Rappelling Honor

Recreational Activities

Requirements

1. Do the following:
   • List and explain the safety rules
   • Explain the warning sign: "falling hazard"

   Answer: Rules: use full PPE (helmet, harness, gloves, certified carabiners); inspect all equipment before the descent; check the rigging with the instructor; never rappel alone; keep ropes in good condition; use two anchor points; do not jump or run on the rope; maintain visual and verbal contact with the belayer. — Rappelling is a high-risk sport that requires serious training. Rappelling accidents are frequently fatal (falls of 10m+). Certified PPE (CE, UIAA) is mandatory. An experienced instructor is mandatory for beginners. 'Fall hazard' signs are an international standard on mountains and cliffs. At camporees, rappelling only with professionals and proper equipment. The fundamental rule: 'safety is never optional' - better to cancel the activity than to risk lives in improper conditions.

2. Explain the use of the following knots:
   • Tape knot (water knot)
   • Butterfly knot
   • Figure eight
   • Double fisherman's knot
   • Prusik
   • Bowline

   Answer: 1) Water knot: used to join the two ends of a tubular webbing (forming a ring/loop) or to splice webbing; widely used in anchors and in making improvised slings. It must always leave safety tails at the ends. 2) Butterfly knot (alpine): creates a fixed loop in the middle of the rope without needing to use the ends; it serves to isolate a damaged section of the rope or to tie a person into the middle of a rope team, withstanding pull in both directions. 3) Figure eight: a strong, easy-to-check knot, used to anchor the rope and to tie the harness to the rope (follow-through/rethreaded version); it is the standard connection knot in climbing and rappelling for its safety and strength. 4) Double fisherman's: firmly joins two ropes (or closes a cord loop), with two knots that lock against each other; used to splice ropes for long rappels and to make prusik loops. 5) Prusik: a self-locking knot made with a smaller-diameter cord wrapped around the main rope; when unloaded it slides freely and, under tension, grips the rope. Used as a brake/self-belay and to ascend the rope in rappelling emergencies. 6) Bowline: forms a fixed loop at the end of the rope that does not run or tighten under load and is easy to undo afterward; used to safely pass the rope around an anchor point or the body. — Knots are the climber's basic vocabulary. Each one has a specific purpose. The figure eight is the most used knot in rappelling (strong and easy to inspect). The prusik saves lives as a brake. The bowline is universal. The double fisherman's is vital for splicing ropes. Errors in knots can be fatal. Training until you master them with your eyes closed is the rule. At camporees with climbing, the instructor checks every knot before going up. Knowing them strengthens the Pathfinder's technical autonomy.

3. Draw a diagram for rappel descents in the following cases:
   • Single rope technique
   • Positive and negative rappelling

   Answer: Single rope: a rope fixed from the top, descent with an ATC/figure-eight, optional backup with a prusik. Positive rappel: terrain with an incline up to 90° (hanging, standard on vertical rock faces), the weight suspended by the rope. Negative rappel: terrain with an incline greater than 90° (negative/overhang), the body free in space, requires advanced technique and greater strength. — The types of rappel differ by difficulty. Positive is easier for beginners — the rock face serves as support. Negative is only for the experienced — without support, you spin in the air. A single rope simplifies things but requires rigorous inspection. A double system (double rope with a central knot) allows a longer descent. Each situation requires analysis. At camporees, a simple positive rappel is generally done under professional supervision. Knowing the techniques broadens the repertoire of the sporting Pathfinder.

4. Know how to identify the way to secure an anchor in various circumstances. Example: trees, rocks, obstacles.

   Answer: Identify a safe anchor according to the circumstance: 1) Trees: choose a living, firm trunk, with a minimum diameter of about 30 cm, deep roots, and no signs of rot, cracks, or leaning; tie the sling as close as possible to the base of the trunk. 2) Stones/rocks: use massive blocks well fixed to the ground, without cracks, with sufficient weight and stability (test by pushing/kicking to confirm they do not move); avoid loose or propped-up rocks. 3) Obstacles and artificial points: take advantage of strong structures (concrete posts, beams, fixed bolts/hangers in a rock face); inspect their firmness and state of conservation. In all cases: use two independent anchor points (redundancy), equalize the load between them, avoid sharp edges that cut the rope, and never rely on a single point. — A bad anchor kills. Dead trees, unstable rocks, or questionable structures must be avoided. The two-point rule (Y) creates redundancy: if one fails, the other holds. In commercial areas (Sugarloaf, Itatiaia), professional bolts are standard. Ropes and slings must be checked (no mold, cuts, fraying). UIAA equipment guarantees quality. At camporees, regular sites should have permanent anchors evaluated by a certified professional annually.

