When there are three-dimensional obstacles or hazards which need to be passed in order to get a casualty/load to safety, a cross-haul system can be rigged as part of the rescue/work plan. This is a rigged-for-rescue hauling system, from two or more separate locations, which work together in order to move the casualty/load laterally or around a hazard.

During your IRATA Assessment, L2 and L3 certifying techs will be asked to demonstrate competence performing a cross-haul of a casualty between two points.

To execute this, at least two sets of haul or lower ropes and back-up systems (to prevent an out-of-control swing in case of equipment failure) are rigged and connected to the casualty, who is then transferred horizontally using both of these systems.

On assessment day, your assessor will specifically be watching to ensure that you…

• Practice good casualty management.
• Avoid the potential of an out-of-control swing.
• Maintain two legitimate points of connection at each haul station.

If you find that you'll need more than one person to safely perform this rescue, you’ll need to set up a communication strategy with your assisting teammate. If relevant, your assessor will be watching for this.

There are few different communication strategies to choose from. A walky-talky system is often used on the worksite, but it is also good practice for techs to decide on some visually understood hand signals in case of a technological malfunction.

As we practice this manoeuvre during your training week (and when you demonstrate it on assessment day), one of your colleagues may be acting as a casualty and feigning immobility. This acting role has its hazards. If you’re playing this role, you’ll need to move your legs frequently to prevent the onset of the symptoms associated with suspension intolerance.

Additional resources to check out:

TACS 6.5.4 for the source material for this blog.

TACS 9.6.3-9.6.4 for a full list of major and minor discrepancies.

ICOP Part 3, Annex G for more information on suspension intolerance.

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This is part of an ongoing series, where we’re breaking down IRATA’s syllabus and clarifying exactly what ‘demonstrating competence’ and ‘demonstrating awareness’ means, and what will be expected of you on assessment day. As an IRATA L2 certifying tech, you’re expected to be fully competent with the L1 Syllabus. For the additional skills that are part of the L2 syllabus, click below: