Full Text Searchable PDF User Manual
V2.1
USER’S MANUAL
by Rock Exotica
UL Classified to NFPA 1983 - General Use
EN 795
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A Z VORTEX User’s Manual
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INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on your purchase of the AZ VORTEX from CMC Rescue. You have chosen
the most versatile, state-of-the-art artificial high directional (AHD) available to rescuers and
industry workers today. This beautiful, handcrafted piece of equipment will serve your AHD
needs for years to come. With proper study and hands-on training, you can use the AZ
VORTEX in a variety of ways and in any number of environments from industry to wilderness.
The AZ VORTEX is ideal for most edge transition applications including confined space
entry, as well as mine, cliff and industrial rescue operations. It is also well suited for bridge and
dam inspection, rope access, construction trades, military and the entertainment industry.
The current AZ VORTEX is an evolution of the original Arizona VORTEX. Often called a
“multipod” because of its flexibility, the two-piece head can be rigged as a standard tripod, or in
advanced applications such as an A-frame, a sideways A-frame, or a Gin Pole. The “easel” leg
allows the tripod to lean, creating an easel A-frame to position the change of direction pulley
closer to the edge of the cliff or the structure.
With the adjustable leg lengths and the flexible third leg, the AZ VORTEX lets rescuers set
up an artificial high directional in virtually any urban, industrial or wilderness location. The
telescoping legs also project through the Head Set, providing a wide range of adjustment. The
lighter Head Set and the lighter, shorter legs make the AZ VORTEX easy to transport and store.
On the A-frame and easel A-frame application, at least two pulleys can now be attached
directly into the Head Set without carabiners, eliminating lost headspace and working clearance.
This two-pulley capability makes the AZ VORTEX ideal for use with high lines and track line
offsets. For rope access work, it allows the use of two Working Lines.
What is an AZ VORTEX?
In NFPA Standard 1983 terminology, the AZ VORTEX is
referred to as a
portable anchor device.
Most riggers use the
more common term
artificial high directional
. An “AHD” is
used to elevate lines above edges, entryways, or
obstructions in rescue operations or rope access work.
Unlike other metal tripods or unequal-sided tetrahedrons, the
AZ VORTEX adapts to almost any terrain or difficult set-up
location. More than just a tripod, the AZ VORTEX multipod
offers three different configurations with a single unit:
1. Tripod (conventional and easel leg)
2. Bipod or A-frame (conventional and sideways)
3.
Monopod or Gin Pole
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Specifications
Inside height clearance
9 ft (2.7 m) in regular tripod configuration
Horizontal clearance
8 ft 9 in (2.6 m) at foot level in 9 ft height configuration
Height with additional legs
12 ft (3.7 m)
System weight
72 lb (33 kg) with both sets of feet
Pin strength
18,000 lbf (80 kN) for the 3/8-inch leg pins
32,000 lbf (142 kN) for the 1/2-inch head pins
Safe working load
600 lbf (2.7 kN)
Standard AZ VORTEX Package
The standard package comes
complete with:
1
Head Set
3
Upper Legs
7
Lower Legs
3
Raptor Feet
3
Flat Feet
1
Head Set Pulley Wheel
1
Head Backpack
3
Leg Bags
2
Foot Sleeves
1
Pin Bag
4
Head Pins
11
Leg Pins
15
Pin Flags
3
AZ VORTEX Hobble Straps
1
40 foot x 8 mm Cord (for tethering)
1
Instruction Manual
For tactical purposes, AZ VORTEX hardware is also available in black.
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Selecting Feet for the AZ VORTEX
The AZ VORTEX comes with two sets of feet for best performance on different types of
surfaces. The performance of each foot design should be considered when setting up the AZ
VORTEX.
Raptor Foot
. Dubbed the “Raptor” because of its shape, the carbide tip on the
Raptor Foot penetrates the surface, helping to anchor the foot in place. The design
of the leg allows the Raptor Foot to rotate to best direct the claw’s force downward,
or to gain purchase on various rock features such as small holes or cracks.