5. Explain the various verbal calls.

   Answer: 1) 'Rope free' (descending, there is loose rope); 2) 'Watch the rope' (someone take care when receiving it); 3) 'You may descend' (authorizes the start of the rappel); 4) 'I'm descending' (announces that you have started); 5) 'Stop' (urgent, stop immediately); 6) 'All ok?' (status check); 7) 'Position' (body orientation). — Verbal calls save lives and organize the activity. On a high rock face, the sound is muffled by the wind. Standardized commands prevent confusion. Before starting, everyone memorizes the commands and their responses. A whistle can complement them. Visual signals (hands) are an alternative. At camporees, the instructor practices with the group before the real activity. Each word has a clear meaning. 'Stop' is an absolute emergency - everyone stops and looks. Communication is as important as descent technique.

6. Explain the principles of belaying and three methods used; cite the advantages and disadvantages of each method.
   • Body lashing (anchoring on the body)
   • Mechanical anchoring
   • Anchoring on a base

   Answer: Principle of belaying: create controlled friction between the rope and a braking system to descend safely, always with the brake hand controlling the rear rope. Three methods: 1) Body belay (Dulfer): the rope passes around the body itself, generating friction; advantage: requires no equipment; disadvantage: painful, loses heat/friction, unsafe, only for emergencies. 2) Mechanical belay with a brake device (ATC/tube, figure-eight, GriGri): a metal device controls the descent; advantage: comfortable, fast, safe, and adjustable; disadvantage: depends on equipment and training. 3) Carabiner/improvised brake belay (carabiner brake / Munter hitch on an HMS carabiner): uses carabiners and a half-turn of the line to brake; advantage: can be improvised with just carabiners in an emergency; disadvantage: twists the rope, generates more wear, and requires extra attention. — Technical evolution has brought safety. The body belay is historical — use it only in an emergency without gear. Modern equipment (ATC, figure-eight, Petzl's GriGri) allows controlled and safe descents. The GriGri self-locks during a fall. At the base, it is an intermediate alternative. Each method has an ideal scenario. An instructional course is essential for choosing and operating safely. At camporees with rappelling, professional equipment is standard — the body belay is only a didactic simulation.

7. List the rules for caring for ropes.

   Answer: 1) Inspect before and after each use (cuts, fraying, suspicious stains); 2) Wash with cold water and mild soap when dirty; 3) Dry in the shade and in the open air (never direct sun or a heater); 4) Store coiled in a rope bag in a dry place, away from chemicals, sun, and moisture; 5) Do not step on the rope. — Ropes are critical equipment - their failure kills. Service life is limited even without use (UV, heat, moisture degrade them). The brand/model determines maximum loads. Static ropes (rappelling) and dynamic ropes (climbing) have specific uses. Even when new, they must be treated as precious. Professionals keep a detailed record. At the first sign of doubt, discard. At camporees, the instructor must present an inspection certificate for the ropes. Investing in quality ropes (Petzl, Edelweiss) and taking good care prolongs their life.

8. Explain the difference between dynamic ropes and static ropes.

   Answer: Dynamic ropes have the capacity to stretch 6-10% under load, absorbing fall impacts; used in climbing where falls are possible. Static ropes have very low elasticity (~2%); used in descending rappel, rescues, caving, and rope-access work where there is no free fall. Static ropes are stronger under constant weight. — Elasticity saves lives in climbing. Without dynamism, a violent fall would be lethal even when cushioned by equipment. In rappelling there is no fall - only a controlled descent - so static rope is better (it does not stretch and make the person bounce). The EN 892 standard (dynamic) and EN 1891 (static) regulate manufacturing. Different colors help to identify them. Professionals know how to distinguish them. At advanced camporees, both are present for different activities. Knowing the difference is basic technique for any climber.

