Rope Level I/II Curriculum Manual - ReSET · PDF fileRope Level I/II Curriculum Manual ... of...

Level I Rope Rescue

Course

(Skill Acquisition)

Level 2 Rope Rescue

Course

(Rope Technician)

Rope Level I/II

Curriculum Manual February 2011

Level I Rope Rescue Course

(Skill Acquisition)

Level II Rope Rescue Course

(Rope Technician)

The RESET Curriculum Committee prepared this edition of the RESET Level I/II Rope

Rescue Course during the 2010-2011 review and revision process. The original

curriculum was developed between June 2007 and October 2008. Portions of this

material are the product of previous work done by technical rescue specialists in the years

leading up to the organization of this document. The remainder of the material was the

work of the committee members with input from various sources including members of

the technical rescue team and outside technical specialists.

Purpose This curriculum is not meant to cover all methods acceptable for technical rescue

operations. The purpose is to standardize those methods taught during this technical

rescue course. All the learning material in this document is intended to cover the

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA) for the Level I/II rope rescue student. This course

will provide students an introduction to the technical skills used in rope rescue.

Scope The organization of the knowledge, skills and abilities (KSA’s) within this curriculum is

designed to follow the Job Performance Requirements (JPR) outlined by the National

Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1006 – Standard for Technical Rescuer Professional

Qualifications 2008 edition. Standardized organization following NFPA 1006 is intended

to allow the rescuers training to be consistent with other emergency response

organizations. Each JPR will be accomplished by using techniques specified in this

curriculum, and adopted by RESET as the authority having jurisdiction. In addition to the

NFPA JPR’s the RESET has identified additional JPR’s that are required to complete the

course. These JPR’s were identified to keep new rescuers training consistent with current

rope rescue techniques used by current technical rescue teams. RESET participating

agencies include:

Austin Fire Department

Lake Travis Fire Rescue

San Marcos Fire Department

Pflugerville Fire Department

Austin/Travis County EMS

Cedar Park Fire Department

Westlake Fire Department

Oak Hill Fire Department

Pedernales Fire Department

Round Rock Fire Department

Willamson County EMS

George Town Fire Department

Leander Fire Department

Austin/Travis County EMS

CeBar Fire Department

Buda Fire Department

Instructor Obligation It is the responsibility of all instructors delivering any part of this curriculum to cover all

of the learning material covered in the lesson plans. No instructor has the authority to

delete, omit, or otherwise leave out any content within the curriculum. Anyone assigned

the task of covering any part of this curriculum should build his/her class in such a

manner that optimizes instructor style while at the same time maximizing the learning for

the students.

Rope Curriculum Committee Members Chris Jenkins

Wayne Morris

Adam Lear

Michael Del Castillo

Matt McElearney

DJ Walker

Ken Larson

Derek Beck

Jesse Bolles

Zac Butoryak

Heath Nobles

Jason Rodriguez

Trevor Stokes

Gunther von Seltman

Rope Rescue Level I and Level II

Technical Rescue Courses Flowchart

Suggested Class Schedule

Level I- SRT

Level I- Pt Packaging

Level I- System Safety Factors

Level I- Knot Passing

Level II- Highlines and Guideinglines

Level II- Fieldwork

Level II- Artificial Anchors

Level I- Milti-Point Anchors

Level II- SRT Knot Pass

Level I- Edge and Litter Tending

Table of Contents

Level I- Raising and Lowering Systems

Level II- Team Based Pick-offs

Level II- Litter Tending

Lesson Title

Level I- Belay Systems

Level I- Transfering Loads

Level I- Fieldwork

Level I- Belay a Falling Load

Week One Suggested Schedule

RESET Level I and II Rope Rescue Course

5/9/2007 (DJ)

Time Lessons Inst. Needs Lessons Inst. Needs Lessons Inst.

Needs Lessons Inst. Needs Lessons Inst.

Needs

Edge tending SRT litter tending

1200-1300

Safety FactorsJPR(s):

RESET- 1.13

Patient PackagingJPR(s):

RESET- 1.16

1:10

0800-0900SRT

JPR(s ):

NFPA- 6.1.3, 6.1.5, 6.1.6

RESET- 1.7

Morning Review SRT

1100-1200

1000-1100

0900-1000

1300-1400

1400-1500 SRT

JPR(s ): NFPA- 6.1.3, 6.1.5,

6.1.6 RESET- 1.7

1500-1600

1600-1700

1:5

1:5 1:5

1:5

1:10

Incident Management for

Technical RescuesJPR(s):

NA

Belay SystemsJPR(s):

RESET- 1.10

Transferring Loads & Releasing

High Points (Senarios)

JPR(s):NFPA- 6.1.2, 6.1.3, 6.1.4, 6.1.5, 6.1.6RESET- 1.6, 1.8, 1.9, 1.14, 1.15

Raising and Lowering SystemsJPR(s):

NFPA- 6.1.2, 6.1.4RESET- 1.2, 1.3,

Belay a Falling Load

JPR(s):RESET- 1.11, 1.12

Day 5

LIISRT Knot Passing

(NFPA- 6.2.1, RESET-2.1)

1:5

Day 1 Day 2

1:5

Miltipoint Anchors (Senarios)

(using PTBT, TTPB, SRT

Attendants, Edge Atendants)

JPR(s):NFPA- 6.1.1, 6.1.2, 6.1.3, 6.1.4, 6.1.5,

6.1.6RESET- 1.4, 1.6,

1.14

Day 3 Day 4

1:30

Scenarios 1:5

Knot Passing (Scenarios)

JPR(s):NFPA- 6.1.2, 6.1.3, 6.1.4, 6.1.5, 6.1.6RESET- 1.1, 1.6,

1.14,

LIIRescue system based Pick-off

with and without a litter (NFPA-6.2.2,

6.2.3, 6.2.4)

1:5

1:10

1:10

1:5

Week Two Suggested Schedule

RESET Level I and II Rope Rescue Course

15/12/2008 (DJ)

Time LessonsInst.

NeedsLessons

Inst.

NeedsLessons

Inst.

NeedsLessons

Inst.

NeedsLessons

Inst.

Needs

1200-1300

1600-1700

Artifical Anchors

(RESET-2.8)

0800-0900

1100-1200

1000-1100

0900-1000

1300-1400

1400-1500

1500-1600

1:5Practical

EvaluationsScenarios Scenarios

Day 6 Day 7

Guiding line

(NFPA- 6.2.5,

6.2.6 RESET-2.6

Drooping highline

(NFPA- 6.2.5,

6.2.6, 6.2.3

RESET- 2.4)

Day 8

Introduction to

Litter tending

(NFPA- 6.2.2,

6.2.3)

Scenarios

(Instructor Run)

Introduction to

highlines and

guidinglines lines

(NFPA- 6.2.5,

6.2.6 RESET-2.6,

2.7)

Scenarios

Day 9 Day 10

Written Test and

Practical

Evaluations

1:5

EMT-B

Prerequisite

General Rescuer Course

(Core Requirements)

40 Hours

Rope Rescue

Level I

(Skill Acquisition)

40 Hours

Rope Rescue

Level II

(Rope Technician)

40 Hours

Confined Space

Level I & II

(In Development)

Trench

Level I & II

(In Development)

Tower Rescue

(In Development) Structural Collapse

Level I & II

(Taught Outside)

Wilderness SAR

Level I & II

Cave Rescue

Level I & II

Swiftwater Rescue

Technical Rescuer Programs

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SRT (03/09/2009) C. Jenkins Revised (07/16/2009) C. Jenkins Revised (Mc) 1/1/11


(Rope Technician) Class Title: SRT (Single Rope Techniques) NFPA 1006/RESET JPR’s: NFPA 6.1.3, 6.1.5, 6.1.6 RESET 1.7 Time: 6 hours Scheduling Suggestions: SRT skills will take place the first day of Level 1. The 6 hour block of instruction will take place in a controlled environment on pre-rigged ropes that allow the student to be lowered if necessary. For example rope run through a high point down to a munter hitch to allow a student to be lowered to the ground if necessary. Materials/Equipment needed: 8 ropes at least 100ft , 8 20ft webbings, 8 XL carabineers, and 8 large carabineers Instructor requirements: 4 instructors Objectives: At the end of the training the rescuer should be able to:

! Define Single Rope technique, SRT ! Understand and perform safety checks on multiple different rescuers ! Choose proper equipment and descend a fixed rope ! Employ techniques for self rescue from a jammed descender ! Identify a frog system ! Troubleshoot problems in his or her frog system ! Ascend a fixed rope at least 30 feet ! Change over from climbing to rappelling using a frog system ! Change over from rappelling to climbing using a frog system ! Understand and define the dangers of Harness Hang Syndrome

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SRT (Single Rope Techniques) Single Rope Techniques (SRT) are fairly new to the Fire Service side of rescue. SRT however is not new to the rescue world. Cave and Cliff teams all over the United States have been using SRT for 30 plus years. SRT means a single person can move up and down a fixed rope with nothing but the gear attached to their harness. This rescuer has the ability to rappel down to whatever area they are trying to access, and then climb out under their own power. These techniques also give us many more options when tending litters and providing help on the edge. Chapter 18 of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard 1006 identifies Job Performance Requirements (JPRs) for Cave Rescuers. JPR 18.2.6 states: 18.2.6 Use single rope techniques to ascend a minimum of 30.5 m (100 ft) in free space, given an anchored fixed rope system, so that the rescuer is secured to the rope with an ascending system that utilizes at least two gripping points of attachment at or above the waist and a quick attachment safety device, the person ascending can stop at any point on the fixed rope and rest suspended by his or her harness, the rescuer can convert the ascending system to a descent system at any time, and a rescuer demonstrates a level of proficiency and fitness that allows the rescuer to continue assigned operations immediately following the ascent. (A) Requisite Knowledge. Equipment and methodology for fixed rope ascension, rigging principles, down climbing, weight transfer, knot passing, changeovers, passing re-belays, ascent-to-descent system conversion, and alternative techniques designed to cope with adverse environmental conditions and limited light sources. (B) Requisite Skills. The ability to select equipment appropriate to length of the ascent, secure harness to ascending system and fixed line, self start, ascend line, maneuver around environmental and system-specific obstacles, rest while suspended, convert the ascending system to a descending system while suspended, and complete an edge transition. It is the intent of this lesson to prepare students for this NFPA JPR. There are thousands of caves in the Central Texas area. In an attempt to prepare rescuers for all types of rescues that would use ropes, we will teach a rappelling and ascending technique that will work well for various aspect of rope rescue including cave rescue. The specific technique taught will give the rescuer great flexibility regardless of environment. These environments including: buildings, industrial plants, cliff sites, caves, drainage ditches, etc. IMPORTANT: Due to the nature of SRT it is important that we utilize the ON ROPE and OFF ROPE commands to ensure everyone around the rope in use, understands your rope is in use. These commands coupled with our standard operating procedure, which says

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no rope will be untied from its anchor until pulled up and over the edge, will assist in keeping our work areas safe. Also, when performing SRT skills during the confines of RESET training, a bottom belay will be used. If conditions do not allow a bottom belay, individuals performing SRT skills will be tied in short. Any exceptions must be approved by the lead instructor.

Your Ascending and Descending system: Frog System The Frog system is made up of 9 key components:

! Seat harness (cave or wilderness harness recommended (Must be third party labeled)

! Chest harness designed for frog climbing (Tied or Pre-Fab) ! Chest croll ! Upper ascender (handle ascender, Basic, etc….) ! 1 Foot loop strap attached to the bottom of the top ascender ! 1 Safety strap attached from the harness to the bottom of the top ascender ! 1 set of Cow’s tails pre-fab or made from dynamic rope ! 1 QAS (quick attachment system) ie prussic or other device ! Mini Rack

These components put together in the correct order create a frog system. The QAS listed above refers to a device that the rescuer may attach to the rope quickly in the event of a problem or need to self rescue. It will also be used for passing knots while climbing rope. There are several devices that can be used as a QAS for example: another handle ascender, prussic, basic, etc. The QAS gives us options as a SRT rescuer and is very helpful when you find yourself in an unexpected situation on rope. Below, is a suggested organization of the frog system on a SRT mallion of individual. View taken as the rescuer is looking down at his maillon (a.k.a. seat harness half round).

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Rescuer Personal Protective Equipment Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for various activates aid in protecting a person from hazards associated with that activity. PPE as it pertains to firefighting, EMS work, are often written in standard operating procedures and in state and national standards. Below is a list of PPE for a technical rescuer. This list does not include all of the equipment that would be carried by a rescuer but at a minimum he or she should be equipped with:

Safety Equip

1. Helmet (Must have interior suspension system designed for impact) 2. Gloves 3. Boots with optimal ankle support 4. Helmet light (redundant helmet light sources help in times of primary light

failure)

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Additionally, equipment that may be helpful for the rescuer that may or may not be issued by the rescue team includes:

o First aid kit o Several carabineers o Piece of webbing o Food o Water o Fire starting material o Provisions for inclement weather (rain, cold, heat) o Sun screen o Navigational products (maps, compasses, GPS) o Communication medium (radios, phones, signal mirrors)

Safety Check / Buddy Check A proper safety check must be performed on any person who is getting on rope. The rescuer must have full PPE before they get on rope full PPE consists of the following:

! Helmet ! Gloves ! Complete ascending system ! Lights when necessary ! Eye protection when necessary

When checking your buddy you must first understand the equipment her or she is using, if you do not know how the equipment works, you are not qualified to safety check that person. You should make sure all buckles are secure and or doubled back if necessary. All carabineers and screw links are tightened down. The rescuers harness should be tight and fit snugly to their body. Other Devices As mentioned earlier, we will be using the mini-rack as our primary decent device; however, there are several other devices on the market such as: an 8 plate, Petzel Id, gri-gri, long frame 6 bar rack, and bobbin. These devices are absolutely safe in the hands of a trained user. It is important though to understand how the manufacturer intended that device to be used. We will teach you to operate the mini-rack effectively while performing SRT skills. Most of the skills we will teach can be used with other devices, but it is paramount that you fully understand how your device works and its application in the ever evolving environment that is rope rescue.

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Harnesses Only commercially sewn, labeled harnesses are acceptable for a rescuer. Homemade harnesses or tied harness are emergency harnesses and should only be used as such. Many harnesses tested to NFPA standards are large, bulky, and made to fit a large range of body sizes with one harness. These attributes make it difficult for rescuers to size and fit a harness for their personal use. Climbing systems used with these harnesses are usually inefficient due to the design. There are many harnesses on the market designed specifically for the climbing systems we teach and will greatly increase the efficiency of the rescuer. Greater efficiency equals safer systems. These harnesses are also tested to safety standard, usually those developed by Union Internationale Des Associations D’Alpinisme (UIAA). In the 1960’s the US Air Force did a round of testing to determine the effects of parachute harnesses on the human body. The end product essentially stated that forces over 12kN are dangerous and will possibly cause damage to the human body. This 12 kN force is used in the design of equipment including: carabiners, dynamic ropes, harnesses, etc. The NFPA 1983 test standard for harnesses is both a 22kN slow pull test plus a dynamic drop test of fall factor 1 of one meter with a 300 lb test dummy on a cable. The UIAA test standard for harnesses is a 15kN static load for five minutes or more. Both standards require that the harness be capable of sustaining a force above that which the Air Force determined to be dangerous to the human body. It is the opinion of RESET that harnesses meeting either standard are acceptable for rescue use. Additionally the use of harnesses tested to UIAA standards are often more suited for SRT by allowing the equipment to be better fitted to the user. Descending / Rappelling A rescuer must choose the proper decent device to make the rappel. The mini-rack will be primarily used for the purposes of this class. Although there are several devices available for use, during RESET Level 1 & 2, we will focus on using the mini-rack. Keep in mind rigging high will assist you in making a smooth edge transition. Key points to remember:

! Commands – “On Rope” & “Off Rope” loud and clear ! Mini rack must be properly reaved before the rappel ! The student must be safety checked by another student or an instructor prior to

approaching the edge ! The student should plumb there decent device to the edge and lock it off ! He or she should then crawl out over the edge and weight their device, then

unlock and begin rappelling ! While rappelling the student will maintain a slow smooth rappel to ensure their

safety, this will also ensure no undue stress on the equipment

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Change Over Change over is one of the most important skills in the SRT skill group. A rescuer will perform a change over when he or she needs to go from climbing, to rappelling or vice a versa. If the frog system is not properly adjusted to the rescuer or the rescuer is not proficient in changing over the rescuer may get stuck on rope. Changing over can be done in a step by step process that with regular practice can be done efficiently. These techniques will also allow the rescuer to maintain two points of attachment to rope while climbing and changing over. This process is as follows. Summary of how to Change Over from Rappel to Climb

! Stop your rappel and lock off your decent device ! Attach your top ascender above your decent device ! Then step up into your foot loop while simultaneously attaching your chest croll

above your locked off decent device but below your top ascender ! Once you have verified that your weight is transferred to the ascending system

you may unlock and remove your decent device from the rope and begin climbing Summary of how to Change Over from Climb to Rappel

! Stop climbing ! Without removing your top ascender thumb it down the rope until it is approx 3in.

above your chest croll ! Then attach your decent device to the rope as close as possible to the bottom of

the chest croll and lock it off ! In one motion step up into your foot loop and remove your chest croll from the

rope allowing your weight to load your decent device ! Then once again thumb your top ascender down the rope until it is approx 3in

above your decent device ! You will then unlock your decent device and verify it is properly rigged before

removing your top handle ascender ! Remove your top ascender and rappel

Summary of how to Down Climb When climbing rope you will sometimes need to stop and climb back down a few feet. Rather than doing a changeover, the rescuer can just down climb. Down climbing is fairly simple, but you can inadvertently put yourself in danger if not done correctly. Follow the steps below to down climb:

! Stop climbing, Move your handle ascender down approx 4 in above your chest croll

! Step up into your foot loop, simultaneously releasing the cam inside the chest croll from the rope

! You can do this by pushing the cam down from the top side of the chest croll ! While the cam is released the slide your weight down the rope allowing the chest

croll to travel with you ! Next bump your handle ascender down and repeat the process

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It is important that you only push the cam down from the top, if you release the croll or handle ascender completely you could be putting yourself in danger, because you will only have one point of attachment which exposes you to more risk while on rope. Self Rescue While you are rappelling it is possible to get stuck on rope, this may be caused by a jammed descender. A good rescuer should know how troubleshoot this problem. Option 1:

! Attach your large prussic to the rope, triple wrap, and if need a second prussic girth hitched to the first, above the descender. Now step up into the prussic loop so the you weight the prussic and free the jammed decender.

