Movement and work in the tree using DdRT and SRT with the ZIGZAG
Basic Techniques
The ZIGZAG may be used on doubled rope (DdRT) and on single rope (SRT) when combined with the CHICANE. Each technique has advantages and disadvantages depending on the situation.
Warning
- Carefully read the Instructions for Use referenced in this Tech Tip before reading the Tech Tip itself. You must have read and understood the Instructions for Use to understand this supplementary information.
- Performing these techniques requires specific training. Work with a professional to confirm your ability to perform these techniques safely and independently before attempting them unsupervised.
- We provide examples of techniques related to your activity. Other techniques not described here may also exist.
Note: in this document the name ZIGZAG means either the ZIGZAG or ZIGZAG PLUS models.
Installing the work rope
- The arborist selects an anchor on-site and installs it as high as possible in the tree, for optimal movement.
- Provides tree access for multiple arborists
- The access rope can be used for rescue or as a work aid by the person on the ground.
- The top of the tree must be reached before work can begin.
- Ability to work anytime during access.
- Ability to work without climbing to the tree-top.
- The rope may be set up on a releasable anchor, to facilitate rescue.
- Difficult to check anchor quality before use.
- Using an anchor set by the throw line, which is not necessarily the best nor the best placed.
Equipment to use
Areas of the tree accessible from the selected anchor
Reduced efficiency and fluidity of movement without a straight rope between the anchor and the arborist.
Efficiency is unaffected by bends in the rope.
Efficiency and ergonomics when returning to the trunk
Pulling on the brake-side rope in double mode provides a self-hauling effect. The rope serves as a fulcrum and reduces the effort needed to climb.
Without a special setup, the arborist pulls 100% of his weight when pulling on the rope.
Load on the anchor
The arborist is suspended directly; the load on the anchor is simple.
The load on the anchor is theoretically doubled by the “pulley effect” at the rope’s redirect point (depending on the friction at the redirect). Note: this point will be elaborated in another technical tip as practice can differ significantly from theory.
