As its Friday, Im going to add that suspension trauma is like EFC 's chances of winning the Premiership (It doesn't exist)!!!!

HE02 don't entirely agree and then I do....then I don't..then I do... however the post was about who provides that kit and is it needed. Indeed if that was the only method of rescue you need to have plans to provide it. If however there is another method...lost my MEWP for dummies book...isn't there the ability from ground level to bring the cage down?

Suspension trauma is subject I'm very passionate about and don't take lightly, was merely trying to enforce the point that it really IS a consideration, and in my humble opinion DOES exist. Spare cherry picker is the easiest way forward. Otherwise you are into snatch rescues, which bring their own issues such as training, competency, kit etc etc

The contractor using the MEWP is responsible for thier RA / SSoW and that should include rescue arrangements, however, there is also the duty to co ordinate with other contractors and the PC. You are indeed correct that the ground controls would be used to bring the machine down to the ground and would form part of the rescue plan. I am a little hazy on the suspension trauma part - a MEWP operator should be wearing a fall arrest harness that is attached to the anchor point in the MEWP's cage by a restraint lanyard - this is to prevent the operative climbing on handrails or out of the machine and is also designed to prevent 'catapulting' if the macine drops off a kerb or hits a pothole as demonstrated here: Fall arrest harnesses are considered a big no for MEWP operators as the do not prevent catapulting and if the cage is close to the ground they will hit the ground before the device can arrest and if high enough for the device to arrest correctly then it can over balance the machine and pulll it down onto the operator (there are very few makes and models of MEWPs that are rated to act as fall arrest anchors). So where do you expect suspension trauma to be an issue? Are operatives getting out of the cage?

What if: The MEWP is hired by the Principal Contractor for use by a sub contractor? Does the responsibility for rescue now transfer to the PC or stay with the user?

The Principal Contractor should ensure that the sub contractor has a documented risk assessment for all work activities and that it is suitable and sufficient. This would include any safe systems of work, emergency rescue plans etc. In my view, working as PC, I prefer the sub contractor to provide their own safety documents, which I review and comment on accordingly. When I'm happy with the content I agree to the works, but never officially 'Approve' the documents. I will, on occasion and dependant on the risk involved, compile the risk assessment etc on behalf of the sub contractor for operational purposes i.e. need it done now. If the PC is directly controlling/supervising the work at height then as a Sub Contractor I would expect them to be compiling the risk assessments etc and communicate it accordingly. If the PC has hired the MEWP, as a Sub Contractor using them I would ensure they have been inspected as per LOLER requirements and are maintained appropriately.