ASTM F2954-19

Standard Guide for Training for Intermediate Rope Rescuer Endorsement

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This guide establishes a minimum standard for training intermediate level rope rescuers as it relates to their general, field, and rope rescue specific knowledge and skills. A person trained to this guide is an Intermediate Rope Rescuer.  
4.1.1 Every person who is identified as an Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall have met the requirements of this guide.  
4.1.2 This guide is only the second level of training for rope rescue personnel and, in conjunction with Guides F2209 and F2752, only establishes the minimum knowledge and skills required for a person to perform Intermediate Rope Rescue. No other advanced skills are included or implied.  
4.1.3 In addition to meeting the requirements of this guide, an Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall also be adequately trained to function safely and effectively in the environment in which he or she is expected to work (that is, wilderness, urban, etc.).  
4.2 Intermediate Rope Rescue endorsement is not an indication that a person possesses adequate field skills or knowledge to make mission-critical decisions. Under qualified supervision an Intermediate Rope Rescuer is qualified to work in an area with high fall exposure and/or falling hazard potential, including high angle terrain.  
4.3 This guide by itself is not a complete training document. It is only an outline of the topics required for training or evaluating an Intermediate Rope Rescuer or by an AHJ. It may, however, be used in the development of, or as part of, a complete training document or program.  
4.3.1 This guide does not stand alone and must be used with the referenced documents to provide the specific information needed by an Intermediate Rope Rescuer or by an AHJ.  
4.4 Though this guide establishes only minimum standards, it does not imply that an Intermediate Rope Rescuer is a “trainee,” “probationary,” or other similar term member of an organization.  
4.4.1 Determining the requirements and qualifications for land rescue team members is the responsib...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide, in conjunction with, and as an add-on to, Guides F2751 and F2752 (or equivalents for other environments) defines the training required for a person who participates in rope rescue operations at an intermediate level of responsibility and complexity as part of larger rescue duty.  
1.1.1 Specifically, this guide defines the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for a person to assist, support, and direct rope rescue operations at an intermediate level, including patient packaging, litter rigging, ascending and descending fixed ropes in a high angle environment, constructing raising and lowering systems, and directing simple low angle rescue operations, in conjunction with other rescue duties.  
1.1.2 This guide establishes the minimum training standard for an Intermediate Rope Rescuer as related to general, field, and rope rescue-specific knowledge and skills.  
1.1.3 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer may directly supervise low angle rope rescue operations.  
1.1.4 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer must work under the direct supervision of qualified rope rescue personnel during high angle or complex rope rescues.  
1.2 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer endorsement applies only to rescues on the surface of the land; additional endorsements are required to perform this level of rope rescue in other environments. This guide alone does not define the minimum training requirements for rescuing in partially or fully collapsed structures, in or on water, in confined spaces, or underground (such as in caves, mines, and tunnels).  
1.3 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer is required to have knowledge and skill sets pertaining to the intermediate roped evacuation and carryout component of rescue. These include but are not limited to patient packaging, construction of an anchor system, construction of simple, compound, and complex rope mechanical advantage systems, and construction and use of lowering (fixed-brake) rope systems....

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Mar-2019
• ICS: 13.200 - Accident and disaster control
• Technical Committee: F32 - Search and Rescue
• Drafting Committee: F32.03 - Personnel, Training and Education

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM F2954-12 - Standard Guide for Training for Level II Rope Rescue (R2) Rescuer Endorsement
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM F1993-24 - Standard Classification System of Human Land Search and Rescue Resources
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2024
• Refers: ASTM F1768-97(2020) - Standard Guide for Using Whistle Signals During Rope Rescue Operations
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM F2752-19 - Standard Guide for Training for Basic Rope Rescuer Endorsement
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM F2047-00(2019) - Standard Practice for Workers’ Compensation Coverage of Emergency Services Volunteers
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM F3222-16 - Standard Terminology Relating to F32 Land Search and Rescue Standards and Guides
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2016
• Refers: ASTM F1773-09(2015) - Standard Terminology Relating to Climbing, Mountaineering, Search and Rescue Equipment and Practices (Withdrawn 2024)
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2015
• Refers: ASTM F1768-97(2014) - Standard Guide for Using Whistle Signals During Rope Rescue Operations
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2014
• Refers: ASTM F2752-09(2014) - Standard Guide for Training for Level I Rope Rescue (R1) Rescuer Endorsement
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2014
• Refers: ASTM F2047-00(2012) - Standard Practice for Workers’ Compensation Coverage of Emergency Services Volunteers
• Effective Date: 01-May-2012
• Refers: ASTM F2209-10 - Standard Guide for Training of Level I Land Search Team Member
• Effective Date: 01-May-2010
• Refers: ASTM F1773-09 - Standard Terminology Relating to Climbing, Mountaineering, Search and Rescue Equipment and Practices
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2009
• Refers: ASTM F2751-09 - Standard Guide for Training of Support Level Land Rescue Team Member (LRT-Support) Member
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2009
• Refers: ASTM F2752-09 - Standard Guide for Training for Level I Rope Rescue (R1) Rescuer Endorsement
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2009
• Refers: ASTM F1633-97(2008) - Standard Guide for Techniques in Land Search (Withdrawn 2017)
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2008

