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Raising and lowering loads during a technical rescue require
Beyond the techniques and gear, a successful rescue relies in large part on great teamwork. The complex maneuvers during a technical rescue (hauling loads, creating hoisting systems with lightweight pulleys, counterbalances…) require team members to work in perfect synchronization together.
Examples of hauling with work rope and belay rope.
Team rescue techniques for hauling and lowering
All maneuvers must be done on two independent rope systems. These two systems can work in parallel (two haul lines) or separately (work rope and belay rope).
All hauling and positioning forces are concentrated on the work rope. The belay rope is set up and kept taut enough to hold the load in the event of anchor or work rope failure.
Advantages
- Quick and simple setup, only one mechanical-advantage system needed.
- Two different systems may be used, for example a mechanical haul system (winch...).
- Configuration suited to small work spaces.
Disadvantages
- If the work rope breaks, the clearance needed can be significant when the belay rope comes under load.
- Risk of developing slack in the belay rope by focusing too much on the primary system.
- Risk of neglecting the quality of the belay system setup. Warning: this system must be fully operational at all times.
- Risk of the rope path shifting and of unforeseen abrasion on the belay rope as it comes under load following a work rope failure.
Examples of hauling with twin tensioned haul lines
The two ropes have the same function and work in parallel: each rope supports half the load.
Advantages
- With good coordination, it’s possible to haul a heavy load even with simple pulley systems.
- If one rope breaks, the other is already tensioned to hold the load, reducing the amount of clearance required.
- It is possible to manage a complex litter route if the rope paths are anticipated.
Disadvantages
- Load sharing between the two ropes is never perfect; sometimes one rope holds the entire load; good coordination of team members is required.
When should I retire my equipment?
Access Rescue Provides Inspection Services
Access Rescue Provides Inspection Services
A product must be retired when:
- It is over 10 years old and made of plastic or textiles
- It has been subjected to a major fall or load
- It fails to pass inspection
- Its reliability is in question
- Its entire history is not known (e.g. found or second-hand product)
- When it becomes obsolete due to changes in legislation, standards, technique or incompatibility with other equipment, etc.
Destroy retired equipment to prevent further use.
Access Rescue Provides Inspection Services
Access Rescue Provides Inspection Services
Access Rescue Provides Inspection Services
Legislative Compliance requires inspection and documentation of all PPE and Rescue Equipment. This must be completed by a Competent Inspector. We utilize our comprehensive PPE-management system to ensure, in part:
- All PPE meets Ministry of Labour Requirements for your Industry and Scope of Work.
- All PPE is in good-repair and operational within manufacturer's specifications, communiques and directives.
- All PPE is compatible with auxillary equipment being used for work.
- All inspections are complete and documented.