During your SPRAT Evaluation L2 and *L3 techs (see below) will be asked to demonstrate competence establishing a two-rope system that can be pre-rigged to lower for the remote rescue of another rope tech. Once the rope access technician has been safely attached to the ropes (using two connection points), you will demonstrate operating the system and lowering them to the ground with control.
This can also be referred to as a rigged-for-rescue system. To lower the tech to the ground, you can operate the main and backup systems either individually or simultaneously.
You have a couple options for how to demonstrate this maneuver. You can use our casualty dummy for the rescue, or one of your classmates can 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', remember to keep your legs moving to prevent the onset of symptoms associated with suspension intolerance.
This is a fairly involved exercise and can be combined with other requirements on the L2 SPRAT Evaluation Form, such as your demonstration of rigging and operating a load-sharing anchorage system, negotiating an edge, and tying some of the core knots.
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:
- The device has not been secured beyond the normal lock-off.
- Rope is not stacked or coiled for ease of deployment
- Rope is an insufficient length to perform the full rescue operation (fail)
Additional resources to check out
8.13 of the SPRAT Evaluation Guidelines for the source material for this blog.
8.13 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:
