Difference Between Single Rope Technique (SRT) and Double Rope Technique (DRT)

Rope techniques can be operationally divided into two main systems: the Single Rope Technique (SRT) and the Double Rope Technique (DRT). So, what is the difference between these two major rope technique systems? Let's introduce them below.

Single Rope Technique (SRT)

The Single Rope Technique (SRT) refers to a system where all technical operations are performed on a single rope. This technique has been developed over a long period for caving activities. It is also the technique most commonly used by humans in vertical work environments and outdoor sports (rappelling, ascending). SRT is currently the most widely used rope technique in the world. The Hong Kong RARS (Rope Access and Rescue Society) primarily uses the SRT system, but in certain special situations, the DRT system is also often used by RARS.

Double Rope Technique (DRT)

The Double Rope Technique (DRT) is a system recognized by the IRATA Guidelines. Its operational principle is that there must always be another independent rope serving as a safety backup. This independent rope is normally not under load; it only bears load if the primary rope supporting the body weight fails or if there is a system operation error. The DRT system is generally used in the engineering industry in European and American countries, as well as in some difficult caving rescue operations. The training courses for high-altitude work provided by UK IRATA and AiRAS use the DRT system.

About Double Rope Technique (DRT)

Currently, there are two major operational systems internationally: Double Rope Technique (DRT) and Single Rope Technique (SRT). The former is mostly used for high-altitude work in industrial environments, such as drilling platforms, chimney painting, stadium dome steel frames, tank descaling, etc. The latter is mostly used in sport caving, environments where the techniques are less complex, and some rescue missions.

The most authoritative organization promoting the Double Rope Technique (DRT) internationally is the Industrial Rope Access Trade Association of the UK (IRATA). Founded in 1987, it now has member partners in countless countries and is designated as the sole source for rope techniques used on offshore drilling platforms, demonstrating the safety of its system.