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USAR sites are inherently dangerous. It is your job to make this site as safe as possible.
In addition to wearing your full personal protective equipment and clothing, the following guidelines should be followed:
* Look out for sharp objects
* Stand well clear of materials being removed or lifted clear of debris
* Establish an escape route
* Work in a minimum crew size of two
* Work only in your established work zone
* Monitor your fellow workers for signs of fatigue
All hazards identified by the team should be reported to the Team Leader.
In order to monitor environment and situational hazards, a safety officer should be part of each rescue team. The safety officer’s duties include:
* Monitoring the scene for unsafe conditions and acts
* Warning team members of impending danger
* Ensuring crews are rotated as required
* Monitoring the location of the team and its mission
Every operator on site is responsible for the safety of themselves and others. The Officer-in-Charge is the designated Safety Officer, unless a Safety Officer is specifically appointed.
Maintaining an active lookout
Many rescue operations are performed in a moving or dynamic situation. A tool to provide additional safety to rescuers is called LACES.
| L |
Lookout |
Task someone to maintain an active lookout for any change in the situation – such as movement or collapse. |
| A |
Awareness |
Ensure all the team and other emergency services are aware of the situation and the generic risks. |
| C |
Communications |
Establish communications with the team and other emergency services. Use a whistle or horn to warn of a problem. |
| E |
Escape Route |
Establish and advise the team and other emergency services the route to take to safety. |
| S |
Safety Refuge |
Establish and advise the team and other emergency services the location of a safe location or refuge. |
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