3.8.4.WEIGHT DROPPERS
During the search of buildings, a team may come across a door that opens inwards. This would be extremely difficult to open semi-remotely using H&L.
An improvised solution, often referred to as a ‘weight dropper’, consists of a heavily weighted hinged frame held by a pin that can be removed remotely with cable or line. Removing the pin allows the weighted frame to fall on to the closed door to force it open. Weight droppers can be fabricated locally or improvised from objects such as stepladders and sandbags. As with all semi-remote search techniques, fundamental care must be taken during preparation to make sure that safety is maintained.
Additional weight (sandbag)
Weight dropper
A closed door (opens inwards only)
Line
Release mechanism
Image 14. Image of a weight dropper in position. Note that the system at the base allows the mechanism to be released and dropped via a line from a safe distance
Search core skills and procedures
210
Powered by FlippingBook