Overview

ASTM F2954-19: Standard Guide for Training for Intermediate Rope Rescuer Endorsement establishes the minimum standard for training personnel at the intermediate level for rope rescue operations. Developed by ASTM International, this guide outlines the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required for individuals performing rope rescue tasks involving higher responsibility and complexity than entry-level rescuers, but not at the advanced or supervisory level. It applies specifically to rope rescue activities on the surface of land, in environments ranging from wilderness to urban settings, and is designed to be used in conjunction with other related standards and training guides.

Key Topics

The ASTM F2954-19 standard encompasses a comprehensive set of knowledge and skill requirements for Intermediate Rope Rescuers, including:

• Prerequisites: Individuals must have prior training, certification, or endorsement appropriate to the operating environment (e.g., urban, wilderness, or mountainous terrain).
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Familiarity with, inspection of, and proper maintenance of PPE such as helmets, harnesses, gloves, carabiners, slings, ascending and descending equipment, and eye protection.
• Team Equipment: Knowledge of team rescue equipment like ropes, slings, litters, rope grabs, hauling and lowering devices, communication devices, and the ability to maintain and inspect them.
• Communication Protocols: Proficiency in whistle and hand signals for rope rescue, based on referenced guides or authority requirements.
• Rope Rescue Concepts: Understanding critical concepts including:
  • Angles and load transfer
  • Mechanical advantage systems
  • Edge protection
  • Risks and benefits of multiple rope systems
  • Differences between purpose-built and component-based equipment
• Technical Skills: Capabilities span:
  • Intermediate knot-tying and hitch techniques
  • Rigging multi-point anchors
  • Constructing and operating fixed rope systems
  • Managing mechanical advantage systems for raising/lowering
  • Patient packaging and litter rigging for low and high angle evacuations
  • Ascending and descending fixed ropes
  • Assisting and supporting complex rigging operations under qualified supervision

Applications

The ASTM F2954-19 standard provides a foundational framework for organizations and rescue teams to develop or evaluate training programs for intermediate rope rescuers. Practical applications include:

• Development of Training Curricula: Used by public safety agencies, search and rescue teams, and certifying bodies to ensure trainees meet essential knowledge and skill requirements for rope rescue response.
• Qualification and Endorsement: Serves as a benchmark document for qualifying personnel as Intermediate Rope Rescuers, establishing credibility and assurance of minimum competencies.
• Operational Readiness: Supports incident management and operational safety by ensuring rescuers can safely participate in and contribute to rope rescue scenarios under the supervision of qualified personnel.
• Program Evaluation: Assists authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) in evaluating and improving existing rope rescue training programs to align with industry-accepted practices.
• Role Definition: Clarifies the scope of responsibility and operational limits for Intermediate Rope Rescuers, distinguishing between basic, intermediate, and advanced roles within a rope rescue organization.

Related Standards

ASTM F2954-19 is designed to work in conjunction with several other ASTM standards and recognized documents, building a comprehensive structure for rope rescue training:

• ASTM F2209: Guide for Training of Land Search Team Members
• ASTM F2751: Guide for Training of a Land Search and Rescue Team Member
• ASTM F2752: Guide for Training for Basic Rope Rescuer Endorsement
• ASTM F1768: Guide for Using Whistle Signals During Rope Rescue Operations
• ASTM F1993: Classification System of Human Land Search and Rescue Resources
• ASTM F3068: Guide for Contents and Use of a Position Task Book (PTB)
• ASTM F3222: Terminology Relating to F32 Land Search and Rescue Standards and Guides