Option 2: ! Attach your climbing system to the rope above the jammed descender and step up.

You will able to free the jammed descender with your weight off the descender..

Harness Hang Syndrome Harness Hang is very real and life threatening condition. Harness hang can occur when a victim or rescuer stays motionless while in a harness for an undetermined amount of time. The medical issue is similar to that of a crush injury. The leg loops create tourniquets on the person’s legs restricting blood flow. You may see venous blood pooling in the extremities. The patient may also show signs of being shock such as low blood pressure and elevated heart rate. This poor perfusion allows toxins to build up in the lower extremities. When this person is taken off rope the sudden blood flow causes these toxins to be pushed through the body’s circulatory system unchecked in higher concentrations than the body is used to. This in turn can cause cardiac arrest.

! Have ALS personal on scene with the proper treatment un-weighting the patient’s harness

! Have patient transportation to definitive care set up and waiting

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Patient Packaging 7/15/2007 (DJ) 6/8/09 (WM)

(Mc) 1/1/11


(Skill Acquisition)

Class Title: Patient Packaging

NFPA 1006/AFD JPR’s: NFPA- 5.3.1, 5.3.2, 5.3.3

RESET- 1.16

Time: 1 Hour

Scheduling Suggestions: Before Field Work

Materials/Equipment needed: Ferno

Stokes

Sked

Big Wheel

Oregon spine splint (OSS)

Life Safety Products (LSP) Half-back

6 – 20’ Webbing

3 – 15ft webbing

Med Bag:

3 – 8X10 Tarps

3 - Blankets

O2 bottle (empty)

Bandaging and splinting equipment

Safety glasses

BP cuff, Stethoscope

Traction splint

3- backboards

1 – C-collar

Instructor requirements: 1:10 Instructor to Student Ratio

Objectives:

At the end of the lesson the rescuer should be able to:

! Define patient packaging

! Identify medical considerations when packaging a patient for transport

! Identify 5 patient packaging devices used in our system

! Demonstrate injured patient packaging in a Ferno

! Demonstrate injured patient packaging in a Stokes

! Demonstrate injured patient packaging in an OSS

! Demonstrate injured patient packaging in a Sked

! Demonstrate the rigging of vertical and horizontal litter bridals for the SKED

! Demonstrate injured patient packaging in an LSP

! Identify what device may be most appropriate for a pelvis injury

! Identify special considerations in patient packaging (heat, cold, wet)

! Identify and demonstrate two hasty harness techniques on a patient, Hasty Loop

and Tickner Harness

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(Mc) 1/1/11

Patient Packaging Patient packaging is the preparation of an injured person for transport. Its purpose is to

protect the patient from further injury and exposure during evacuation, provide for their

comfort to the extent feasible, and to facilitate evacuation by making the patient easier to

handle and carry.

Medical Considerations Technical rescues are “Medical operations with technical intervention”. We are often

responding to assist someone because they are having some sort of medical issue. It is the

goal of the rescue personnel to attempt to provide the same level of care for people in

special rescue situations as those found on the street corner. Remote environments often

prevent this from occurring. It is up to the rescuers responding to provide the best

medical care possible with the given conditions. Often this involves “wilderness

medicine” or “extended medical care” approaches; improvised medical techniques with

the tools available. Rescuers should evaluate their area of response and determine the

types of medical equipment they will need. If there are multiple patients, triaging those

patients and providing care to the ones that need it most. Since patient care is critically

important and difficult in technical rescue, practice is essential. We will perform full

patient packaging and care during every scenario. Here are some medical

considerations to highlight and address when we are packaging patients for transport:

Patient monitoring

! Level of consciousness

! ABCs

! Vitals (Pulse, Respiration, Blood Pressure, Temperature – axial , rectal)

Access

! Eating & drinking (use IVs to keep patient hydrated)

! Adjustment of dressings

! Adjustment of splints

! Adjustment of padding

! Removal/replacement of wet/soiled materials

Considerations of prolonged immobilization

! Pain at pressure points

! Need to move

! Restriction of breathing

! Urination & bowel movements (catheters)

Other medical considerations

! Suspected spinal injuries require that the patient's head, neck and body be moved

as a single unit.

! Long bone fractures and large joint dislocations may keep arms and legs from

being positioned in the normal position. The injured limb will need to be

supported in an improvised way.

! The patient's normal body temperature needs to be maintained/managed.

! Prevent hypothermia

! Prevent hyperthermia

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(Mc) 1/1/11

! Package patient to keep them warm and dry (Wrap in blanket and then in a

tarp, ensuring that airway and vitals can still be assessed)

! Use heat and cold packs when necessary

! Protect patient from exposure to the sun

! Use blood pressure cuff to maintain flow of IVs

! Secure O2 cylinder (many times between the legs of the patient)

! Use saran wrap for waterproof wound dressing

Padding void spaces

! Reduces pressure on skin surface that contact litter/lashing

! Head

! Shoulders

! Buttocks

! Groin (harness)

! Fills voids at natural curves of body

! Neck

! Lower back

! Behind knees (prevents hyperextension)

Face Protection

! Face shield

! Safety glasses

! Goggles

Helmet

! Offers minimal additional protection when patient is in litter

! May be source of discomfort

! May flex neck (compromise airway and/or C-spine alignment)

Transferring Patient to EMS

! Keep pertinent patient information and a log of vitals with the patient for

extended evacuations. A strip of tape on the basket, leg, chest, etc… may assist

with this

! One person assigned to monitor the patient and to provide a patient report to EMS

or ED

!

Devices There are many devices on the market that are used to package patients for transport

during technical rescues. Below are some of the common ones used in our system:

Ferno

! Plastic shell with a steel bar around the outside for support

! Can be slid easily over terrain

! Can be used for vertical or horizontal litter orientation

! Can be used with the big wheel (Is not the preferred choice but can be used)

Stokes

! All steel with chicken wire and wood bottom

! Is the best choice for use with the big wheel

! Provides better back protection for the patient

! Can be used in vertical or horizontal litter orientation

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(Mc) 1/1/11

Sked

! Is best used in conjunction with the Oregon Spine Splint (OSS)

! May be medically indicated for patients with pelvis injuries, tighten down to use

as a compression splint

! Can be squeezed through tight spaces

! Is great for cave rescue and confined space

! Can be used for vertical and horizontal litter orientation

Oregon Spine Splint (OSS)

! Is used for spinal immobilization (stabilization)

! Very similar to the Kendricks Extrication Device (KED)

! When used with a hasty harness a patient can be hauled or lowered

! Is made to be used with the Sked

Life Safety Products (LSP) Half-back

! Used for spinal immobilization (stabilization)

! Can also be used without aluminum spine board

! Is made with built in attachment points for loading

Securing the Patient Stations should be setup to allow all students to package patients in each device until it

appears they can competently do so.

Ferno and Stokes

If spinal immobilization is indicated secure the patient in the spinal immobilization

(stabilization) device, then place them in the litter.

! Use two 20’ (min. length) webbings

! Tie an overhand loop in the end just large enough to go over patients foot (try to

leave footwear on)

! Put loop over patient’s foot, to act as a stirrup, and tie a clove hitch or girth hitch

around the rail to isolate the stirrup.

! Do the same on the other side

! Lash patient in the litter much like shoe lacing, securing the patient in three places

(one “X” to keep lower extremities in, one “X” around the pelvis, and one “X”

around the torso)

! Finish the lashing over the torso forming a “V” OR if required to hold the chest in

place, the lashing may be finished strait across. Care must be taken not to

compromise the airway.

! Secure the lashing with a truckers hitch on both pieces webbing independently.

Tie off the truckers hitch with a half hitch, safety it with an overhand knot. (The

same as the munter hitch)

! If the patient has lower extremity injuries that would contraindicate stirrups use

and upper “V”

! Use a 15’ (min. length) of webbing

! Preferred to put a “for real” manufactured harness on the patient

! Girth hitch the middle of the webbing on the frontal attachment on the harness

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(Mc) 1/1/11

! Extend the two ends on the webbings upward toward the patients head and trucker

hitch the two ends to support the patients weight solely in the upper “V”, secure

the truckers hitch with a half hitch on a bight and an overhand knot

Only use the upper “V” if there are lower extremity injuries. Suspending a patient in the

upper “V” in a harness can induce the onset of Harness Hang Syndrome. During this

course no one should be suspended in the upper “V”.

Litter Bridals will be covered in the Hauls and Lowers Class

OSS

! Secure the OSS on the patient per the manufactures recommendations

! Secure the chest straps first (straps are color coded)

! Secure the abdominal straps

! Secure the ishial (leg) straps

! Secure the head

! Torso straps can go across the chest to match their color coding or can be secured

around the shoulder in case of a clavicle injury

Sked

A patient with a Pelvic injury may require being packaged in a Sked. The Sked can be

used to splint the pelvis. If a Ferno is the preferred extrication device it may be preferable

to splint the patient with a Sked and package in a Ferno. A good practice is to prepare the

packaging device before sending it to the rescuer. For example, rig the sked with the

vertical bridle prior to sending it to the rescuer.

! It is preferred to have the patient in an OSS (with shoulder board) or on a

backboard

! Attempt to leave patients footwear on to protect the patients feet

! Place the patient on the Sked with shoulders about even with grommets through

the middle of the Sked

! Cinch straps straight across the device (do not make “X’s” as they are not

recommended by the Mfg.), keeping in mind airway concerns (overhand knots on

the straps are NOT recommended)

! Bring the foot flap up and run straps through associated grommet and cinch down

(overhand knots on the straps are NOT recommended)

Vertical Bridal

! Find the middle of the 10mm vertical bridal rope and tie a butterfly or a figure

eight on a bight at the middle point of the rope

Note: directions are given with one working end of a rope both sides will mirror each

other

! Pass each end of the rope through the grommets at the head end, from outside to

inside, and pull the knot up against the top of the sked.

! Feed straight through next set of grommets , inside to outside.

! Continue to feeding rope through the carrying handles and unused grommets

(weave the rope in and out of unused grommets in-between the carrying handles).

! Pass the rope, outside to inside, thru the next grommet past the last set of carrying

handles

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(Mc) 1/1/11

! Pass the rope ends thru grommets at the foot end of the Sked (inside outward) and

ensure the ends are even. Tie a square knot at the outside foot end of the Sked

! Extend the tails up toward the patient’s knees and pass the ends through the

litter’s bridles and tie a square knot with safeties above the patient’s lower legs.

SEE ATTACHED SKEDCO SKED INSTRUCTION FOR PICTURES

Horizontal Bridals

! Using the yellow straps provided pass them trough the slots cut in the plastic that

are angled

LSP (Half Back)

! Place around the patient and connect buckles to their respective connectors

! If being used for vertical lift, attach the spreader bar or use webbing to improvise

a harness to attach to the front vertical attachment points. Webbing should not

allow a cinching action across the patient’s chest.

Big Wheel

! Can be placed on the Ferno or the Stokes but fits best on the Stokes

! The key is to push down on the litter and not pull up

! Eases the difficulty of extended walk-outs

Hasty Harnesses

Rescuers may encounter instances where they need to remove victims from hazardous

environments quickly. Moreover, patient’s medical conditions may require expeditious

removal from the surrounding environment to awaiting advanced medical care. The

hasty loop harness and the Ticknor harness are two such harnesses that allow rescuers a

means to facilitate patient movement. Remember, these harnesses DO NOT provide c-

spine support.

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(Mc) 1/1/11

The Hasty Loop

A rescuer can use a 20’ to 24’ piece of 1” tubular webbing. This harness can be used in

conjunction with other short spine immobilizers (e.g. OSS). If patient is unconscious

rescuers should be cautious as to not obstruct airway. A C-collar may be used to prevent

an unconscious patient’s head from flexing down or extending backwards.

Tying a Hasty Loop when the patient is standing:

Step 1: Tie a water knot in the ends of a 20 ft to 24 ft piece allowing

4”-6” tail.

Step 2: Drape bight of webbing over rescuer’s shoulder and across the rescuer’s chest

allowing 3 ft in front of rescuer.

Step 3: Bring bight of webbing underneath patients legs up to where the knot is high

center of patient’s back under their shoulders. The webbing is split with a

loop of webbing underneath each of patient’s armpits and underneath their groin.

Step 4: Pull the loops up and out to tighten. While keeping tension, gather all

pieces of webbing above the patient’s head and clip in a carabineer.

Step 6: Keep tension on the webbing till the harness is loaded with patient’s weight.

Ensure the webbing is running high across the patient’s back.

Tying Hasty Loop when patient is lying down, (ensure patient is supine)1:

Step 1: Tie a water knot in the ends of the webbing allow 4”-6” tail (sic)

Step 2: Place loop of webbing around supine patient so they are encircled.

Step 3: Move webbing underneath patient’s back where the webbing is under the

patient’s shoulders, along patient’s side and under their armpit.

Step 4: Bring a bight of webbing through patient’s legs and pull slack toward patients’

head. Lay webbing flat across one of patient’s shoulder next to patient’s head .

Step 5: Grasp webbing at patient’s side and bring upward to form loops on each side of

patient. Capture all webbing loops above patient and clip a carabiner into it.

Step 6: As the harness is tensioned, assist the patient to a sitting position. Ensure the

harness is secure and the webbing is high across the patient’s back running

underneath the patient’s armpits.

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(Mc) 1/1/11

Ticknor Harness:

The Ticknor harness can be tied with attachment loops on the back (for confine space

removal) or loops on the front (preferred method for conscious patient). Rescuer’s can

use a 30 ft piece of webbing to tie the Ticknor:

A Patient can be standing or lying down.

Step 1: Find middle of piece of webbing and place behind patient back. Run each end of

webbing underneath the patient’s armpits Grab the running ends of webbing and

make two bights with the webbing on either side of patient’s armpits.

Step 2: Tie a square knot with bights of webbing above the nipple line of the patient.

Clip bights of webbing with a carabineer, ensure to keep the carabiner above the nipple

line while finishing the harness.

Step 3: Run webbing down in front of patient’s chest down through patient’s legs, do

not cross. Bring ends up behind patient’s buttocks around to the front.

Step 4: The right side webbing end will go underneath the right side

webbing in front of the pelvis back towards the patient’s rear. The left side

webbing end will go underneath the left side webbing in front of the pelvis back

towards the patient’s rear.

Step 5: Start wrapping the pelvic girdle. Allow at least 12-18 inches of tail to tie a

square knot with safeties on either hip.

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(Mc) 1/1/11

Step 1 Step 2 Step 2

Step 3 Step 4 Step 5

Step 5 Step 5

Tickner Harness

1 of 4

System Safety Factors 7/12/2008 (DJ)


(Skill Acquisition)

Class Title: System Safety Factors

NFPA 1006/RESET JPR’s: RESET- 1.13

Time: 1 Hour

Scheduling Suggestions: Early in the course

Materials/Equipment needed: NA


Objectives:

At the end of this lesson the rescuer should be able to:

! Explain what a Safety Factor is

! Define Minimum Breaking Strength (MBS)

! Identify factors that can affect Minimum Breaking Strengths (MBS’s) of different

components

! Identify and explain force multipliers

! Identify and explain two types of safety factors

! Identify the target Static System Safety Factor (SSSF)

2 of 4


System Safety Factors Safety factors are often misunderstood in the technical rescue community. There are

many misconceptions about safety factors. This lesson will attempt to clarify the safety

factor concept and how they apply to RESET.

A “Safety Factor” is basically a ratio of a minimum breaking strength to a load or force.

The term force is more appropriate to use as forces at points in rescue systems can often

be greater than the load.

Minimum Breaking Strength (MBS) Now we must define MBS and determine how that MBS was determined and if and how

that figure applies to a given situation. Often our rigging methods will affect the MBS.

MBS is simply defined as the component strength. That strength is determined using very

specific testing methods. Sometimes the test method is made up by the manufacture of a

device to test the device in its manner of use. Other times, the test method is dictated by

standards (i.e. NFPA, ASTM, UIAA, etc). In either case, if done properly, the test should

be consistent and reproducible. Most often this is done in a scientific lab type setting.

What is important for end users is how our rigging methods may produce different

breaking strength compared to those published by manufacturers. For example, a

carabiner is tested with one inch pins on both ends of the carabiner. The pins are pulled

apart to load the carabiner along its long axis and are pulled at a very specific rate. This is

not how carabiners are used in the field. So we as rescuers need to know how our use of

that carabiner will change the published breaking strength (i.e. 3 way load- strength

reduction of 30%, side loading- strength reduction of 70%).

Other examples of affected MBS Factors affecting Carabiners:

! Age

! Material

! Loading axis (short axis around 70% strength reduction)

! Three-way loading (around 30% strength reduction)

! Environmental exposure

! Double loop knot (around 20% strength reduction depending on type of carabiner)

Factors affecting Rope:

! Age

! Condition

! Diameter

! Knots (around 30% strength reduction)

! Manufacturer

! Sharp bend in the rope (over edges)

! Water (around 15% strength reduction)

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It is paramount that rescuers know their equipment. Know the type, brand, manufacturer,

MBS, and factors affecting MBS of all the equipment in your cache.

