Safety training
G WO Advanced Rescue Training Standard / V6 02032026
• Manual head support is not feasible (for example, single rescuer in a constrained space, needing to operate the rescue system and maintain their own safety).
• Without a collar, the head is likely to move repeatedly and substantially during necessary rescue actions.
Application can be performed without unacceptable delay to life
-saving interventions or evacuation.
•
In such cases, the collar is used only to reduce excessive head movement during essential rescue activities and for the shortest possible time.
If the environment is safe and the injured person is stable, it may be safer not to move them immediately and to wait for additional resources or clinical guidance, rather than attempting a complex single -rescuer or technically marginal rescue.
4.
Risk and mitigation measures
When a collar is applied, the following risks must be considered:
a. Airway compromise – risk of partial obstruction, regurgitation or delayed detection of deterioration.
b. Increased intracranial pressure – particularly in head -injured patients.
⁴
c.
Pain, agitation and pressure injury
– especially with prolonged use or poor fit.²
Mitigation in ART:
d. Correct sizing and fit shall be taught and practised. Incorrect sizing can worsen alignment and discomfort.
e. Airway, breathing and neurological status must be reassessed frequently after application.
f. Collar use shall not delay life -saving interventions, extrication or transport.
g. The collar shall be removed as soon as it is no longer required for head support, for example:
g.i once the casualty is secured in a device providing adequate head support; or
g.ii
when advised by clinical staff or telemedical support.
A cervical collar does not maintain the airway and must never replace standard airway management (head tilt/chin-lift where appropriate, jaw -thrust, suction, airway adjuncts, recovery position when indicated).
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Long spinal boards and transfer boards
h. Long spinal boards and similar boards are extrication devices, not transport devices.
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