Keywords: rope rescue, intermediate rope rescuer, technical rescue, rope rescue training, patient packaging, rescue endorsement, ASTM F2954-19, search and rescue, lowering systems, mechanical advantage.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: F2954 − 19
Standard Guide for
Training for Intermediate Rope Rescuer Endorsement
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F2954; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.4 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer may be a member of a
Rope Rescue Team or Rope Rescue Task Force or Group, as
1.1 This guide, in conjunction with, and as an add-on to,
defined in Guide F1993.
Guides F2751 and F2752 (or equivalents for other environ-
1.4.1 Further training may be required before an Intermedi-
ments) defines the training required for a person who partici-
ate Rope Rescuer may actually participate in a particular kind
pates in rope rescue operations at an intermediate level of
ofroperescueteam,dependingontheregulationsorpoliciesof
responsibility and complexity as part of larger rescue duty.
the AHJ.
1.1.1 Specifically, this guide defines the knowledge, skills,
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
and abilities required for a person to assist, support, and direct
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
rope rescue operations at an intermediate level, including
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
patient packaging, litter rigging, ascending and descending
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
fixed ropes in a high angle environment, constructing raising
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
and lowering systems, and directing simple low angle rescue
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
operations, in conjunction with other rescue duties.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
1.1.2 This guide establishes the minimum training standard
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
for an Intermediate Rope Rescuer as related to general, field,
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
and rope rescue-specific knowledge and skills.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
1.1.3 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer may directly supervise
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
low angle rope rescue operations.
2. Referenced Documents
1.1.4 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer must work under the
direct supervision of qualified rope rescue personnel during
2.1 ASTM Standards:
high angle or complex rope rescues.
F1633 Guide for Techniques in Land Search (Withdrawn
2017)
1.2 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer endorsement applies
F1768 GuideforUsingWhistleSignalsDuringRopeRescue
only to rescues on the surface of the land; additional endorse-
Operations
ments are required to perform this level of rope rescue in other
F1773 Terminology Relating to Climbing, Mountaineering,
environments. This guide alone does not define the minimum
Search and Rescue Equipment and Practices
training requirements for rescuing in partially or fully col-
F1993 Classification System of Human Land Search and
lapsed structures, in or on water, in confined spaces, or
Rescue Resources
underground (such as in caves, mines, and tunnels).
F2047 Practice for Workers’ Compensation Coverage of
1.3 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer is required to have
Emergency Services Volunteers
knowledge and skill sets pertaining to the intermediate roped
F2209 Guide for Training of Land Search Team Member
evacuation and carryout component of rescue. These include
F2751 Guide for Training of a Land Search and Rescue
but are not limited to patient packaging, construction of an
Team Member
anchor system, construction of simple, compound, and com-
F2752 Guide for Training for Level I Rope Rescue (R1)
plex rope mechanical advantage systems, and construction and
Rescuer Endorsement
use of lowering (fixed-brake) rope systems.
F3068 Guide for Contents and Use of a Position Task Book
(PTB)
1 2
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F32 on Search and For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Rescue and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F32.03 on Personnel, contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Training and Education. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved April 1, 2019. Published June 2019. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 2012. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as F2954 – 12. DOI: The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
10.1520/F2954-19. www.astm.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F2954 − 19
F3222 Terminology Relating to F32 Land Search and Res- 4.4 Though this guide establishes only minimum standards,
cue Standards and Guides it does not imply that an Intermediate Rope Rescuer is a
2.2 Other Documents: “trainee,” “probationary,” or other similar term member of an
“Technical Rescue Rigger’s Guide, Third Edition,” Rick organization.
Lipke, Conterra, Inc., 2018 4.4.1 Determining the requirements and qualifications for
land rescue team members is the responsibility of the AHJ.
3. Terminology
4.4.2 Nothing in this guide precludes an AHJ from adding
3.1 For definitions of terms used in this guide, see Guide
additional requirements for its own members.
F1633, Terminology F1773, Classification F1993, Practice
4.5 Because technical rope rescue is inherently dangerous,
