|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Home  education Base Restraint Considerations
|
Base Restraint Considerations |
|
|
VEHICLE STABILIZATION STAND BASE RESTRAINTS
Stabilization stand base restraints are a critical component in vehicle stabilization. It is important that base restraints have the ability to withstand the loads they are exposed to. It is also critical that the particular restraint chosen can be set up in a timely fashion. The loads the straps are exposed to vary greatly depending on object weight, ground surface, stand angle, etc. Is the object going to be suspended or simply stabilized? Base restraints come in many forms. For example, they could be cambuckle straps, ratchet straps, chains, stakes, or combinations of these. We will discuss the features of these restraints and the pros and cons of each.
CAMBUCKLE STRAPS:
Cambuckle straps are very simple to use. They consist of a length of strapping stitched at one end to the buckle, and stitched to a hook of some sort at the other end. Another length of strap, typically much longer is stitched to a hook at one end. The other end is not affixed to anything. This end is pulled through the cambuckle by hand in the appropriate direction to adjust the length of the assembly. The pulling is done parallel to the assembly to maximize tension.
The advantage of this type of strap is its operation speed. The disadvantage to the cambuckle strap is that they typically have a low working load limit.
RATCHET STRAPS:
Ratchet Straps require a little more involvement in their operation. Ratchet straps usually have a shorter end stitched to the ratchet frame at one end and a hook at the opposite end. Another longer length of webbing is fed through the ratchet bale. To operate one pulls the slack through the ratchet and then operates the ratchet handle to tighten the assembly. Many people have a great deal of trouble with ratchet straps. A bad move with a ratchet strap can render it useless for some time. Barring any trouble, the ratchet strap is a powerful rescue tool.
CHAINS:
Chains come in various strengths depending on intended usage. Grade 70 chains for example are typically used in towing applications. Grade 80 or better are the only chains rated for overhead lifting. Chains offer a solid restraint solution, however, chains are typically cumbersome to deal with in a speedy fashion. Without a rapid means of shortening a chain, a long chain can be a nuisance where a short distance is spanned. To apply tension, one would need to use a chain binder.
STAKES:
Stakes are typically steel rods which can be driven into the ground to secure the stand base. If no restraint connection points exist on the object of our stabilization, stakes may offer the only solution. The time required to place stakes will depend on ground conditions, if they even permit usage.
RES-Q-JACK® BASE RESTRAINTS:
The philosophy behind Res-Q-Jack™ stabilization is to combine different components to maximize the chances of a favorable outcome. The desired outcome in vehicle rescue is saving lives. Time is a critical factor in saving lives. With the Res-Q-Jack® stabilization stands, cambuckle straps are pre-attached to the base plates to offer a fast "first-out" solution to simple stabilization to accommodate rapid patient access where feasible. Following this initial stabilization one may increase the amount of base restraints if needed using heavier ratchet assemblies, chains, and/or stakes.
Another concept promoted with Res-Q-Jack® stabilization is always have a backup. Multiple base restraints at each base offer greater security at any scene.
|
|
