Urban Search & Rescue (USAR) Training

Technical Rescue International offers Urban Search & Rescue (USAR) training programs that are built on the extensive experience of TRI Instructors. These programs are designed to cover all aspects of USAR operations and are offered in a progressive format. Our Instructors are highly experienced in various USAR sectors and have been providing training for many years. They are also currently active and operational in their respective fields of expertise.

Our USAR training programme is divided into 9 modules.

 

USAR Programme Modules 1-2

 
 

USAR Programme Skills Modules

 
 

USAR Programme Management Modules

 
 

USAR Rescue Technician 1

The UK has highly trained and skilled USAR teams, who are always ready and prepared to respond to emergencies both domestically and internationally. The primary objective of USAR is to save lives and reduce harm to individuals who have become trapped or injured in urban environments as a result of disasters such as earthquakes, floods, explosions, and building collapses.

This course is designed to equip individuals with the skills, knowledge, and understanding required to carry out basic USAR operations. This training covers a wide range of subjects, including shoring, breaching and breaking as well as lifting and moving.

  • The aim of this course is to provide the skills, knowledge and understanding to enable delegates to become qualified in basic Urban Search and Rescue operations.

  • Successful completion of the course will enable delegates to fulfil the following outcomes according to current legislation, regulations and recognised international standards;

    • Describe the USAR capability, associated hazards, Safe System of Work, sequence of activities and operator responsibilities

    • Describe how to set-up a USAR Logistics site and how it is managed

    • Correctly identify all items of equipment issued for the purpose of USAR operations

    • Describe design, use, advantages, disadvantages, limitations and safety aspects of USAR equipment

    • Demonstrate the pre-use checks and operational use of Assessment & Search equipment

    • Demonstrate the pre-use checks and operational use of Breaching & Breaking equipment

    • Demonstrate the pre-use checks and operational use of Lifting & Moving equipment

    • Demonstrate the pre-use checks and operational use of Shoring equipment.

  • 5 Days

USAR Rescue Technician 2

In the UK, USAR teams are extensively trained and proficient in their skills, ensuring they are always ready to respond to emergencies at home or abroad. The fundamental aim of these teams is to rescue and protect individuals who have been trapped or injured in urban settings due to disasters such as earthquakes, floods, explosions, or building collapses, ultimately saving lives and minimising harm.

This course is designed to equip individuals with the skills, knowledge, and understanding required to carry out USAR operations at skilled operator level.

  • The aim of this course is to provide the skills, knowledge and understanding to enable delegates to become qualified in Urban Search and Rescue operations at skilled operator level.

  • Successful completion of the course will enable delegates to fulfil the following outcomes according to recognised standards (INSARAG);

    • Describe the USAR capability, associated hazards, Safe System of Work, sequence of activities and operator responsibilities

    • Describe how to set-up and manage a USAR Logistics site

    • Describe the design, use, advantages, disadvantages, limitations and safety aspects of USAR equipment

    • Demonstrate the pre-use checks and operational use of Assessment & Search equipment in a selection of realistic scenarios

    • Describe and demonstrate the process for the assessment and search of a USAR incident according to INSARAG Assessment, Search and Rescue Levels and other relevant standards

    • Demonstrate the use of INSARAG marking systems

    • Describe and demonstrate a range of physical and technical search methods

    • Demonstrate the pre-use checks and operational use of Breaching & Breaking equipment

    • Demonstrate the process and a range of methods for Breaching and Breaking operations

    • Demonstrate the pre-use checks and operational use of Lifting & Moving equipment

    • Demonstrate the process and a range of methods for Lifting and Moving operations

    • Demonstrate the pre-use checks and operational use of Shoring equipment

    • Demonstrate the process and a range of methods for Shoring operations

    • Take part in realistic scenarios incorporating all four USAR disciplines.

  • 10 Days

USAR Hot Cutting

The primary objective of this training course is to equip participants with the requisite knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to become certified as Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Hot Cutting operators. As part of the USAR team, Hot Cutting operators play a crucial role in emergency response situations, particularly those involving structural collapses, entrapments, and fire incidents.

Throughout the course, participants will be taught the safe and effective use of hot cutting equipment, such as thermal lances and oxyacetylene cutting torches. They will also learn about the relevant safety protocols, including risk assessments, hazard identification, and personal protective equipment (PPE) use.

The training will be delivered by experienced USAR instructors who have in-depth knowledge and practical experience in hot cutting operations. They will utilise a variety of teaching methods, including practical demonstrations and hands-on exercises, to ensure that participants gain a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered.

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will have the skills and knowledge required to operate safely and effectively as USAR Hot Cutting operators, working alongside other USAR specialists in emergency response operations.

  • The aim of this course is to provide the skills, knowledge and understanding to enable delegates to become qualified as Urban Search and Rescue Hot Cutting operators.

