Learning the SPRAT Curriculum:  Level 1 Rescue Scenario

Written by Josh Delefortrie | Nov 18, 2019 11:18:48 PM

This L1 rescue exercise combines components that can be used in several different rescue scenarios, including: rescue from descent or ascent, rescue from a failed main system, and/or rescue from long ropes. 

As part of this exercise, you'll also be learning how to move a tech using their own personal protective equipment. This is an important skill, and will allow you to execute more complicated rescues later on in your career -- after becoming certified at a higher level.

During your SPRAT evaluation, L1 techs will be asked to demonstrate competence performing a pick-off rescue of a casualty that is in ascent mode. 

This involves:

  1. Approaching the casualty on an adjacent set of ropes, that are separated by no more than 1 m. You may approach the casualty from above or below.
  2. Performing a change-over with the casualty's equipment, moving them from ascent to descent mode. Get yourself as close to the casualty as possible to execute this.
  3. Descending to the ground with the casualty using either your own or their equipment -- an appropriate backup system should be used that will support a two-person load. You should be connected to both the main and backup system.

Depending on what's possible for the site where you'll be completing your evaluation, there may be a few additional steps involved in performing this maneuver. For example, you may be asked to actually rig the anchors for the two-rope system that's adjacent to the casualty (as part of the pre-planning), or to negotiate an edge onto your rope system to begin the rescue maneuver.  

As you complete this exercise, your SPRAT evaluator will be watching to make sure that you:

  • Correctly maintain your back-up devices by keeping them in a high position, or low fall factor.
  • Maintain sufficient safety attachments for yourself and your casualty.
  • Minimize/prevent tangles in the rope systems.
  • Minimize/prevent rope-against-rope abrasion.
  • Avoid excess slack from building up in the safety line.
  • Control the descent of yourself and your casualty.
  • Are aware of the dangers associated with suspension intolerance.

When completing the changeover portion of this exercise, there are two variations in technique to choose from and both are basically correct. You have the option of keeping the casualty's main and back-up systems on the same rope during the changeover (which is more typical) or swapping the main and back-up ropes. Please remember that this second option is not appropriate for a long rope rescue, where inappropriate equipment could be unintentionally incorporated within the casualty's backup system.

In order to practice this maneuver, one of your classmates will take on the role of casualty and feign immobility while in suspension. We'll remind you of all this again as you train with us, but if you're playing the role of 'casualty', please remember to keep your legs moving to prevent the onset of symptoms associated with suspension intolerance. 

We’ll go into further detail on all of this during your training week. You'll also have lots of time for hands-on practice. If you are a Pacific Ropes student/alumni, head to the Student Resources to check out the video on how to perform this L1 rescue maneuver. Your student resources password is required. 

Most Common Discrepancies to Avoid:

  1. The extra friction carabiner is not attached to the sufficiently rated component of your harness.
  2. There's a brake hand between descender and extra friction carabiner (extra friction carabiner not utilized).
  3. Your backup device(s) is insufficient for a 2-person load. (fail)
  4. Using the wrong lanyards/connection points when attaching to your casualty.
  5. Coaching. Solicited or unsolicited coaching from the casualty during evaluation constitutes a discrepancy.

Additional resources to check out:

7.17 of the SPRAT Evaluation Guidelines for the source material for this blog.

7.17 of the SPRAT Certification Requirements for a concise evaluation summary. 

7.15 of the SPRAT Evaluation Guidelines for more information on rigging a simple structural and load-sharing anchorage system.

7.13 of the SPRAT Evaluation Guidelines for more information on negotiating an edge.

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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: 

 
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