Rappel Master Course

Instructor: Rich Carlson

Our Rappel Master training program will provide you with the current knowledge and fundamental skills you need to manage and supervise non-tactical rappel operations, while you are also honing your own personal on-rope and rescue skills. 

It is designed for individuals whose occupations require rappelling, for those who are in charge of rappel training, and for anyone interested in taking their rappelling and outdoor leadership skills up to a higher level. The program is also ideal for canyoneers and other practitioners of adventure-based and experiential education.

Upon successful completion of the course students will receive a Rappel Master certificate.

Topics covered include:

• problem-solving and decision-making methodologies, avoiding heuristic traps
• group dynamics and facilitation, situational adaptation of leadership styles
• importance of both objective (technical) and subjective (human) leadership skills
• hazard identification, risk assessment and management
• site management and transition safety systems
• teaching principles and strategies
• planning and presenting effective safety briefings
• gear selection, inspection and care
• natural and artificial anchors
• rigging and rappelling – single rope, double rope and twin rope systems
• contingency rigging for efficient response to emergency situations
• ascending, transitions from rappelling to ascending and from ascending to rappelling
• self-rescue and partner rescue systems
• fundamentals of mechanical advantage for rescue
• converting common forms or rappel rigging to lower or haul
• assisted rappels, tandem rappels and simul rappels
• rescuer-based and team-based pickoffs

Prerequisites

Must be competent and confident on rappel.

Required Gear

• harness
• helmet
• rappel/belay device of your choice
• 3-5 Locking Carabiners (HMS, pear-shape preferred)
• well-fitting leather gloves

NOTE: Extra gear will be available for use and purchase during the workshop.

Please be prepared each day with 2-3 liters of water, lunch and snacks, appropriate clothing for anticipated weather, sturdy footwear, personal comfort items and a day pack to carry your gear.