F2047, Terminology F3222, and other references within this
and rope rescuers are frequently required to perform rigorous
guide.
activities in adverse conditions, regional and national safety
3.2 Except where noted, this guide shall use terminology as
standards shall be included in agency and organization policies
found in Guides F2751 and F2752.
and procedures. Personnel endorsed as Intermediate Rope
Rescuers shall complete all activities based on an analysis of
3.3 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
risk versus benefit, and shall follow all applicable national,
3.3.1 Component-based, adj—a descriptor for a rope rescue
federal, state, provincial, and local safety standards.
system comprised of individual pieces of equipment which
may have multiple uses.
4.6 This guide can be used to evaluate a document to
determine if its content includes the topics necessary for
3.3.2 Intermediate Rope Rescuer, n—a member of a rope
training an Intermediate Rope Rescuer. Likewise, this guide
rescue team who, at a minimum, meets the requirements of this
can be used to evaluate an existing training program to see if
guide.
it meets the requirements of this guide.
3.3.3 Purpose-built, adj—descriptor for a rope rescue sys-
4.7 The knowledge and skill defined in the following
tem whose functionality relies on a piece of equipment
sections are not presented in any particular order and do not
designed and manufactured for a specific purpose in that
represent a training sequence.
system.
4.8 Except where a physical skill needs to be shown, it is up
4. Significance and Use
to the AHJ to determine the best way to evaluate a person’s
4.1 This guide establishes a minimum standard for training
knowledge. This may be by written exam, oral exam,
intermediate level rope rescuers as it relates to their general,
demonstration, or by some combination of the three.
field, and rope rescue specific knowledge and skills. A person
4.8.1 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall document his or
trained to this guide is an Intermediate Rope Rescuer.
her training by completion of a position task book, compliant
4.1.1 Every person who is identified as an Intermediate
with Guide F3068, or by field demonstration under qualified
Rope Rescuer shall have met the requirements of this guide.
supervision.
4.1.2 This guide is only the second level of training for rope
4.8.2 Unless stated otherwise, an ability or proficiency in a
rescue personnel and, in conjunction with Guides F2209 and
skill shall be demonstrated for initial qualification and then as
F2752, only establishes the minimum knowledge and skills
often as required by the AHJ.
requiredforapersontoperformIntermediateRopeRescue.No
other advanced skills are included or implied.
5. General Knowledge and Skills
4.1.3 In addition to meeting the requirements of this guide,
5.1 General Requirements:
an Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall also be adequately trained
5.1.1 As a prerequisite, an Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall
to function safely and effectively in the environment in which
possess training, certification, or endorsement in the environ-
he or she is expected to work (that is, wilderness, urban, etc.).
mentinwhichheorsheisexpectedtowork(urban,wilderness,
4.2 Intermediate Rope Rescue endorsement is not an indi-
mountainous, etc.).
cation that a person possesses adequate field skills or knowl-
5.1.2 For land rescue personnel, endorsement in accordance
edge to make mission-critical decisions. Under qualified su-
withGuideF2752shallbeconsideredsufficientformeetingthe
pervision an Intermediate Rope Rescuer is qualified to work in
requirements of 5.1.1.
an area with high fall exposure and/or falling hazard potential,
5.1.3 TheAHJ shall verify that the endorsee possesses both
including
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: F2954 − 12 F2954 − 19
Standard Guide for
Training for Level II Rope Rescue (R2) Intermediate Rope
Rescuer Endorsement
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F2954; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This guide is intended to be used guide, in conjunction with, and as an add-on to, GuideGuides F2751 and Guide F2752
(or equivalentequivalents for other environments), to address the specific knowledge and skills environments) defines the training
required for a rescuerperson who participates in rope rescue operations at a higheran intermediate level of responsibility and
complexity.complexity as part of larger rescue duty.
1.1.1 Specifically, this guide is intended to define the training that would prepare an endorsed Level II Rope Rescuer (LRT-R2)
or equivalent (under qualified supervision) to assist and supportdefines the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for a person
to assist, support, and direct rope rescue operations at an intermediate level, including patient packaging, litter rigging, ascending
and descending fixed ropes in a high angle environment, and constructing raising and lowering systems, and directing simple low
angle rescue operations, in conjunction with other rescue duties.
1.1.2 This guide establishes the minimum training standard for an endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer as related to
general, field, and rope rescue-specific knowledge and skills.
1.1.3 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer may directly supervise low angle rope rescue operations.
1.1.4 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer must work under the direct supervision of qualified rope rescue