Flat Foot
. This design works well on flat surfaces such as floors, roadways, or
roofs. The wide surface area of the foot helps prevent penetration.
Smooth Surface
/
Flat Foot
Recommended
An example of a smooth surface would be a concrete or asphalt roadway, metal tank cover, or
roof. For most set ups, the legs may be secured by tying them together.
Soft Soil, Undisturbed
/
Raptor Foot
Recommended
The Raptor Feet of the AZ VORTEX are designed to penetrate into this type of substrate with
minimal outward force on the A-frame legs. Use the heel of your boot on each Raptor Foot to
firmly press the foot into the soil. All legs must still be independently hobbled to each other or to
independent anchors.
Soft Soil, Disturbed
/
Raptor Foot
Recommended
A disturbed soil condition requires additional soil pickets (not supplied) for anchoring the AZ
VORTEX. The Raptor Foot on each leg should be placed up against the driven picket so that
force on the AZ VORTEX forces the Claw down, not out. Secure the AZ VORTEX by lashing
each individual foot to the pickets.
Industrial Grating
/
Depends on the grating type
Select the desired feet depending on the type of grating. Only secure the feet to the grating
IF
the grating is stable and secure.
Roofing
/
Flat Foot
Recommended
In conditions where the roof surface cannot be marred or punctured by the Raptor’s point, use
the Flat Foot. The Flat Foot protects the roofing, but may allow a skidding action with the AZ
VORTEX legs. Anchor the legs together, or to the roof structure or parapet.
Rock, Not Fractured
/
Raptor Foot
Recommended
In rock that is not fractured, use short chains looped through the Raptor Foot chain slots.
Secure each side of the chain using
≥
3/8-inch diameter expansion (Rawl) or epoxy bolts.
Rock, Fractured
/
Raptor Foot
Recommended
Without placing bolts, use standard rock protection hardware to anchor the feet of the AZ
VORTEX. After placing the hardware, lash the feet tightly to these anchors.
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WARNINGS
When performing rescue, climbing or work within the vertical realm, the risk of injury or death
cannot be eliminated. Do not use this device unless you have:
•
Read all the instructions and warnings.
•
Received competent and suitable training.
•
Trained your entire team on the proper use of this device.
•
Inspected and safety-checked the AZ VORTEX and rigging equipment before each use.
•
Accepted total responsibility for your safety and the equipment suitability/configuration.
TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE IN TECHNICAL RIGGING IS ESSENTIAL FOR SAFE USE!
This device can topple over if the user does not properly account for the direction and the
strength of forces occurring in the specific situation and configuration. While the User’s Manual
is not intended to teach everything necessary to safely operate this device, it is the user’s
responsibility to read and understand the User’s Manual that accompanies the AZ VORTEX. It’s
important at all times to follow these safety guidelines:
•
Do not exceed the safe working
load of 600 lbf (2.7 kN).
•
Always maintain a second Safety
Line (Belay Line) independent of
this device.
•
All feet on this device must be
securely anchored to resist side-
ways, spreading and uplift forces.
•
Do not couple more than three
lower leg sections together on any
one leg.
•
Make sure the connection pin that
inserts through the head feeds
through a leg hole when the leg is
at full extension, rather than feed
through the head “above” the top
of the leg. When assembled
correctly, the top of the leg should
be flush with, or extended above
the top leg sleeve of the head,
Figures 1A
and
1B
.
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Legs flush with top of head
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•
Proper rigging runs the Working Line
through a pulley attached to the head with a
head pin or through a carabiner,
Figure 2
.
This aligns the resultant force vector with
the legs.
•
Personal Safety Lines should have anchors
independent of the AZ VORTEX. Do not
attach or tether personnel to the AZ
VORTEX or any of the rigging lines.
•
As with any equipment near the edge,
always tether the equipment to prevent
items from falling or being knocked over the
edge.
