RTC Rope Systems & Rigging

Question 1

According to NFPA 1983, which rope classification is rated for a minimum breaking strength sufficient for a two-person (1,200 lb) rescue load with the required safety factor?

Accepted Answer

General Use rope

Answer

NFPA 1983 defines General Use Life Safety Rope as rated for loads up to 600 lbs per person for two persons, requiring a much higher minimum breaking strength than Light Use rope.

Question 2

Which knot is preferred for creating a fixed loop at the end of a rope during technical rescue because it is easy to inspect and does not jam under load?

Accepted Answer

Figure 8 on a bight

Answer

The Figure 8 on a bight is the industry-standard rescue knot for fixed loops because it is easy to visually inspect after loading and loosens more readily than an overhand on a bight.

Question 3

In a rope rescue system, what is the primary function of a progress capture device (PCD)?

Accepted Answer

To prevent the load from descending when hauling is paused

Answer

A progress capture device (such as a prusik or ratchet pulley) allows the load to be raised but prevents it from slipping back, enabling haulers to reset without dropping the load.

Question 4

When building a high-angle rescue anchor, what does the acronym SERENE-A help rescuers evaluate?

Accepted Answer

Solid, Equalized, Redundant, Efficient, No Extension, Angles

Answer

SERENE-A stands for Solid, Equalized, Redundant, Efficient, No Extension (or Nylon over Nylon avoided), and Angles — the criteria used to evaluate a safe rescue anchor system.

Question 5

At what slope angle does a rescue scenario transition from 'low-angle' to 'high-angle' rescue operations?

Accepted Answer

45 degrees

Answer

A 45-degree slope is the standard dividing point: below 45° the rescuer's weight bears primarily on the surface (low-angle), and above 45° the rope system bears the primary load (high-angle).

RTC - Rescue Technician Certification Practice Test

RTC - Rescue Technician Certification Practice Test

RTC Rope Systems & Rigging