personnel.personnel during high angle or complex rope rescues.
1.2 An endorsed LRT-R2 Rescuer performs rope rescues in low and high angle terrain, and may serve as a litter attendant in
low (but not high) angle terrain. An endorsed LRT-R2 Rescuer is capable of safely assisting rope rescuers who have higher level
endorsements.Intermediate Rope Rescuer endorsement applies only to rescues on the surface of the land; additional endorsements
are required to perform this level of rope rescue in other environments. This guide alone does not define the minimum training
requirements for rescuing in partially or fully collapsed structures, in or on water, in confined spaces, or underground (such as in
caves, mines, and tunnels).
1.2.1 This guide alone does not provide the minimum training requirements for performing or assisting in rescues that occur
in partially or fully collapsed structures, in or on water, in confined spaces, or underground (such as in caves, mines, and tunnels).
1.3 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer is required to have knowledge and skill sets pertaining to the intermediate
subjectroped evacuation and carryout component of rope rescue. These include but are not limited to patient packaging,
construction of an anchor system, construction of simple simple, compound, and compoundcomplex rope mechanical advantage
systems, and construction and use of lowering (fixed-brake) rope systems.
1.4 Type II teams, as defined in GuideAn Intermediate Rope Rescuer may be a F1993, which may utilize personnel trained to
this guide are Kind A (wilderness), Kind B (urban), andmember of a Rope Rescue Team or Rope Rescue Task Force or Group,
as defined in Guide F1993Kind C (mountainous).
1.4.1 Further training may be required before an endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer canmay actually participate onin
a particular kind of rope rescue team, depending on AHJ (authority having jurisdiction) regulations or policies.the regulations or
policies of the AHJ.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F32 on Search and Rescue and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F32.03 on Personnel, Training and
Education.
Current edition approved June 1, 2012April 1, 2019. Published August 2012June 2019. Originally approved in 2012. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as F2954
– 12. DOI: 10.1520/F2954-12.10.1520/F2954-19.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F2954 − 19
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
F1633 Guide for Techniques in Land Search (Withdrawn 2017)
F1768 Guide for Using Whistle Signals During Rope Rescue Operations
F1773 Terminology Relating to Climbing, Mountaineering, Search and Rescue Equipment and Practices
F1993 Classification System of Human Land Search and Rescue Resources
F2047 Practice for Workers’ Compensation Coverage of Emergency Services Volunteers
F2209 Guide for Training of Land Search Team Member
F2751 Guide for Training of a Land Search and Rescue Team Member
F2752 Guide for Training for Basic Rope Rescuer Endorsement
F3068 Guide for Contents and Use of a Position Task Book (PTB)
F3222 Terminology Relating to F32 Land Search and Rescue Standards and Guides
2.2 Other Documents:
“Technical Rescue Rigger’s Guide, Third Edition,” Rick Lipke, Conterra, Inc., 2018
3. Terminology
3.1 For definitions of terms used in this guide, see TerminologyGuide F1773F1633, GuideTerminology F1633F1773,
Classification F1993, Practice F2047, Terminology F3222, and other references within this guide.
3.2 Except where noted, this guide shall use terminology as found in GuideGuides F2751 and F2752.
3.3 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.3.1 Component-based, adj—a descriptor for a rope rescue system comprised of individual pieces of equipment which may
have multiple uses.
3.3.2 Intermediate Rope Rescuer, Level II (LRT-R2), n—a member of a rope rescue team who, at a minimum, meets the
requirements of this guide. These requirements define the intermediate or operations level of rope rescue knowledge, skills, and
capabilities.
3.3.3 low angle, Purpose-built, n—adj—terrain whose average slope has an angle of 30 to 50° from horizontal.descriptor for
a rope rescue system whose functionality relies on a piece of equipment designed and manufactured for a specific purpose in that
system.
3.3.3 high angle, n—terrain whose average slope has an angle of greater than 50° from horizontal.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 This guide establishes a minimum standard for training intermediate level rope rescuers as it relates to their general, field,
and rope rescue specific knowledge and skills. A person trained to this guide is an endorsed Level II Rope Rescuer (LRT-R2
Rescuer).Intermediate Rope Rescuer.
4.1.1 Every person who is identified as an endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall have met the requirements of this
guide.
4.1.2 This guide is only the second level of training for rope rescue personnel and, in conjunction with Guides F2209 and F2752,
only establishes the minimum knowledge and skills required for a person to perform intermediate rope rescue.Intermediate Rope
Rescue. No other advanced skills are included or implied.
4.1.3 In addition to meeting the requirements of this guide, an endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall also be
adequately trained to operate effectivelyfunction safely and safelyeffectively in the environment in which he or she is expected to
