Technical rescue isn’t a term most people are familiar with, although they have probably watched a rescue in progress on TV. It refers to rescues performed by highly trained emergency personnel using specialized equipment and techniques. If a worker was inside a large tank and became overcome by fumes or if someone fell into an abandoned well, emergency personnel would undertake a confined space rescue.
Confine space rescues from petroleum tanks or storage silos are extremely dangerous. The victim may well be unconscious. While there are strict workplace rules about work done in such confined spaces, workers have been known to ignore the rules or been unaware of the danger. The only way to reach the person is normally through a narrow entrance or door into an unlit area. Often, there will be hazardous gases or liquids. If the victim has no oxygen, there is a very short time-frame as death or brain damage can occur after four minutes. The situation can be complicated by an attempted rescue by an untrained person with no equipment. This results in two-thirds of all deaths occurring in confined spaces. Entry may have twists and turns or it may have hazards that would tangle lines. Training for emergency workers is extensive and must conform to strict guidelines.
ORI Environmental is committed to providing dependable and safe environmental services. They started in 1983 by collecting used oil and today provide many valuable services to industry, including technical rescue. Their highly trained professionals also train others in rescue procedures, DOT hazardous materials transport and security, respiratory protection and related topics. As one of the largest providers of Environmental Services in Oklahoma and North Texas rely on the waste management options that they offer.
The goal of a confined space rescue team is to not have to rescue anyone. When a company is undergoing emergency maintenance, shutdown or turn around, standby technical rescue teams provide support. Hole watch professionals monitor the situation for any danger and are responsible for initiating evacuation if needed. High angle rope rescue uses ropes, anchoring and belaying devices and other equipment as needed. Trained medical personnel would also be available. The support of these highly trained teams allows businesses to safely perform much-needed emergency maintenance, facility shutdowns or turn arounds.
For more information visit ORI Environmental.