VISUALIZING THE RESULTANT
The resultant force vector (R) created
by a Main Line under tension bisects
the incoming vector (F1) and the out-
going vector (F2).
One way to visualize where the resultant
is directed is to imagine a line drawn
through the pin supporting the pulley
and the pulley’s axle, extending down
to the surface.
F2
F
1
R
Figure 3A
DANGER, UNSAFE!
Figure 2
SAFE
•
The working line should never enter and exit on the same side of the AZ VORTEX head,
Figure 3A
. This creates a horizontal force vector that will attempt to topple the tripod. Fixing
the working line directly to the AZ VORTEX head will cause the same hazard,
Figure 3B
.
Figure 3B
DANGER, UNSAFE!
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PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION
Stability is always a concern when using tripods, A-frames, and Gin Poles. Unless the forces
are carefully evaluated, the possibility of legs slipping or the structure toppling is very real. The
following
Principles of Operation
apply to using the AZ VORTEX as well as other tripods, Gin
Poles and A-frames.
•
Whenever possible, set up the AZ VORTEX in the three-legged configuration. It usually
takes less effort to transport the complete set of legs than to securely rig the AZ VORTEX in
the A-frame or Gin Pole configuration. An A-frame and a Gin Pole provide options where the
full tripod configuration cannot be adapted to the location.
•
The resultant force on any tripod should be directly down, as close to the center of the three
legs as possible.
•
When extending the easel leg of the AZ VORTEX, the resultant force vector may move
toward the A-frame legs and a tag line will be necessary to stabilize the AZ VORTEX.
Connect the tag line to the head and secure it to an anchor behind the AZ VORTEX.
•
The resultant force on an A-frame should be in line with the legs. A line projected through
the pin and pulley axle should be aligned with the legs. The angles between the Working
Line and the legs on either side should be equal.
•
Do not exceed the safe working load. As an artificial high directional, the AZ VORTEX uses
a change of direction pulley at the head. Depending on the entry and exit angle of the
Working Line, the force on the legs can be multiplied to twice the weight of the load.
•
Prevent any possible movement of the legs by connecting the feet together using Hobble
Straps, cord, webbing or chain, or by anchoring each individual foot to the surface.
•
Consider using the easel leg to the side when setting up a sideways A-frame. If the Working
Line is kept inside the legs, stability is increased. The easel leg should still be guyed back.
•
8- or 9-mm Accessory Cord works well for guy lines in most circumstances. Use the
triangular holes in the head for attaching guy lines.
•
Always run the Safety Line (Belay Line) at ground level. This minimizes the possible fall
distance if the AHD topples or collapses.
•
Always provide travel restraint for personnel working near the edge.
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USING THE AZ VORTEX
Assembly of the AZ VORTEX
It takes at least two people to assemble the AZ VORTEX and is easier with more. Installing
the AZ VORTEX at ANY edge without handrails requires the use of Travel Restraint within the
Hazard Zone. There are two ways to assemble the AZ VORTEX:
1) Build in place. This allows easier movement but individual sections must be supported
and belayed until the assembly is complete. Assemble as much as possible, such as each
head piece to a leg, before moving into position.
2) Build it away from the edge and then walk it out as one unit to the edge. This may require
three to four people to move it into place but only requires a single Tether Line for safety.
Sometimes a combination of both ways works well, but remember that it is difficult to change
pins at the head while standing on an edge by a large drop. Make these changes back from the
edge and then move the AZ VORTEX into position and tie down the feet only after making your
final changes. Several attempts at getting it right may be needed before tie down commences.
This process will become less cumbersome with experience.
Each method has advantages and disadvantages depending on the location and the
available personnel. Practicing both will prepare the team to select the best option under difficult
set up positions.
Always attach a Tether Cord to the individual sections or to the entire unit until the AZ
VORTEX is secured. Tether Cords should be belayed on a separate anchor to prevent the AZ
VORTEX from toppling over during installation. The Tether Cords can be left in place during the
operation for later disassembly.
