Pull-through

This technique should be used only if there are no other means of carrying out the task.

Descending & de-rigging

1. Both the working and back-up ropes should be passed around the structure — ensuring both ends of each rope have a security knot and they reach the floor.
2. Tie a knot on one side of each rope (Alpine Butterfly or similar) just below the structure and connect carabiners to the loops created.
3. Clip these carabiners to the ropes hanging on the opposite side of the structure and pull tight.
4. First attach your back-up device and then your descender to the live ropes and descend.
5. Upon reaching ground level, remove all equipment and any knots. Pull the ropes down.

Ascending & rigging

1. Throw a thin line over the structure.
2. Attach the working and safety ropes to the line.
3. Tie the appropriate knots at the half-way point.
4. Attach carabiners in the manner shown to you.
5. Pull the ropes until they are in the final position.

The risks

Dependent on the shape of the structure, it is possible that the connector could be abnormally loaded during use. Consider the use of appropriate Maillon Rapide connectors in such circumstances.