Rigging operations require an arborist to combine all of the skills involved in climbing, use of ropes and knots, chain saw use and cutting techniques, and limb removal techniques. The Art and Science of Practical Rigging is an advanced training series that requires the user to have already mastered basic climbing skills (or aerial lift operation) and cutting techniques. This series, hosted by Ken Palmer and Rip Tompkins, begins with the basic methods for hardware selection and use, knot tying, and limb removal, and advances to compound rigging techniques and methods for removing heavy wood. (©2001, includes 8 videos, each video approx. 35 min., includes book)
Introduction to Techniques and Methods
• An overview of the fundamental techniques of rigging
• Tying and cutting techniques
• The science of rigging
Equipment and Ropes
• Comparisons of blocks, connecting links, and friction devices
• Design and limitations of rigging equipment
• Rope: construction, selection, and appropriate use
Rigging Knots
• Parts of a line and types of knots
• How to tie the commonly used rigging knots
• Proper use, and advantages and limitations of each knot
Basic Limb Removal
• Natural-crotch vs. false-crotch methods
• Limb tie-off techniques and installing hardware
• Butt-tying, tip-tying, and balancing
Advanced Limb Removal
• Redirect rigging, bend radius, and rope angles
• Limb-lifting techniques and the fishing-pole technique
• Rigging mechanical advantage
Compound Rigging Techniques
• Load-transfer and drift-line techniques
• The “spider rig” and using multiple slings
• Speedlining in conjunction with other methods
Understanding Forces in Rigging
• Working with the rigging point below the load
• Five major variables in blocking down sections
• How to reduce shock-loading
Top Removal and Rigging Heavy Wood
• Top-removal methods
• Butt-hitching
• Roping down large sections
Previous retail price $299.95; Limited quantities available