Roof Rescue

Supporting safer work at height through practical rescue planning, effective emergency rescue planning is a critical part of working safely at height. For organisations delivering complex construction projects, having robust rescue arrangements in place is essential, not only for compliance but for ensuring teams can respond confidently should the unexpected happen. Working in partnership with Kier, 3 Education developed and delivered a bespoke Roof Rescue Planning workshop to strengthen the capability of senior site management teams responsible for overseeing work at height.

The Challenge

Planning a roof rescue is about far more than selecting equipment or understanding rescue

techniques. It requires careful consideration of how an emergency would be managed within

the unique constraints of a live construction site.

Kier wanted to enhance the knowledge of its senior managers, enabling them to develop, review

and manage rescue plans with confidence while ensuring emergency arrangements could be

effectively integrated into projects with complex operational and security requirements.

Our Approach

3 Education designed a six-hour interactive workshop tailored specifically to Kier's operational environment and the responsibilities of its site management teams. The programme focuses on the strategic planning that must take place before roof work begins. Rather than teaching delegates how to perform rescues, the workshop equips them with the knowledge to critically assess rescue plans, identify potential weaknesses and ensure suitable arrangements are in place throughout the duration of the works.

Through a series of facilitated group exercises, delegates explored the key elements of effective rescue planning, including:

• defining responsibilities for preparing rescue plans

• establishing command and decision-making during an emergency

• identifying appropriate resources and rescue equipment

• planning safe and practical rescue routes

• recognising factors that could delay or complicate a rescue.

The workshop also examines the legal duties placed on those managing work at height under

the Work at Height Regulations 2005, helping managers understand how suitable and sufficient

rescue arrangements contribute to compliance and safer project delivery.Candidates receive a 3 year certificate to confirm Workshop attendance.

Bringing Plans to Life

A key element of the programme is a live rooftop rescue exercise.

Working through a realistic emergency scenario, delegates put a rescue plan into practice using available access routes, equipment and the constraints of an operational construction site. The exercise provides an opportunity to challenge assumptions, identify gaps and refine plans before they are needed in a real emergency. As Rob Harris, Director of 3 Education, explains:

"The best way to establish whether a written rescue plan will actually work is to test it. Every

practical exercise identifies assumptions, highlights weaknesses and creates valuable

discussion that ultimately leads to a stronger, more effective rescue plan."

The Outcome

By investing in the capability of its site management teams, Kier is strengthening its approach to emergency preparedness and ensuring rescue planning is considered from the earliest stages of roof work.

Managers leave the workshop with greater confidence to review, challenge and oversee contractor rescue plans, helping ensure emergency arrangements remain practical, proportionate and effective throughout the project lifecycle. As Rob Harris concludes:

"Effective rescue begins long before an emergency occurs. It starts with a well-considered plan,

competent leadership and the confidence to put that plan to the test."

The continued partnership between Kier and 3 Education demonstrates how practical,

scenario-based learning can improve planning, strengthen leadership and support safer

outcomes for everyone working at height.