2.4.7 Casualty support
Chest harness
During a rescue the casualty may need chest support to maintain a vertical position when suspended in their harness , particularly if rapid evacuation is not possible and direct-body support by the rescuer will not be available . Arborists traditionally use a sit harness with no chest harness support . In this case a makeshift chest harness may be used .
Most makeshift chest harnesses have severe risk of strangulation of the casualty . The technique of passing the casualty ’ s lanyard over their shoulder to support them can lead to strangulation or loss of blood flow through the neck and should not be used .
It is critical that the chest harness applied is secured to ensure no movement toward the neck and head area . The image below shows a makeshift harness that is very effective at maintaining chest position .
It is applied with a 120cm Dynema sling , which is slung around one arm of the casualty and finalises in a bowline . At this termination the unit holds tight around the chest and is not constricting to the casualty , it will not also rise above the shoulder height . It should be tied tight around the chest to provide the best result .
The chest harness assembly can be secured utilising a prussic hitch to the rope above .
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