Blog Archives

Culture and New Opportunities

Lance Piatt / Blog, Personal Competencies, Team Competencies / 124 Comments

In the dynamic landscape of organizational development, aligning company culture with emerging opportunities is crucial. This alignment ensures that new initiatives resonate with the organization’s core values and operational norms, facilitating seamless integration and sustainable growth. The Symbiosis of Culture and Opportunity Organizational culture encompasses the shared beliefs, values, and practices that define how a […]

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Choosing the Right Rigging System

Lance Piatt / Blog, General Rigging, Personal Competencies, Safe Practices / 23 Comments

Understanding Rigging Systems: Key Considerations and Questions Rigging systems are as versatile and complex as the challenges they’re designed to address. Whether you’re building a high-angle rescue setup, tensioning a system, or managing resources on a technical job site, the effectiveness of your rigging system depends on understanding both its capabilities and your specific needs.

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Future-Based Cause and Leadership

Lance Piatt / Blog, Designing Your Processes, Personal Competencies / 25 Comments

What is a Future-Based Cause and How Does It Shape Leadership in the Fire Service and SAR? In high-stakes fields like the fire service and search and rescue (SAR), leadership is about more than directing teams or responding to crises. It’s about fostering a shared vision—a future-based cause—that unites individuals in pursuit of a greater

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Using an A-Frame Mounted Winch

Lance Piatt / Blog, Confined Space Rescue, Elevated Safety, RRG Gear Review

Using an A-Frame Mounted Winch: A Tool of Controversy in Rigging A-frame mounted winches are often seen as a convenient solution for lifting and hauling operations in rigging, rescue, and industrial applications. Their design promises efficiency and simplicity, but the controversy surrounding their use raises critical questions about safety, reliability, and best practices. Why are

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Artificial High Directionals

Jason Ilowite / Arizona Vortex, Blog, Portable Anchors, TerrAdaptor / 11 Comments

Artificial High Directionals (AHDs) have become a cornerstone in technical rope rescue, providing innovative solutions to some of the most challenging scenarios. From reducing edge friction to improving load control, AHDs are essential tools for modern rescue teams. But what makes them so effective, and how can they be utilized to their fullest potential? Let’s

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Bypassing the Anti-Panic System

Lance Piatt / Ascend - Descend, Belaying, Blog, Petzl, Safe Practices

Bypassing the Anti-Panic System on the Petzl I’D: Understanding the Technique and Its Applications The Petzl I’D descender is renowned for its advanced features, particularly the anti-panic system, which is designed to automatically stop the descent if excessive force is applied to the handle. This safety mechanism is critical in preventing uncontrolled descents, especially for

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Truck-Based Gin Pole

Jason Ilowite / Arizona Vortex, Blog, Elevated Anchor Systems, Portable Anchors, TerrAdaptor

In the world of technical rigging and rescue, the need for innovative, adaptable systems has never been greater. Among these, the truck-based gin pole stands out as a versatile solution for operations requiring efficient, mobile high-directional systems. From bridge rescues to industrial lifting, this system offers a unique combination of portability, stability, and strength. A

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Mastering Knot Craft

Lance Piatt / Blog, Knot Craft

Mastering Knot Craft Knots form the foundation of every rigging system, providing the critical connections between equipment, anchors, and loads. Whether you’re navigating a rescue scenario, building mechanical advantage systems, or managing anchors, knowing the right knots and how to use them is essential. Mastery of knot craft combines technical precision with practical knowledge, ensuring

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Rigging Foundations and Training

Lance Piatt / Blog, Designing Your Processes, General Rigging, Personal Competencies, Principles of Learning, Professional Standards, Safe Practices / 158 Comments

Rigging Foundations and Training Rigging and rescue require more than strength and tools—they demand precision, strategy, and a deep understanding of foundational principles. The cornerstone of any successful operation is a well-rounded knowledge of essential techniques, from building anchors to mastering mechanical advantage systems. These foundational skills not only ensure safety but also create the

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Resultants in Rigging

Lance Piatt / Arizona Vortex, Blog, Confined Space Rescue, Portable Anchors

Understanding Resultants in Rigging: A Case Study Rigging is both an art and a science, and at its core lies the concept of resultants—the combined forces acting on an anchor or a system. These forces dictate the stability, safety, and success of the rigging operation. To truly master rigging, one must develop a deep understanding

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