Planning Your Artificial High Directional

Artificial High Directionals (AHDs) are indispensable tools in technical rescue and rigging operations, offering solutions for complex scenarios like edge transitions, confined spaces, and high-angle rescues. The versatility of AHDs makes them a favorite among rescue teams, but their effectiveness depends on proper planning and deployment.

This guide explores how to choose the right AHD for your operation, the factors to consider during planning, and tips for ensuring safety and efficiency in the field.

What Is an Artificial High Directional?

An Artificial High Directional is a portable rigging structure designed to elevate ropes, allowing for better load control, reduced friction, and easier transitions. AHDs come in various configurations—monopods, bipods, and tripods—each suited for specific scenarios.

Why Are AHDs Essential?

• Enhanced Load Control: Elevates ropes to minimize edge friction and improve stability.
• Versatility: Adaptable to a wide range of environments, from urban settings to wilderness rescues.
• Safety: Keeps ropes and loads clear of obstacles, reducing the risk of damage or failure.

Choosing the Right AHD

Selecting the appropriate AHD depends on the operation’s demands. Here’s a breakdown of the most common configurations:

1. Monopods

• Best For: Confined spaces or areas with limited anchor options.
• Features: Lightweight and easy to set up, but requires guy lines for stability.
• Example Use: Narrow shafts or small openings where space is constrained.

2. Bipods

• Best For: Moderate loads and situations requiring directional control.
• Features: More stable than a monopod and ideal for creating high directional points over edges.
• Example Use: Edge transitions in high-angle rescues.

3. Tripods

• Best For: Heavy loads or multi-directional rigging.
• Features: The most stable AHD configuration, suitable for complex rescues.
• Example Use: High-angle rescues involving large equipment or multiple loads.

Learn more about AHD configurations in What’s the Buzz About Artificial High Directionals?.

Factors to Consider When Planning Your AHD

Planning is critical to ensure the success and safety of your operation. Here are key considerations:

1. Terrain and Environment

Assess the area where the AHD will be deployed. Factors like ground stability, weather conditions, and available anchor points influence the type of AHD and its setup.

2. Load Requirements

Understand the weight and movement needs of your operation. Choose an AHD configuration that can handle the anticipated load without compromising stability.

3. System Redundancy

Always incorporate redundancy into your rigging system. Use backup lines and secondary anchors to ensure safety in case of a primary system failure.

4. Team Training and Experience

An AHD is only as effective as the team deploying it. Ensure your team is trained on the specific AHD configuration being used, including setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

For training ideas, visit Rigging Lab Academy’s Training Options.

Steps to Set Up an AHD

1. Anchor Placement: Secure stable anchors for the AHD legs and guy lines.
2. Assemble the Structure: Attach components according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
3. Add Guy Lines: Stabilize the structure using guy lines and ensure equal tension on all sides.
4. Inspect the Setup: Verify all connections, inspect for wear, and conduct a trial run with a test load.

Explore setup techniques in 5 Things to Remember About Gin Poles.

Common Applications of AHDs

• Edge Transitions: Simplify raising and lowering operations by reducing friction.
• Confined Spaces: Create a high directional in narrow or limited-access areas.
• Industrial Maintenance: Support heavy loads in construction or repair operations.

For more edge-specific techniques, see Edge Management Techniques in High-Angle Rescue.

Conclusion: Plan, Execute, and Succeed

Artificial High Directionals are powerful tools that can elevate your rescue or rigging operations—literally and figuratively. By choosing the right configuration, planning effectively, and ensuring proper setup, you can maximize their benefits while minimizing risks. Whether you’re tackling edge transitions or confined space rescues, AHDs provide the versatility and safety needed for success.

Peace on your Days

Lance