9. Know the correct types of equipment needed for rappelling.

   Answer: Equipment: certified helmet (UIAA/CE); harness (waist/chest harness); certified static ropes; locking carabiners (HMS, oval); descent device (ATC, figure eight, GriGri); leather or kevlar gloves; cords for prusik (5-7mm); tubular webbing for anchoring; sturdy shoes with a grippy sole. — Each piece of equipment has a specific function and nothing is dispensable. The helmet protects against falling objects. The harness distributes weight and holds the body. Certified ropes have a known load capacity. Locking carabiners prevent accidental opening. Brake devices control the descent. Gloves prevent friction burns. At camporees with rappelling, equipment must be inspected by a certified instructor. Reliable brands: Petzl, Black Diamond, Camp, Beal. Bad equipment kills - investing in quality is the rule.

10. Know the best way to store your rope. Example: coiling and shortening.

    Answer: Butterfly coil (alpine coil): make alternating loops, leaving a larger loop at the end, secure it with a simple knot; ideal for transport. Rope bag coiling: put the rope in a dedicated bag, leaving both ends out, easy to use. Shoulder coil: larger loops crossing the shoulder, frees the hands. — Good coiling preserves the rope and makes use easier. The butterfly avoids knots. A rope bag (a bag lined with nonwoven fabric) protects against dirt and UV. Ropes twisted during use can store a 'memory' of the twist — undo it regularly. Ropes stored incorrectly may have altered dynamics. Ropes often travel in backpacks — a rope bag is a practical solution. At camporees, the instructor demonstrates the correct coils at the start of the activity. Practicing until you master it is part of the training.

11. Know each device used for different rappel descents.
    • State the reasons why you chose this device. Example: Time, safety, heat, versatility, etc.

    Answer: ATC (tube): light, simple, versatile for 8-11mm ropes, standard in climbing/rappelling; advantage: weight, simplicity. Figure eight: generates a lot of heat but is durable; advantage: durability. GriGri: self-locks in a fall, but only for a single rope; advantage: maximum safety. Bar rack descender: for long rappels, dissipates heat. — The choice of brake device depends on the situation. Beginners start with the ATC (versatile and cheap). The GriGri is better for mountaineering with stops. The rack is for long canyoning. The figure eight is simple but heats up a lot on long descents (dangerous). The Munter (alpinist's hitch) is an improvisation. Professionals carry several for distinct situations. At camporees with short rappels, the ATC or figure eight are sufficient. Knowing each one broadens the versatility of the Pathfinder who practices vertical sports.

12. Know how to treat a patient in the following cases:
    • Sprain
    • Concussion
    • Hypothermia
    • Fracture
    • Shock

    Answer: 1) Sprain: immobilize the joint with splints or bandages, elevate the limb above heart level, apply ice wrapped in cloth for 15-20 minutes (if available), and avoid putting weight on the area. 2) Concussion: stabilize the head and neck, keep the victim at rest, and monitor the level of consciousness (alertness, speech, pupil reaction); do not offer liquids or food, and arrange hospital transport for evaluation. 3) Hypothermia: warm the victim gradually (thermal blanket, body heat, a hot drink NEVER alcohol), change wet clothing for dry, and protect from wind and cold. 4) Fracture: do not try to put the bone back in place; immobilize the area with a rigid splint covering the joints above and below the focus, control bleeding if it is an open fracture by covering it with a clean dressing, keep the limb elevated, and refer to the hospital. 5) Shock: lay the victim on their back and elevate the legs about 30 cm (except if a leg, head, or spine fracture is suspected), keep them warm with a blanket, loosen tight clothing, do not give liquids, and monitor breathing and pulse until help arrives. — Field first aid is vital. Vertical activities have risks. ABC (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) is the priority. Each injury has specific management. Hypothermia at altitude is common even in tropical Brazil (nighttime cold, rain). A concussion requires medical evaluation - late symptoms are possible. Poorly managed fractures can become open (infection). Shock kills quickly. A first aid course (Red Cross, Fire Department) is a valuable additional qualification for every outdoor Pathfinder.

13. Explain how to proceed in the following rescues:
    • Using a pulley system
    • How to switch methods during the rescue

    Answer: 1) Using a pulley system (Z-rig): combines 2 to 3 pulleys with carabiners forming a 3:1 or 5:1 mechanical advantage, allowing 1 person to pull a 60-80 kg weight alone. Set up a firm anchor, install the fixed upper pulley, position the second movable pulley near the patient, and connect a prusik knot to lock the progress and prevent the load from receding during pauses. 2) How to change methods during the rescue: prepare a locking knot (prusik or self-locking) on the main rope to hold the load safely; transfer the weight to that knot so that the current system is unloaded; only then dismantle the old system (for example, switch from a controlled descent to a Z-rig hoist, or vice versa) and reassemble the new method; check the entire setup before reapplying load, and maintain constant communication with the patient and the team during the transition. — High-angle rescues are complex and require specific training. Pulley systems multiply force. The Z-rig is traditional. Each situation calls for a specific method: descent with a guide rope, counterweight rescue, hoisting. Professional firefighters and rescuers master several techniques. At camporees, rescue simulations teach the fundamentals. Dedicated equipment (Petzl ID, AZTEC, MPD) facilitates professional rescues. Knowing how to adapt is the difference between life and death in real emergencies on rock faces.

