Mainline Rescue Systems

Written By: Lance Piatt

Mainline Rescue Systems

An understanding of mechanical advantage systems in both raising and lowering modes is essential for any rope rescue technician. Dealing with mass and force plays a critical role in ensuring safe and efficient operations. From tensioned anchor systems to high directionals and load positioning, each element contributes to building reliable mainline systems.

If these topics resonate with you or highlight areas where you want to strengthen your expertise, this course is your next step.

What’s Inside the Course?

This course covers the essential components of mainline rescue systems through an organized and practical curriculum:

Unit 1: How Forces Are Generated
Unit 2: Mechanical Advantage and Pulley Systems
Unit 3: Moving Systems
Unit 4: Lowering Systems (Low to Mid Angle)
Unit 5: Lowering Systems (Mid to Steep Angle)
Unit 6: Twin Tension Rope Systems (TTRS)
Unit 7: Winch and Capstan Systems
Unit 8: Wrap-Up and Practical Applications

Course Highlights

1. How Forces Are Generated

Understanding how forces interact within a system is foundational. This unit explores the physics behind tension and load distribution, focusing on real-world scenarios where these principles are applied.

2. Mechanical Advantage Theory

Learn the key terms, definitions, and types of mechanical advantage systems:

Pulley system configurations.
Theoretical vs. practical mechanical advantage.
Long-line MA systems vs. block-and-tackle systems.

3. Twin Tension Rope Systems

Explore how twin tension systems (TTRS) enhance safety and efficiency in complex rescues. This unit dives into the best practices and setup for using TTRS in various operational contexts.

4. Lowering and Raising Systems

Detailed instructions for:

Setting up low- to mid-angle lowering systems.
Handling mid- to steep-angle situations with precision.
Transitioning from lowering to raising systems with minimal downtime.

5. Knot Passes and System Analysis

Learn how to pass knots through a system and conduct a full analysis to identify potential weak points. This ensures your setup is not only functional but optimized for safety and efficiency.

Why This Course?

This course equips you with the knowledge and skills to:

Build systems that operate seamlessly under pressure.
Reduce guesswork by creating predictable and reliable setups.
Adapt your rigging techniques to meet the unique demands of each scenario.

Mechanical Advantage: Terms and Techniques

Key topics include:

Understanding MA theory and its real-world applications.
Calculating tension forces using the T-Method.
Exploring block-and-tackle setups for efficient load movement.

This knowledge is essential for any rescue technician aiming to optimize their system’s performance.

Ready to Get Started?

Master the skills to analyze, build, and operate mainline rescue systems with confidence. Enroll today and take your expertise to the next level!

Get this Course – Rigging Lab Academy

Peace on your days,
Lance

About The Author:

Lance Piatt

Beginning his career in the rescue and rigging world as a “blue collar” SAR member with Deschutes and Jefferson County teams. Lance Piatt owns and operates Red Ibex Solutions, a sales and marketing wheelhouse blending rope rigging education and exquisite imagery with equipment knowledge and understanding; housing Rigging Lab Academy and Rescue Response Gear… Lance is producing high-end video education, working with several experts and instructors to produce unique series of “how to videos” and courses for rope rigging: Such as; the first ever full-length rescue training DVD, 'Tower Rescue', released in fall of 2005. As well as a series of scenario-based rescues ranging from cave rescue to cliff rescue.