Welcome to CSRTA
The Confined Space Rescue Trade Association (CSRTA) was established as a non-profit, member-led organisation dedicated to advancing safety, competence, and professionalism in confined space rescue operations across all industries. This Constitution and Bylaws outline the objectives, membership structure, governance model, and operational principles of the Association.
Our Commitment to Confined Space Safety, Rescue and Recovery
At the Confined Space Rescue Trade Association (CSRTA), the safety of confined space entrants is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to promoting the highest standards of training, operational competence, and rescue readiness across the industry.
Through collaboration with our members, regulators, and safety professionals, we work to ensure that all confined space activities are carried out in accordance with best practice, legal compliance, and continuous improvement.
By driving forward nationally recognised standards, supporting robust qualification frameworks, and advocating for the welfare of those working in high-risk environments, CSRTA stands as a voice for safety, professionalism, and accountability in confined space rescue.
VRTO1 personnel are trained to a nationally consistent standard, possessing the core knowledge and practical competencies to operate safely and effectively in compliance with the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 and the L101 Approved Code of Practice. They are proficient in the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), basic rescue techniques, communication systems, and hazard control measures across a variety of confined space environments.
This role provides the essential safety-critical competence to work within high-risk environments while supporting the operational readiness and effectiveness of the rescue team.
VRTO1 forms the foundation for career progression into VRTO2, where operators take on advanced rescue responsibilities, including casualty care.
VRTO1 builds upon current National Occupational Standards and complements recognised accredited qualifications, reinforcing best practice across the industry.
VRTO2 personnel are trained to an advanced, nationally consistent standard, extending the core knowledge and competencies gained at VRTO1. They are capable of undertaking complex confined space rescue operations in high-risk environments, applying advanced rescue techniques, operating specialist equipment, and managing dynamic hazards in line with the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 and the L101 Approved Code of Practice.
A key enhancement in VRTO2 is the integration of casualty care functions, enabling operators to deliver immediate medical interventions to stabilise and support casualties during rescue operations. Personnel are proficient in coordinating with team leaders, managing multiple communication channels, and maintaining operational control under challenging conditions.
This role develops the operator's capability to function as a senior rescue team member, supporting leadership decision-making and contributing to the overall readiness, safety, and effectiveness of the rescue team. Current National Occupational Standards underpin VRTO2, complement recognised accredited qualifications, and reinforce best practice across the industry.
VRTL Rescue Team Leaders represent the progression from operational rescue duties to full command and coordination responsibility within confined space rescue environments. Building on the advanced competencies gained in VRTO2, the Team Leader is accountable for directing all aspects of rescue operations, from verifying rescue arrangements and managing risk assessments to leading teams under dynamic and often high-pressure conditions.
In this position, the focus shifts from personal task execution to overseeing and integrating the work of multiple rescue team members, ensuring that personnel, equipment, and rescue plans meet the highest safety and operational standards. Team Leaders liaise with site stakeholders, coordinate with emergency services, and make critical decisions that balance casualty welfare with team safety.
A defining aspect of the role is the ability to manage the operational environment by enforcing communication protocols, prioritising casualty extractions, and leading incident response and investigation. This role is suited to individuals who have mastered the technical and casualty care competencies of VRTO1 and VRTO2 and are ready to lead teams, safeguard operational integrity, and take responsibility for successful outcomes in complex rescue scenarios.
VCSRM Confined Space Rescue Managers' role represents the highest level of leadership and strategic oversight within confined space operations. Progressing from direct team command to full organisational responsibility, the Manager ensures that every aspect of entry, rescue, and recovery aligns with legislative, operational, and environmental requirements.
Building on the leadership and advanced rescue competencies of VRTO2 and the Team Leader role, the Manager directs the safe planning, governance, and execution of operations across multiple sites or complex projects.
Responsibilities extend to the development and review of Rescue and Recovery Arrangements, the analysis of Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS), resilience testing of rescue capability, and the continuous refinement of emergency procedures.
The Manager maintains oversight of rescue vehicle inventories, equipment allocation, permit-to-work systems, isolations, and site readiness. They lead incident investigation and reporting to meet legal obligations, oversee competence assessment and development of personnel, and act as the primary command in major incident scenarios.
Confined Space Rescue Manager
The Confined Space Rescue Trade Association (CSRTA) plays a unique role in the confined space rescue industry, promoting the highest standards of safety, competence, and ethical practice.
As a not-for-profit body, our mission is to develop and uphold consistent, nationally recognised standards for training, certification, and operational readiness in the specialist field of confined space rescue.
We are committed to representing the sector with integrity, ensuring that rescue arrangements are robust, suitable, sufficient, immediate and compliant with UK legislation and rooted in real-world confined space operational needs.
Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, CSRTA is working to transform the confined space rescue industry into a safer, more accountable sector. We aim to inspire a culture that prioritises professionalism, continuous development, and the shared responsibility of safeguarding life in high-risk environments.