Should Call G11 If:

• The injured worker is unconscious, unresponsive, or in life-threatening condition
• The rescue system fails or becomes unsafe
• No trained rope rescue personnel are available on site
• There is a structural hazard or uncontrolled environment

You Should Not Rely on G11 Alone When:

• The situation is accessible with trained staff and gear
• A suspended worker needs recovery in under 10 minutes to avoid suspension trauma
• You are equipped to perform a pick-off or descent-based rescue

MOL Inspectors may issue orders or stop work if your rescue plan is “Call S11” with no internal system. 

4.3 Reporting & Documentation

After any incident — including near misses — proper reporting is both a legal requirement and a best practice.

You Must Report:

• Any injury requiring medical attention
• Falls, equipment failure, or uncontrolled rope movement
• Any deployment of fall arrest systems

Required Documentation Includes:

Reporting Channels:

• Internally to the safety manager or employer
• Externally to the MOL for serious injuries or fatalities (within 4 days under OHSA)

The MOL expects that S11 is a backup, not your primary plan.