14. Pass the SAD exam with a score higher than 60%.

    Answer: Study all the requirements of the Honor in advance (knots, equipment, procedures, first aid, rules). Practice the practical demonstrations with a certified instructor. Review the theoretical material (official SAD handbooks). Take practice tests. Sleep well the night before. — The SAD exam is a regional standard. It requires theoretical and practical knowledge. A score of 60% (generally 6 correct out of 10 questions) is the minimum. The exams have a written part and a practical demonstration. Studying in a group helps. The official material is on Adventist websites (SAD, JA Brazil). An experienced instructor is the best preparer. At large camporees, exams take place at stations. Serious preparation guarantees a pass. The Honor earned adds to the Pathfinder's Honor sash.

15. Answer the questions on the following topics:
    • Use of at least six knots used in rappelling
    • What they are, and give the meaning of the standard climbing calls
    • Use of various types of belay/braking devices
    • Give seven rules for fixing the rope
    • Give seven safety rules
    • Know first aid and how to treat patients
    • Give five ways to detect flaws in the rope

    Answer: 1) At least six knots used in rappelling: figure eight (and its variations), bowline, prusik (self-locking), double fisherman's, water knot (for joining webbing), and alpine butterfly knot. 2) Standard climbing grades and their meaning (YDS system - Yosemite Decimal System): class 5 indicates technical rock climbing that requires a rope; it ranges from 5.0 (easy) to 5.15 (extremely difficult), with the number after the dot measuring the increasing difficulty; from 5.10 onward, the letters a, b, c, d are added to refine the grade. 3) Use of various types of belay/rappel devices: ATC (tubular, versatile for descent and belaying), figure eight (classic descender, dissipates heat well), GriGri (with cam-assisted locking, ideal for belaying), and rack (a plate with bars for long rappels and heavy ropes); the device creates controlled friction on the rope to regulate descent speed. 4) Seven rules for fixing the rope (anchoring): use at least two anchor points; ensure redundancy (if one fails, the other holds); keep the angle between the legs correct, below 60 degrees; keep the system equalized (load distributed evenly); avoid shock load (sudden impact load); protect and redirect the rope at sharp edges; and inspect all points before use. 5) Seven safety rules: always use a certified helmet and equipment (harness, locking carabiners); check the PPE before each use; always keep a back-up or redundant safety (self-locking knot); never rappel alone and give the command/confirmation with your partner; check the knots and the rope's passage through the device before descending; protect the rope from friction at edges; and maintain constant speed control, never letting go of the brake hand. 6) First aid and patient treatment: know how to recognize and treat sprains (immobilize, elevate, ice), fractures (immobilize without resetting the bone), concussion (stabilize the head and monitor consciousness), hypothermia (warm gradually, change wet clothing), and shock (lay down, elevate legs, warm); always assess airway, breathing, and circulation, control bleeding, and arrange adequate transport, avoiding moving the victim if a spinal injury is suspected. 7) Five ways to detect failures in the rope: visual inspection looking for cuts, broken or frayed strands in the sheath; touch along the entire length feeling for soft, flattened, or stiff spots (damaged core); checking for discoloration, stains, dryness, or melting from heat/abrasion; checking for contact with chemicals (acids, solvents) that weaken the fibers; and tracking the age and history of use/falls, retiring the rope according to the manufacturer's recommendation. — The theoretical content is vast. Each topic is a book in itself. The YDS system (Yosemite Decimal System) grades difficulty: 5.0 easy, 5.15 world elite. Brazil has good routes from 5.10-5.13. Anchoring rules involve applied physics (force vectors, critical angle of 60°). Detecting rope failures requires a trained touch and eye. Theoretical mastery saves lives in a real situation. Studying with books such as 'Rock Climbing Anchors' (Long and Gaines) and 'Climbing Self-Rescue' deepens technical training.