Never leave an unsecured AZ VORTEX unattended.
Support each leg section until the unit is secured to prevent toppling during set up. As in any
rigging situation, one person should be in charge of the set up and communication should be
deliberate and precise.
Disassembly of the AZ VORTEX
Disassembly of the AZ VORTEX is less problematic. With adequate personnel on travel
restraint devices, remove the anchoring at each foot and carry the entire device back out of the
hazard zone for disassembly. Again, the Tether Cord should be in place during this movement
away from the edge. Once the AZ VORTEX is well away from any hazard, it may be taken
apart, inspected for any damage, and stowed in its proper storage compartments.
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Anchoring the AZ VORTEX
It is important to remember that the
AZ VORTEX must be secured for any
possible unanticipated dynamic event.
This includes
securing the rear easel
leg for compression and tension
.
This leg should not be able to move
forward towards the edge or back away
from the edge. The most secure
method to accomplish this is to anchor
the rear foot to the surface as shown in
Figure 4
.
The timing of a rescue may not allow
anchoring each foot. Connecting the feet
together as shown in
Figure 5
is a standard
practice for conventional tripods and works well
with the AZ VORTEX. For NFPA-certified
configurations, each pair of feet must be
independently hobbled.
With any tripod it is critical to keep the
resultant force vector as close to the center as
possible. This minimizes the horizontal vector
that tends to topple the tripod. Figure 5 also
shows the Working Line (blue) exiting the
manhole and the pulling force positioned as
close to the manhole as safety allows. This
keeps the resultant force centered under the
change of direction pulley. When the Working
Line (red) is pulled from outside of the tripod
base, the resultant force vector will try to topple
the tripod,
Figure 6
.
Figure 4
SAFE
Figure 6
DANGER, UNSAFE!
Figure 5
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Even with the easel leg extended,
the AZ VORTEX is secure when the legs
are restrained and the force vector is
directed inside of the legs,
Figure 7
.
Remember, if the AZ VORTEX is
near an edge, a Tether Line is necessary
to prevent the unit from accidentally
falling. This is even more critical before
the AZ VORTEX is loaded.
Securing the Front Legs
The front A-frame legs of the
AZ VORTEX must be restrained
from spreading apart, which is
accomplished when the feet are
anchored to the surface. If this is
not possible, an alternative method
is used to independently connect
(or hobble) the legs together using
the provided AZ VORTEX Hobble
Straps, or by using independently
secured accessory cords. Moder-
ate tension should be applied so
that the straps are snug but do not
flex the legs. Keep the straps as
low to the ground as possible to
prevent tripping hazards.
Using the AZ VORTEX as a Tripod
The AZ VORTEX can be set up in a variety of tripod configurations, including an equal leg
tripod. The adjustability of the AZ VORTEX allows it to fit a variety of spaces that the adjustment
range of conventional, equal leg tripods may not. As discussed above, the legs should be either
anchored to the surface or connected with Hobble Straps, cord, webbing or chain to keep them
from spreading. This is even more important on the AZ VORTEX than the conventional tripods
due to the ability of the easel leg to move.
When used in the equal leg configuration, the resultant force vector should be as close to
the center as possible. If not, additional rigging may be required for stability or one of the other
tripod configurations may provide a more stable platform.
NOTE ON THE RAPTOR FOOT
When you connect the Raptor
Foot to the leg, position it so
that the force exerted on the leg
pushes the tip of the foot
towards the center of the tripod
or bipod. This encourages the
“claw” to bite into the surface
.
Figure 7
Raptor Foot Hobble
Flat Foot Hobble
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Tripod Set Up with
Extended Easel Leg
One of the significant advantages
of the AZ VORTEX design is the
“easel” leg that allows greater
flexibility than a conventional tripod.
