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What is orthostatic shock?
Orthostatic shock is sometimes also referred to as suspension trauma, harness hang syndrome, or suspension syncope. All of these terms describe the same dangerous condition that occurs when a person remains motionless in a harness after a fall arrest or while suspended at height.
Is it dangerous to be suspended in a harness?
It is dangerous to remain motionless in a harness. Rescue must be carried out as quickly as possible.
How does it work?
The heart pumps oxygen-rich blood through the body via blood vessels. The veins carry blood back to the heart and are equipped with valves that keep the blood flowing in the right direction. When we move, our muscles squeeze the veins, assisting the heart in pumping blood back.
When the heart is positioned higher than the legs, muscle activity is required to transport blood back to the heart. If this function fails, blood will begin to accumulate in the legs. This, in turn, reduces the circulating blood volume in the rest of the body and the brain. Reduced blood volume leads to poor circulation and fainting. For example: a person who stands completely still for too long may faint and collapse, but will regain consciousness immediately when lying horizontally, as blood circulation is restored. However, if one is suspended motionless in a harness, consciousness will not return — instead, the condition worsens with each passing minute.
Safety Note: Orthostatic shock is a life-threatening emergency. Always ensure that a rescue plan and rescue equipment are in place whenever work at height is carried out. The goal must be to bring down a suspended worker within minutes.