A prevented fall is a complete success and the ultimate goal when working at height. An arrested fall can also be considered successful if significant harm is immediately avoided, but it’s only part of the process.
Suspension trauma—why every minute matters.
When a fallen worker is suspended for too long, their harness leg straps may constrict their veins, reducing the flow of oxygenated blood to their heart, brain and kidneys. Not every worker will experience suspension trauma, but for those who do, it can lead to unconsciousness and possibly death.
What’s 3M™ DBI-SALA® Fall Protection doing about it?
Suspended workers are at risk of suspension trauma while awaiting rescue—unless they have a harness with suspension trauma safety straps to help reduce it. That’s why 3M added this valuable feature to 3M™ Fall Protection Harnesses. Together with Construction Industry Safety Initiative (CISI), 3M committed to increasing the awareness of the danger of suspension trauma in the construction industry.
