Mechanical Advantages #2, v1.2, Pulley Systems - Rescue: Uses and Applications

Mechanical Advantages #2 Pulley Systems – Uses and Applications – RESCUE. Addresses how to use various pulley systems in the rescue environment, discusses the associated equipment. It tips, ideas, potential problems to avoid, and solutions.
Also we have included a pilot's pre-flight check list, or rather, a High Angle Rescue “Preflight” systems check list for the vertical rescue professional. Some of the topics considerations while using pulley systems, single person, advanced belays, and belaying the rescue load. We introduce several very useful adjunct pulley systems; go over progress capturing systems, present a selection of versatile knots which cover most situations.
We also share some little know information about how dynamic effect knot strength. We share the results of testing knots during falls, and they were real eye openers. This technical paper, “Knots, and how dynamics affect them,” revealed some knots were stronger in dynamic situations too.
I have included quite a few diagrams, which I think you will really like, like the 1:1 counter balance system, which works exceptional well for berm and embankment rescues. There are some down and dirty systems like the Simple 2:1 partner assist / rescue. A couple of Compounded Complex systems, an 8:1 and a 10:1, for heavier lifts.
And to add interest and example, I have shared a couple of experiences which got real "interesting" for me, while using pulley systems. One in particular is a vertical mine shaft, which was "not" vertical but rather zig-zag. The lowering went well, and the geologist was collecting gold ore samples from the early 1800’s gold mine, located at Gold Hill, Nevada. But the extra, unexpected friction caused by the zig-zags, proved to be an attention grabber.
Adjunct Pulley Systems may be unfamiliar to some, but they provide a great way to accomplish a lifts. If you found MA#1 pulley systems interesting, you really enjoy this publication, because it is packed with solid useful ideas, skills, techniques and principles associated with the vertical rescue environment. You are glad you added this publication to “your bag of tricks.”