Double rope technique
The double rope technique is a working method for workplace positioning on ropes, especially in rope climbing technique (SKT) . It is used in tree care or tree felling.
technology
The method of the double rope technique is a further development and specialization from the field of speleology . To reach his working position in a tree , the arborist first transports a thin cord as high as possible over a load-bearing fork with the help of a throw bag or a shooting device. A weight at the beginning of the cord pulls it over the fork of the branch. To protect the sensitive bark , the arborist can pull a cambium protector over the fork of the branch before using the cord to “install” the actual rope. The rope now hangs in a double strand, with one end being fixed to the belt and the other being connected to a clamping knot fixed there .
The ascent into the tree then takes place on the freely hanging rope, whereby various ascent and safety techniques are used. A foot clamping method is widespread, in which the free-running rope strand is clamped between the feet so that legs and arms can be used to pull them up. At the same time, the arborist is secured on the rope by means of clamping knots and a special seat belt (Sliding-D).
equipment
In the professional use of ropes, the safety-relevant equipment is subject to special regulations of the professional associations , especially the horticultural professional association in Kassel. Belts, ropes and technical aids must be manufactured in accordance with European standards and have the appropriate identification. They must be checked regularly (at least once a year, see PPE Usage Ordinance ) and replaced at fixed intervals. Tether ropes sometimes have steel cores to prevent the rope from being cut when a chainsaw is used in the tree .
advantages
Compared to the use of aerial work platforms or scaffolding , the double rope technology can often be used more flexibly in trees. Neither space nor paved roads are required, so that you can work in inaccessible places such as backyards or embankments. In tree care, the soil is not compacted by heavy vehicles.
If there are several trees to be worked on in an easily accessible place, an aerial work platform offers a more efficient way of working compared to rope climbing technology, as the work preparation is then much shorter.
These procedures must not be used on buildings or when rope-assisted access techniques are used in any other way .