Safety at 104 Metres: Rope Rescue Training on the UK’s Tallest Truck Mount

Operating the tallest truck mount in the UK comes with an extra level of responsibility and safety planning that goes far beyond standard requirements.

Recently, our teams completed specialist rope rescue training using our Bronto S104HLA 104m truck mount, preparing for the unlikely scenario where an operator could become stranded at height and be unable to descend using the machine itself.

At 104 metres, the Bronto S104HLA operates at a height where no other powered access machine could reach in an emergency. In practical terms, the only alternative rescue option would be a helicopter. That reality makes robust contingency planning not just important, but essential.

Purpose-built emergency descent systems

To support this, we have equipped this machine with SKYLOTEC emergency descent systems, designed to allow a controlled and safe descent to ground if required. Due to the exceptional working height of the Bronto S104HLA, these systems had to be custom-made specifically for our application, ensuring they function reliably and safely from full operating height.

The recent training saw our trained operators travel to maximum elevation before abseiling safely back to ground, allowing them to familiarise themselves with the equipment, procedures, and physical realities of an extreme-height rescue scenario. This hands-on approach ensures that, should the system ever be needed, it can be used with confidence and competence.

Going beyond compliance

This training is part of our wider commitment to going beyond compliance when it comes to safety. It’s not just about having industry-leading equipment — it’s about ensuring our people are fully trained, prepared, and supported to operate it safely in every possible scenario.

And yes… a moment of bravery

Of course, it wouldn’t be a proper training day without a few nerves along the way. Let’s just say that stepping off the edge of a truck mount at 104 metres required a deep breath or two, even for the bravest among the team. It was a great opportunity for our team to truly respect how impressive (and high) this machine really is, and despite the huge rush of adrenaline as they stepped over the edge, it was crucial to have that additional failsafe in place to ensure both our team and clients are as safe as possible whilst working at height.

Check out these shots to see how it all went down, and keep your eyes peeled for more content in the coming weeks!