General Rigging Archives

Safety Knots for Force Multiplying Systems

Lance Piatt / Blog, Designing Your Processes, General Rigging, Knot Craft, Knots, Bends & Hitches, Mainline Systems and Operations, Portable Anchors, Pulleys & Mechanical Advantage

In rope rescue, safety is paramount, especially when working with force-multiplying systems that handle significant loads. Every knot has distinct characteristics that affect the overall safety and stability of the system, making knot choice crucial for avoiding slippage, maintaining tension, and ensuring the system remains secure under load. For fire service and SAR professionals, understanding […]

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Petzl I’D Descender in action for rope access and rescue operations. Features include anti-panic function, auto-locking, and versatility for confined space, high-angle, and industrial rescues.

Petzl I’D Descender for Rope Access and Rescue Operations

Lance Piatt / Ascending and Descending Systems, Belaying, Confined Space Rescue, Designing Your Processes, General Rigging, Petzl, Pickoffs, Pulleys & Mechanical Advantage, Two Tensioned Rope Rescue Systems

Petzl I’D Descender for Rescue and Work at Height The Petzl I’D Descender is an indispensable tool for professionals working in rope access, rescue operations, and industrial environments. Known for its versatility, safety features, and ability to perform in critical, high-risk situations, the I’D Descender is designed to provide precise control and enhanced safety in

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mechanical advantage system - piggy back knot passing

Mechanical Advantage Piggyback Knot Passing

Lance Piatt / Blog, General Rigging, Knot Passing

The Mechanical Advantage Piggyback Method is an advanced rigging technique used in rope rescue operations to manage and pass knots effectively, especially in scenarios involving mechanical devices like the Clutch or MPD. This method utilizes an additional mechanical advantage system, such as an AZTEK, to facilitate the maneuvering of knots past critical points in the

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Test Your Rope Rescue Knowledge: Key Questions and Answers for Mastery

Lance Piatt / Blog, Confined Space Rescue, Elevated Anchor Systems, FAQ-Frequently Asked Questions, General Rigging, Knot Craft, Litter Operations, Mainline Systems and Operations, Mechanical Advantage, Patient Packaging, Principles of Learning, Pulleys & Mechanical Advantage, Twin Tension Rope System, Two Rope Offsets

Rope rescue operations require mastery in key areas to ensure safety and efficiency. Here, we explore five essential topics that comprise the core of advanced rope rescue knowledge: Mechanical Advantage Systems, Knots and Knot Passing Techniques, Anchor Systems and Bombproof Anchors, Twin Tension Rope Systems, and Patient Packaging and Evacuation. Dive into these subjects with

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Peaks and Valleys: A Guide to Navigating High and Low-Angle Rope Rescues

Lance Piatt / Artificial High Directional AHD, Blog, Designing Your Processes, Equipment, General Rigging, Mainline Systems and Operations, Principles of Learning, Safe Practices, Team Competencies

High-angle rescue stands as a beacon of hope and technical prowess in the face of nature’s most daunting terrains. These operations, essential for saving lives where the ground falls away into steep declines, demand a blend of courage, skill, and knowledge. Today, we delve into the world of high-angle versus low-angle rescues, unraveling the complexities

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over the edge two twin tension system for rope rescue

Optimizing Rescue Operations: The Gin Pole/Monopod AHD and Skate Block System

Lance Piatt / Blog, Designing Your Processes, Elevated Anchor Systems, General Rigging, Horizontal Rigging, Mainline Systems and Operations, Patient Packaging, Portable Anchors, Skate Blocks

In the specialized field of technical rescue, the use of a trackline skate block system stands out for its efficiency and simplicity, particularly when navigating challenging terrains such as steep cliffs. Our innovative approach incorporates a monopod/gin pole as the Artificial High Directional (AHD), strategically positioned at the cliff’s apex to maximize height and distance

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Unlocking Safety: Exploring the Basics of Rope Rescue Edge Protections

Lance Piatt / Blog, Designing Your Processes, Fall Safety, General Rigging, Leadership, Safe Practices

In the dynamic environments of the fire service and search and rescue operations, ensuring the safety of our responders is paramount. Among the critical considerations in these high-risk scenarios is the protection of the rope edge – the lifeline that connects our technicians to safety and facilitates successful rescues. Rope rescue edge protections encompass a

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Essential Edge Protection: The Keystone of Rope Rescue Safety and Efficiency

Lance Piatt / Blog, General Rigging, Principles of Learning, RRG Gear Review, Safe Practices

Within rope rescue, edge protection equipment stands out as a fundamental toolkit, essential for safeguarding the rope against wear and tear while ensuring the safety of both the rescue team and the individual being assisted. This equipment is designed to serve multiple pivotal functions: Protection: It shields the rope from sharp edges and rough surfaces that

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Mastering the Art of Edge Protection: Elevating Your Rope Rescue Goals

Lance Piatt / Blog, Coaching, Designing Your Processes, Equipment, General Rigging, Organizing, RRG Gear Review

Rope rescue operations are dependent on the integrity of ropes and rigging systems. Ensuring the safety of both rescuers and victims involves a comprehensive approach that includes protecting the rope, safeguarding the rescue environment, reducing friction, and maintaining the cleanliness of the ropes. In this chapter, we delve into these essential aspects of rope safety

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Revolutionizing Rope Rigging: Introducing the SQUID System for Enhanced Safety and Efficiency

Lance Piatt / Blog, CMC Clutch by Harken Industrial, Designing Your Processes, Equipment, General Rigging, Mainline Systems and Operations

Welcome to the cutting-edge of rope rigging technology! In this post, we’re diving into the groundbreaking SQUID system, a game-changer for anyone involved in twin tension rope systems (TTRS). Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, understanding the innovative features and benefits of SQUID will redefine your approach to rigging, offering unparalleled

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