Stay compliant, confident and ready to respond in an emergency with our Smart Awards SA024 Pole Top Rescue course, delivered at our dedicated North West Training Centre in Accrington.

This 1-day accredited course gives overhead line and telecoms operatives the knowledge and hands-on skills to safely rescue a casualty suspended at height on a pole.


Who is SA024 Pole Top Rescue for?

This course is ideal for:

  • Operatives working on telecommunications or utility poles
  • Teams involved in overhead cabling and fibre work
  • Supervisors responsible for overseeing safe working at height on poles

SA024 is designed for people who may need to carry out an emergency rescue from a pole as part of their normal duties.


Upcoming Courses

SA024 Pole Top Rescue

2 April 2026

8:30 AM

Accrington

£180.00 +VAT

Frequently Asked Questions About

Yes. SA024 focuses on rescue from the pole, not initial climbing skills. You must already be competent and qualified in working at height on poles, typically via SA001 / Pole Top Climber / Overhead Safety or equivalent.

The Smart Awards SA024 certificate is generally valid for 3 years. After that, you will need to retake SA024 or an approved refresher course (if available) to keep your qualification current.

SA024 is a 1-day course, normally running from 08:30 to 16:00, including theory sessions, practical exercises and assessments. Exact times will be confirmed in your joining instructions.

You’ll usually be expected to attend with standard site PPE, such as:

Hard hat with chin strap

Hi-visibility clothing

Safety boots

Gloves and eye protection

Specialist rescue equipment and training gear are provided on the course; any additional PPE requirements will be detailed in your joining instructions.

Yes. Delegates must be medically fit for work at height and rescue tasks and under 140kg to stay within equipment safety limits. If you have any medical conditions that may affect your participation, please discuss these with us before booking.

No. SA024 involves working on and around poles at height and carrying out rescues. It is not suitable for anyone with a significant fear of heights or conditions that limit climbing or balance.

You will complete:

A theory assessment (usually multiple-choice questions)

A practical assessment, where you demonstrate safe use of equipment and a full pole top rescue

Both elements must be passed to achieve the SA024 certificate.

Yes. Utilities Training can arrange closed / in-company courses for organisations with multiple delegates, either at our North West Training Centre or, subject to suitability, at your own site. Contact us to discuss dates, numbers and any site-specific requirements.

If you do not meet the required standard in either the theory or practical assessment, your trainer will provide feedback and discuss options. These may include re-assessment on the day where appropriate, or re-booking for a future date once additional practice or learning has taken place (fees may apply depending on circumstances).

If your role involves working on poles and you may be required to rescue a colleague from height, SA024 is likely the correct qualification – provided you already hold the relevant climbing/overhead safety training (e.g. SA001). If you are unsure, get in touch and we can advise based on your current role and qualifications.

Approved & Accredited Training Provider

Utilities Training Limited (www.utilities.training) is a leading UK vocational training provider based in the North West, delivering high-quality, industry-recognised courses across a wide range of sectors. Specialising in street works, confined spaces, IPAF, NPORS, EUSR, and Smart Awards, the company is committed to equipping individuals and businesses with the skills needed to work safely and compliantly. With experienced instructors, modern facilities, and a strong focus on practical, hands-on learning, Utilities Training Limited has built a reputation for excellence, reliability, and supporting workforce development across the utilities and construction industries.