Rigging Technicians must understand the effects of rigging and how it can affect the safety of

their systems. Forces produced by the load can vary greatly depending on how things are

rigged. An example of that is force multiplication. There are two common types of force

multiplication:

1. Those found in highlines and “flat angled” anchors

2. Those found in mechanical advantage and deviations (redirects)

Both of these must be understood to allow accurate calculation of safety ratios. Once we

can identify force multipliers, we can identify the force applied to different components.

Static System Safety Factor Historically the term Safety Factor has been used. In reality, this “Safety Factor” is a

ratio. So we will continue to call them Safety Factors with the understanding it is really a

ratio. There are two types of safety factors/ratios:

1. Component-to-Force Ratio

2. Static System Safety Factor (SSSF)

Component-to-Force Ratio

A given piece of equipment does not, by itself, have a safety factor. It must first have a

load or force applied to it. As stated above rescuers should be extremely familiar with the

MBS of their equipment. Once the MBS and the load /force are identified the rescuer can

calculate the Component to Force Ratio.

MBS:Force/Load

Various examples of Component-to-Force Ratios should be discussed.

Static System Safety Factor

As with a single component, a system does not have a given safety factor. The rescuer

must asses the system and determine the Static System Safety Factor (SSSF). This is

done by identifying the component with the lowest Component-to-Force Ratio (the

weakest link). Once the weakest link is identified this becomes the SSSF.

WL-MBS:Force/Load

Several examples of systems should be provided and the SSSF of those systems

determined.

What is an acceptable SSSF? This is dependant on a variety of factors. (i.e. Is the load

going to stay static? Is there a possibility of an impact force? Was the original SSSF

correct? Is there a side-loaded carabiner? etc) We use the term Static System Safety

Factor because we are calculating this ratio with the system not in motion. Any increase

in force from acceleration, impact forces, or other noise in the system would be

4 of 4


accounted for by keeping our ratio large enough. So again the question is: what is an

acceptable safety ratio?

Typically, we try to target a 7:1 SSSF. It may not always be obtainable, but this is a

good ratio to shoot for. If we do not meet a 7:1; we must decide if it is enough for the

task. The reality is that anything above a 1:1 should hold. But 1:1 does not take into

account other “noise” in the system that we did not account for (wet rope, extra friction,

increased load, dynamic event, etc), so we choose to use a larger ratio to account for the

unknowns. Use equipment appropriately and use rigging methods that keep forces to a

minimum, or rig to account for those higher forces. We want rescuers to rig intelligently

and with insight.

Human Factor What is the safety factor on your judgment? We can build the strongest systems possible

and issue the best equipment available but it is still up to us to use them correctly. We

have to pay attention to our systems. Watch for load shifts, tie knots properly, stay

attentive while belaying, etc. Any piece of equipment or standardized practice can be

unsafe if you make it unsafe. Know you equipment and how to use it.

Is Safer Actually Safer? At times when attempting to make a system hyper-safe it is possible to make a system

that is impractical or inefficient to the point of being dangerous. It is in the nature of

firefighters to add more. More of everything is better, right? Not necessarily. Two belays

should be better than one, right? NO!! If everyone on the scene cannot walk up to your

rigging and identify they system and its purpose, or if you cannot explain it without

hesitation, maybe it is too complicated. Sometimes complex systems are needed but try

not to over-engineer. A simple axiom to remember is: When redundancy begins to affect

efficiency safety is compromised. Rescuers should build systems that provide reasonable

safety margins while maintaining efficient and effective rescue systems.

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Belay Systems 7/4/2007 (DJ) 8/09 (Adam) 2/2011 (DJ)


(Skill Acquisition)

Class Title: Belay Systems

NFPA 1006/AFD JPR’s: RESET 1.10

Time: 1 Hour

Scheduling Suggestions: Before any technical work is done

Materials/Equipment needed: 4 Groups:

4 – 100ft+ ropes

10 – 15ft+ webbing

4 – Single Prusik Minding Pulleys

4 – XL Carabineers

10 Carabineers

4 – Jigger - 2 Micro Prusik Minding Double Pulleys, 35’ of 9mm rope, 6mm prusik loop for progress

capture

4 – Tandem Prusik

4 – Radium Load Releases (LRH) 33’ of 8mm accessory cord, 2 carabineers

Instructor requirements: 10:1 Student to Instructor Ratio

Objectives:

At the end of the Training the rescuer should be able to:

! Define belay systems

! Describe four common categories of belay systems

! Identify two types of top belays

! Describe seven characteristics of a tandem triple wrapped prusik belay

! Demonstrate tying a Radium Release Hitch

! Identify eight considerations of top belays

! Build and operate a Tandem Triple Wrapped Prusik Belay

! Recite the belay commands

2 of 5


Belay systems Belay Systems are defined as systems employed to safeguard the load in the event that

the main means of supporting it is rendered ineffective. Some examples of that would be:

damaging equipment, human error, etc…. It is common to attempt to have two ropes

attached to a load when being supported by rope based systems. Sometimes this is by

means of a “Two Tensioned Rope System” (two mainline systems attached to the load)

other times this is done by means of a single tensioned main-line and an un-tensioned

belay line. There are many methods for belaying a load and belays may not be required

100% of the time, though it is common to belay most loads. It is paramount, if a belay

system is utilized, that it be able to safeguard the hazard in which it was designed to

belay. Often this means that the system be required to arrest an impact force from a

falling load. Here are some categories of belay systems:

Self Belay

This is when methods are utilized to safeguard yourself. Some examples of this would be:

! Attaching to a local anchor

! Tending a friction hitch (attached to the same rope that is supporting you or to a

separate rope) during a rappel, raise, or lower

Lead Belay

This system is typically used in “bottom up” rescues (towers, taller rock walls with no top

access, etc…) The climber climbs up and periodically places intermediate anchor points

and attaches a rope to them. With this type of belay high Fall Factors may be produced

and in turn high impact forces can be present. This is why dynamic rope is often the best

choice for lead belay systems.

Bottom Belay

This is when someone is at the bottom of a fixed rope rappel or traveling break lower.

Their job has two parts:

1. Pull down on the rope, to act as the break hand for the descender

2. Pull the end of the rope away from plumb so as to make the distance from the

load to the “Bottom Belayer” further than the distance from the load to the

ground, making it next to impossible for the load to reach the ground.

Top Belay

This is the most typical type of belay employed in rescue. This is accomplished by

attaching a redundant un-tensioned rope to the load that is run through a belay device.

This rope is generally left unloaded during an operation and only utilized in the event that

the main load supporting system is rendered ineffective. Often when this belay is actuated

the load produces an impact force on that rope and belay system. Great effort should be

made to ensure that the belay method chosen is capable of arresting that impact force.

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Two Common Top Belay Methods

Munter Hitch Belay

(Review this belay from the General Rescuer Course)

This belay utilizes the friction from the Munter hitch (often called the Italian hitch) to

arrest the impact force produced by the load. Munter hitches are typically used for lighter

loads (<300 lb) but if tended correctly, and a moderate amount of edge friction is present

to absorb some of the impact force, it is possible to belay heaver loads (<600 lb). This

belay does require the belayer to maintain control of the brake rope in order for this belay

to be effective. Some characteristics of this belay are:

! Fast set up

! Minimal equipment

! Effective

! Requires rescuer interaction

! A Munter hitch is best used in conjunction with an XL Carabiner

! To go hands free tie off with a half hitch followed by an overhand

Parts of a Top Belay

! Anchor

! Rope

! Belay device

! Belayer

! Load

Tandem Triple Wrapped Prusik Belay (TTPB)

(Cover this belay in-depth)

This belay utilizes two prusik hitches sized, matched, and tended appropriately to catch

the impact force. This belay is a quirky belay system that requires constant maintenance.

The TTPB, if tended appropriately, is capable of arresting the impact forces produced by

heavier loads (600 lb, possibly more). Some characteristics of this belay are:

! Can be hands free for short durations

! Requires more practice operating to become proficient

! Requires that the prusiks be sized and dressed appropriately to maximize

effectiveness

! Requires rescuer interaction

! Can use PMP during a raising operation to keep line slightly tensioned

! Operation during lowering evolution: strip rope through prusiks in short bights,

never allowing more than one foot of slack to develop. Keep prusiks at 90 degree

angle to belay line’s direction of travel. Keep system components between prusiks

and anchor snug (don’t allow them to sag). BELAYING DURING A

LOWERING OPERATION IS A DIFFICULT JOB, AND MUST BE TAKEN

ABSOLUTELY SERIOUSLY.

! In the event of an actuation, the prusiks are “locked up”. There should be a plan to

overcome this. Typically a Load Releasing Hitch (LRH) or jigger is used in

conjunction with the TTPB.

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Load-releasing hitch

(Each student should be competent at tying the RRH)

The load-releasing hitch (LRH) can be a valuable rigging tool. The LRH is used to

release tension in a system. Some situations where an LRH can be incorporated are:

tandem prusik belay, behind a progress capture device, knot passing, high points etc… As

a rule of thumb any time a prusik has the potential to be loaded it may be a good idea to

have an LRH behind it.

There are many variations of load releasing hitches, but the most common type used is

the Radium Release Hitch (RRH). The RRH is normally constructed from 10 meters (33

feet) of 8mm accessory cord. The RRH is basically a 3:1 system with a Munter hitch

incorporated. Remember that with the RRH being a 3:1 for every foot that is load-

released it will utilize 3 feet of the excess cord. This is why it is important to be sure that

the length of cord used is adequate; which is why 10 meters is suggested. The end of the

cord needs to be managed just like any other system would be. Either tying a knot in the

end of the cord or tying the end to a fixed anchor is acceptable.

Jigger

The jigger can be used in a multitude of locations, however in this application it is used in

place of the RRH. It is not incorporated into the system like the RRH but should be built

and readily available. If needed it can be quickly attached and used for all the functions

of a RRH plus it has the ability to make short hauls.

Load Transfer After an Inadvertent Lock Up or a Belay Actuation

In the event that the prusik in a TTPB become loaded they must be released before the

rescue can continue. When using a RRH; you tension and SET the mainline, unlock the

RRH, then you perform a slow lower with the RRH until the weight of the load is fully

on the mainline. You can then release the tandem prusik and reset the RRH.

To use the jigger for the same function you will connect it to an anchor and attach it in

front of the loaded prusiks with a rope grab. Haul on the jigger until the prusiks are no

longer tensioned. Ensure the mainline is functional and use the jigger to release the load

onto the mainline.

Top Belay considerations:

! Be aware where your body is in relation to the belay system. If the rope gets

loaded where is it going to go?

! If a directional is needed, avoid using pulleys. Instead run the rope through a

carabiner to provide friction.

! Avoid running belays through high-point’s

! Rig the belay where it can be easily operated

! To keep redundancy, rig belays on separate anchor points. If an anchor point is

exceptionally bombproof the same point may be used. However students should

rig separate anchor systems for the main system and the belay system.

! Try and rig belays somewhere around 10 ft from the edge and as inline with the

main-line as possible. This will ensure adequate communication, room for on- and

off-loading, and prevent any drastic load shift in the event of an actuation

! Pad the edge if indicated

5 of 5


! If attaching belays to a person in a harness the Belay should be attached to the

front attachment point. No belay should be attached to the dorsal or back

attachment on a harness. (The only exception would be for an emergency retrieval

system in Confined Space work)

Commands As with any operation, standardized commands can increase efficacy. Before

operating any system a “Role Call” should be conducted. The “Role Call” Command

applies to any operation (i.e. Lower, Raise, Belay etc.). A System Safety Check should be

done either just prior to the role call or finished before the role call is complete.

Before any system is used the person in charge should start the operation by

loudly saying “ROLE CALL”, followed by a ready check (role call) of each position

(i.e. brake-man, belay-man, edge tenders, haul team, tag lines, etc.).

Once the role call is complete, the command “Position the Load” should be used

to direct the team members to move the load in a position to be hauled or lowered.

Once the load is into position, the command “Load the System” will be used to

suspend the load by the ropes.

Example:

Squad Leader- “ROLE CALL” (everyone should stop talking and listen to the leader)

Squad Leader- “Blue Line Ready?”

Blue Line Operator- “Blue Line Ready!”

Squad Leader- “Red Line Ready?”… (Leader should check the readiness of all positions)

Red Line Operator- “Red Line Ready”…(All positions should respond with their

readiness)

Squad Leader- “Position the Load” (The load should move into position)

Squad Leader- “Load the System” (The load should be suspended by the ropes)

Squad Leader- “Slow Haul”, “Slow Lower”, etc. (Direct the operation)

Other Standardized Commands

! On Belay- This is a question to the belay-man to ensure he/she is ready to belay

! Belay On- Is the answer from the belay-man confirming he/she is prepared to

belay.

! Off Belay- Term used to let the belay-man know the belay is no longer needed

! Belay Off- Used to confirm the belay is no longer in operation

! Stop- Used by anyone in the operation to suspend action

! Slack- A request for slack

! Tension- A request for tension

1 of 3

Belay a Falling Load 7/15/2007 (DJ)


(Skill Acquisition)

Class Title: Belay a Falling Load

NFPA 1006/AFD JPR’s: RESET- 1.11, 1.12

Time: 1 Hour

Scheduling Suggestions: After the students have had the opportunity to operate belay systems in the field

Materials/Equipment needed: 3 – 20ft webbing

4 half inch ropes at least 100’ long

2- double pulleys

1 – Rope grab

1 – Set of tandem prusik

1 – radium load release

1 – Single pulley

8 – large carabineers

2 – Quick release (can use 550 cord tied

between the haul and the rope connected

to load, then cut to release the load)

Minimum 440lbs of weight/ 600

preferred

Rope and equipment used to set up belay systems should be out of service or will be

taken out of service after this lesson


Objectives:


! Identify the purpose of a belay

! Describe Fall Factors

! Describe 0 Fall Factors and how it relates to rescue belays

! Successfully catch a falling load using a Tandem Triple Wrapped Prusik Belay

2 of 3


The Purpose of a Belay Un-tensioned belay systems are commonly used in rope rescue operations. It is

paramount that if rescuers use an un-tensioned belay system that they ensure it will work

as intended. Often this means that it will be capable of catching an impact force. This

impact force would be produced by the rapid loading of the rope by the load that was

supported by another system.

Impact Force (AKA Shock load) - The rapid deceleration of a falling load. (like those

seen in a belay line actuation)

Be sure that the belay system selected will safe guard the hazard in which

the belay was intended to protect.

Fall Factors Fall Factors are the ratio of the distance fallen compared to the available rope slack. It is

used to portray the severity of a fall.

Distance Fallen ⁄ Available Rope Slack

When a load falls it possesses energy (kinetic energy). When the rope is shock loaded the

length of rope stretches and absorbs energy. If the energy produced by the falling load is

greater than the ropes absorption capacity, the rope breaks. So the peak force produced by

a load is dependant on how much rope is out and how elastic the rope is. The more rope

out, the more rope there is for the load to be spread over. The more elastic the rope is the

better energy absorbing ability it has. This explains why the increase in energy from a

longer fall, at the same fall factor, caused by more rope slack will correspondingly

increase elongation, thus making the percentage of rope elongation unchanged, intern

making the peak force the same.

Fall Factors in Rescue Belays The British Columbia Council for Technical Rescue has a belay competency test that is

commonly used to evaluate the effectiveness of a belay. This competency test defines a

set of conditions theorized to be the “worst case scenario”. This would include:

! A .33 Fall Factor (FF). Derived from the assumption that the belay would be

rigged about 10 feet from an edge with there being about 3 feet of slack

introduced from the belay attachment to the edge. This would be a 3 foot fall on

10 feet of rope producing a .33 FF.

! 440 Lb load

! No edge friction

! There are several other conditions that are not relevant to the topic

These set of conditions have their place but once the load is over the edge many of these

parameters change. More often than not we are rigging our belays to incorporate edge

friction. Any edge friction present will assist in absorbing the energy produced by the

falling load.

3 of 3


Once the load is over the edge or it is being lowered or raised there is much effort taken

to reduce the amount of rope slack in the system.

The less rope slack = the less the load falls = the less the energy produced

When there is no rope slack in the system and the unloaded rope is suddenly loaded with

no fall occurring this is considered a 0 FF. Engineers use 0 FF for many calculations for

design requirements for bridges, buildings, etc…. The theory behind 0 FF is that it

produces twice the elongation than that of the static elongation at the given weight.

Otherwise stated: If you were to measure the length of the rope prior to being loaded.

Then statically load the rope with a specific weight and measure the length again (it will

have stretched). Compare the two measurements; this will give you the static elongation

with that weight. So in a 0 FF shock load the rope would stretch twice that distance.

So how does 0 FF relate to us? Manufacturers are now providing the static elongation of their rope at 300 and 600 lbf.

For example a PMI Nylon 12.5mm rope will stretch 1.6% at 600 lbf. Let’s round that up

to 2% for easy math. This means that for every 100 feet of rope it will statically stretch 2

feet. And at a 0 FF it will stretch 4 feet.

Another way of viewing that would be: At the beginning of a 200 feet raise, during first 8

feet of the raise the belay is essentially ineffective, because the rope will stretch so much

that the load would probably still hit the deck.

Belays do provide some security in our operations. But often the inconsistency in our

belay systems is overshadowed by the consistency of our main systems. So as we rig we

should always be rigging our main systems for success.

