27 people from a variety of backgrounds attended the day at Mount York and a couple of scenarios/systems were practised. The Larkin Frame was used to lower and raise a patient with litter attendant, then a similar system was used without the Larkin (utilising "edge muscle" to get the litter over the edge). Different hauling ratios were used, generally 4:1 seemed ideal for a group of this size. There were some overhangs to be negotiated during the lift which provided the litter attendants with some challenges during the haul and this also emphasised the need for good communications (very important to avoid the litter getting stuck under an overhang). We did not have radios for this prac day so we used a person on an abseil rope to relay communications.

There were many new faces for this prac day which provided a good opportunity to go over the basics of our standard systems. Different "A" and "B" level operators were involved in leading rescues, attending the litter and acting as "edge controller". It was great to see guides from most companies as well as recreational climbers all working well together. Many thanks to those who contributed.

Some things which came out of the day -

1/  it seems that routing the rescue line via one side of the base of the Larkin is preferable (rather than going from the head pulley straight to the hauling system) as long as the legs can be stabilised either through anchoring to the ground or through having heavy people stand on each side. The frame performs more to its specifications in this mode.

2/  all agreed with using GriGri devices for belaying the rescue line (for hauling only), the belay line and the secured end of the reversible brake. The correct knot should be used for securing the end of the rope when used on the reversible brake.

3/  a 2:1 backstay for the Larkin was used and worked well. It was secured / locked off with a tied off figure 8 device.

4/  a ratio/MA of 4:1 proved a good ratio for a manageable ratio for these scenarios - two people lift / good size team of haulers.


The next prac day will be scheduled for mid November - watch the site for an exact date. It is planned to tackle challenging and realistic scenarios including patients trapped under overhangs.

Check the photos from the day - prac day 18/8/00 photos - you might even see your own face!