By extending the length of the easel
leg, the A-frame legs can be rigged in
a more vertical position. This allows
the anchor points on the AZ VORTEX
head to be placed closer to an edge
or directly over an opening next to a
wall or other barrier as shown in
Figures 8
and
9
.
With the long easel leg, the
AZ VORTEX resists the tipping
force associated with equal-leg
tripods, but still must be
secured. The increased skidding
force on the feet must be taken
into account when anchoring the
feet or securing the legs.
Figure 8
Figure 9
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Using the AZ VORTEX
at an Edge
Using the AZ VORTEX at an edge is a
challenging set up location. This could be on
a cliff, rooftop, or a tank as shown in
Figure
10
. Practice on low parapets first before
heading to more exposed locations. Again,
be sure and attach a Tether Cord to the top
of the AZ VORTEX head and secure the unit
before moving to an edge or using. This cord
can be left in place during the operation and
then used while disassembling the device.
For clarity, the Tether Cord is not shown in
the example.
ADVANCED APPLICATIONS
It is usually quicker and safer to set up the AZ VORTEX with all three legs. Bipods and
monopods are inherently unstable. If you let go, the device falls over. If the resultant force does
not vector straight down the legs, the guy lines take additional loading and a guy line failure will
cause a collapse. For rescue teams already trained in and using improvised bipods and
monopods, the AZ VORTEX follows the same principles. The AZ VORTEX is easier to transport
and the set up does not require any lashing at the top. As well as attachment points for pulleys,
the AZ VORTEX head provides secure points for connecting guy lines.
TRAINING AND SAFETY
While a tripod is inherently stable when correctly loaded, A-Frames (bipods) and Gin Poles
(monopods) are inherently unstable. Adequate rigging is essential to prevent injury to subjects
and rescuers. Knowledge of advanced rigging, complex guying, and establishing adequate
anchors is essential. Several training organizations provide instruction on improvised high
directionals. For courses specific to the AZ Vortex contact:
CMC Rescue School
cmcrescue.com / (800) 235-5741 or (805) 562-9120
Ropes That Rescue
ropesthatrescue.com / (928) 282-7299
Figure 10
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A-Frame
An A-frame set up requires the legs to
be secured by anchoring the feet to the
surface and attaching guy lines to keep the
A-frame in position as shown in
Figure 11
.
The guy lines should be under tension to
eliminate movement. If the feet cannot be
individually secured, the legs must be tied
together. An A-frame requires guy lines
connected to anchors both in the front (near
or over the edge) and in the back.
Additional guy lines may be needed to
prevent the A-frame from moving sideways
if the load should shift.
To maximize the force supported by the
legs and minimize the forces on the guy
lines, lean the A-frame slightly towards the
edge. The legs and the axle of the pulley
should line up when the legs bisect the
angle of the Working Line through the
pulley, as shown in
Figure 12
. The
resultant force should also be centered
between the legs. This balances the forces
for stability and allows the legs to take most
of the load.
Figure 11
Figure 12
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Sideways A-Frame
One of the challenges with
setting up an A-frame near an
edge is locating suitable anchors
on the edge side. Usually the
easel leg set up of the AZ
VORTEX
would
solve
this
problem, but another option is a
Sideways A-frame. The concerns
for securing the feet remain the
same. While the high anchor point
is further from the edge, the
anchors are located along the
edge rather than over it. A
Sideways A-frame set-up,
Figure
13
, is guyed from both sides (right
and left), which alleviates the
need for an anchor point close to,
or over the edge as required by a
conventional A-frame set-up.
The head unit has two sets of
holes for the pins that attach the
legs. One set is angled to the side
to allow better Working Line
clearance.
Remember that the easel leg
set up of the AZ VORTEX can
also be constructed as a
Sideways A-frame. In such a set
up, the Working Line should run
inside the legs.
Figure 13
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Gin Pole
A Gin Pole or “monopod” should have a minimum of three guy lines spaced at 120˚ angles.