Catching a Falling Load During the General Rescuer Course students should have caught a falling load on a

munter hutch belay. In the Level I course students are taught the Tandem Triple

Wrapped Prusik Belay (TTPB). Each student should be given the opportunity to catch a

falling load with a TTPB using at least a 440 lb load (600 lb preferred). Allow the student

to operate the TTPB hitch for a short time; the load should be dropped onto the belay

system producing an impact force that the student would have to arrest. The rope should

run over an edge or a simulated edge such as a carabiner.

Each student should successfully catch a falling load with a TTPB.

1 of 7

IMS 4/7/11 (DJ)


(Rope Technician) Class Title: Incident Management for Technical Rescue NFPA 1006/RESET JPR’s: NFPA- NA RESET- NA Time: 15-20 Minutes Scheduling Suggestions: Toward the end of the class Materials/Equipment needed: Instructor requirements: 5:1 student to instructor ratio Objectives: At the end of the lesson the trainee shall be able to:

! Identify the Primary Principles of the Incident Management System ! Identify the various standardized IMS terminology used in Technical Rescue ! Identify the three Incident Priorities ! Explain the L-A-S-T acronym ! Identify the three possible Modes of Operation ! Describe and use a C-A-N report when giving a size-up ! Identify Task/Tactical Level Benchmarks ! Identify Command Level Benchmarks

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IMS 4/7/11 (DJ)

Introduction The Incident Management System (IMS) should be familiar to most rescuers who take this class. To review its primary principals:

o It is a standardized flexible format that expands and contracts to fit the needs of a given incident.

o Uses common terminology that allows rescuers from multiple organizations to work together.

o Creates a unified command structure that ensures everyone works for one leader and no tasks are duplicated (unless needed).

o Identifies an Incident Action Plan (IAP) for every incident. Sometimes these are formal and written, other times they are predetermined.

o Creates a manageable span of control to ensure no one is overloaded with tasks or personnel. Typically, one person should manage three to seven people or tasks, with five being optimal.

o Creates a comprehensive resource management plan. As reviewed in General Rescuer, the standardized format for setting up the command structure includes:

o Command Staff o Incident commander (IC) or Command- Is the leader, ultimate authority

and responsible party. o Safety Officer- Is the person designated specifically to oversee the safety

aspect of the event. In the technical rescue setting this person should have a background and several years of experience in technical rescue.

o Liaison Officer- Is the person who would interface with other people and organizations who may be involved or have a vested interest in the incident.

o Public Information Officer (PIO)- Is the person who usually should interface with any media or other group whom information about the incident is to be released.

o General Staff o Operations Chief- Oversees the operational aspect of the rescue or

recovery. o Plans Chief- Creates plans for the event including: travel plans,

accountability plans, operational period plans, etc. Additionally this chief normally runs meetings and is responsible for the overall documentation of the incident including the IAP.

o Logistics Chief- Takes care of all of the logistical needs of the incident including: food, shelter, equipment, etc.

o Finance Chief- Takes care of the financial aspects, including: tracking equipment cost, personnel cost, fuel cost, etc.

The IC will determine the format that will be used for the incident. Each IC has their own preferences for how to set up the structure and this varies with the needs of different incidents. Under a Section Chief there can be Single Resources, Groups, Divisions, and Branches. Single Resources may be given tactical assignments. Groups are responsible

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IMS 4/7/11 (DJ)

for specific tactical functions and are lead by a Group Supervisor. Divisions are normally associated with a specific geographical area and are lead by a Division Supervisor. Branches can be created when resources, groups and/or divisions reach a number that the span of control is too large and an additional layer of management needs to the created. Branches are lead by a Branch Director. Common Terminology is one of the benefits to the IMS system. Additionally, the RESET curriculum defines terminology used by its students and instructors. The terms used by RESET were chosen in an effort to maintain consistency with other technical rescuers throughout the US. This can be as simple as specifying what to call a specific haul system or device. To better define some standardized terms, below are some IMS terminology relevant to technical rescue:

o Hot Zone- Is the area immediately around the rescue site. This is where rescuers are attached to ropes to safe guard from falling, usually identified as a body’s length from an edge or unsafe area.

o Warm Zone- This is immediately outside of the Hot Zone. The rigging is normally in the warm zone.

o Cold Zone- This is outside of the warm zone. Typically the command post and other support functions can be found here.

o Rescue Group- Is the Group that performs the rescue functions associated with a specific task. In complex rescues or rescues that span over a large area, there may be multiple Rescue Groups.

o Rescue Group Supervisor- This is the person designated to lead the Rescue Group. This person normally directs the operations of the rescue and decides how the rescue will be accomplished.

o Medical Group- Is the Group that has responsibility to provide care to the patients and rescuers.

o Medical Group Supervisor- This is the person designated to lead the Medical Group.

o Evacuation Group- Is the group charged with transporting the patient(s) from the rescue area to the ambulance or other transportation to the hospital. In complex rescues or rescues that span over a large area, there may be multiple Evacuation Groups. Sometimes the Rescue Group carries out this function.

o Evacuation Group Supervisor- This is the person designated to lead the Evacuation Group. This person normally directs the operations of the evacuation and decides how the evacuation will be accomplished.

o Hasty Team- Is a team of rescuers sent to quickly search an area or a specific point, and is lead by a Hasty Team Leader. This team should pack light and focus on speed.

o Search Team- Is a team of rescuers who are responsible for thoroughly searching an area and is lead by a Search Team Leader.

o Patient Access Team- Is the team that finds the best way to make Pt access and is lead by the Pt Access Team Leader. This is normally the first team to locate the Pt.

o Edge Team- This is the team that is be responsible for assisting at the edge and is lead by the Edge Team Leader. This team provides Edge Tenders.

o Rigging Team- Is the team designated to rig a specific technical problem and is lead by the Rigging Team Leader. This team determines the rigging techniques to

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IMS 4/7/11 (DJ)

be used and works with the Edge Team and the Pt Access Team to determine the best litter orientation and edge solution. There may be multiple Rigging Teams for one rescue.

As the incident progresses, team or group designations may change to fit the needs of the operation. (Ex. A Search Team that finds the Pt may turn into the Pt Access Team) There are many ways to set up an ICS system. Here are a couple of examples of how they may be set up:

Incident Priorities The Incident Priorities for a technical rescue are no different that any other incident:

1. Life Safety 2. Incident Stabilization 3. Property Conservation

Strategy and Tactics All strategy and tactics should be designed with the incident priorities as the overall focus. The strategy used for technical rescue incidents should generally be categorized as one of the following: Search, Rescue, or Recovery.

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IMS 4/7/11 (DJ)

A strategy should be developed and shall center on satisfying the following objectives. They are referred to as the L-A-S-T acronym.

o Locate- the person(s) needing assistance. This may be simple or may be a complex search.

o Access- the person(s) needing assistance. Walking, swimming, rappelling, being lowered, or other means may accomplish this task.

o Stabilize- The person(s) needing assistance. Provide medical care and package the Pt in a device that will provide the best means of extrication.

o Transport- the person(s) to an ambulance, designated area or other safe area. Modes of Operation One of the first decisions made by the first rescuers is the mode of operation. Much like fire scenes the mode of operation will be used to assign the appropriate tactics and establish a command structure. The IC should announce the mode of operation over the radio and/or ensure all personnel operating on the scene are informed. These Modes of Operation are: Search, Rescue, or Recovery Search The location of the person(s) needing help will not always be known. Locating the person(s) will be the first objective. Information gathering will assist with determining where to search. Information gathered from the 911 call taker, interviewing people on scene, talking to witnesses, use of a Lost Person Questionnaire, familiarity with the area, etc will help with gathering information. Law Enforcement is exceptionally good at gathering information and investigating the unknown. Using them in this process is usually very helpful. One of the primary focuses should be on determining the Point Last Seen (PLS). As information gathered allows you to make decisions, deploy Hasty Teams to areas where the Pt is likely to be found or other areas of interest and Search Teams to more thoroughly search areas. Search theory and tactics are outside the scope of this lesson. Please refer to lost person search tactics for more information. Once the person(s) needing help is located it must be determined if this is a Rescue or a Recovery. This decision will affect the pace of the operation and may affect the techniques used. The axiom risk a little to save a little, risk a lot to save a lot, applies. Be sure the IAP is appropriate for the mode of operation. Rescue This strategy should center on the safe and speedy removal of the person(s) from the hazardous environment. Find the best way to access the person(s). This is done by the Pt Access Team and may be by ladder, by walking around an obstacle, rappelling rescuers on single rope techniques (SRT) ropes, lowering a rescuer via a rope based system, climbing up to the person(s), or any other means appropriate. Once Pt contact is made a medical classification of the Pt should be determined and relayed to the IC/command. Next, medical care and packaging the Pt for extrication should be the focus. The Pt Access team should work with the Edge Team and the Rigging Team to determine the

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best way to extricate the Pt including: type of litter, litter orientation, litter management (i.e. tag lines, SRT litter tenders, litter tenders on the litter, etc). As resources arrive a Rescue Group Supervisor should be established. The Rescue Group Supervisor will assign and direct a Rigging Team, an Edge Team, and will assume control of the Pt Access team. The Rigging Team should work with the Edge Team and the Pt Access Team to determine the best way to extricate the Pt. The complexity of rescue situations will not allow for specific techniques to be pre-planned. Systems built should target a 7:1 or higher Static System Safety Factor (SSSF) and not go below a 2:1 SSSF. The Edge Team should work with the Rigging Team to determine the best rigging solution to solve any edge problems or other obstacles. The Edge Team will normally employ Edge Tenders at the edge via SRT techniques. Depending on the size and scope of the incident multiple Rescue Groups may be needed. Additionally, Evacuation Groups, Medical Groups, or other types of groups may be created to accomplish the rescue. Recovery If it is determined the person(s) we are there to help is deceased, the IAP should undergo a review. There may be a need to delay extrication until Law Enforcement can conduct an investigation. The format and functions for conducting a recovery are the same as the rescue mode with the exception of ensuring the techniques are chosen with a more methodical approach. More time should be expended building systems in such a way that the most efficient method is selected. Often times the most efficient method takes more time, and therefore is not what is chosen for rescue. Size-Up Size-up is a rapid mental evaluation of the factors involved in the incident. This is a continual process and should be continuously evaluated. First arriving rescuers should provide size-ups to incoming rescuers so they can better prepare. Size up reports should provide a picture of what is happening, what you are doing to make it better and what incoming rescuers need to do. An acronym used to ensure these elements are incorporated is C-A-N, often referred to as a CAN Report. Conditions- State the current conditions. Ex. “We have a person at the bottom of a 20 foot vertical cliff. Actions- This describes the actions you or your crew is taking to make the situation better. Ex. “We are going to send a rescuer down an SRT rope to make Pt access.” Needs- Tell the incoming rescuers what you need from them to support the rescue. Ex. “We need incoming rescuers to bring rigging equipment, a ferno, and the best access to the top of the cliff is to take the walking trail by the old barn.” Size-ups or CAN reports should be given when arriving, and when significant benchmarks are met (Ex. making Pt contact, assigning or assumption of a rigging leader, determining the rigging techniques, evacuating the Pt, etc).

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IMS 4/7/11 (DJ)

Benchmarks Benchmarks are points of reference that help measure the progress toward the achievement of the incident priorities. When assuming or being assigned a tactical assignment or function, the rescuer should announce this on the radio or ensure the ICS structure is aware of this assignment. Benchmarks can generally be grouped into two categories: Task/Tactical Benchmarks and Command Benchmarks. Here are some examples of Task/Tactical Level Benchmarks:

o Assumption or acknowledgement of an assignment (Ex. E-1 is assuming Rescue Group Supervisor)

o Completion of Assignment (Ex. Rigging Complete; Pt is packaged and ready for transport)

o Inability to complete assignment (Ex. Cannot make Pt access from the lower trail, best access is from above)

o Any significant delay in completing assignment (Ex. Pt packaging is going to take a little more time, the Pt is in a tight spot and his injuries need special attention to package in the litter)

o The need for additional resources to complete task (Ex. Need five additional rescuers for the haul team)

Command/IC should report Command Level Benchmarks for the incident record. Often these benchmarks are a part of a written IAP on a separate “worksheet”. This worksheet details the specific functions and benchmarks identified for a specific event. The following are examples of Command Level Benchmarks specific to Technical Rescue and would likely be found on a “Technical Rescue IAP Worksheet”.

o Search has been initiated to locate the person(s)- When the search has begun to locate the person(s) requesting assistance.

o Pt(s) have been located- When the location of the Pt(s) has been identified. o Pt Contact has been made- When verbal and physical contact is made. o Medical Classification of the Pt(s)- When the Medical Classification(s) of the

Pt(s) has been identified. This helps drive the pace of the operation, the need for additional resource types (Ex. STAR Flight), and gives advance notice to the receiving medical facility.

o Pt is removed from the hazard- When the Pt has been removed from the area he/she needed rescue from. (Ex. at the top of a hauling evolution, the bottom of a lowering evolution, out of a confined space, Pt has been hoisted by STAR Flight).

o Pt is being evacuated- When the Pt is away from the hazard and being moved to the vehicle providing transport to the hospital.

o Pt is being transported to the hospital- When the Pt is in the ambulance, medical helicopter, or other means of transport to the hospital.

o All Rescuers are accounted for- When all rescuers have exited the hazard area and are preparing to demobilize.

Summary All rescues have different aspects. Rescuers should remain fluid and flexible. Plans change as new information is assessed. Managing rescues using the IMS system ensures that everyone is on the same page. Each rescuer is responsible for ensuring they stay on task and perform their function to the best of their ability.

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Raising and Lowering 7/4/07 (DJ) 1/11/11 (WM)


(Skill Acquisition)

Class Title: Raising and Lowering Systems

NFPA 1006/AFD JPR’s: NFPA- 6.1.2, 6.1.4

RESET- 1.2, 1.3, 1.9, 1.6

Time: 2 Hours

Scheduling Suggestions: Early in the week

Materials/Equipment needed: 12 – 100ft+ ropes

12 – 15ft+ webbing

4 – Prusik sets (long and short)

4 – Racks

4 – Rescuecenders ascender

8 – Double Pulleys

8 – Single Prusik Minding Pulleys

8 – XL Carabineers

12 – Carabineers

1 – Litter

1 – Tri-link

1 – Set Yosemite Bridle

Instructor requirements: 1:5 Instructor to student ratio

Objectives:

At the end of the training the rescuer should be able to:

! Describe the two primary types of vertical systems

! Define a lowering system

! Describe the parts of a Single Tensioned Main Un-tensioned Belay- lowering system

! Identify seven lowering considerations

! Recite lowering commands

! Define mechanical advantage

! Identify three methods for calculating mechanical advantage

! Demonstrate the T-method of calculating mechanical advantage

! Describe and build a compound mechanical advantage system

! Describe the parts of a Single Tensioned Main Un-tensioned Belay - raising system

! Identify the need for directionals and their resultant forces

! Recite haul commands

! Identify 13 raising system considerations

! Describe different litter rigging options

! Identify the need for litter attendants and why to avoid attaching them directly to the

litter

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Vertical Systems

There are two primary types of vertical systems. 1. Two Tensioned Rope Systems (TTRS) that utilize two ropes attached to the load and

they share the load equally.

2. Single Tensioned Main line with an Un-tensioned Belay System (STM-UTB). One

rope supports the load and the other is only loaded in the event the main load

supporting system is rendered ineffective.

Both use two ropes to support the load and provide redundancy. Both systems can be very

effective. It is the goal of this course to provide simple, retainable, reproducible systems. We

will focus primarily on TTRS and briefly hit on STM-UTB systems.

Lowering systems A lowering system is defined as a means to control the lowering of a load to a destination

using a rope.

Two Tensioned Rope Systems (TTRS) (Review from General Rescuer Course)

During a lower, effort should be made to allow both ropes to share the load equally. In the

event that one of the two ropes is rendered ineffective the load would shift onto the other rope

and there would be no impact force.

Parts of a TTRS lowering system

! 2 Anchors- As close together as possible. It may be desirable to have them on separate

anchors for redundancy or use rigging methods that would produce a redundant

bombproof anchor (multi-point anchor).

! 2 Descent control devices- Typically use the same type of device for both. Preferably

one that goes “both ways” to make it easier to switch to a raise. For RESET we will

use Munter hitches.

! Two Brake Tenders- This is the rescuers tending the friction devices

Single Tensioned Main – Un-tensioned Belay (STM-UTB)

(Place more emphasis on STM-UTB systems)

Only one rope is loaded and acts as the “elevator line” commonly referred to as the Main

Line. The other rope attached to the load is a Belay. The belay is typically not loaded unless

the Main Line is rendered ineffective.

Parts of a STM-UTB Lowering System

! Mainline- Supports the load

o The Break-bar Rack is the primary device used by the Austin Fire Department

when lowering people on a STM-UTB system. The Rack gives the rescuer a

greater ability to adjust the friction to accommodate lighter or heavier loads.

! Belay system- Acts as a redundant system that will catch the impact force produced by

the falling load. (ex. Munter Hitch, Tandem Triple Wrapped Prusik Belay)

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Lowering Considerations

! Rig where the brake tender can work safely and effectively

! Rig where communication is facilitated

! Give the litter room for a good resting place at the top. 10’ of space is a good objective

! Protect the rope at friction points

! Rig where you are less likely to drop things on the patient (avoid crumbly edges, etc...)

! Rig where getting the litter over the edge will be as easy and safe as possible

! Use a high directional if it’s available

Mechanical Advantage Systems or Haul Systems Mechanical Advantage (MA) is defined as the ratio of tension at the load compared to the

force required to move it. There are many types of haul systems and each rescue will require a

unique system for that rescue.

How MA Works

! Work = Force x Distance- The amount of force required to raise a load is less but

more rope is required to be moved through the system to equal the same amount of

work. So with a 4:1 for every 4 feet of rope pulled by the haul team the load only

travels 1 foot.

