Mainline Systems and Operations Archives

English and Reverse Reeve Systems for Highline Rescue

Lance Piatt / Blog, Mainline Systems and Operations, Pulleys & Mechanical Advantage, Two Rope Offsets, Two Tensioned Rope Rescue Systems

Highline Rescue Requires Precision In rope rescue operations, moving a load across horizontal or diagonal spans—whether suspended from high directionals or tensioned lines—demands a system that’s not only stable and redundant, but also dynamically adjustable under load. This is where English Reeve and Reverse Reeve systems shine. Both reeving systems offer unique advantages depending on […]

English and Reverse Reeve Systems for Highline Rescue Read More »

Steep Highline Calculations and Rigging Techniques

Lance Piatt / Blog, Designing Your Processes, Elevated Anchor Systems, Mainline Systems and Operations, Twin Tension Rope System, Twin Tension Rope System Clutch, Two Rope Offsets, Two Tensioned Rope Rescue Systems

Steep Highline Calculations and Rigging Techniques Mastering steep highline systems takes more than just strong anchors and high-quality rope—it demands precision, forethought, and the ability to calculate force vectors in real-time terrain. In other words, steep highline calculations and rigging techniques are critical. Whether you’re new to horizontal rigging or refining your advanced systems, steep-angle

Steep Highline Calculations and Rigging Techniques Read More »

Purpose and Functionality of the Tracking Line Offset

Lance Piatt / Blog, Designing Your Processes, Mainline Systems and Operations, Offset Track Line

Purpose and Functionality of the Tracking Line Offset Purpose and Functionality of the Tracking Line Offset: In technical rope rescue operations, particularly during steep-angle evacuations, the implementation of a tracking line offset system is crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of both the rescue team and the patient. This system is designed to maintain

Purpose and Functionality of the Tracking Line Offset Read More »

Petzl Twin Release Kit

Lance Piatt / Blog, Industry, Mainline Systems and Operations, Mechanical Advantage, Petzl, Pulleys & Mechanical Advantage

The Petzl TWIN RELEASE KIT is a pre-assembled, ready-to-use 4:1 hauling and lowering system, specifically designed for work access and rescue in industrial environments. This system is ideal for vertical work and allows for easy lowering and hauling of loads, which is particularly useful in confined spaces. It can also assist in tilting and orienting a litter

Petzl Twin Release Kit Read More »

Timber High Directionals in Rescue Operations

Lance Piatt / Anchoring, Anchors, Artificial High Directional AHD, Blog, Designing Your Processes, Dynamic Directional, Mainline Systems and Operations, Pulleys & Mechanical Advantage, Two Rope Offsets

Timber High Directionals in Rescue Operations Why Build Timber High Directionals? When rescue teams respond to emergencies in remote or austere environments, they often face unexpected challenges that require improvisation and adaptability. In these scenarios, modern equipment like the Arizona Vortex may not be available or practical to transport. This is where timber structures—such as

Timber High Directionals in Rescue Operations Read More »

Transitioning to Two-Tensioned Rescue Systems

Lance Piatt / Blog, Mainline Systems and Operations, Twin Tension Rope System, Twin Tension Rope System Clutch

Transitioning from Traditional Rescue Systems to Two-Tensioned Rescue Systems (TTRS) Introduction For decades, the traditional mainline-belay rescue system has been a cornerstone of rope rescue operations. It’s familiar, reliable, and deeply ingrained in training programs worldwide. However, as rescue demands evolve, so must the techniques. The Two-Tensioned Rescue System (TTRS) offers a modern, efficient alternative,

Transitioning to Two-Tensioned Rescue Systems Read More »

Rooftop Rescue Rope Systems for Firefighters

Lance Piatt / Blog, Equipment, Fall Safety, General Rigging, Mainline Systems and Operations

Navigating Rescue Rope Selection for Firefighters: From Rooftops to General Operations Introduction Firefighting is a profession where every decision can impact lives, including the tools and equipment chosen for critical operations. Among these, rescue ropes are vital, serving as lifelines in rooftop rescues, fall protection, and general fireground tasks. Selecting the right rope isn’t just

Rooftop Rescue Rope Systems for Firefighters Read More »

Tight Line Skate Block Systems in Rope Rescue

Lance Piatt / Anchoring, Anchors, Artificial High Directional AHD, Blog, Dynamic Directional, Elevated Anchor Systems, Mainline Systems and Operations, Pulleys & Mechanical Advantage, Skate Blocks

Tight Line Skate Block Systems in Rope Rescue A tight line skate block system is a highly specialized variation of the traditional skate block, providing increased precision, control, and adaptability for advanced technical rescues. These systems are critical in environments requiring elevated tension management and controlled load transitions. I. Introduction A tight line skate block

Tight Line Skate Block Systems in Rope Rescue Read More »

Dynamic Directionals in Rope Rescue

Lance Piatt / Anchoring, Anchors, Artificial High Directional AHD, Blog, Dynamic Directional, Elevated Anchor Systems, Mainline Systems and Operations, Portable Anchors, Pulleys & Mechanical Advantage, Twin Tension Rope System

High Directional Systems in Rope Rescue A high directional is a crucial component in rope rescue operations, used to elevate the rope system above the rescue scene. By raising anchor points, high directionals enable safer, more efficient rescue operations across various challenging environments. Definition and Purpose A high directional is a rigged system designed to:

Dynamic Directionals in Rope Rescue Read More »

Patient Packaging and Raise/Lower Techniques

Lance Piatt / Artificial High Directional AHD, Blog, CMC Clutch by Harken Industrial, Designing Your Processes, Harken Industrial, Mainline Systems and Operations, Mechanical Advantage, Portable Anchors, Principles of Learning

Patient Packaging and Raise/Lower Techniques: Building Essential Skills for Technical Rescue Technical rescue often involves navigating challenging terrains, high-risk environments, and critical medical conditions. One of the most essential skills for any rescue team is mastering patient packaging and raise/lower techniques. These practices ensure the patient is secure, safe, and stable during extrication, while also

Patient Packaging and Raise/Lower Techniques Read More »

Mainline Systems and Operations