RTC Rope Systems & Rigging 2

Question 1

In a theoretical 3:1 mechanical advantage (MA) system with no friction losses, if rescuers apply 100 lbs of force, what load can the system raise?

Accepted Answer

300 lbs

Answer

100 lbs

Answer

200 lbs

Answer

400 lbs

Question 2

What type of rope rescue system is commonly called a 'Z-rig'?

Accepted Answer

A 3:1 MA raising system where the rope path resembles the letter Z

Answer

A 2:1 MA lowering system

Answer

A pre-rigged anchor system with three attachment points

Answer

A redundant belay system using a Z-shaped configuration

Question 3

Which device is commonly used as both a descender for controlled lowering and a belay device during rescue operations?

Accepted Answer

Brake Bar Rack

Answer

Prussik loop

Answer

Figure 8 descender

Answer

Munter hitch on a locking carabiner

Question 4

In mechanical advantage haul systems, what term describes the additional rope that must be fed through the system each cycle as the haul team resets their grip?

Accepted Answer

Rope travel

Answer

Tail rope

Answer

Haul cam stroke

Answer

System elongation

Question 5

In a high-directional (high-point) anchor system, what is the primary purpose of the elevated redirect pulley?

Accepted Answer

To change the rope angle for easier edge clearance and reduce rope-on-edge friction

Answer

To increase the mechanical advantage of the haul system

Answer

To serve as the primary load-bearing anchor

Answer

To act as the belay device for the descending rescuer

Question 6

What effect does friction have on the actual mechanical advantage of a rope rescue haul system compared to its theoretical mechanical advantage?

Accepted Answer

Friction reduces actual MA below theoretical MA

Answer

Friction increases actual MA above theoretical MA

Answer

Friction has no effect because rescue pulleys are frictionless

Answer

Friction only affects MA in systems with more than 4:1 ratios

Question 7

What is a 'pick-off strap' (or pick-off rescue strap) primarily used for in technical rope rescue?

Accepted Answer

Quickly securing a patient to a rescuer for emergency removal from height

Answer

Attaching the haul line to the main anchor

Answer

Creating an improvised chest harness for the rescuer

Answer

Connecting two ropes together in a highline system