! The number of ropes that support the load, share the load equally. This includes the

line that we pull on. So we hold a fraction of the load in that one line and the other

lines and the anchor gets the rest.

Methods for calculating MA

! Ideal Mechanical Advantage (IMA)- Calculated without consideration of friction or

other losses of advantage (Review from the General Rescuer Course)

! Theoretical Mechanical Advantage (TMA)- Calculated using an expected value for

friction and other losses of advantage (Cover in-depth)

! Actual Mechanical Advantage (AMA)- Measured directly under actual field

conditions (Cover in-depth)

T-Method: When calculating the TMA of a system the rescuer can use the T-method to determine the

MA of any system. This is done by following the input (Tension put into the system) and

output to determine the Ideal MA. Using the T-method one can incorporate the effects of

friction to derive the Theoretical MA of a system.

Example: Using a 3:1 Z-rig as an example, apply the value of 1T to the input side of the

system (the end you pull on), follow the rope until you come to a pulley. The value of 1T

enters the pulley and it exits the other side the same(1T) but the force applied to the pulley is

equal to the sum of both sides (2T). This value is transferred to anything attached to that

pulley, in our example a prusik attached between the pulley and the rope. You continue to

follow the rope through the system in this manner until you reach the prusik. The 2T applied

to the prusik is added to the 1T on the rope giving you 3T, or a 3:1 MA. An example of Ideal

MA.

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3T 3T(2T+1T) 1T Anchor 2T

2T 1T 1T

Load

1T

1T

For every 100 pounds of force that is applied to the system there is 300 pounds of force

applied to the load(3:1). Also, there is 200 pounds of force applied to the anchor. These forces

must be considered when choosing anchors and haul systems.

Theoretical MA – A more accurate calculation of MA can be obtained using the T-method

by taking into account the efficiency of the pulleys being used. If a pulley has a 50%

efficiency then 1T would enter but .5T would exit and 1.5T would be applied to the prusik.

The final MA would equal to 1.75:1. This would be an example of Theoretical MA. The only

way to find Actual MA is to actually measure the output in relation to the input of the system.

!

"!"#$%&'%(')*+,'-./0'12"30'$."$'$.2'4"56'&"$/%'156$/76/28 9:'$.2'35192&'%('."562&0'0.%568'

3%$'2;#228')*. (3:1 with 3 haulers = 9:1)

All MA used in the class should be calculated.'

Types of MA

Simple Systems (Review these systems)

! All traveling pulleys move in toward the anchor at the same rate of speed.

! The location of the knot is an indicator of the odd or even status of the system. If the

knot is at the load then the system is odd, and if the knot is at the anchor the system is

even. So just remember: odd load, even anchor.

! Is one system working on itself

! Counting the number of ropes at the load will determine the MA ratio

Examples of simple systems

! 1:1 (Georgia haul)

! Block and tackle systems (4:1 & 5:1)

! 3:1 z-rig (for use in low-angle)

! Counter balance (to be taught during low-angle)

! Jigger (small block and tackle) - 2 Micro Prusik Minding Double Pulleys, 35’ of 9mm rope, 6mm prusik loop for progress capture

- Take the time to breakdown the jigger and discuss how it is built.

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Compound Systems (Cover in-depth)

! Any combination of two or more simple systems acting on each other forms a

compound system.

! To determine the MA of a compound system, multiply the MA ratios of all the

systems working on each other. 5:1 acting on a 3:1 = 15:1

! Traveling pulleys will move toward the anchor but not necessarily at the same speed

! Having the greater MA system working on a smaller MA results in fewer resets

Examples of compound systems

! 4:1 pig rig

Complex Systems

! Systems that do not follow the rules of either the simple or the compound systems.

Complex systems may have pulleys moving in different directions and may be moving

toward the load.

Examples of Complex systems

! 5:1 complex system – Start with a 3:1, add a pulley on the haul line, and then connect

the pulley to the system with a rope grab.

Different Haul System Configurations

Inline

! Uses the mainline to construct the haul system

! Z-Rig

Piggyback

! Uses a separate rope to construct the haul system and is then attached (piggybacked)

onto the mainline.

! Attach to the mainline with a rope grab device (single Prussic, Rescuecender, or

Gibbs); this is often called the Haul Cam

! Block and Tackle

Parts of a Raising System

! Anchor(s)

! Two ropes attached to the load (either TTRS or STM-UTB)

! Mechanical advantage system

! Progress capture device (PCD)

! Haul team

Progress capture device

A progress capture device (PCD) is a component that captures the progress of the haul

system. When the load is raised a distance the PCD will hold the load at that point until the

rescuer: resets the system, continues the haul, lowers the load, or whatever is needed during

the evolution. Examples of some PCDs are: Gibbs, Rescucender, Single Prussic, Munter

Hitch, Eight Plate, etc….

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Two Tensioned Rope Systems (TTRS)

To actually have a TTRS during a raise, a haul system would need to be used on both ropes

(one each) supporting the load. Effort should be made to allow both ropes to share the load

equally. In the event that one of the two ropes is rendered ineffective the load would shift onto

the other rope and there would be no impact force.

Parts of a TTRS Raising System

! 2 Anchors- As close together as possible. It may be desirable to have them on separate

anchor for redundancy or use rigging methods that would produce a redundant

bombproof anchor (multi-point anchor).

! 2 PCD’s- Typically use the same type of device for both. Preferably one that goes

“both ways” to make it easier to switch to a lower. (ex. Munter Hitch, Eight Plate,

etc…) though a rope grab would work it may be more efficient to have a device that

allows you to lower if the need arises.

! Two PCD tenders

! Two haul teams- This will maintain a TTRS. This method allows for more force to be

directed toward the load without overloading components. It will also allow you to

overcome higher amounts of friction for edges that produce a lot of friction.

Note: The same set up could be used with one Haul System making it a STM-UTB, but the

PCD method must be able to act as a belay for the load.

Single Tensioned Main – Un-tensioned Belay (STM-UTB) Only one rope is loaded and acts as the “elevator line” commonly referred to as the Main

Line. The other rope attached to the load is a Belay. The belay is typically not loaded unless

the Main Line is rendered ineffective.

Parts of a STM-UTB Raising System

! Mainline- Supports the load (could be an inline Z-Rig, or a piggyback system attached

to the mainline)

! PCD on the Mainline

! Belay system- Acts as a redundant system that will catch the impact force produced by

the falling load. (ex. Munter Hitch, Tandem Triple Wrapped Prusik Belay)

Directionals When rigging, it is often necessary or advantageous to use directional pulleys to re-direct our

rope. This may allow our haul team to operate in an area that maximizes distance and terrain.

Other places where directionals can be very advantageous are at the edge transition. Using

high point pulleys not only reduces friction from the edge but can also greatly assist us in

solving edge problems. If high help is available USE IT.

When using directionals it is important to identify that the resultant forces at directionals can

be greater than the mass of the load. This occurs the same way mechanical advantage does

and must be identified. This is not necessarily a bad thing just something we need to identify

and account for. The different angles should be given to the students and their resultants:

! 0° = 200%, (2T)

! 90° = 141 %, (1.5T)

! 120° = 100%, (1T)

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Raising System Considerations

! Rig where haul team has room to work

! Rig where haul team can use gravity to their advantage (use a change of direction if

needed)

! Rig where haul team can work safely

! Give the litter room for a good “landing”. 10’ of landing space is a good objective

! Minimize friction and protect the rope at friction points

! Use compact knots (small bights)

! Rig to maximize haul length (and minimize the number or resets)

! Avoid over-rigging— use the least complex system that will do the job

! Plan for the edge problem- this is often the most difficult part of a raising operation

! Rig high help if possible- this minimizes friction and helps solve edge problems

! Use Tag lines to keep the load away form obstacles

! Only use litter tenders if absolutely necessary

! Use edge tenders to assist in solving edge problems

Commands As with any operation, standardized commands can increase efficacy. Before

operating any system a “Role Call” should be conducted. The “Role Call” Command applies

to any operation (i.e. Lower, Raise, Belay etc.). A System Safety Check should be done either

just prior to the role call or finished before the role call is complete.

Before any system is used the person in charge should start the operation by loudly

saying “ROLE CALL”, followed by a ready check (role call) of each position (i.e. brake-

man, belay-man, edge tenders, haul team, tag lines, etc.).

Once the role call is complete, the command “Position the Load” should be used to

direct the team members to move the load in a position to be hauled or lowered.

Once the load is into position, the command “Load the System” will be used to

suspend the load by the ropes.

Example:

Squad Leader- “ROLE CALL” (everyone should stop talking and listen to the leader)

Squad Leader- “Blue Line Ready?”

Blue Line Operator- “Blue Line Ready!”

Squad Leader- “Red Line Ready?”… (Leader should check the readiness of all positions)

Red Line Operator- “Red Line Ready”…(All positions should respond with their readiness)

Squad Leader- “Position the Load” (The load should move into position)

Squad Leader- “Load the System” (The load should be suspended by the ropes)

Squad Leader- “Slow Haul”, “Slow Lower”, etc. (Direct the operation)

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Other Standardized Commands

! On Belay- This is a question to the belay-man to ensure he/she is ready to belay

! Belay On- Is the answer from the belay-man confirming he/she is prepared to belay.

! Off Belay- Term used to let the belay-man know the belay is no longer needed

! Belay Off- Used to confirm the belay is no longer in operation

! Stop- Used by anyone in the operation to suspend action

! Slack- A request for slack

! Tension- A request for tension

Lowering Commands

! Slow lower- Used to tell the brake tender to release rope to lower the load

! Slow haul – Used to direct the haul team to start a haul

Haul Commands

! Haul or Slow Haul- Used to direct the haul team to start a haul

! Stop- Used to stop the hauling process for any reason

! Set- Set the PCD

! Reset- Reset the haul system

Attaching Systems to the Litter Litter Orientation

Horizontal

! Almost always complicates edge negotiation

! Generally better for the patient

! Uses spiders for main and belay line connections to litter

Vertical

! Most common among experienced cave rescue technicians

! Often the only option in narrow passage

! Dramatically simplifies edge negotiation

! May be uncomfortable or dangerous for patient if left hanging (could result in harness

hang syndrome unless foot stirrups are used)

! Often allows such swift completion of the raising/lowering operation that the patient

can tolerate it with ease

! Uses bridle at head of litter for main and belay line connections

Litter Rigging

Horizontal

! Use the Yosemite Bridles

! Connect both lines to the focal point with Figure eight, Double loop figure eight, long

tail bowline (typically for a litter tender), Butterfly with tail (typically for a litter

tender).

! One or two carabineers are acceptable

Vertical

Head of basket

! Yosemite to the head

! Two clove hitches and a bowline with the end of the rope

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Low point litter rigging

! Two long prusik loops, one from each side, to a tri-link to the back for a low-point

attachment (the long prusik from a tandem prusik set works well)

o Keep the double fisherman’s knot close to the litter handles to reduce the

chance of them catching on objects under the litter

Litter Attending (Focus of the L-I course will be: litter tenders on separate SRT ropes, Edge Tenders on

separate SRT ropes, NO litter attendants attached directly to the litter)

When litters are raised or lowered it is often required to negotiate obstacles along the way.

There are several ways to accomplish this:

! Tag Lines

! Use rigging to avoid obstacles

! Litter attendant on a separate SRT rope, climbing or rappelling next to the litter

! Using Edge Tenders (Frog with micro rack system)

! Attaching the litter attendant directly to the litter (Level II)

It is optimal to avoid having a litter attendant tied directly to the litter. Here are some reasons

to avoid this:

! They often increase the difficulty of edge negotiation

! They decrease the System Safety Ratio

! They increase the work required to raise the load (more dead weight)

! Most often there is no medical benefit

At time it may be required to have an attendant tied directly to the litter. This technique will

be covered in the Level II course.

1 of 3

Litter Tending and Edge Tending 10/2/08 (DJ) 1/10/11 (DJ)


(Skill Acquisition)

Class Title: Edge Tending and Litter Tending

NFPA 1006/RESET JPR’s: NFPA- 6.1.5, 6.1.6

RESET- 1.6, 1.14

Scheduling Suggestions: Should be incorporated into all field evolutions but should be introduced during the first

field evolution.

Materials/Equipment needed: N/A

Instructor requirements: 5:1 student to instructor ratio

Objectives:

At the end of the lesson the trainee shall be able to:

! Describe edge tending

! Demonstrate edge tending

! Describe litter tending

! Demonstrate edge tending

2 of 3


Edge Tending Often the crux of litter work is the edge transition. There are various solutions to an edge

transition problem some of which include: rigging high-help, rigging the litter low and

high, or other techniques that are beyond the scope of this curriculum including:

parbuckling, pike and pivot, etc. Another solution, as will be introduced in this course, is

the use of edge tenders. In essence, a rescuer in his/her Single Rope Technique (SRT)

system would rappel or ascend to the edge problem and assist with the transition. By

using the SRT system the rescuer can independently move up and down the rope to

maneuver into the best position to assist with managing the litter.

The rope used for an edge tender should be an anchored fixed line. If the rope does not

reach the bottom of the obstacle, the rescuer should “tie in short”. This is accomplished

by taking the end of the rope that does not reach the ground, tying a looped knot, and

connecting it to his/her harness.

Litter Tending In the General Rescuer course tag lines and rigging the litter high and low were the

primary methods use to manage/manipulate the litter during a raise or a lower. There are

times when tag lines cannot be used or litter rigging may not be the best solution. The

next step in managing litters during an operation will be using rescuer(s) in SRT systems

on separate fixed ropes to move up and down with the litter. This technique is extremely

strenuous and requires practice to become proficient. There are multiple advantages to

this technique including:

! Eases edge transition

! Reduces the load by approximately 50%

! Less weight for a haul team to haul

! Roughly doubles the Static System Safety Factor

! More flexibility for the litter tender to move around the litter

To set up an SRT litter tender system a fixed line that reaches the bottom of the drop

should be rigged. The rescuer would just simply attach their SRT system to the fixed

rope. When possible a bottom belay should be used, with the understanding that as the

student’s proficiency increases and different factors are evaluated this may not be

possible or needed. The person bottom belaying is in a hazardous area, in the fall zone.

At times it may be prudent to omit the bottom belay.

Positioning the Load When moving the load into position, from an area away from the edge and into the fall

protection area, there are many methods that can be used to increase the efficiency of this

phase of the operation. When using high help at the beginning of a lower, it is beneficial

to raise the load and suspend it from the system before placing it over the edge. A haul

system works well for this but if there is not one available there are a couple of

alternatives. First the edge tenders can vector the line lifting the load up and allowing it to

be placed into position. When beginning the lower, the vector can be released until the

friction device takes the load. A second option is to use a jigger in place of a haul system.

You will extend the jigger and haul while capturing progress. Once the load is suspended

by the lowering system you will reverse haul and remove the jigger.

3 of 3


Field Exercises

These two techniques should be incorporated into all field evolutions and students rotated

to allow them to serve both functions.

1 of 3

Multi-point Anchors and Pretension Back-ties 9/18/08 (DJ)


(Skill Acquisition)

Class Title: Multi-Point Anchors/Pretension Back-ties

NFPA 1006/RESET JPR’s: NFPA- 6.1.1

RESET- 1.4

Time: 4 Hours

Scheduling Suggestions: Beginning of the week

Materials/Equipment needed:


Objectives:


! Define Multiple-Point Anchor System

! Demonstrate a Load Sharing Anchor

! Identify resultant forces of various angles in anchor systems

! Demonstrate the two techniques of rigging Multiple-Point Anchor Systems

! Describe various reasons for using a Pretension Back-tie

! Demonstrate rigging a Pretension Back-tie

2 of 3


Multiple-Point Anchors Systems

The anchor is the foundation of most any rescue system. Of primary importance is the

actual anchor point itself, which can be defined as the object that is providing the means

of supporting the load (i.e. tree, column, hand rail, etc). In the General Rescuer Course

we primarily focused on single point anchors and at times extended those single point

anchors to allow for more efficient rescue operations. During that training, the

importance of good primary anchor selection was emphasized. For Level I the emphasis

is still on the selection of good primary anchor points but the rescuer may wish to share

or distribute the load among several of those anchor points. A system configuration

providing load distribution over more than one anchor point, either proportionally or

disproportionally is called a Multiple-Point Anchor System. The two common techniques

are Load Sharing Anchors (independent legs) and Self Equalizing (“slides” to allow load

distribution). In Level I we will primarily discuss and use Load Sharing Anchors.

There are several reasons why Multiple-Point Anchor Systems would be used. When

rescuers arrive at a technical rescue event often times the patient is located where anchors

may not “line up” with where it would be optimal for the operation. As our technical

abilities increase we should progress from allowing the anchors to dictate where we

conduct operations and make the anchors work for us. By using Multiple-Point Anchor

Systems a Focal Point can be created by extending anchors that are available to a desired

location and connecting them together creating a Load Sharing Anchor.

Another application for Multiple-Point Anchors would be where the individual anchor

points provided are less than adequate for the anticipated force. One way to compensate

for this would be by back-tying the anchor, which will be covered below. Using a

Multiple-Point Anchor System, one could connect several inadequate anchors together

and produce an anchor system capable of sustaining the anticipated force. Incorporating

inadequate primary anchor points is beyond the expectations of a Level I student but

understand that this is a valid technique that may be needed during rescue activities.

As with other areas of technical rescue, when it comes to anchors a solid understanding

of the physics involved can be important. Understanding the affects of angles produced

by our rigging can aid in identifying safety ratios, ensure equipment is not over stressed,

etc. When building Multiple-Point Anchor Systems be sure and identify the angle

produced between the legs coming from the primary anchors. Angles beyond 120 degrees

can produce force multipliers. Forces can quickly exceed the mass of the load. Some

examples of angles and their resultant forces:

120°- 100% or 1T*

150°- 200% or 2T*

160°- 300% or 3T*

165°- 400% or 4T*

170°- 600% or 6T*

*These numbers are approximations. Actual values are different but these

numbers are provided for ease of field use.

3 of 3


When rigging Multiple-Point Anchor Systems either avoid angles flatter than 120° or

ensure the rigging is capable of supporting the force that will be applied to it.

There are two techniques we teach in Level I. The first uses a rope tied to an anchor point

using a direct anchor attachment (knot in the end of the rope around the anchor point)

extending it out to the desired location and tying a series of butterfly knots and taking the

running end of the rope back and anchoring that to another anchor point by either a direct

attachment or by running it through a munter hitch to allow flexibility. Variations of this

technique are allowed during field exercises but this is the primary variation taught for

consistency purposes. The second technique uses anchor extensions from multiple

anchors coming to a Focal Point. A rigging plate should be used at the Focal with prusik

hitches connecting it to the anchor extension ropes. The prusiks allow adjustment of the

Focal Point.

Pretension Back-ties

Another technique that can be used to “back-up” or secure a less than adequate anchor is

to use a Pretension Back-tie. As stated above Level I focuses primarily on quality

primary anchor points. Pretension Back-ties takes a potentially inadequate anchor and

produces a quality primary anchor point. This is accomplished by tying a rope, cord,

webbing, etc to the primary anchor point and connecting it to a secondary anchor point

behind it. This most often is done by using a truckers hitch to slightly tension the

rope/webbing between the two anchors.

If one pretension back-tie is used effort should be made to ensure the primary and the

secondary anchors are inline with the direction of loading. Should it not be possible to

line the anchors up, it would be better to use two pretension back-ties creating a “V”. The

loading should fall within the “V” produced by the two back-ties.

In addition to securing a less than adequate anchor this technique can be used to

counteract the effects of leverage (torque). The higher on an object the anchor is tied the

more torque is applied to the anchor point. Rescuers can use pretension back-ties to assist

with supporting the torque produced by anchoring high on anchor points. Often in

addition to counteracting torque, the force vector produced by adding the back-tie can be

transferred directly down the anchor point. For many anchor points such as trees and

metal poles this would put the object in its strongest configuration, compression.

Field Exercises

An overview and demonstration of these techniques should be done to allow the students

to see the skills and ask questions. After this demonstration multiple evolutions should be

conducted using Multiple-Point Anchor Systems and Pretension Back-ties. No other

anchor techniques should be allowed to provide the students time to use the systems in

this lesson. This is also going to be their first time to participate as edge tenders and litter

tenders.

During the evolutions students should be required to practice the skills form previous

lessons (i.e. SRT, Pt Packaging, TTPB, safety factors, etc…).

1 of 3

Transferring Loads & Releasing High Points 7/16/2007 (DJ), 6/7/09 (DJ)


(Skill Acquisition)

Class Title: Transferring Loads & Load Releasing High Points

NFPA 1006/RESET JPR’s: RESET 1.8, 1.15

Time: 4 Hours

Scheduling Suggestions: After SRT

Materials/Equipment needed: 2- XL Carabiners

4- 20’ Webbings

4- 200’ ropes

1- Jigger

1- Rack

4- Double pulleys

2- Single pulleys

10- Carabiners

1- LRH

2- Prusiks

1- Rescucender

Instructor requirements: 1:5 Instructor to Student ratio

Objectives:


! Identify the need for load transfers.

! Demonstrate transferring a load from a lower to a raise using a Two Tensioned

Rope System

! Demonstrate transferring a load from a raise to a lower using a Two Tensioned

Rope System

! Demonstrate transferring a load from a lower to a raise using a Single Tensioned

Main Un-tensioned Belay System

! Demonstrate transferring a load from a raise to a lower using a Single Tensioned

Main Un-tensioned Belay System

! Demonstrate the use of a releasing high point

2 of 3


Transferring Loads There are times during a raise or a lower that the operation needs to stop and go the other

direction, either back down or back up. This would require the rigging be set up to allow

for this transfer. Otherwise the riggers need to have the technical knowledge to

accomplish this task. The methods below are concepts for accomplishing the task.

Different rigging may necessitate different techniques to transfer loads. At a minimum

the methods below should be covered.

Two Tensioned Rope Systems (TTRS)

Lowering to a Haul

As long as the friction devices have the ability to go both directions (munter, eight plate,

etc…) all that is required is to attach a haul system to the rope and begin the haul.

Haul to a Lower

As long as the friction devices have the ability to go both directions (munter, eight plate,

etc…) all that is required is to remove the haul system and use the friction device to

lower.

Single Tensioned Main Un-tensioned Belay (STM-UTB)

Lower to a Haul (Rack to a 3:1 z-rig with internal prusik PCD)

To transfer the load to a haul, follow these steps:

1. Tie off the rack.

2. Put a pulley and prusik PCD in front of the rack. Use an LRH, or Jigger to extend

these past the rack.

3. Untie the rack and transfer the load onto the prusik and pulley.

4. Unrig the rack and build a z-rig.

Haul to a Lower (z-rig with internal prusik PCD to a rack)

To transfer from a Haul to a lower, follow these steps:

1. With the load on the PCD use an LRH or Jigger and extend another rope grab in

front of the PCD. (If there is an LRH pre-rigged behind the PCD you can skip

step 1 and 2)

2. Transfer the Load from the original PCD onto the new rope grab (this rope grab

will have a releasing ability)

3. Take off the haul cam and pulley attached to the haul cam.

4. Rig the rope into the Rack “behind” the new rope grab device.

5. Use the LRH or jigger to transfer the load onto the rack.

3 of 3


Load Releasing High Points Edge Transitions are often the crux of most raising or lowering evolutions. We can raise

someone hundreds of feet but if we can not make the edge transition, we might as well

have left the victim at the bottom of the drop. As has been discussed in much of the text

in this curriculum the use of high help, among other benefits, can greatly increase the

efficiency of edge transitions. To take efficient high help a step further we can include

some sort of load releasing mechanism with our high help. This allows us to release the

load back away from the edge and down to the ground without having to reverse haul. In

essence we create a floating focal point or moving directional that can be moved when

we need it to. There are several ways to accomplish this:

Local Release One method to release a high point can be to use a releasing device at the pulley. Some

options for releasing devices include LRH’s, Jigger, munter hitch, eight plate, etc…. All

of these devices allow us to release the high point under a load. Some down sides to this

method include:

! High help may be to high to reach device

! They lengthen the high point and reduce the amount of height gained by an

anchor

! Require rescuers to be close to the edge

Remote Release Another option is to rig the releasing mechanism away from the high help. Run a rope

through the high help and attach a pulley to one end. Tie the other end off to an anchor

point using a munter hitch to control the load. The rope supporting the load is run through

this pulley. As the load reaches the high point pulley hanging off the end of the remote

releasing rope a rescuer can release the high point pulley using the munter hitch. Some

down sides to using this method include:

! Stretch in the releasing rope can cause the high point pulley to extend too far

! Requires extra equipment

Evolutions Scenarios should be set up to allow students to practice load transfers and releasing

highpoints using the methods above. During those scenarios techniques from previous

lessons should be used: Pt packaging, SRT litter tenders, edge tenders, multi-point

anchors, TTPB, PTBT, safety factors, etc.

1 of 4

Knot Passing 10/08 (Del Castillo) 8/09(Del Castillo)


(Skill Acquisition)

Class Title: Knot Passing

NFPA 1006/RESET JPR’s: RESET 1.1

Time: 4 Hours

Scheduling Suggestions: After SRT and Transferring Loads

Materials/Equipment needed: 3 200’ Life Safety Ropes 1 Rescuescender

6 Carabiners 3 15’ Webbing

2 XL Carabiners 1 Large Rack

2 Sets Prusiks 1 Jigger

2 Double Pulleys 1 Radium Hitch

2 Single PMP

3 200’ Life Safety Ropes

Instructor Requirements: 1 instructor to 5 students

Objectives At the end of this lesson, the Rescuer should be able to:

! Identify the need for knot passing

! Demonstrate knot passing during a lower using a Two Tensioned Rope System

! Demonstrate knot passing during a raise using a Two Tensioned Rope System

! Demonstrate knot passing during a lower using a Single Tensioned Main and Un-

tensioned Belay System

! Demonstrate knot passing during a raise using a Single Tensioned Main and Un-

tensioned Belay System

! Demonstrate passing a knot through a directional pulley

2 of 4


Knot Passing There are times during operations that ropes need to be tied together. If the rope length

needed to accomplish a task is greater than the length carried by the rescue team, ropes can be

tied together to accommodate. This can cause problems for the rigging team. Now there is a knot

in the system that needs to travel through equipment that most often is not designed to handle it.

Techniques can be employed to pass a knot through rope systems.

Lowering

Two Tensioned Rope System (TTRS)

Use the following steps to maintain two ropes in the high angle environment:

Option 1

1. Transfer the load onto the rope that does not have a knot.

2. In the now un-tensioned rope, rig a new munter hitch with an additional

carabiner on the other side of the knot and disconnect the original munter

hitch after the new munter and carabiner are connected to an anchor. Ensure to

keep control of the rope in the break hand. (This will ensure this rope can act

as a redundant system throughout the knot pass)

3. Transfer a portion of the load back onto the new munter hitch and continue

operation sharing the load on both munter hitches.

Option 2

1. Transfer the load to the rope that does not have a knot.

2. In the now un-tensioned rope, feed the knot through the munter hitch,

ensuring to keep control of the rope in the break hand. (This will ensure this

rope can act as a redundant system throughout the knot pass)

3. Transfer a portion of the load back onto the new munter hitch and continue

operation sharing the load on both munter hitches.

Single Tensioned Main Un-Tensioned Belay (STM-UTB)

As the knot reaches the friction device use the following steps to pass a knot:

1. Attach a Load Releasing Hitch (LRH) or a Jigger to the anchor and to a rope

grab device (prusik, rescuescender, etc.) gripping the rope in front of the

friction device.

2. Transfer the load onto the LRH or Jigger, lower knot past friction device.

3. Re-rig the rope through the friction device with the knot just in front of it.

4. Use the LRH or Jigger to transfer the load back onto the friction device and

continue the operation.

3 of 4


Raising

Two Tension Rope System (TTRS)

Most often a piggy backed haul system is used when rigging TTRS, use the following

steps to pass a knot through a TTRS:

1. As the knot reaches the haul cam of the piggy back system the load can be

held by the progress capture device (PCD).

2. The haul cam can be removed and placed back on the rope beyond the knot.

3. As the knot reaches the PCD, the haul team can hold the load as the PCD is

repositioned onto the other side of the knot.

4. Continue with the raising operation.

STM-UTB

If a piggy back haul system is used follow the same procedure as above (TTRS). If

an inline system (3:1 Z-rig with internal PCD) is being used, use the following steps to

pass knot through the system:

Option 1:

1. As the knot reaches the haul cam, reposition the haul cam on the other side of

the knot.

2. As the knot reaches the PCD attach a Radium LRH to the anchor and extend a

new pulley and PCD beyond the knot. Haul up briefly to transfer the load onto

the new PCD and pulley attached to the LRH.

3. Remove the original pulley and PCD.

4. Continue the haul until the knot reaches the pulley at the haul cam. Remove

the pulley and place it on the other side of the knot and continue the haul.

Option 2:

1. As the knot reaches the haul cam, reposition the haul cam on the other side of

the knot.

2. As the knot reaches the PCD attach a Jigger to the anchor and extend a new

pulley and PCD beyond the knot. Haul up briefly, using the jigger, to transfer

the load onto the new PCD and pulley.

3. Remove the original pulley and PCD.

4. Continue the haul until the knot reaches the pulley at the haul cam. Remove

the pulley and place it on the other side of the knot and continue the haul.

4 of 4


Directional Pulleys The easiest way to pass a knot through a pulley is to use a knot passing pulley when rigging,

otherwise follow these steps:

Option 1

1. Pre-rig the directional with a LRH or a Jigger.

2. As the knot gets to the pulley, place another pulley on the opposite side of the knot.

3. Use the LRH or Jigger to release the load onto the new pulley.

4. Remove the original pulley and continue operation.

Option 2

1. As the knot reaches the pulley, put a new pulley attached to a Jigger, on the opposite side

of the knot.

2. Use the Jigger to haul and transfer the load onto the new pulley.

3. Remove the original pulley and continue operation.

Un-tensioned Belays (Raising or Lowering)

Tandem Triple Wrap Prusik Belay (Un-tensioned Belay)

1. As the knot approaches the tandem prussiks, stop the operation and have the mainline

hold the load static.

2. Attach a new Tandem Triple Wraped Prusik Belay to the rope on the opposite side of the

knot.

3. Remove old prusiks and resume belay operation.

Munter Hitch Belay (Un-tensioned Belay) 1. As the knot approaches the munter hitch, stop the operation and have the mainline hold

the load static.

2. Attach a new munter hitch on the opposite side of the knot.

3. Remove the old munter hitch and continue operation.

Evolutions Scenarios should be set up to allow knots to be passed through working systems. During those

scenarios basket-work, SRT litter attendants, edge attendants, and load releasing high points

should be employed.

1 of 2

Field Work 1/11/2010 (WM)


(Skill Acquisition)

Class Title: Field Work

NFPA 1006 JPR’s: 6.1.3, 6.1.5, 6.1.6, 5.3.1, 5.3.2, 5.3.3

Reset 1.7, 1.16, 1.13, 1.2, 1.3, 1.6, 1.14

Time: 8 hours

Scheduling Suggestions: After Transferring Loads and Releasing High Points

Materials/Equipment needed: Equipment necessary for students to perform all rope rescue evolutions from the week.

Instructor requirements: 1:5 Instructors to Student Ratio

Objectives: At the end of this lesson the rescuer should be able to:

! Perform rescue work while suspended from a rope rescue system

! Perform patient care and movement within a high angle rope rescue system

! Identify the Static System Safety Factor (SSSF) of a rope rescue system

2 of 2


Field Work Goals: The Focus of this field work is to give the students more hands on time with advanced rescue systems. A

site should be selected to provide several different types of vertical problems. Scenarios should be

provided, building on the concepts and skills taught during the week. Scenarios should be instructor driven

moving toward student run scenarios. The instructors and students will still be responsible for system

safety.

On Rope Work: Opportunity should be provided for the student to perform task while suspended from a rope. There are

multiple ways to accomplish this and the student needs to perform one of them:

• SRT

• Edge Tending

Patient Care and Movement: During field evolutions the students are expected to perform complete/ongoing patient assessments. The

student should take into consideration the patient’s comfort and safety while being transported. A cache of

medical equipment should be provided. The equipment should be reusable during the class. Instructors will

need to have a list of injuries and vital signs ready prior to the scenarios.

Static System Safety Factor (SSSF) Students should identify the “weakest” component within the system and determine the SSSF. A SSSF of

7:1 or greater will be the goal for all systems. If this SSSF is not reached the reason why should be

identified and either changed to obtain a 7:1 SSSF or a decision (with instructors approval) to use the

system below a 7:1 SSSF must be made.

1 of 3

SRT- Knot Passing (03/09/2009) C. Jenkins

Revised (07/16/2009) C. Jenkins

Revised (Mc) 1/1/11

Level 2 Rope Rescue Course

(Rope Technician)

Class Title: SRT (Single Rope Techniques “Knot Pass”)

NFPA 1006/RESET JPR’s: NFPA- 6.2.1

RESET- 2.1

Time: 4 hours

Scheduling Suggestions: SRT skills will take place the first day of Level 2. The four hour block will take place in

a controlled environment on pre-rigged ropes that allow the student to be lowered if

necessary. For example, rope run through a high point down to a munter hitch.


8 ropes at least 100ft , 8 20ft webbings, 8 XL carabineers, and 8 large carabineers

Instructor requirements: 4 instructors

Objectives: At the end of the training the rescuer should be able to:

! Perform a SRT Knot Pass

! Discuss different types of QAS (Quick Attachment Safeties)

! Pass a non-looped knot while climbing and rappelling

! Demonstrate effective down climb techniques

! Change over from climbing to rappelling

! Change over from rappelling to climbing

! Understand the dangers of Harness Hang Syndrome

2 of 3



Revised (Mc) 1/1/11

SRT (Single Rope Techniques) Single Rope Techniques (SRT) are fairly new to the Fire Service side of rescue. SRT

however is not new to the rescue world. Cave and Cliff teams all over the United States

have been using SRT for 30 plus years. SRT means a single person can move up and

down a fixed rope with nothing but the gear attached to their harness. This rescuer has

the ability to rappel down to whatever area they are trying to access, and then climb out

under their own power. These techniques also give us many more options when tending

litters and providing help on the edge.

Chapter 18 of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard 1006 identifies Job

Performance Requirements (JPRs) for Cave Rescuers. JPR 18.2.6 states:

18.2.6 Use single rope techniques to ascend a minimum of 30.5 m (100 ft) in free space,

given an anchored fixed rope system, so that the rescuer is secured to the rope with an

ascending system that utilizes at least two gripping points of attachment at or above the

waist and a quick attachment safety device, the person ascending can stop at any point

on the fixed rope and rest suspended by his or her harness, the rescuer can convert the

ascending system to a descent system at any time, and a rescuer demonstrates a level of

proficiency and fitness that allows the rescuer to continue assigned operations

immediately following the ascent.

(A) Requisite Knowledge. Equipment and methodology for fixed rope ascension, rigging

principles, down climbing, weight transfer, knot passing, changeovers, passing re-belays,

ascent-to-descent system conversion, and alternative techniques designed to cope with

adverse environmental conditions and limited light sources.

