All the testing has been done for years. Infact the NFPA standard 1983 states NFPA calculates the 15:1 safety factor by using a 300lbs load for each rescuer or patient on a rope system. 2 rescuers x 300lbs x 15:1 safety = 9000lbs. All of the equipment used should be stamped 9000lbs or 40 kN. The rope used should be 1/2 static line with no more than a 10% stretch. I was very luck to have worked with a gentleman Jim Kovach who did testing all the time for major manufacturers of climbing gear. He also rewrote the book on fall factors. As you notice I didn’t say I was the smart guy, I was just lucky enough to work with Jim on a high angle rescue team for years. Just one more thing, the only reason I commented was for the safety of others. I have been retired for years and have no need to tell someone how smart I am ( which I am not ) once again I just happen to be lucky enough to be sent to a lot of school with some of the most knowledgeable folks in the industry. Please don't think I am being argumentative or rude I am trying my best just to give you the facts so you and others can stay safe.
I am sorry to say but this is NOT a very good idea. The lift capacity of that truck new with the boom fully retracted is 5000lbs. as per the manufacture. NFPA standards for rope rescue is stated a 15 to 1 ratio with a firefighter being 300lbs. Using a 4 to 1 haul system 3 or 4 over zealous firefighter’s can easily put more weight into the system then the tower can handle. All the rope rescue equipment is usually rated for a 2 person load at a weight of 9000lbs minimum breaking strength the chances of getting a stokes basket hung up on a step or the lip of a sewer is very high so as one can see you are just looking for trouble. Proper equipment should be used whenever possible, in this case a tripod that is rated for this job should be used. Now with that all being said, it should also be noted that many ladder manufacturers put simple eye bolts on the bottom of the tower. These should never be used except to hang a flag for a parade. Also the video should show to never create a triangle with your straps using those anchors points, this is known as a death triangle and can have catastrophic results. And one last thing, the bucket or straight stick should never be used to rappel off of, they are not rated for that type of stress. One firefighter coming to a sudden stop on a rope causes a shock load in the system that weight will be transferred to the bucket/ladder. For those that say “we do this all the time” or “it’s not a big deal” I know that these ladders don’t often fail BUT not a good way to make it into fire engineering magazine! And if one were to get hurt or worse the NFPA standards will not help your case in court and/or your workers comp case is denied because you were doing something you were not supposed to be doing. Why do I write all this? Not to poop poop an idea, not to say “hey look at me” but for one simple reason….. I care about my brothers and sisters and don’t want to see any of you hurt. Be safe brothers and train like your life depends on it!
