Work at Height Rescue Kits

A Work at Height Rescue Kit is a pre-assembled set of equipment designed to rescue or evacuate a person from height after a fall arrest event or when they become stuck or incapacitated during work at height.

Rescue kits are used in situations including:

• Fall arrest incidents on rooftops, structures, or ladders
• Work involving lifelines, Mansafe systems, or rigid rails
• Rope access and suspension work (façade, plant, towers)
• MEWP operations where a person could end up suspended
• Confined space entry needing retrieval capability

WAHSA guidance distinguishes between:

• Rescue: retrieving an incapacitated or helpless person
• Self-evacuation: a conscious person exiting using a controlled descent device
• A compliant kit supports one or both options depending on the site risk assessment.

While rescue kits vary by application, most HSE-compliant systems include the following key components:

• Rescue / evacuation descender device: Enables controlled lowering of a casualty or self-evacuation. In Europe, rescue descenders are tested to EN 341.
• Rescue lifting / hauling device: Used to raise or lower an incapacitated person during assisted rescue. These devices are commonly aligned with EN 1496.
• Pre-rigged rope or kernmantle line: Selected to the correct length for your roof height, structure or confined space.
• Connectors and anchorage slings: Includes karabiners, strops, and anchor straps compatible with your existing fall protection system.
• Casualty attachment / pick-off strap: Allows a rescuer to safely connect to the casualty and transfer their load to the rescue system.
• Storage bag or sealed container: Keeps the kit protected, organised, and ready for rapid deployment.

Safesite supplies rescue kits that can be custom-configured to your exact environment, ensuring fast deployment and compatibility with your existing systems.

1. Self-Rescue / Evacuation Kits

These kits allow a conscious worker to exit safely using a controlled descent device. They’re ideal where users may need to evacuate quickly from a roof edge, platform, or structure without waiting for assistance.

Best for:

• Rooftop access with lifelines
• MEWP operations
• Light-duty industrial access

2. Assisted Rescue Kits (Pick-Off / Lowering)

Assisted rescue systems are designed for retrieving an incapacitated worker, lowering them to safety or raising them away from hazards.

Best for:

• Fall arrest scenarios
• Lifeline and Mansafe environments
• Multiple-user sites

3. Rescue Kits for Lifelines & Mansafe Systems

These kits are configured to work seamlessly with horizontal or vertical lifelines, enabling rapid retrieval from rooftops or tall structures.

Best for:

• Commercial and industrial roofs
• Plant access routes
• Regular maintenance sites

4. Confined Space / Retrieval Davit Rescue Kits

Used with davit arm systems and winches to rescue individuals from shafts, tanks, or roof access hatches. Often used where vertical retrieval is required.

Best for:

• Utilities and water treatment
• Industrial tanks or pits
• Restricted access sites

Rescue capability must be matched to your real-world risks. There is no “one-size-fits-all” rescue kit.

Safesite recommends considering:

• Working height / fall distance: Rope length and device selection must reflect your actual roof or structure height.
• Environment and access method: Rooftop lifeline rescue differs from tower rescue or confined space retrieval.
• Rescue type required: Will workers self-evacuate, or will you need assisted rescue for incapacitated casualties?
• Number of users: Multi-user sites may need multiple kits or a higher-capacity system.
• Compatibility with existing fall protection: Your rescue kit must integrate with your lifelines, anchors, rigid rails, harnesses, or davits.

Safesite provides site surveys to evaluate your risks and specify the exact rescue kit type and configuration you need.

A rescue kit is only effective if people know how to use it. WAHSA guidance stresses that rescue procedures must be rehearsed and managed by competent personnel.

Safesite supports clients with practical rescue training, including:

• How to deploy the kit quickly
• Casualty pick-off and safe lowering
• Communication and coordination
• Suspension trauma awareness and response
• Written rescue method statements
• Drill schedules and refresher training

Your rescue plan should always be documented, site-specific, and reviewed regularly — particularly if roof layouts, access routes, or work methods change.

Rescue kits and devices are safety-critical and must be inspected under BS EN 365 and manufacturer guidance.

Inspection best practice

• At least every 12 months — minimum legal expectation for most PPE and rescue devices.
• More frequently if the kit is used regularly or exposed to harsh environments.
• Immediate inspection if a device has been involved in a rescue or fall event.

Safesite provides full inspection and recertification services, issuing compliance reports and ensuring your rescue system remains fit for purpose year-round.

Safesite delivers rescue kits as part of a complete safety solution — not just a standalone product.

Bespoke Kit Selection

We assess your roof, structure, or confined space environment and specify the correct device type, rope length, and configuration.

Supply & Integration

We supply rescue kits that integrate seamlessly into your fall protection setup — including lifelines, Mansafe systems, rigid rails, and davit arms.

Training for Users & Rescue Teams

We train your team to deploy rescue equipment confidently, safely, and quickly, in line with HSE and WAHSA good practice.

Ongoing Compliance Support

We manage annual inspection and recertification schedules, helping you avoid compliance lapses and ensuring your rescue capability is always audit-ready.