Safety Backup

[mrtree]

I am curious in anybody is using a second line as safety when climbing? I have been considering purchasing a Petzl ASAP and adsorber for use on a second line. This seems to me to be an excellent idea to use in SRT.

Michael

 

[Fairfield]

i dont think it would be very practical to put a second line as a back-up all the time. but i do see the benies of instaling a second climbing line in the tree for a rescuer to go up in case you become a victam. a second line attached to your saddle is just another object to hang you up. plus how would you have it set up? would it be for you to control ( double tie in) or would it be controled by a groundie. if your ground person is to control it then you have to only have souly for that and nothing else while in the tree.

 

[Tom Dunlap]

Using a second line for support is common and sometimes required for other rope access disciplines. There have been rumblings from governmental safety agencies around the world about requiring tree workers to use two lines.

Sometimes adding more safety can lead to more problems though. Now, two rope systems need to be tended and managed during the climb. Both have to be considered primary support. Many times there is only one good TIP in a tree. How would a climber find #2 without breaking the intent of the regulation.

At times I've used two ropes, or both ends of my main rope, for support as a complimentary system. I've never run a true double rope system though.

Have you found comparisons between the Rocker and the ASAP? Both do the same thing but I wonder how they compare. some rope access group must have done a comparison by now.

 

[Fairfield]

I think you would have to keep in mind that if it were to be a true back up system that the back up would have to be above your main system to be effective in case it is needed. this way it is always out of the way from your other rope, not tangled ( hopefully) in it.

 

[mrtree]

Fairfield,

Look at what the Petzel ASAP is. I don't think you understand what I am suggesting. This system is a fall arrest system with a shock aborber in it.

As Tom mentions there are rumblings in various about making a second rope manditory for tree workers.

I cannot see a two rope system for many trees, but I am sure it would be great for large trees and while gaining access using SRT.

Michael

 

[Fairfield]

my mistake mrtree, i was compleatly thinking of something eles. now that i see what u are talking about sounds great.

As for the two lines in SRT.. for saftey you cant say anything against it, but when do call it as over kill. Dont get me wrong though you can never truly say over kill when it comes to the safty of your workers.

 

[Tom Dunlap]

Leaving a second, access line, in the tree is a great safety backup. Using a second rope all of the time is problematic.

 

[treesandsurf]

for me, I use a second line for certain situations when it's impossible to get way out there (usually a long, upward pointing limb). Having it all the time doesn't make any sense, though.

jp