Ask a Pro:  How did the NFPA come up with a 15:1 safety factor?

Ask a Pro: How did the NFPA come up with a 15:1 safety factor?

July 01, 2016

 The first edition of the NFPA 1983 was originally intended to give requirements only for ropes used by the fire service.  However, it quickly became apparent that requirements for all other rigging components - hardware, software, and harnesses - would also be needed.  As NFPA 1983 has continued to undergo updates and revisions, the standard has grown to encompass a much broader range of equipment, now stipulating requirements for design, construction, and performance.

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Head to Head: Swivel Pulleys by Rock Exotica and CMC

December 04, 2015

 

This article features two great pulleys, both with a built-in swivel head.  One is by Rock Exotica, the other by CMC.  For this blog, we'll be looking at the 2" single pulley and 1.5" double pulley varieties.  Let's get to it.

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Ask a Pro: Why did NFPA switch from Light Use to Technical Use?

October 01, 2015

As some of you have probably seen, there were some updates to the 2012 edition of NFPA 1983: Standard on Life Safety Rope and Equipment for Emergency Services.  One notable adjustment, and the one I'll be discussing here, was the change in terminology from Light Use (L) to Technical Use (T).  The NFPA Technical Committee (these are the guys who call the shots) thought about calling it "Rescue Use" but eventually settled on Technical Use instead.  

But why did they bother making the switch at all?

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Check this out! - Platinum Rope by Teufelberger Rope Co.

September 01, 2015

New England Ropes / Teufelberger Rope Co. know a thing or two about making the strings we all go work and play with, but it seems they've hit on something really amazing with this latest upgrade.  Ladies and gentlemen of the academy, please meet Platinum Rope.

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Head to Head: Petzl Vertex Best vs. PMI Advantage Helmets

May 15, 2015

Vertex Best    VERSUS   Advantage

 

This episode features two great helmet options for rescuers: the Vertex Best by Petzl, and the Advantage helmet by PMI.  There's no doubt that both of these helmets are excellent options and are used by a wide variety of rescue teams; from SAR to Fire Departments to Industrial Tower Crane workers, but what sets these helmets apart and, given your line of work, what makes one better than the other for you?

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