Ladders with climbing protection systems according to EN 353-1 are generally used in the fields of overhead line construction as well as on radio and transmission masts for television or telecommunications. Workers must be given regular training on the use of personal fall protection equipment and rescue techniques. Their equipment includes a helmet, fall arrest harness, lanyard, and safety rope. A rescue kit, ideally including a lifting rescue device, must also always be carried in case a rescue is required.
As in the field of wind power, if a rescue is required, this is usually performed by team members. Rescues can occur passively or actively. In a passive rescue, the rescuer lowers the injured person while remaining at the top. In an active rescue, a rescuer descends with the injured person. Working on masts involves particular risks as people are exposed to all sorts of weather conditions. In addition to choosing the appropriate personal fall protection equipment, it is also extremely important to choose the right clothing. When selecting personal fall protection equipment, it is essential to choose a comfortable restraint belt as this is often used to position people for their work, meaning they perform this while hanging.Â