(B) Requisite Skills. The ability to select equipment appropriate to length of the ascent,

secure harness to ascending system and fixed line, self start, ascend line, maneuver

around environmental and system-specific obstacles, rest while suspended, convert the

ascending system to a descending system while suspended, and complete an edge

transition.

It is the intent of this lesson to prepare students for this NFPA JPR. There are thousands

of caves in the Central Texas area. In an attempt to prepare rescuers for all types of

rescues that would use ropes, we will teach a rappelling and ascending technique that will

work well for various aspect of rope rescue including cave rescue. The specific technique

taught will give the rescuer great flexibility regardless of environment. These

environments including: buildings, industrial plants, cliff sites, caves, drainage ditches,

etc.

IMPORTANT: Due to the nature of SRT it is important that we utilize the ON ROPE

and OFF ROPE commands to ensure everyone around the rope in use, understands your

rope is in use. These commands coupled with our standard operating procedure, which

says no rope will be untied from its anchor until pulled up and over the edge, will assist

in keeping our work areas safe. Also, when performing SRT skills, a bottom belay will

be used. If conditions do not allow a bottom belay individuals performing SRT skills will

be tied in short. Any exceptions must be approved by the lead instructor.

3 of 3



Revised (Mc) 1/1/11

For summaries on the following: descending/rappelling, changing over

from rappel to climb, changing over from climbing to rappel, down

climbing, and self rescue please refer to the Level 1 SRT portion of the

curriculum manual.

SRT Knot Passing Why would there be a knot in the rope you are on? Knots may be tied in the rope you are

on for the following reasons: accidentally placed there or left there due to forgetting to

untie all knots in the rope after use, incorrectly storing the rope after use, deliberately tied

knots to isolate bad spots in the rope or while encountering the connection point between

two separate ropes.

Summary on passing a non-loop knot while climbing ! Climb until the top of your ascender hits the bottom of the knot

! Attach a rope grab device above the knot (e.g. a prussic or basic) and attach a

cows tail to it (you will now have three points of attachment)

! Next, move your handle ascender up above the knot (when the handle ascender is

removed you are still attached by two attachment points)

! You will then step up in your foot loop and move your chest croll up past the knot

! You will then remove your cows tail and rope grab and continue to climb

If the knot is a looped knot (butterfly, bowline, or inline eight) you will not need to use a

rope grab device. Just simply clip a cows tail into the looped knot. Be sure to inspect the

loop and ensure it is life safety. Often people will tie an in line, looped knot to isolate a

“bad” spot in the rope. Then follow the steps listed above, this will allow you to maintain

2 points of attachment at all times.

Summary on passing a non-loop knot while on rappel ! Rappel down until your descender jams into the knot

! Then place your handle ascender above the rack more than 12 inches above the

knot.

! Then step up into your foot loop and attach your chest croll just above your rack

(approximately 6 inches)

! Next you will remove the mini-rack from the rack and re-attach it below the knot,

you will lock it off

! You will then bump your handle ascender down, you may need to down climb

and move the croll closer to the knot

! Next you will step up into the foot loop and remove the chest croll, weighting the

rack

! You will then bump your handle ascender down again just above the knot

! Next you will test your rack, if the rack is rigged correctly, you may remove your

handle ascender and continue your decent.

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Team Based Pick-off 4/09 (Lear) 1/11 (DJ)


(Rope Technician)

Class Title: Team Based Pick-off

NFPA 1006/RESET JPR’s: NFPA- 6.2.2, 6.2.3, 6.2.4

Time:

4 hours

Scheduling Suggestions: Afternoon Day 1

Materials/Equipment needed: Rescue equipment to build required systems:

2 Full SRT harnesses

2 prusik sets

3 XL carabineers

7 L carabineers

4 200’ Ropes

Pickoff Strap or a doubled over prusik loop

2 double pulley’s

4 20’ webbing (or additional prusiks, to be used as anchors)

Jigger

Radium release

Instructor requirements: 4 instructors


! Identify potential pick-off scenarios

! Ability to operate as part of a team to remove a conscious victim suspended in a

high angle environment using a team based pick-off technique

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Potential pickoff scenarios ! Window washers

! Workers on towers or scaffolding

! Recreational climbers

! Any situation where a victim could be found mid-face in a high angle

environment

Two Methods to Accomplishing a Team Based Pick-off For the purpose of this class we are teaching this skill to be performed on a patient

already wearing a suitable harness (window washer, etc).

System 1

1. Rig a Two Tension lowering system above (as in-line as possible) the victim

2. On one of the tensioned ropes tie a figure eight on a bight and connect it to the

rescuers harness.

3. On the second tensioned rope tie a figure eight on a bight and then a butterfly knot

about 3-5 feet above the figure eight on a bight. The butterfly knot is attached to

the rescuers harness and the figure eight on a bight is attached to the victim as a

second point of attachment.

4. Use a tether (doubled over prusik loop, pickoff strap, etc) and connect it to both of

the knots attached to the rescuer (NOT to the rescuers harness). This tether will be

the primary attachment point to the victim.

5. Lower the rescuer down to the victim using the Two Tensioned Rope System

6. Have the rescuer first clip the second point of attachment to the victim’s harness.

7. Then have the rescuer attach the tether to victims harness (this is the primary

attachment to the victim).

8. Do a Load Transfer and haul the rescuer and victim up until the victims original

system is slacked.

9. Ensure that victim’s load is on the rescue teams system and then disconnect the

victim from whatever rigging he or she was originally attached.

10. Either haul them to the top or lower them to the ground.

System 2

1. Rig a Single Tensioned Main - Un-tensioned Belay (STM-UTB) using a rack for

the main line and Tandem Triple Wrapped Prusik Belay (TTPB) with a radium

release for the belay

2. On the belay tie a figure eight on a bight and connect it to the rescuers harness.

3. On the mainline tie a figure eight on a bight and then a butterfly knot about 3-5

feet above the figure eight on a bight. The butterfly knot is attached to the

rescuers harness and the figure eight on a bight is attached to the victim as a

second point of attachment.

4. Lower your rescuer down to the victim using the STM-UTB system

5. Have the rescuer first clip the second point of attachment to the victim’s harness.

6. Then have the rescuer attach the tether to victims harness (this is the primary

attachment to the victim).

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7. Attach a Jigger to the Mainline. Use the Jigger (extended all the way out) to haul

the Pt up and transfer their weight onto the mainline. The rescuer will also be on

the mainline. If hauling on the Jigger does not allow for a transfer of the Pt’s

weight onto the mainline, the system should be converted to a z-rig to complete

the transfer.

8. Ensure that victim’s load is on the rescue teams system and then disconnect the

victim from whatever rigging he or she was originally attached.

9. Either haul them to the top or lower them to the ground.

Evolutions

Several evolutions should be conducted allowing the students to practice these

techniques. A simulated Victim should be lowered or rappel down and become “stuck”.

Some considerations should be given to having one of the evolutions with a victim

attached at the dorsal (as would be the case in an industrial fall arrest system).

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Litter Tending TG & Mc 5/15/09


(Rope Technician)

Class Title:

Litter Tending

NFPA 1006/RESET JPR’s: NFPA- 6.2.1, 6.2.2, 6.2.3

Time: 4 Hours

Materials/Equipment needed: Classroom:

Audio/Visual equipment for PowerPoint

Dry Erase/markers

Instructor requirements: 4 instructors for 12-15 students

Objectives: At the end of the training the rescuer should be able to:

! Define what an attendant is

! Know the benefits and limitations of litter attending

! Be a litter attendant for a vertical or horizontal configured stokes/ferno/sked

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Litter Attendant (definition)

-A person who rides up with (or down with), climbs up with, or rappels with a

litter. When the litter includes a patient this is often a medically-trained person.

(On Rope. 1996)

Pros & Cons of Litter Attending

Pros:

1. Medical Considerations, specifically managing the patient’s airway and

controlling major bleeding

2. To attend to apprehensive or anxious patients

3. Tag lines are not practical due to environmental or industrial constraints

Cons:

1. Manpower restraints

2. Two person load on system (ensure you meet 7:1 SSSF)

3. May require specialized equipment and training

4. May complicate edge problem

Medical Considerations:

As a litter attendant there may be minimal medical intervention while on rope and

tending the litter. For example: controlling major bleeding and/or opening an airway may

be all a litter attendant is able to do while on rope an attending to the litter.

Technique #1 Horizontal litter configuration/Single Rope

Techniques and tying in short

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Technique #1 Vertical litter configuration/Single Rope Techniques and

tying in short

With the litter in a vertical configuration, have a tail coming off the main line at the litter

bridle focal (long tail bowline and butterfly knot are still appropriate knots to use here). It

should be approximately 8 to10 feet, long enough to allow the attendant to maneuver

above, below and around the litter. Tie a figure 8 on a bight at the end of the main line tail

and tie-n-short to the attendant at their waist frontal attachment point. When the litter is in

a vertical presentation the attendant should initially position themselves to where their feet

are just below the litter. Also, deviating part of the mainline away from the patients face is

a good technique. A carabineer clipped in a top handle with the rope running through it

can accomplish this. Remember the attendant has two options when tending the patient in

Technique #1 Horizontal litter configuration/Single

Rope Techniques and tying in short For technique one, the attendant will use their personal rope

ascending system (e.g. frog) and attach to tail coming off main

line located at litter bridle focal. The tail coming off main line

can either be a tail from a long tail bowline or butterfly knot.

Allow 8 to 10 feet of tail off of main line. Furthermore the

rescuer should tie a figure on a bight at the end of the tail of the

main line and tie-n-short to the attendant at their waist frontal

attachment point. When the attendant is positioning himself

initially, he should try to align the top of the croll on the

attendant’s harness with the top rail or top edge of the litter.

Adjustment can be made as litter attendant is managing the litter

to its destination. The attendant should initially try to position

themselves to where they can establish a good rappel position,

with their legs, under the litter while also providing protection for

the patient [Note a tri-link at the bridle focal may be an optimal

attachment point for this configuration].

One option for the litter attendant is bring their legs up through

the bridles above the patient . In this instance, the rescuer can

push away from obstacle while still comforting the patient.

Furthermore, a nice technique is to load the system first with the

litter over the edge. Then ease the attendant into position, if the

conditions allow, using a 30’ piece of webbing looped around

attendant’s front attachment point with ends wrapped around a

friction point. The webbing will assist in lowering him into

position. Once in position remove webbing from the attendant.

Remember to adjust the litter bridles for a head-up orientation is

unless patient medical dictate otherwise.

Note: Tying in short will create a loop below the rescuer, monitor

loop to ensure it does not create a hindrance.

Bridle Tail end of

main

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a vertical system. Option one he can remain next to the patient possibly assisting in

negotiating obstacles. Option two, he could straddle the patient, keeping the patient at least

arms length away, and maintaining a good rappel position, to facilitate good safety and

control. Finally a good technique if possible is to load the system with the litter first and

then the attendant should position themselves.

Technique #2 Horizontal litter configuration/Attendant using a jigger

system

The second technique requires attaching a jigger system to the focal point of the bridle with

the progress capture, on the jigger, near the attendant. There may be other options which

will be covered more in depth below. Furthermore, you should create a tail coming off

main line (tying either a long tail bowline or butterfly knot). At the end of the tail of the

main line, tie a figure 8 on a bight and attach it to the frontal attachment point of the

attendant. The attendant should be diligent in keeping the jigger away from the patient’s

body. Also, the attendant should be mindful, that the tails from the main line and from the

jigger will not get hung up in the surrounding environment. The attendant should initially

position their legs into a good rappel position under the litter (possibly placing the top of

the croll of the attendant’s harness at the rail of the litter). For loading the system see above

for suggested sequence.

PCD

Orientation of Jigger

Jigger orientation options (continued

from above):

1. Move the PCD (progress capture

device) and position it closest to the

attendant’s harness attachment point.

2. Leave the PCD in place (attached

at the tender) and run the haul end of

the rope trough the carabineer

attached to the focal point. This is

essentially a redirect through a

carabineer allowing for the tender to

pull down instead of up.

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Technique #2 Vertical litter configuration/Attendant using a jigger

system

Same considerations as listed above should be given. Only difference is the patient is in a

vertical orientation. When the attendant is initially positioning himself. Try to have their

feet fall just below the litter.

1 of 3

Artificial Anchors (07/01/2008) C. Jenkins



(Rope Technician)

Class Title: Artificial Anchors

NFPA 1006/RESET JPR’s: RESET- 2.8

Time: 4 hours

Scheduling Suggestions: Afternoon day two


Equipment to build mono-,bi-, & tri- pod. Equipment to do haul and lower evolutions

Instructor requirements: 4 instructors for 12-15 students

Objectives: At the end of the lesson the rescuer should be able to:

! Define artificial anchor

! Build a picket anchor

! Understand the difference between a mon-pod, bi-pod, and tri-pod

! Use wrap and frap lashing

! Understand and explain resultant forces vectors

! Safely rig and use a Bi-pod in a high angle environment

! Demonstrate use of a picket system

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Artificial Anchor An artificial anchor point is constructed by us the rescuers. We may need to apply this

technique in situations were no other high help is available or the existing high point is not

sufficient for the load being applied to the system. Most of the time it is beneficial to the rescue

if a high point is used. Essentially the rescuer will select a point in mid air and construct an

artificial anchor at the point he or she selected. When building these artificial anchors we must

be very careful in our rigging to ensure a safe system. Resultant force vectors will play a major

role in how we rig.

Picket Anchor A picket system is a type of portable anchor that can be assemble by rescuers when no other

anchors are available. These anchors can be bombproof if rigged correctly. The key is

placement. This anchor should be built so that the force applied is directly inline with the picket

anchor. Construction is as follows:

! The pickets should be at minimum 4-5ft long, so that 3ft may be driven into the ground

leaving 1-2ft above ground

! Drive the pickets into the ground at a 15 degree angle in the opposite direction or the

force being applied

! Space the pickets 3ft apart

! Use webbing to lash the pickets together.

! Tie a loop of webbing, place the loop over the first two pickets. The webbing should be

at the top of the first picket and the bottom of the second picket.

! You will then use a windlass to twist the webbing in the center of the two pickets. Twist

until tight. Drive the windlass into the ground or tie it to a picket to secure it

! Repeat for the next pickets

! Secure the rope being anchored to the bottom of the first picket.

Caution: Pickets are not suitable for all soil types, and more than 3 pickets

may be necessary to build an efficient anchor. Remember the way you rig

will dictate the success of the system

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Mono-pod (Gin Pole) A gin pole or monopod should have a minimum of 3 guy lines, but 4 is preferred, spaced at 120

degree angles. If anchor availability permits. The ground end of the pole should be secured,

either anchored to the surface with a picket or placed in some type of natural opening or hole.

The gin pole should be tilted so that the resultant force vector will travel directly down the pole.

This causes the forces on the pole to be in compression rather than shear. The forces being in

compression is the key to creating an efficient monopod.

A 14ft roof ladder found on many fire trucks makes a very efficient Mono-pod. When tying the

guy lines and other attachments they should be rigged and tied to the beams of the ladder and

not the rungs. This will be demonstrated in the field.

Bi-pod (A-Frame) A bi-pod or A-frame is made up of two support legs. The top of the 4x4’s need to be lashed

using the wrap and frap method. This allows the support members to be attached to each other

and provides an attachment point for the rigging. The rescuer will then proceed as follows:

! Spread the legs apart to create the a-frame

! Attach 2 ropes to the top of the a-frame so we do not drop the a-frame off the edge

! Position the a-frame at the ledge

! Stand the a-frame up using the 2 attached ropes for control

! The two ropes will now become your guy lines or back ties

! Secure the guy lines with some type of friction devices at chosen anchors

! A front guy line is recommended but not always applicable

You will maximize the strength of the a-frame by tilting it to the edge. Tilt until the axel of the

pulley supporting the working line bisects the angle between the legs of the a-frame. This will

position the resultant force vector in the optimal place. Which will evenly disperse the load

onto the a-frame. Once the a-frame is placed the feet of the a-frame must be secured either by

lashing them together or securing them to the ground with pickets, which is preferred.

Tri-pod A tri-pod is made up of 3 support legs. The top of the 4x4’s need to be lashed using the wrap

and frap method. This allows the support members to be attached to each other and provides an

attachment point for the rigging. The rescuer will then stand the tri-pod up. Once positioned

over the hole or at the edge. The feet of the tripod need to be secured together. When the tri-

pod is loaded the resultant force vector must stay inside the 3 support legs as close to center as

possible. If the resultant force vector is outside the legs of the tri-pod, it will fall over unless

additional rigging is used. Back ties will need to be used to counter act the resultant force

vector.

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Wrap and Frap Wrap and Frap, is the method in which the top of the 4x4’s are lashed together when building

bi-pods, tri-pods, etc. You will start by lining the up the 4x4’s side by side and several inches

apart. Next you will use a 30 ft piece of webbing to tie a clove hitch around the top of one 4x4.

Then you will wrap the webbing around the other 4x4(s). You should wrap a minimum of 5

times. Next the rescuer will begin to Frap between the 4x4s, around the webbing wraps you just

created. Fraps are created by wrapping parallel to the 4x4’s around the wraps. You should frap

a minimum of 3 times. When frapping, fraps should be snug but not tight. When the anchor is

stood up the webbing will be under tremendous stress if frapped to tight.

Resultant Force Vector The resultant force vector is an unseen but very real force we create when rigging. When we

pull a rope inline end to end all the force applied travels inline with the rope. When the rope is

deviated resultant forces are created. The resultant force will bisect the angle created by the

deviation in the rope. This is important when building artificial high points, because a resultant

force outside of the support legs will cause instability in the a-frame or tri-pod.