work (that is, wilderness, urban, industrial, and so forth).etc.).
4.1.4 Nothing in this guide precludes an AHJ from adding additional requirements for its own members.
4.2 Endorsement to Level II Intermediate Rope Rescue (LRT-R2 Rescuer) endorsement is not an indication that a person
possesses adequate field skills or knowledge to make mission-critical decisions. However, under authorized supervision, a person
so endorsed Under qualified supervision an Intermediate Rope Rescuer is qualified to support a rope rescue team work in an area
with high fall exposure and/or falling hazard potential, including high angle environments.terrain.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
Lipke.
F2954 − 19
4.3 This guide by itself is not a complete training document. It is only an outline of the topics required for training or evaluating
an endorsed LRT-R2 Rescuer. Intermediate Rope Rescuer or by an AHJ. It may, however, be used in the development of, or as
part of, a complete training document or program.
4.3.1 This guide does not stand alone. Italone and must be used with the referenced documents to provide the specific
information needed by an endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer or for an AHJ to properly evaluate a training program or
text.by an AHJ.
4.4 Though this guide establishes only minimum standards, it does not imply that an endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope
Rescuer is a “trainee,” “probationary,” or other similar term member of an organization. It is the responsibility of the AHJ to
determine the requirements and qualifications for member ratings.
4.4.1 Determining the requirements and qualifications for land rescue team members is the responsibility of the AHJ.
4.4.2 Nothing in this guide precludes an AHJ from adding additional requirements for its own members.
4.5 Because technical rope rescue is inherently dangerous, and rope rescuers are frequently required to perform rigorous
activities in adverse conditions, regional and national safety standards shall be included in agency and organization policies and
procedures. An endorsed LRT-R2 Rescuer Personnel endorsed as Intermediate Rope Rescuers shall complete all activities based
on an analysis of risk versus benefit, and shall follow applicable and mandatedall applicable national, federal, state, provincial, and
local safety standards.
4.6 This guide can be used to evaluate a document to determine if its content includes the topics necessary for training an
endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer. Likewise, this guide can be used to evaluate an existing training program to see if
it meets the requirements of this guide.
4.7 The knowledge and skill requirementsdefined in the following sections are not presented in any particular order and do not
represent a training sequence.
4.8 Except where a physical skill needs to be shown, it is up to the AHJ to determine the best way to evaluate a person’s
knowledge. This may be by written exam, oral exam, demonstration, or by some combination of the three.
4.8.1 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall document his or her training by completion of a position task book, compliant with
Guide F3068, or by field demonstration under qualified supervision.
4.8.2 Unless stated otherwise, an ability or proficiency in a skill shall be demonstrated for initial qualification and then as often
as required by the AHJ.
5. General Knowledge and Skills
5.1 General Requirements:
5.1.1 As a prerequisite, an endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall possess some training, certification, or
endorsement in the environment in which he or she is expected to work (urban, wilderness, mountainous, and so forth).etc.).
5.1.2 For Land Rescue Personnel, meeting the requirements of Guidesland rescue personnel, endorsement in accordance with
Guide F2751 and F2752 shall be considered sufficient for meeting the requirements of 5.1.1.
5.1.3 The AHJ shall verify that the endorsee possesses both attitude and aptitude for working at height, for example, he or she
must be comfortable such as comfort with exposure and must have the ability to move safely and effectively in the working
environment.over the surface of terrain common to the normal area of operations.
5.2 Personal Equipment:
5.2.1 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall possesscarry and carry, appropriately use, at a minimum, sufficient
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and rope rescue equipment to maintain personal safety while working on or around a rope
rescue. Suitability of participating in a rope rescue operation. The suitability of the equipment shall be verified by the AHJ to
include, but not be limited to:to, the following:
5.2.1.1 Head protection (helmet).
5.2.1.2 Hand protection (gloves).
5.2.1.3 Eye protection (glasses/goggles/shield).
5.2.1.4 Adequate clothing.
5.2.1.5 Harness.
5.2.1.6 Connectors (carabiners).
5.2.1.7 Slings/lanyards (for personal use).
5.2.1.8 Ascending equipment.
5.2.1.6 Eye protection (glasses/goggles/shield).
5.2.1.7 Adequate clothing.
5.2.1.8 Connectors (carabiners).
5.2.1.9 Descending equipment.
5.2.2 Additional rope rescue equipment necessary for an endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer to safely participate onin
a rope rescue operation varies by type of rope rescue, team assignment, season, environment, and terrain.
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5.2.3 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall explain the reasons to carry, and explain or demonstrate the use of,