  • Successful completion of the course will enable delegates to fulfil the following outcomes according to current legislation, regulations and recognised international standards;

    • Describe the USAR Hot Cutting capability, associated hazards, Safe System of Work, sequence of activities and legislative requirements

    • Identify structural elements, loading and the potential for further collapse

    • Demonstrate the correct sequence of cuts for box section, angle iron, plunge cut, nut & bolt removal, front hinge, inner web hinge, window cut and sit cut

    • Demonstrate the fault finding and maintenance routine of the cutting equipment

    • Operate hot-cutting equipment within a simulated collapsed-structure environment.

  • 5 Days

USAR Shoring

The primary goal of this training course is to equip participants with the necessary skills, knowledge, and understanding to become qualified in Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) shoring. As part of the USAR team, shoring specialists play a critical role in stabilising structures during emergency response situations, such as building collapses, to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of rescue personnel and survivors.

During the course, participants will learn the fundamentals of shoring techniques, including identifying structural hazards and assessing the suitability of different shoring methods. They will also gain hands-on experience in setting up shoring systems using a range of equipment and materials.

The training will be delivered by experienced USAR instructors who have extensive knowledge and practical experience in shoring operations. They will utilise various teaching methods, including practical exercises and case studies, to ensure that participants develop a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered.

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will have the necessary skills and knowledge to operate safely and effectively as USAR shoring specialists. They will be able to work in various settings, including urban and industrial environments, and will be prepared to respond to a wide range of emergencies, from natural disasters to terrorist incidents.

  • The aim of this course is to provide the skills, knowledge and understanding to enable delegates to become qualified in USAR shoring.

  • Successful completion of the course will enable delegates to fulfil the following outcomes according to INSARAG guidelines, and TRI Training Notes;

    • Describe the USAR Shoring capability, associated hazards, Safe System of Work and sequence of activities

    • Demonstrate the pre-use checks, setting up, use and maintenance of all shoring and associated tools and equipment

    • Demonstrate structural monitoring

    • Identify structural elements, loading, calculation of loads and the potential for further collapse

    • Describe metal and timber shoring and cribbing principles

    • List the rules associated with metal and timber shoring and cribbing

    • Demonstrate the selection of suitable timber for use in shoring

    • Demonstrate a comprehensive assessment prior to constructing and placement of shores

    • Describe and demonstrate appropriate organisation of the workplace and supervision of shoring operations

    • Identify, select and construct all standard shore and cribbing types

    • Demonstrate the fixing of shores

    • List the considerations associated with combined working at height and shoring operations.

  • 10 Days

USAR Work & Rescue At Height

The central objective of this training course is to equip participants with the skills, knowledge, and understanding necessary to become certified in Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Work and Rescue at Height operations. As part of the USAR team, Work and Rescue at Height specialists play a critical role in responding to emergencies that involve high-angle rescues or technical rope work, such as building collapses, rock falls, or bridge accidents.

Throughout the course, participants will learn the techniques required to conduct safe and efficient Work and Rescue at Height operations, including the use of specialist equipment such as rope access systems, harnesses, and pulleys. They will also learn about the relevant safety protocols and risk assessment procedures for these types of operations.

The training will be delivered by experienced USAR instructors who have extensive knowledge and practical experience in Work and Rescue at Height operations. They will utilize a variety of teaching methods, including theoretical and practical exercises, to ensure that participants gain a deep understanding of the topics covered.

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will have the necessary skills and knowledge to operate safely and effectively as USAR Work and Rescue at Height specialists. They will be equipped to work in a variety of settings, including urban and industrial environments, and will be prepared to respond to a wide range of emergencies involving high-angle rescues or technical rope work.

  • The aim of this course is to provide the skills, knowledge and understanding to enable delegates to become qualified in Urban Search and Rescue Work and Rescue at Height operations.

  • Successful completion of the course will enable delegates to fulfil the following outcomes according to current legislation, regulations and recognised standards;

    • Describe an USAR Work and Rescue at Height operations capability, associated hazards, Safe System of Work, sequence of activities, responsibilities and legislative requirements

    • Correctly identify all items of equipment issued for the purpose of USAR Work and Rescue at Height

    • Describe the issues associated with working with equipment at height and how to plan to minimise the risk

    • Describe and demonstrate access and egress methods on collapsed/unstable structures including working on roofs

    • Describe the difficulties with casualty extrication in a USAR environment

    • Describe the design, use, advantages, disadvantages, limitations and safety aspects of USAR Work and Rescue at Height equipment

    • Demonstrate the use of a range of USAR equipment at height

    • Demonstrate the use of a temporary horizontal lifeline

    • Describe and demonstrate systems set-up to take into account of emergency evacuation

    • Demonstrate casualty extrication in a USAR environment.

