The future of rigging has arrived, thanks to David Driver from X-Rigging Rings, who developed an innovative friction tool for rope rigging called SafeBloc.

SafeBloc is a triple hole thimble designed to enhance safety by adding friction in the rigging system at the top of the tree. Here are some key benefits:

• Reduces stress on rigging points compared to traditional blocks or pulleys.
• Allows climbers to take over rigging after an initial drop controlled by the groundperson.
• Enables the groundperson to use both hands as the climber finishes the lowering process.

This tool can be used wherever an arborist block is typically employed for lowering. The rigging line can be threaded through three holes for maximum friction or fewer for less friction. It's designed so adjustments do not require the climber to return to the SafeBloc; simply select the desired friction level and proceed.

Important considerations include:

• The SafeBloc does not add excessive friction, maintaining safety and preventing fatigue on the rope.
• It can be used without a basal lowering device for small to medium loads, but a basal device is recommended for medium and larger loads.

Lightweight and durable, the SafeBloc features:

• No moving parts to wear out or damage.
• Hard-coated for extended wear.
• Available spliced onto an adjustable whoopie sling or standard straight sling, made from options like 3/4-inch tREX from Teufelberger or Tenex from Samson.

Warning: This product may expose you to chemicals such as Nickel Hydroxide, known to the state of California to cause cancer. For further information, visit www.P65warnings.ca.gov.