all personal rope rescue equipment required by the AHJ.
5.2.4 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall be able to inspect PPE and personal rope rescue equipment for the
purpose of identifying wear, damage, and operational readiness.
5.2.5 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall demonstrate the ability to perform appropriate rope rescue
equipment maintenance procedures, including cleaning, as well as maintenance of equipment logs and records.
5.3 Team Equipment:
5.3.1 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall be familiar with team rope rescue equipment identified, and
commonly used, by the AHJ. Such equipment may include, but is not limited to, the following:
5.3.1.1 Medical equipment.
5.3.1.2 Patient packaging equipment.
5.3.1.3 Ropes.
5.3.1.4 Slings.
5.3.1.5 Rope grab devices.
5.3.1.6 Litters.
5.3.1.7 Communications equipment.
5.3.1.8 Lowering devices.
5.3.1.9 Hauling or raising devices.
5.3.1.10 Connectors and other hardware.
5.3.2 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall explain the reasons to carry, and explain or demonstrate the use of,
all team rope rescue equipment required by the AHJ including, at a minimum, those items listed in 5.2.15.2.1 and 5.3.1 and 5.3.1.
5.3.3 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall be able to inspect team rope rescue equipment used by the AHJ to
identifyfor the purpose of identifying wear, damage, and operational readiness for, at a minimum, those items listed in 5.2.15.2.1
and 5.3.1 and 5.3.1.
5.3.4 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall demonstrate the ability to perform appropriate maintenance
procedures on rope rescue equipment used by the AHJ. These shall include cleaning and packing, as well as maintenance of
applicable logs and records for, at a minimum, those items listed in 5.2.15.2.1 and 5.3.1 and 5.3.1.
5.4 Communications:
5.4.1 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall be familiar with, and conversant in, the use of whistle signals as
found in Guide F1768, or as required by the AHJ.
5.4.2 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall be familiar with, and conversant in, the use of hand signals as
required by the AHJ.
6. Rope Rescue Concepts and Capabilities
6.1 Rope Rescue Concepts:
6.1.1 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall demonstrate an understanding of how the following basic concepts
affect rope rescue:
6.1.1.1 Angles.
6.1.1.2 Load transfer.
6.1.1.3 Passing knots.
6.1.1.4 Mechanical advantage.
6.1.1.5 Placing edge protection.
6.1.2 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall be able to cite the risks and benefits of a two rope system.
6.1.3 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall be able to cite the risks and benefits of a single rope rescue system.
6.1.4 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall be able to explain the risks and benefits of sharing the load as equally as possible
between both ropes in a two rope system.
6.1.5 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall be able to list the risks and benefits of controlling the load with one rope and having
the remaining rope as a hand-tight backup in a two rope system.
6.1.6 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall be able to explain the risks and benefits of attaching a litter to a rescue rope system
with a single attachment point.
6.1.7 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall be able to explain the risks and benefits of attaching a litter to a rescue rope system
with two attachment points.
6.1.8 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall be able to explain the risks and benefits of employing and utilizing purpose-built vs.
component-based equipment in a rope rescue system.
6.2 Rope Rescue Capabilities:
6.2.1 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall demonstrate the ability to manage resource needs.
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6.2.2 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall demonstrate the ability to identify conditions that affect the
efficiency of a rope rescue operation, including the duration of the incident.
6.3 Rope Rescue Techniques:
6.3.1 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall have intermediate knot tying skills, including the ability to tie a
hitch around an object.the following types of knots, bends, and hitches:
6.3.1.1 Two different single strand end loops, one around an object.
6.3.1.2 A multi-strand mid-line loop.
6.3.1.3 A mid-line hitch around an object.
6.3.1.4 Two different bends to join two ropes or cords together.
6.3.1.5 A friction hitch connecting one rope or cord to a connector.
6.3.2 An Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall demonstrate an understanding of why some knots require an additional "safety" or
"backup" knot to anchor the rope’s bitter end.
6.3.3 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall understand intermediate anchoring concepts, including concepts
and shall demonstrate proficiency in riggingbuilding multi-point anchors.
6.3.4 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall demonstrate the ability to construct a fixed rope system.
6.3.5 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall understand the need for, and know how to place, edge protection.
6.3.6 An endorsed LRT-R2Intermediate Rope Rescuer shall understand the need for, and know how to place rope place
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