16. Perform the following tasks:
    • Tie six different knots used in rappelling
    • Set up a single rope installation and another one for a cliff (rock face)
    • Simulate a cliff rescue witnessed by your instructor
    • Coil and shorten a rope correctly
    • Demonstrate anchoring methods

    Answer: 1) Demonstrate 6 different knots (figure eight, bowline, prusik, double fisherman's, water knot, butterfly) fluently. 2) Set up a single-rope system (one fixed rope) and a cliff system (rock face with double anchoring). 3) Simulate a cliff rescue with an instructor (a pretend victim, Z-rig pulley system). — The practical exam verifies real skills. Knowing the theory is not enough; you must perform it. Each task requires prior training. Mistakes are corrected by the instructor. At large camporees, assessment stations are set up. Time is measured with a stopwatch. The candidate's own (or the club's) equipment is used. Practical + theoretical approval completes the Honor. The demonstration consolidates learning and gives the Pathfinder confidence for future real vertical activities under professional supervision.

17. From a minimum height of 10 meters, complete two rappels with each of the following pieces of equipment. Know how to attach them to the rope.
    • Simple descender
    • Figure-8 anti-burn descender (huit antibrulure)
    • Figure-8 rescue device
    • Figure eight
    • Rack (bar descender)
    • ATC belay device
    • Carabiner

    Answer: Set up a secure anchor at the top. For each device, connect it to the harness and the rope: 1) Simple descender: pass the rope through the device in a U shape. 2) Figure eight 'huit antibrulure' brake: rope in an S shape through the larger part. 3) Rescue figure eight (with a horn): similar but with a safety horn. — Knowing multiple devices broadens versatility. Each device has a specific installation technique. Practicing with each one on different ropes (8mm, 10mm, 11mm) is important. The ATC is the most widely used worldwide. The figure eight is traditional and durable. The GriGri (not listed but common) self-locks. The Munter is an improvisation - useful in emergencies. At large camporees, workshops set up several stations with different devices. Time for correct installation + safe descent = positive assessment by the instructor.

18. Explain how to do the basic rappel and the shoulder rappel, for emergency use.

    Answer: The question asks for TWO distinct emergency techniques: 1) Basic rappel (body method / Dulfersitz): with the rope anchored above, stand with your back to the descent; pass the rope between your legs (coming from front to back), bring it behind one of your thighs, cross it diagonally across the front of your chest, take it over the opposite shoulder, and let it descend down your back to the brake hand on the opposite side. The body's friction controls the descent; the brake hand (on the rope coming from your back) regulates speed by pulling the rope to the front of the body (brakes) or releasing it (descends). It is painful and generates heat, so it is for emergencies only. 2) Shoulder rappel: an even simpler emergency technique, indicated for less steep terrain. With your back to the descent and facing the anchor, hold the rope with your upper hand (guide hand); pass the rope under one armpit, cross it diagonally across your back and over the opposite shoulder, bringing it to the front to the brake hand on the lower side. The friction concentrates on the back and shoulder. The brake hand controls speed. Always wear a layer of thick clothing on the shoulder/back to reduce friction burns. Both methods should only be used when no brake device is available. — Emergency rappel is a last resort. Without equipment, any descent is risky. The Dulfersitz (from the German climber Hans Dülfer) uses the body as a brake. Thick clothing reduces friction burns. The brake hand controls speed. In real emergencies (a fall, an unplanned descent, an escape), knowing these techniques can save a life. At camporees, demonstrations are done at low heights to feel the friction. Proper equipment is always preferable to an improvised one.

19. Be able to use the prusik on a 10-meter cliff.

    Answer: Use 2 prusik cords (5-7mm), tie a prusik knot around the main rope 30cm apart. Connect one to the harness (waist) and the other to the feet (it passes through the foot as a step). To ascend: move the foot prusik upward (loosening it), step up putting weight on it, move the waist prusik upward, transfer weight, repeat. — Ascending a rope with a prusik is a basic self-rescue technique. Useful when a descent gets stuck or in emergencies. The prusik knot tightens under load and loosens when free. Alternating movement allows progression. In mountaineering, this can save a life (escaping a glacier crevasse). Alternative equipment: mechanical ascenders (Petzl Tibloc, Pantin) are faster. At camporees, practice over 5-10m on a tree or structure allows learning this fundamental technique.