If anchor availability permits, four guy lines spaced at 90° angles makes the set-up even more
secure,
Figure 14
. The ground end of the pole should be secure, either anchored to the surface
or placed in a natural opening or hole. As with the A-frame, the Gin Pole should be tilted so that
the resultant force vector is directed down in line with the pole.
The AZ VORTEX head has an ample number of holes for attaching the guy lines. The head
should be positioned so that the Working Line clears the guy lines and does not torque the Gin
Pole when the load is applied.
Figure 14
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CARE AND MAINTENANCE
User Information shall be provided to the user of the product. Industry equipment standards
recommend separating the user information from the equipment and retaining it in permanent
record. The standard also recommends making a copy of the user information to keep with the
equipment and that the information should be referred to before and after each use.
Additional information regarding life-safety equipment can be found in NFPA 1500,
Standard
on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Programs
, and NFPA 1983,
Standard on
Life Safety Rope and Equipment for Emergency Services
.
Inspection
Inspect the AZ VORTEX according to your department's policy for inspecting life-safety
equipment. Equipment should be inspected after each use by an inspector that meets your
department's training standard for inspection of life-safety equipment. Record the date of the
inspection and the results in the equipment log. Each user should be trained in equipment
inspection and should do a cursory inspection before each use.
Inspect the AZ VORTEX for cracks, dents, or elongation of the carabiner and pin holes. The
head unit should rotate easily but not feel loose. The legs should fit together smoothly and
should not appear bent or deformed. Pins should have the retaining ball present and function
smoothly. If any significant damage is observed, the equipment should be removed from
service.
If the AZ VORTEX is dropped or impact loaded, it should be inspected by a qualified
inspector prior to being returned to service. In most cases, a visual inspection will not be able to
determine if the equipment has been damaged. Based on the history of the incident, if there is
any doubt regarding the safety of the equipment, it should be removed from service and retired.
Product Lifetime
It is impossible to give a definite lifetime for life safety equipment. While
carefully used gear may last a long time, one extreme or improper use could require that it be
retired. Cracks, corrosion, deformation, wear, failure to properly function, major falls, any doubt
as to prior usage or condition all require that the equipment be retired and destroyed. In addition
to inspections before and during use, a competent person must conduct a detailed inspection
every 12 months at a minimum. A record should be kept of the date, person performing the
inspection and results, as well as the date of first use, name of users and any other pertinent
information necessary to keep accurate track of the equipment’s usage history.
Carrying, Maintenance and Storage
During use, carrying, and storage, keep away from acids, alkalis, exhaust emissions, rust
and strong chemicals. Do not expose to flame or high temperatures.
If the equipment becomes soiled, it can be washed in soap and water. For decontamination,
the equipment may be cleaned per your department’s protocols on biohazards. Make sure the
parts are dry before storage and store in a dry location. Dot not store with dissimilar metals.
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Repair
All repair work shall be performed by the manufacturer. Other work or modifications may
void the warranty, and releases CMC Rescue, Inc. from all liability and responsibility.
For information or service contact:
CMC Rescue, Inc.
PO Box 6870
Santa Barbara, CA 93160-6870 USA
cmcrescue.com
(800) 235-5741 / (805) 562-9120
support@cmcrescue.com
The AZ VORTEX User’s Manual is also available to download at
cmcrescue.com/azvortex.
Manufactured by:
Rock Exotica
Clearfield, Utah USA
Sample Inspection Log
The sample equipment log suggests records that should be maintained by the purchaser
or user of rescue equipment.
Equipment Inspection and Maintenance Log
Item
#
Date in Service
Brand/Model
Size
Date
How Used or Maintained
Comments
Name
Marking on the Product
– The orange component of the AZ VORTEX head is marked as
follows: “CE 0120 (EN 795 B)” and
“
WARNING: For Dangerous Situations. Risk of Death/Injury
Cannot Be Eliminated. Use of this device requires specialized skills and training.” It also has the
assembly date, serial number and an icon reminding users to read instructions.
