Well hoping is not the answer, training is preparation.
The Metro SES units all have trucks that are basically mobile workshops with a large collection of hand tools and both battery and power tools to handle most domestic emergencies as they also carry timber, acro props and sundry other repair items as standard.
All members who havd completed the Advanced SES Tools courses are proficient in the use and the limitations of all power tools that the truck carries and train regularly in the use of the equipment.
You can not plan totally for any incident as each incident is different from the last as each task needs its own assessment BUT you know what is available from your truck to assist with the task as it's a almost complete workshop including self contained generator for the power tools. Some trucks even carry air compressors for specialised air tools.
For industrial site incidents there is normally on site access to heavy lifting equipment etc and personnel with specialised skills to assist with the emergency, plus you have MFS, SES and SAAS all working as one big team each with their own skills base to support the challenge. How can you prepare yourself for a full arm stuck in a meat grinder?
I'm glad to hear the comments regarding the SES mobile workshops, this is sort of what I was looking for. My comments regarding CFS Brigades and having a lack of capability comes down to the listed standards for Rescue Equipment and what details are recorded of the specialist gear. I know of CFS Brigades that have the acro props, the air tools, the airbags etc etc, but then there are those that only have the "Standard Issue" single locker of rescue gear, yet there is nothing to differentiate between the two. They are both "Rescue".
As for training and preparation, its more than possible to train for your more common rescues such as your Meat Grinder entrapment, finger entrapment and impalements. You may not be running a full scenario, but you can train on the major parts. For example, you can get a thick length of steel pipe to double as a Mincer Barrel, and use this for practice in making the cuts along its length to remove it. There are basic steps to follow, every time.
Chook and Arno, I wholeheartedly agree with your team work comments, not to mention the fact you should know the ins and outs of your tools. This discussion has confirmed some of my fears, regarding some areas of the state being covered for RCR, but not for other forms of rescue, along with the gaping hole in defining the Rescue capabilites of different brigade/units.
Once again, bring back the old clasification of Heavy Rescue, or atleast differentiate between "Rescue" appliances and "RCR" appliances.
