General Guidelines To A Successful Operation of the Arizona Vortex Multipod

Written By: Lance Piatt

Excepts from The Arizona Guidebook

IT IS VITAL THAT THE USER BE ABLE TO DETERMINE THE DIRECTION AND THE MAGNITUDE OF THE FORCES ACT-
ING ON THE FRAME. THE FRAME NEEDS TO BE ASSEMBLED, HOBBLED, GUYED AND OPERATED TO RESIST ALL FORCES WITHOUT ANY MOVEMENT OF THE FRAME AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SETUP

We highly recommend training for the assembly portion of the Vortex in a safe environment where all participants can concentrate on the relevant tasks.

Whenever possible, set up the Vortex away from the fall hazard zone, then walk it to the edge.
Take measures to prevent the Vortex from toppling over the edge during setup and rigging. This may include
attaching a secured tether cord to the head or leg and/ or placing the frame on belay while it is being moved
and secured into position.

Step 1 – Identify the Mode of Use

Anchor Frame – Where the rope supporting the load is terminated on to the vortex

Directional Frame – Where the rope supporting the load is not terminated onto the Vortex, but rather is redirected through a pulley which is supported by the Vortex.

Step 2 – Identify the Applied Force

Determine the magnitude and direction of the applied force:

Planned movements of the load.
Foreseeable unplanned movements of the load.

Step 3 – Identify the Tendency of Movement

The head and the feet of the frame will tend to move if not restrained.

Step 4a – Determine the Foot Securing Requirements

The feet are secured to prevent any movement of the feet and the frame.

Step 4b – Determine the Heading Securing Requirements

The head of the frame is typically secured using guys. The guys give strength and rigidity to the frame.

Step 5 – Ensure guy Angles are within limits

Ensure guy/guy plane angles are:

Not less than 30°
Not less than the applied force angle

Step 6 – Test load the rigging to ensure frame stability and security

Ensure the rigging is tested by applying a load to the system in a safe situation. This test should be performed prior to supporting personnel in a potentially hazardous area.

Get The Arizona Vortex Guidebook

Peace on your Days

Lance

ACCESS COMPLETE FREE COURSE & MORE

Looking for Rigging Gear?

Shop our selection of rigging gear & equipment and save up to 20% off your total order!

Petzl
CMC Rescue
PMI
Sterling Rope
SMC
Skedco
Cascade Rescue
Rock Exotica
ISC
And more!

Free eBook

Learn how to master 10 major anchor systems with The Foundations of Rescue & Rigging Anchor Systems eBook.

About The Author:

Lance Piatt

Beginning his career in the rescue and rigging world as a “blue collar” SAR member with Deschutes and Jefferson County teams. Lance Piatt owns and operates Red Ibex Solutions, a sales and marketing wheelhouse blending rope rigging education and exquisite imagery with equipment knowledge and understanding; housing Rigging Lab Academy and Rescue Response Gear… Lance is producing high-end video education, working with several experts and instructors to produce unique series of “how to videos” and courses for rope rigging: Such as; the first ever full-length rescue training DVD, 'Tower Rescue', released in fall of 2005. As well as a series of scenario-based rescues ranging from cave rescue to cliff rescue.

Access To Rigging & Rope Rescue Training

Learn creative rigging solutions for various disciplines & skill levels.

Save upto 20% Off Gear At...

Essentials members save an average of $82 on every order.