CE Certification Notified Body
– Conformity assessment was done by notified body No. 0120,
SGS United Kingdom Limited,
Unit 202B, Worle Parkway, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset,
BS22 6WA, United Kingdom. Notified body controlling the manufacturing of the product: notified
body No. 0120,
SGS United Kingdom Limited,
Unit 202B, Worle Parkway, Weston-super-
Mare, Somerset, BS22 6WA, United Kingdom.
Country of Origin
– The AZ VORTEX is made in the USA of domestic and foreign materials.
The AZ VORTEX design is patented.
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AZ VORTEX NFPA Certified Configurations
THIS PORTABLE ANCHOR DEVICE MEETS THE AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
OF NFPA 1983, STANDARD ON LIFE SAFETY ROPE AND EQUIPMENT FOR EMERGENCY
SERVICES, 2012 EDITION.
EMERGENCY SERVICES AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT IN ACCORDANCE
WITH NFPA 1983, 2012 EDITION.
MINIMUM BREAKING STRENGTH AND RATING ARE DETERMINED AT THE
CONFIGURATION OF LOWEST STRENGTH PER MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS
.
RATED G (GENERAL USE), MBS 36 kN FOR THE FOLLOWING CONFIGURATIONS:
CONFIGURATION 1
Tripod
(
all legs equal length
)
1. 2 lower legs coupled to 1 upper leg at
maximum length (9 ft / 2.7 m)
2. Head unit connected to the upper leg
via upper head pin hole and last upper
leg pin hole
3. Use either Raptor or Flat Feet
4. Legs at equal distance apart
5. Feet are required to be individually
hobbled or anchored
CONFIGURATION 2
Easel
1.
A-FRAME SECTION
2 lower legs
coupled to 1 upper leg at maximum
length (9 ft / 2.7 m)
2.
EASEL LEG SECTION
3 lower legs
coupled to 1 upper leg at maximum
length (12 ft / 3.6 m)
3.
A-frame head unit connected to the
upper leg via upper head pin hole and
last upper leg pin hole
4.
Easel head unit connected to the upper
easel leg via second-to-last leg pin hole
5.
A-frame section must be at 90 degrees
relative to the ground
6.
Use either Raptor or Flat Feet
7.
Easel leg to A-frame leg distance 10 ft (3 m)
8.
Feet are required to be individually hobbled
or anchored
5F04
CMC Rescue, Inc.
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A Z VORTEX User’s Manual
18
GLOSSARY
Artificial High Directional (AHD)
An elevated change-of-direction anchor point used
to change the direction of the Main or Working Line, such as an AZ VORTEX.
Fall Hazard
Location with exposure to a fall.
Guy Line
A tensioned line that prevents the AZ VORTEX from toppling.
Hazard Zone
Location in which a fall hazard exits, usually considered as 6 ft (2 m)
from any edge.
Hobbles or Hobble Straps
Used to connect the legs of the AZ VORTEX together
to prevent the tripod or bipod legs from spreading or moving apart from one another.
Main Line
or
Working Line
The line used to move the load.
NFPA
National Fire Protection Association.
Resultant Force
The linear direction of the sum of all of the vector forces acting on the
component.
Safety Line or Belay Line
A second rope system used to support the load should the
Working Line fail.
Tether Line
An 8- or 9-mm Accessory Cord used to prevent sections of the AZ VORTEX
from falling over the edge.
Travel Restraint
Lanyard, tether or safety line device that prevents the user from
reaching the edge.
©2013 CMC Rescue, Inc. All rights reserved. 727300.00.032013
CMC Rescue, Inc.
PO Box 6870
Santa Barbara, CA 93160-6870 USA
cmcrescue.com
(800) 235-5741 / (805) 562-9120
support@cmcrescue.com
The AZ VORTEX User’s Manual is also available to download at
cmcrescue.com/azvortex.