Rope-to-rope transfer

Overview

A rope-to-rope transfer, is simply the act of transferring from one set of anchor lines to another, however can also be used to gain better positioning horizontally between anchor points.

Rope-to-rope transfers can be broken into two main categories; Small and large. This refers to the offset distance between the sets of anchor lines. A transfer with an offset distance of greater than 1.5 metres is considered large, and less than 1.5 metres is small.

It is not uncommon to see different techniques used for rope-to-rope transfers of different offset sizes, however for the benefit of simplicity and safety this manual will provide only one method which is safe to carry out with any distance offset.

Important Considerations

• Is a rope-to-rope transfer suitable for the situation?

• The offset distance should be assessed

• Does the user have sufficient equip ment to complete the transfer safely?

• The risk of an out of control swing must be considered, and protected against

• How will the user access the “forward” ropes?

• Forward ropes could be clipped to the technician or tied to the ascent ropes

• Rope management is important during transfers to avoid tangles

• Rescue access and the difficulty of rescue should be considered

Method

1. Set up for ascent

2. Ascend the lines to the desired position to begin the transfer

3. Changeover into descending equipment – removing and storing any ascending equipment

4. Take hold of the forward ropes, and place them on the opposite side of your body to the ascent ropes

5. Attach the spare back-up device to one of the forward ropes and put in a high position – taking care to secure karabiner (if necessary)

6. Place the other forward rope into the chest ascender and pull through any slack

7. In larger transfers, it may be necessary to ascend the forward ropes to gain positioning or clearance from below, pulling your weight in the direction of the forward anchor, guide the working line through the chest ascender using a hand below – the hand ascender and foot loop can be used to make ascent more efficient

8. If ascending, take care to maintain the back-up device on the forward ropes in a high position

9. Once in a suitable position on the forward ropes, descend across to the forward ropes – making sure you remain protected from a swing – until the descending device becomes slack

10. When there is no tension on the ascent ropes, disconnect the descending device and back-up

11. Take a moment to manage the ropes and ensure there are no tangles before doing a changeover into descent on the forward ropes

12. Descend.