  • 3 Days

USAR Confined Space Operations

The USAR Confined Space Operators course offered by Technical Rescue International aims to provide delegates with the necessary skills, knowledge, and understanding to become qualified in confined space rescue operations. The course is designed for individuals who are involved in technical rescue operations, such as firefighters, emergency responders, and other rescue personnel.

The course covers a wide range of topics related to confined space rescue, including hazard identification and control, equipment selection and use, rescue techniques, team coordination and communication, and incident command. Delegates will learn how to identify and assess different types of confined spaces, as well as how to develop and implement effective rescue plans.

The course also includes practical training exercises, allowing delegates to apply their knowledge and skills in realistic scenarios. These exercises will help delegates to develop their problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, as well as their ability to work effectively as part of a team in high-stress, high-pressure situations.

Upon completion of the course, delegates will have a solid understanding of the principles of confined space rescue, as well as the practical skills necessary to execute effective rescue operations. They will also be qualified to operate as part of a USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) team in confined space rescue operations, ensuring that they are equipped to handle a wide range of technical rescue scenarios.

  • The aim of this course is to provide the skills, knowledge and understanding to enable delegates to become qualified in USAR Confined Space Rescue operations.

  • Successful completion of the course will enable delegates to fulfil the following outcomes according to current legislation, regulations and recognised international standards;

    • Describe the USAR Confined Space capability, associated hazards, Safe System of Work, sequence of activities and legislative requirements

    • State the definition and the types of environments that may constitute a confined space

    • List the hazards that are associated with confined spaces and how they may be managed

    • Describe and implement the risk assessment process for confined space working

    • Describe relevant legislation associated with USAR Confined Space Operations

    • Demonstrate the ability to supervise the confined space element of the incident to include;

      - Development of operational confined space plan/s

      - Provision of advice and information to the officers and the Incident Commander

      - Supervision & delivery of the confined space plan.

    • List the types of Personal Protective Equipment that may be required for work in confined spaces

    • Detail the types of equipment that may be required for work in confined spaces

    • Detail the gases likely to be found in confined spaces along with their properties and effects

    • Detail confined space systems of work and sequence of activities

    • Describe the necessary actions to take to prepare for, enter and work in confined spaces

    • Demonstrate the correct use of all confined space equipment

    • Detail emergency procedures required to be in place for confined space working.

  • 4 Days

USAR Instructor

This USAR Instructors course provided by Technical Rescue International aims to equip existing USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) operatives with the necessary skills, knowledge, and understanding to become USAR instructors. The course is designed for individuals who have already completed training in USAR operations and have gained practical experience in the field.

  • The aim of this course is to provide the skills, knowledge and understanding to enable delegates to become qualified in the instruction of Urban Search & Rescue operations.

  • Successful completion of the course will enable delegates to fulfil the following outcomes according to current legislation, regulations and recognised standards;

    • Describe the skills and attributes necessary to deliver training

    • Describe what resources are required to facilitate USAR training

    • Detail the standards associated with USAR training

    • Detail the process for managing the health and safety of USAR training

    • Describe how to risk assess the equipment, activity and the venue

    • Describe how to plan training sessions, scenarios and exercises

    • Demonstrate the delivery of a training session

    • Detail the process for managing the assessment and feedback to delegates.

  • 5 Days

USAR Team Leader

The Urban Search & Rescue Team Leader course offered by Technical Rescue International is designed to provide delegates with the necessary skills, knowledge, and understanding to become qualified as a team leader in Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) operations.

  • The aim of this course is to provide the skills, knowledge and understanding to enable delegates to become a qualified Urban Search & Rescue Team Leader.

  • Successful completion of the course will enable delegates to fulfil the following outcomes according to recognised standards;

    • Describe the USAR capability, associated hazards, Safe System of Work, sequence of activities and operator responsibilities

    • Describe and demonstrate the actions to take on arrival at a collapsed structure incident

    • Detail the USAR Logistics procedure

    • Detail and demonstrate the process, considerations and actions to take for assessment and search

    • Detail and demonstrate the process, considerations and action to take to manage, coordinate and establish a USAR worksite

    • Deliver team and safety officer/advisor briefings

    • State and demonstrate the measures to be taken to implement and manage worksite and personnel safety.

  • 7 Days

USAR Search & Rescue Coordinator

The USAR Search Coordinator course offered by Technical Rescue International is designed to provide delegates with the necessary skills, knowledge, and understanding to become qualified in coordinating search operations in Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) scenarios.

  • The aim of this course is to provide the skills, knowledge and understanding to enable delegates to become qualified in USAR search coordination operations.

  • Successful completion of the course will enable delegates to fulfil the following outcomes according to INSARAG standards and methodologies;

    • Describe the roles and responsibilities of a Search Coordinator

    • Describe the assessment and search and management strategies

    • Describe and demonstrate the structural assessment process

    • Describe the methodologies behind physical, technical and canine search

    • Demonstrate physical and technical search

    • Detail other agencies with a responsibility for search and their approaches.

  • 5 Days