Working at height should always be carried out safely. Even so, emergencies can occur. For example, what should you do if you are working alone in a crane or wind turbine and a short circuit causes a fire? In situations like these, the ability to evacuate quickly using the correct rescue equipment is essential. This article explains the key considerations.
During evacuation at height, you rescue yourself in an emergency. This differs from rescue at height, where another person rescues you or you rescue someone else. The objective of evacuation is simple: reach the ground as quickly and safely as possible using rescue equipment that is immediately available and ready for use.
Rescue equipment
Several types of rescue equipment are available for evacuation from height.
Descent device / centrifugal descent device
A centrifugal descent device is attached to the chest or ventral attachment point of the harness. The rope is connected to a permanent anchor point or another anchor point that is suitable and strong enough for the intended load.
Once the user's weight is transferred to the device, the descent starts automatically. The descent speed is factory-set, typically to a maximum of 2 metres per second.
Each manufacturer specifies its own limits for maximum user weight and maximum descent height.
Many centrifugal descent devices can also be configured for multiple-user evacuation (pendulum mode). In this configuration, the device remains attached to the fixed anchor point while several people descend one after another. The final person then reconfigures the system before descending with the device attached to their own harness.
Manual descent devices
With a manual descent device, the user controls the descent speed using a handle.
These devices are fitted with an anti-panic function, which automatically stops the descent if the user pulls the handle too hard.
One disadvantage is that if the user loses consciousness due to panic or another emergency, the descent stops completely.
Evacuator – flame-resistant and fire-resistant
The Evacuator is specifically designed for emergency evacuation during fires and for the evacuation of multiple people.
It complies with the fire-resistance requirements of EN 341 and is designed to remain permanently installed and ready for immediate use. Unlike many other evacuation devices, there is no need to install or configure it during an emergency. Users simply connect themselves and begin the descent.
The Evacuator is particularly user-friendly, making it well suited to emergency evacuation from significant heights. Typical descent speed is approximately 1 metre per second, with available descent lengths ranging from 50 to 300 metres, depending on the model.
Evacuation triangle
An anchor point and descent device alone are not sufficient—you also need a safe connection to the person being evacuated.
Normally, this is provided by the worker's full body harness. However, if no harness is being worn, an evacuation triangle offers a practical alternative.
It can be fitted quickly, is simple to use, and its straightforward design reduces the risk of incorrect use during stressful situations. The descent device is attached to the triangle's three connection points—two around the waist and one between the legs.
Training for evacuation at height
The most appropriate rescue equipment depends on the working environment, evacuation height, and the experience of the people using it.
However, regular training and instruction in the use of evacuation equipment is always essential. During an emergency, workers must be able to remain calm, act decisively, and evacuate themselves safely using the available rescue equipment.
Request a training course
At Safe Site – Powered by Mennens, we provide practical training in the safe and efficient evacuation of people from height and the correct use of rescue equipment.
Every training course is tailored to the participants' actual working environment. Practical exercises form the core of the programme, allowing participants to carry out real descents and practise responding effectively to emergency situations.
Our certified instructors also provide comprehensive training in the safe and correct use of rescue equipment
Register for a training course or call us on +31 (0)10 437 30 33
Watch our podcast on evacuation at height
Working safely at height is essential—but what happens if something goes wrong?
In this podcast, our experts Martin Verkamman from 3M and Dirk van Blijswijk from Mennens explain the difference between evacuation and rescue, and why proper preparation and training are critical.
They discuss the importance of having the right rescue equipment available and explain why working at height should never be done alone. Whether you're working in a crane, on a tower, or another elevated structure, being prepared for an emergency can save lives.
This podcast is only available in Dutch!
