Almost everyone involved in emergency response is aware of the “buddy system” (e.g., 2 in-2 out rule); however, many merely treat this as a “check box” approach as compared to having real rescue capabilities for the entry team. I always ask my students if they believe they could lift and carry a grown adult in a LEVEL A suit 300′. Add a wet/slick suit because the response is occurring in inclement weather, and let’s see how many think they could rescue this person. For most, the light turns on, and they realize they have just been “checking the box”. So what does OSHA/EPA actually require of the “back-up team”? (emphasis by me)
1910.120(q)(3)(vi) Back-up personnel shall stand by with equipment ready to provide assistance or rescue. Advance first aid support personnel, as a minimum, shall also stand by with medical equipment and transportation capability.
My preferred tool is an old Stokes basket with an axle welded on one end with “beach tires” and on the other end, just a pole similar to a Roman chariot. Remember, the entrants into the hot zone will most likely be wearing an SCBA, so laying them on their backs will be nearly impossible. A Stokes basket has high enough sides that we lay the entrant on their side while we haul them out. The balloon/beach tires make rolling over rough terrain much easier. It is my professional opinion that without this rig, a rescue attempt will NOT be successful.
And notice the second highlighted requirement…
Advance first aid support personnel, as a minimum, shall also stand by with medical equipment and transportation capability.
How many industrial facilities have “transportation capabilities” in case a responder gets injured? Most will have to rely on their local FD to meet this need, meaning that even if your team can handle the response, you may very well need the local FD to provide medical services, including transportation capabilities, should that need arise.