Rules
On the Pole:
Precautionary measures must be taken at all times by both the groundman and linemen to protect themselves from potential injury they could incur while performing their required functions in the rescue of the victim.
Timing will start with the word “GO” and stop when CPR is started.
The lineman or hot apprentice must remain belted off at all times during the rescue. It is permissible to un-belt only when it is necessary to go around an obstruction.
Tools, materials, or hot sticks shall not be thrown or dropped under any circumstances.
All regulatory safety rules must be observed when working or when moving primary or secondary conductors, hardware, or equipment. This includes a victim energized at line voltage. Illegal contact may result in team disqualification.
Once the victim as been cleared, the lineman will check the level of consciousness of the victim, prior to rigging. The mannequin must be secured with three half hitches.
On the Ground:
The groundman will check for breathing, administer two (2) breaths, and perform five (5) cycles of CPR. No pulse check is required.
The lineman will climb down the pole, treat for shock, and monitor the delivery of his partner’s CPR.
After the groundman has completed five (5) cycles of CPR, the lineman will check for breathing for five (5) seconds. Finding no breathing, he will give two (2) breaths, and resume CPR. The groundman will monitor the victim during this process. Upon completion of five (5) cycles of CPR, the lineman will end by giving two (2) breaths.
NOTE: Rescue breathing barriers are optional. Teams choosing to use a barrier must furnish their own and be proficient in the use of the type of barrier selected.
The poletop committee will furnish the handline, hotsticks, and a Bashlin 57 cutaway scare strap for the preliminaries and finals. Teams will be required to use the handline and hot sticks furnished.
