A cross-haul is an advanced rigging/hauling technique that allows a rope tech to transport equipment or materials in a lateral direction. It can also be used as part of a rescue scenario.
During your SPRAT Evaluation L2 and *L3 techs (see below) will be asked to demonstrate competence using two hauling systems in the same or separate locations to pick up a load from the ground or an elevated platform, and transport it both vertically and horizontally in suspension.
Each hauling system should include a main and fixed back-up system in each direction of pull.
If you've rigged the second hauling system in a separate location, you'll need to direct another tech to operate the system. There's a team exercise opportunity here.
If you're completing your Evaluation at the same time as a L1 and L3 certifying tech, SPRAT will allow you to work together. In this scenario, you and the L1 tech (who will be satisfying their hauling and lowering system requirement) will operate the two hauling systems and execute the cross-haul, while a L3 tech manages the work task being completed as part of their team scenario requirement.
You might also have the option of rigging and executing a cross-haul as part of your demonstration of a Pitch Head Break in and Lower.
We’ll go into further detail on all of the above during your training week.
*This is one of 15 manoeuvres on the L3 syllabus (coloured grey) that are primarily there for review. On assessment day L3 techs will be tested on only 50% of these items.
Most Common Discrepancies to Avoid:
- Internal angle between hauling systems is more than 120°, with no load sharing mitigations in place.
- Less than two ropes have been used for each hauling system (fail)
Additional resources to check out
8.15 of the SPRAT Evaluation Guidelines for the source material for this blog.
8.15 of the SPRAT Certification Requirements for a concise evaluation summary.
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This is part of an ongoing series, where we’re breaking down the SPRAT Syllabus and clarifying exactly what will be expected of you on your evaluation day. To continue exploring this series and learn more about SPRAT's Technician Evaluation Form, please click below:
