Rope rescue hardware is designed to function as part of a system.  It must be used with properly selected and sized rope, webbing and other components compatible with the rescue scenario. The hardware must also be used within its safe working load limits and manufacturer’s instructions. Most hardware has not been tested to failure, so the rescue team must be aware of the potential consequences of using damaged or worn equipment.

The use of rescue hardware places the rescuer at risk.  All rescue systems must be evaluated for safety prior to use. The system should be designed with a safety factor that takes into account the consequences of component failure.

The Call Out

You are responding to a high-angle rescue call out. It is important to have the proper rescue equipment on hand. This includes rope and other gear for raising and lowering workers out of the bin.

In most cases, the best way to rescue a person who is injured is to lower them from where they are situated.  Unless you can’t and the only other option is to raise them to safety. This can be done using a variety of different methods, depending on the situation.

There may be more than one person needing to be rescued, so it may be necessary to raise them both out.  There are a myriad of things and or events that could be happening simultaneously, so the wise and knowledgeable person will need to quickly assess the situation and move quickly and safely.

Remember, “the most important tool is the mind”!

The key to a successful rescue in this situation is having the right equipment and the knowledge to it properly. You’ll need to gather some essential items before you can begin the rescue operation.

1. Determine which pieces are needed for a particular emergency.
2. Does the gear or hardware adhere to the standards the team follows?
3. What will be the gear that makes up the hauling and lowering systems?
4. Is there adequate anchoring?

There are many factors to consider when selecting equipment for rope rescue operations, including operational pre-planning, hazard analysis, staffing, and training. The type of rescue operation will dictate the specific equipment needs, but there are some general guidelines that can be followed.

The first step is to assess the hazards involved in the rescue operation. This will help to determine the type of equipment required and the rescue team’s capabilities. Next, the rescue team’s staffing and training must be considered. The team should have the necessary skills and experience to safely use the rope rescue equipment. Finally, the rescue operation itself must be planned. This includes creating a realistic timeline and considering all potential contingencies.

Rope rescue equipment selection is a complex process, but following these general guidelines will help ensure that the right equipment is chosen for the job.

There are many different types of rope rescue equipment available on the market. It is important to select the right type of equipment for the specific rescue operation. The most common types of rope rescue equipment including:

• Rope: There are many different types of rope available, each with its own specific uses. The type of rope required will depend on the rescue operation.
• Anchors: Anchors are used to secure the rescue rope. The type of anchor chosen will depend on the rescue operation and the surrounding environment.
• Harnesses: Harnesses are used to protect the rescue team members from falls. The type of harness chosen will depend on the rescue operation and the surrounding environment.
• Pulleys: Pulleys are used to redirect the rescue rope. The type of pulley chosen will depend on the rescue operation and the surrounding environment.
• Carabiners: Carabiners are used to connect the rescue rope to the anchors. The type of carabiner chosen will depend on the rescue operation and the surrounding environment.
• Descenders: Descenders are used to control the rescue team’s descent. The type of descender chosen will depend on the rescue operation and the surrounding environment.
• Ascenders:  Ascenders are used to ascend the rope. The type of ascender chosen will depend on the rescue operation and the surrounding environment.
• Belay devices: Belay devices are used to provide additional safety for the rescue team. The type of belay device chosen will depend on the rescue operation and the surrounding environment.
• Helmets: Helmets are used to protect the rescue team members from falls. The type of helmet chosen will depend on the rescue operation and the surrounding environment.
• Rope Grabs: Rope grabs are used to control the rescue team’s descent. The type of rope grab chosen will depend on the rescue operation and the surrounding environment.

This is the start of guidelines will help ensure that the right equipment is selected for the specific rescue operation.

There is a lot of equipment needed for rope rescue, and the type of equipment your organization chooses should be based on a variety of factors. Some of these factors include the types of incidents anticipated, the hazards present during a rescue, the number and qualifications of rescuers, defined standard operating procedures, and the type and frequency of training rescue personnel receive. By taking all of these factors into account, your organization can be better prepared for any rescue situation.

Organizing rescue equipment for streamlined deployment at a rescue scene is critical for efficient and effective rescue operations. Proper equipment organization can help rescue personnel quickly locate and deploy the right tools and resources for the job at hand.

There are a few key things to keep in mind when organizing rescue equipment:

• Equipment should be organized in a way that makes it easy to find and deploy.
• Equipment should be organized based on rescue personnel needs and rescue operations requirements.
• Equipment organization should be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure it remains effective.

Agencies or organizations expecting to maintain an operations or technical level response capability for rope rescue should also develop and implement a program for the section, care and maintenance of life safety rope and related equipment. This would include knowing the different types of rescue ropes available, their applications, strengths and weaknesses. Also important is having a system in place to regularly inspect, test, and retire rescue rope and equipment when it reaches the end of their useful life. Rope rescue teams should be familiar with the standards set by NFPA 1983, Standard on Life Safety Rope and Equipment for Emergency Services.

The NFPA 1983, Standard on Life Safety Rope and Equipment for Emergency Services provides guidelines for the selection, care and maintenance of rescue ropes and related equipment. Familiarity with these standards is important for any agency or organization expecting to maintain an effective rope rescue capability. In addition to the NFPA standards, there are also many other resources available that can provide valuable information on rescue ropes and related equipment.

• NFPA 2500
• Standards for Operations and Training for Technical Search and Rescue Incidents
• Life Safety Rope and Equipment for Emergency Services

Need some assistance with any of the aforementioned lists?  We can help with this.

Neither be left out nor in the dust!

Gear List and Purchasing: Rescue Response Gear

Training: Training, Assessment, Competency Rigging Lab Academy

Peace on your Days…

Lance