Long Beach ASSP Educational / Networking Event

Topic Suspension Trauma Syndrome

In 1990, the full-body harness became the standard for personal fall protection within the United States. By 1998, OSHA mandated the use of these harnesses within the construction industry. While the use of a full-body harness for personal fall protection clearly reduced traumatic injuries and deaths by arresting the fall, it also created the physiological phenomenon commonly referred to as suspension trauma.

Experts define suspension trauma syndrome as a life-threatening event that occurs when a person is “trapped” in a prolonged passive suspension. Although observed in some sporting activities, within the context of Occupational Safety and Health, suspension trauma syndrome is typically experienced by those employees wearing a full-body harness while working from heights. “Workers wearing a full-body harness are at risk for suspension trauma if they are not rescued in 5 to 30 minutes after a successfully arrested fall.”

Suspension trauma, also known as harness hang syndrome, harness-induced trauma, harness-induced pathology, and orthostatic shock is a relatively recent phenomenon with a relative scarcity of research and often significant disagreement as to etiology and pathogenesis.

Learning Outcomes

• Discuss and Describe the factors which contribute to Suspension Trauma Syndrome
• Analyze the medical pathology related to injuries and deaths related to post-fall suspension
• Evaluate current control methods for suspension trauma

Speaker Chris Rainwater, MPA, MSOH

Chris Rainwater, now in his 37th year as a Safety Professional, currently serves as the Deputy Chief of Safety and Lead Project Safety Officer for Mega Projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the Los Angeles District. In this capacity, Mr. Rainwater is responsible for safety management on more than $2 Billion in federal projects. Mr. Rainwater’s approach to safety management was recently identified by the Army Corps of Engineers as the example of best practices for projects throughout the Corps. Mr. Rainwater previously served as the Chief of Safety for the Department of the Army, including postings as Chief at Fort Knox.

Additional Information

1. Parking is $10
2. CEUs will be awarded for attendance at all Education and Networking Sessions during the 23-24 term (July 1 – June 30)
3. Lunch will be provided at no charge for each person who registers for this event.
4. The event is intended for in-person learning and networking. An option to attend virtually is also offered for those who cannot attend in person. If you’d be interested in attending virtually (but not in person), please use the “Virtual Registration” button to let us know.