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Highlines and Guidinglines 4/9/09 (DJ) 1/10/11 (DJ)


(Rope Technician)

Class Title: Highlines and Guidinglines

NFPA 1006/RESET JPR’s: NFPA- 6.2.5, 6.2.6

RESET- 2.6, 2.7

Time: 8 Hours

Scheduling Suggestions:



Objectives:


! Describe why Highlines are relevant to technical rescue training

! Define Highline

! Define Guiding line

! Identify the type of highline taught to RESET Rope Level Two students

! Describe and use the term Mainline and Control line as it pertains to a Drooping

Highline

! Identify the field application of angles and their resultant forces

! Describe the purpose of a Guidingline

! Describe 6 considerations for Highlines and Guidinglines

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Introduction

Highline and Guidinglines are often viewed as a culmination of rope rescue skills. These

systems use all of the skills and techniques taught in the RESET curriculum and give

another application for their use. The rigging practice and opportunity to examine the

physics involved in these systems is one of the more beneficial aspects of building

Highlines and Guidinglines. This gives rescuers the chance to fine tune their

understanding of these concepts and help drive them home. Many times the validity of

their teaching is debated. Questions like: “Are we really ever going to use one of these

for real?” and “Why should I learn these skills if we will probably never use them?” The

answer is muli-layered. “Are we ever going to use one of these for real?” Maybe;

possibly; it is another technique for a rescue technician to be able to pull out of their hat

when faced with complex rescues. “Why should I learn these skills if we will probably

never use them?” For one it is a Job Performance Requirement in NFPA 1006. In

addition to that, as it is stated before the rigging practice and deeper understanding of

physics are probably the real value in these techniques. Once a rescuer has the ability to

orchestrate and truly understand what is going on with a highline he or she will be able to

more clearly and efficiently build all systems and execute their use.

Many people make unfounded comments about Highlines and Guidinglines. Many of

these comments claim they are “unsafe” or “dangerous”. People whom have a narrow or

limited understanding of these systems generally make these statements. In contrast there

can be extreme exposure with these systems. Exposure as defined in climbing and rescue

alludes to being exposed to a lofty or seemingly long fall, or the consequences of failure

are more pronounced than normal. This is not to be confused with more dangerous. When

working at height, we are always “exposed” to falls. But when we are working next to a

cliff or building the “exposure” is not as great as when someone is suspended midway on

a highline several hundred feet up. Both are vulnerable to the same hazard but the

“exposure” is greater with one than the other. Simply put if these systems are built

correctly they are no more dangerous that the other systems we stake our lives on.

Highlines

Highline is defined as a horizontal rescue system used to transport equipment or people

across a span. These systems are often called Tyrolean’s. A Carriage made up of pulleys

is placed on a horizontally tensioned Mainline (Trackline) and is operated horizontally by

Control Lines (Taglines). Generally, with a Highline the majority of the weight is

supported by the Mainline. The Control Lines just allow us to ferry the load back and

forth on the Mainline.

This technique can be used to cross rivers and gorges. It can be used to span between two

buildings. These systems may also be used over confined spaces, caves, trenches, etc to

allow the load to be raised up vertically with high help and then transported horizontally

to a landing area. In Swiftwater rescue they are used to operate boats and pick people off

of objects in a flow of water.

Highlines may be purely horizontal or at a sloped angle. With few exceptions the rigging

for sloped and horizontal Highlines are the same.

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Guidinglines

Guidingline are similar to extremely sloped Highlines in that they have a carriage that is

placed on a tensioned rope (the Guidingline). Except with a Guidingline the weight is

supported primarily by a two-rope system (either a TTRS or STM-UTB). Essentially

Guidinglines are just a supplement to a normal vertical two-rope system. The Guidingline

allows us to pull the load away from obstacles. Examples of this would be:

• Talus pile below a cliff

• Tower with a waist

• Obstacles below the vertical plain (cars, construction equipment, etc)

• Tiered building

The general principle is the two-roped system would be doing the lowering and/or raising

and the Guidingline would just be deviating the load away from obstacles.

Highlines

There are as many variations of Highlines as there are Haul Systems (endless). In the

RESET Rope Rescue Level II course we will only be teaching the Drooping Highline

(sometimes referred to as a Kootenay Highline). The principles of Drooping Highlines

can be applied to multiple variations of Highlines.

There are two ends or sides to a Highline. In an effort to stick to NIMS terminology we

will use the designation Division to separate the different ends. The end, which is

normally characterized by having the majority of activities and resources including:

equipment staging, additional personnel, command components, and various other

items/functions will be called Division A. Some schools and agencies call this the “near

side” or “working end”. Division A often appears to have the majority of the “work”

occurring. In reality there is a lot of activity on the other side as well. The other end will

be called Division B. Some schools and agencies call this the “Dumb-end” or “Far-side”

because it is on the far side away from the bulk of activities. These terms will aid us in

clearly communicating between the two sides when coordinating a highline operation.

The first major complication will come when trying to get the ropes, rigging gear, and

rescuers across the span. There are various solutions to this problem, including:

! Line gun

! Big Shot

! Rock and string

! Bow and arrow

! Rescuers crossing the span to the other side

! Boat

! Helo

When sending the first rope(s) across try and send two. This will aid in facilitating the

rigging much better.

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The Mainline

The terminal end of the Mainline rope should be anchored to a suitable anchor on the

Division B side. This can be any anchor we use in our other technical systems. Though

the most common anchoring method used is the tensionless hitch. This is common for

two reasons:

1. After a prolonged period of time a knot under constant tension from the Mainline

system will be extremely difficult to untie.

2. This method will allow us to retain the majority of the ropes strength. It should be

noted that the Division A would normally incorporate a method of attachment that

will be below the ropes MBS (Tied off Munter, Tandem Prusiks, Knot, etc). So,

efforts to maintain 100% of the ropes strength are negated if the same is not true

on the other end.

On the Division A, one of the Mainline systems used in General Rescuer or Rope Level I

should be used:

! Munter Progress Capture Device (PCD) with a piggybacked Block and Tackle

haul system

! Inline Z-Rig with TANDEM Prusik PCD, with a rack and conversion equipment

to transition to a lower.

o Note: Tandem Prusiks are required for capturing progress in a Highline

Mainline because of its dynamic characteristics. The Mainline will see

dynamic loading from the load “bouncing”.

The way the load is adjusted in elevation is by tensioning (by a raising system) or un-

tensioning (by a lowering system) of the Mainline. Generally the load should only be

raised enough to clear whatever obstacle we are trying to work over.

The pre-tensioning of the Mainline should only done by one person. Once the load is on

the Mainline the Rule of 18 (for !”, 12.5mm rope) or the Rule of 12 (for 7/16”, 11mm

rope) may be applied. Remember, as stated above only raise the load enough to clear the

obstacle. If the tensioning rules will not allow you to clear the obstacle, a Highline is

probably not your solution to the problem.

Rule of 12 and Rule of 18

The Rule of 12/18 is calculated by taking the number of haul team members and

multiplying that by the mechanical advantage of the haul system. (Ex. 4:1 with 3 people

= 12 or 5:1 with 2 people = 10 or 3:1 with 6 people = 18)

The principle behind the Rule of 12/18 is to ensure we do not overstress the components

of our systems. This is based on each person being able to input 50 pounds of force (lbf)

into a system (this is based on a study of hand strength). It is also based on an attempt to

stay within the confines of a 10:1 static system safety factor/ratio (SSSF) (remember in

RESET the minimum SSSF is 7:1). If we retain 100% of a 7/16” (11mm) rope the MBS

should be around 6000lbf (27kN). With 7/16” rope we use the Rule of 12. So if the factor

is multiplied by 50lbf, this gives us 600lbf (12X50=600). 600 lbf of input compared to

the 6000lbf MBS gives us a 10:1 SSSF. This is the same with the Rule of 18 for !”

(12.5mm) rope with a 9000 lbf (40kN) MBS (18X50=900). 900lbf compared to the

9000lbf MBS gives us the same 10:1 SSSF. These numbers and explanation provides the

history of where the Rule of 12/18 comes from and the conditions in which it was

intended.

5 of 8


Our defined conditions and style of rigging is different from the description above. For

RESET we attempt to maintain a 7:1 SSSF and we commonly use knots or other strength

reducing methods that will not allow us to maintain 100% rope strength. So if we look at

the numbers from our perspective; !” (12.5mm) rope with a knot tied in it gives us

roughly a 6000 lbf breaking strength. If we applied the rule of 18 exerting 900 lbf onto

the system this gives us a 6.6:1 SSSF. A 7/16” (11mm) rope with a knot tied in it gives us

a 4200 lbf breaking strength. If we applied the rule of 12 exerting 600 lbf onto the

system this gives us a 7:1 SSSF. Both ideologies provide us with the same outcome,

which is an attempt to control the forces exerted within a system while staying within our

targeted SSSF.

It should be understood that there are many of these highline tensioning “rules” in the

rope rescue world. Most give methods to prevent “over-tensioning”. So when applying

the Rule of 12/18 or other methods be sure and identify them as defining the upper limits

of tension and not the desired tension.

Angles and Forces

The Rule of 12 and 18 are a good rule of thumb. But as you can imagine, not everyone

inputs only 50lbf into a system. Another tool, sometimes preferred, that can be used to

determine the loading of a Highline is identifying the “interior” angle of the Highline at

the Carriage. With practice this can be estimated extremely accurately. Once the interior

angle is determined we can determine the approximate resultant force being exerted on

each leg of the Mainline. These angles were discussed in Rope Level I. Some examples

of angles and their resultant forces are:

120°- 100% or 1T*

150°- 200% or 2T*

160°- 300% or 3T*

165°- 400% or 4T*

170°- 600% or 6T*

*These numbers are approximations. Actual values are different but these

numbers are provided for ease of field use.

With these factors and the estimated weight of the load the rescuer can estimate the

resultant force on the Mainline “legs”. These numbers are proven through mathematics

(Trigonometry) and are calculated with the load at mid-span and the system in

equilibrium. When the load is pulled to one side or the other, by the Control lines, these

numbers are no longer accurate. But the forces are close enough for fieldwork that

further. Furthermore, the forces exerted on both sides of the carriage are not equal. Once

the system is out of equilibrium the longer leg will see less force and the shorter leg will

see more force. This is why the load tries to move back to center, because the forces are

unequal and it is trying to put it back into equilibrium. Additionally the Control line is

supporting a portion of the vertical force. The amount of force supported by the control

line will be dependant on the angle of the “slope” between the load and the side the load

is being raised/ferried to. Again the force differences between the actual force values and

the estimated values are close enough for fieldwork.

6 of 8


Control Lines

With the Mainline rigged and the carriage in place we need Control Lines to move the

load from one side to the other. Many people rig these Control Lines to act as “Belays”

in addition to traversing the load. Their belief is that if the Mainline were to experience a

failure the Control Lines would be able to catch the load before it hit the surface below.

RESET does NOT consider them to be Belays. In order for the Control Lines to

accomplish this task it requires a considerable distance below the load for them to arrest

the load. As stated above our goal is to only raise the load enough to clear the obstacles.

Additionally the terrain in the central Texas area does not usually offer us the distance

required to allow the load to travel before the Control Lines would arrest the load. In the

RESET program we rig all systems for success. If there is any concern the Mainline will

fail or not operate correctly it should not be used in the first place.

On both sides, Division A and Division B, systems are rigged to traverse the load back

and forth. Any system taught in General Rescuer or Rope Level I can be used for the

Control Lines:

! Munter Progress Capture Device (PCD) with a piggybacked Block and Tackle

haul system

! Inline Z-Rig with single prusik PCD, with a rack and conversion equipment to

transition to a lower.

o Note: Tandem prusiks are not required. They are not expected to be

dynamically loaded.

The ends of these ropes should be attached directly to the carriage with a knot and a

carabiner. If a litter tender is going to be attached to the system, on one control line, a

butterfly knot should be used to attach the end of the rope to the carriage allowing a tail

to be attached to the tender as a second point of attachment.

Litter Tender Attachment

If a litter tender is going to be attached to the system he/she should use the Jigger method

of attachment to the system. This will allow him/her to move up and down and position

themselves in the most advantageous position. Additionally as described above a tail

should come from one of the control lines providing a second point of attachment.

A second method for producing the second point of attachment, should using the end of

the rope not be practical, uses a loop of webbing or cordage. Simply tie the webbing or

cordage into a tether from the carriage to the tender. Just ensure it is used in such a way

that maintains appropriate Static System Safety Factors.

With a litter and litter tender attached to the carriage there may be a need for the

combination to spin or twist. This spin or twist may be difficult or impractical due to the

direct attachment to the carriage limiting the ability for this to occur. A solution to this

could be to use a swivel between the litter and the carriage. This will allow it to spin and

“swivel” as needed to negotiate obstacles. Care should be taken to minimize the twisting

of ropes that are connected both above and below the swivel.

7 of 8


Operation

The intent of the Drooping Highline is to be simple. It is rigged with systems that have

been used over and over again in previous courses and evolutions. We are now just

applying them horizontally instead of vertically.

To move the load vertically (up and down), use the system on the Division A side to

tension and un-tension the Mainline. To traverse the load horizontally use the systems

rigged on both Control Lines. One system will need to be in the “Lowering” mode and

one in the “Raising” mode. Coordination should be used to try and minimize the amount

of “fighting” between these two systems.

Festoons

When rigging horizontal rope systems over a long distances the droop created in the

control lines can be considerable. The droop can be so large that it actually impedes on

efficiency. One method to assist with managing this droop is using festoons. By taking

accessory cord of any size (does not need to be life safety) and girth hitching it to the

control line and using a carabineer to connect it to the Mainline. This should be done

about every 20 feet or so depending on the amount of sag created. The downside to

festoons is they can get in the way when reversing the direction of travel. Now each one

must be removed as it comes back to the side in which they were originally attached.

Guidinglines

As stated above Guidinglines are just a supplement to a normal two-rope vertical system.

A TTRS or STM-UTB should be constructed to do the raising and lowering as with any

other operation. The carabiners connecting to the load should be connected directly to the

load. A pulley should connect the load to the Guidingline. Several variations of attaching

the load to the guiding line are possible. Most often rigging it as a single focal point

horizontal litter works well.

The first step with a Guidingline is identifying where it needs to be rigged. Then as with a

Highline the rope must be taken on the other side of the obstacle. One end should be

anchored to a life safety anchor and the other end will go to the same type of systems

used in the General Rescuer and Rope Level I (Munter /Block and Tackle or z-rig with

single prusik PCD/Rack). The decision as to which side the tensioning system will be is

on will be dependant on site needs.

Operation

The two-rope system should be operated as usual. The difference will be that when the

load is suspended by the two-rope system the Guidingline can be tensioned or un-

tensioned to deviate the load away from the obstacle.

8 of 8


Considerations for Highlines and Guidinglines ! When rigging on the edge of a span get as much height as possible. When you

think you are high enough go higher.

o Natural high help

o Possibly rig on the floor above

o Use bi-pods or tri-pods

! Be sure and have a good clear and sizable “Landing Zone” (LZ) for the basket on

the side the load is being traversed to.

! Be prepared to pass knots including: through the Mainline and Control Line

systems, deviations/redirects, and for the Carriage on the Mainline.

o Think about the use of knot passing pulleys

! If time is available “test” the system prior to its use to ensure it will work as

planned.

! Keep angles at a minimum.

! If the Mainline cannot be tensioned enough to clear obstacles, Highlines are

probably not your solution. Consider alternative rescue plans.

Evolutions Time should be offered to allow students to see these systems demonstrated by building

“Mini-Highlines” between trees. Discussions about all the characteristics of these

systems should be undertaken prior to moving past the Mini-Highline session. Full-scale

versions of both a drooping Highline and a Guidingline should be built and operated.

1 of 2



(Rope Technician)

Class Title: Field Work

NFPA 1006 JPR’s: 6.2.1, 6.2.2, 6.2.4, RESET 2.8

Time: 8 hours

Scheduling Suggestions: After High Lines

Materials/Equipment needed: Equipment necessary for students to perform all rope rescue evolutions from the week.

Instructor requirements: 1:5 Instructors to Student Ratio


! Perform rescue work while suspended from a rope rescue system

! Perform patient care and movement within a high angle rope rescue system

! Demonstrate the operation of a team based pickoff

! Identify the Static System Safety Factor (SSSF) of a rope rescue system

2 of 2


Field Work Goals: The Focus of this field work is to give the students more hands on time with advanced rescue systems. A

site should be selected to provide several different types of vertical problems. The morning scenarios

should be more instructor driven with the students being allowed more control as the day progresses.

A full day of field work should be provided, building on the concepts and skills taught during the week.

Scenarios should be instructor driven in the morning and then, depending on the class, student driven in the

afternoon. The instructors and students will still be responsible for system safety.

Artificial anchors: There are times that suitable anchors are not available or are not in the most advantageous location. When

this occurs the ability to build your own anchors may be the solution. Building anchors takes time however

and this should be considered before using artificial anchors.

On Rope Work: Opportunity should be provided for the student to perform task while suspended from a rope. There are

multiple ways to accomplish this and the student needs to perform one of them:

• SRT

• Litter tender attached to the litter

• Edge Tending

• Team based pickoff

Patient Care and Movement: During field evolutions the students are expected to perform complete/ongoing patient assessments. The

student should take into consideration the patient’s comfort and safety while being transported. A cache of

medical equipment should be provided. The equipment should be reusable during the class. Instructors will

need to have a list of injuries and vital signs ready prior to the scenarios.

Static System Safety Factor (SSSF) Students should identify the “weakest” component within the system and determine the SSSF. A SSSF of

7:1 or greater will be the goal for all systems. If this SSSF is not reached the reason why should be

identified and either changed to obtain a 7:1 SSSF or a decision (with instructors approval) to use the

system below a 7:1 SSSF must be made.

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