General Rigging Archives | Rigging Lab Academy

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

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

By 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

By 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

By 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

By 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

By 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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The Fitness of Mastery: Why High-Angle Rescue Teams Need More Than Just Technical Skill

By Lance Piatt / Blog, Coaching, Fitness, General Rigging

In times of distress, when lives hang in the balance, technical skill can only get you so far. High-angle rescue teams are experts in rope rescue techniques, rigging, and safety, but what keeps them ahead of the game is their fitness, both physical and mental. They need to be able to scale heights, stay focused …

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Balancing Act: Navigating Highlines in Rope Rescue and Life

By Lance Piatt / Blog, Designing Your Processes, Equipment, Fall Safety, General Rigging, Safe Practices, Team Competencies, Technical Learning

I love the parallels between highline systems in rope rescue and the challenges of everyday life. “In the world of rope rescue, the concept of ‘highlines’ holds a profound parallel to the challenges we encounter in life. Picture this: a highline system, suspended across a perilous gap, serving as a lifeline for those in need. …

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A climber falling 60′ while checking the route at the edge before roping up – In Critical Condition

By Lance Piatt / Blog, Designing Your Processes, Elevated Anchor Systems, General Rigging, Horizontal Rigging, Mainline Systems and Operations, Patient Packaging, Portable Anchors, Principles of Learning

This illustration features a climbing outing gone awry with a climber falling 60′ while checking the route at the edge before roping up. The Rescue Response Team responds employing a high angle raise with the Arizona Vortex side A-frame in tandem with a backboard immobilization lifting harness and litter to bring the fallen climber back …

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Jiggers Are Compact 4:1 Pulley Systems and are The Rigger’s Future

By Lance Piatt / AZTEK ELITE, Blog, General Rigging, Pulleys & Mechanical Advantage / 5 Comments

Generally, these beauties are considered pre-rigged pulley systems used mainly for hauling, but can be very important in lowering heavy loads as well. The advantage of these systems is in their rapid deployment, and straightforward operation without advanced levels of training or expertise. They are low maintenance and high yield work horses and have been …

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