When rigging a retrievable rope system, you're going to be using a system with two functional lines (main and back up) and ideally one retrieval rope. Make sure these ropes are easy to identify! Tie a knot in them, or coil them separately when storing them with the rest of your equipment. Choose the method that makes sense to you, as long as it's easily identifiable one way or another.
Retrieval ropes can be different than the ropes used to rig the rest of a rope system.
During your SPRAT Evaluation L2 and *L3 techs (see below) will be asked to demonstrate a method for retrieving ropes from a structural anchorage after they've descended to the ground or platform. When choosing your method, you'll need to consider the hypothetical situation you've been given by your Evaluator, and the criteria (including potential hazards) that situation presents.
There's a high potential for rope abrasion during this maneuver. Your SPRAT Evaluator will be watching to make sure that you take the correct precautions (like using appropriate edge protectors) to ensure that unnecessary damage to the rope system or other equipment does not take place. For this exercise, you'll also need to consider connector loading.
You may be asked to demonstrate this requirement on its own, or pair it with another exercise on your Evaluation Form. SPRAT recommends using a retrievable rope system in your demonstration of an "escape" or egress after a rescue from a horizontal aid climb.
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:
Additional resources to check out
8.9 of the SPRAT Evaluation Guidelines for the source material for this blog.
8.9 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: