Manual Holmatro

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HOLMATRO’S
EMERGENCY SHORING
& LIFTING TECHNIQUES
A guide to equipment handling and techniques for use in emergency shoring and lifting operations
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HOLMATRO’S
EMERGENCY
SHORING & LIFTING
TECHNIQUES
By : Brendon Morris
Consultation & Training Manager Holmatro Rescue Equipment
© Copyright 01-2008
Holmatro Rescue Equipment B.V., the Netherlands
All rights reserved
980.000.197
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Important notice
This book contains information on rescue tools and rescue techniques that
can be employed in different emergency situations. The situations shown in this
book are examples only and are merely meant to assist the user of this book in
understanding certain basic shoring and lifting techniques and tools available.
Every single emergency situation is unique. Variables such as the kind and
the actual condition of vehicles, the collapsed structure or trench, the number
of patients and their actual condition and other external hazards all play a role
in determining the appropriate actions and their sequence. It is important to
note that you should always read and understand the manual for the relevant
tools, use the standard operating procedures and follow the instructions of your
department and incident commanders.
The extrication scene is inherently hazardous. Your personal safety depends

on the training provided by your agency, your use of the appropriate personal
protective equipment and your understanding of the rescue equipment you or
your agency utilizes. It is YOUR responsibility to read and understand all
operation manuals associated with your rescue equipment, receive appropriate
training in its use, and ensure that it is properly maintained. Your failure to take
all of these steps may lead to death or severe personal injury of victims,
yourself or any body else at the emergency scene.
Holmatro disclaims any liability for any damage or injury, whether direct,
indirect or otherwise, and whether asserted in contract, tort, warranty or
otherwise, incurred as a result of the use of rescue techniques and/or rescue
tools described in the book or the use of any other rescue techniques and/or
rescue tools that are employed in an actual emergency situation, except to the
extent, and limited to, the terms of any warranty provided by Holmatro for its
own equipment. Holmatro makes no warranty, express or implied, with respect
to its own equipment from the contents of this book, including without limitation,
any warranty of merchantability or warranty of fitness for a particular purpose.
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Author’s note
The rescue of trapped persons is inherently dangerous
work. Those who dedicate their time to this endeavor expect and
deserve the best knowledge and tools required to do this type of work
safely and effectively. This book hopes to provide the grounding to
good knowledge in the fields of emergency shoring and lifting
operations surrounding such rescue situations.
Many consider emergency shoring and lifting operations to be very complex. My
goal with this book is to provide a basis to the principles of emergency shoring and lifting
operations, as needed for the safe rescue of persons trapped. The principles of emergency
shoring and lifting reach across a range of specific extrication rescue disciplines. This said,
it should be understood that this book is not intended as a detailed discussion on these
disciplines* but rather a representation of collective knowledge on the fundamental principles
and applications of emergency shoring and lifting in them. This book is intended to
supplement training material and courses dedicated to the different disciplines described
within its pages.
It is not possible to cover every eventuality at an extrication rescue operation. The
techniques described in this book should be seen as generic principles that can be adapted
to the variety of situations one may come across. To this end, a large portion of this book is
dedicated to explaining these principles and the safe use of equipment needed to perform
them.
It is well understood that some of the techniques and strategies covered in this
book may be new to you and / or your organization. This book should never be seen as
representing every good idea in the field. With this in mind, it must be mentioned that in all
cases of conflict with the content of this book, guidelines from your local authority should be
followed. When it comes to techniques not used before it is further well advised that these
new techniques be practiced in a controlled training environment before using them in an
actual emergency.
Whatever your area of expertise, I trust that you will find this book a useful
addition to your rescue training programs.
* One of the technical rescue disciplines discussed in this book is Vehicle Extrication Rescue.
For a more detailed discussion on this topic take a closer look at the book Holmatro’s Vehicle
Extrication Techniques.
Brendon Morris
Consultation & Training Manager
Holmatro Rescue Equipment
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EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

A Guide to Equipment Handling and Techniques for Use in Emergency Shoring and Lifting Operations
Contents
SAFETY p.8
- Personal safety p.9
- Equipment handling p.12
SHORING EQUIPMENT p.16

- Terminology p.17
- Struts p.18
- Strut application comparison p.26
- Length extensions p.28
- Heads p.29
- Building up a shore p.30
LIFTING EQUIPMENT p.32

- Introduction p.33
- Lifting bags p.34
- Hydraulic wedge jack p.36
- Lifting jacks p.37
HYDRAULIC ASSIST EQUIPMENT p.38

- Introduction p.39
- Spreaders p.40
- Cutters p.41
- Rams p.42
- Combination tools p.43
- Self-contained hydraulic tools p.44
- Hydraulic pumps p.45
6
EQUIPMENT CARE & MAINTENANCE p.46
- Introduction p.47
- Care & maintenance p.48
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Contents
LOAD MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES p.50

- Triangle of stability p.51
- Center of gravity p.53
VEHICLE RESCUE p.54

- Introduction p.55
- Vehicle on its side p.56
- Vehicle on its roof p.59
- Large vehicle stabilization p.62
- Large vehicle lifting p.66
COLLAPSED STRUCTURE RESCUE p.70

- Introduction p.71
- Collapsed structure safety p.72
- Principles of emergency shoring p.74
- Window / doorway shores p.75
- “T” / Spot shores p.78
- Progressive lifting p.81
TRENCH COLLAPSE RESCUE p.84

- Introduction p.85
- Trench safety and terminology p.86
- Trench rescue approach p.88
- Rapid safe area creation p.91
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS p.96
7
NOTES p.97
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8
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Personal safety
The following personal protective equipment represents a minimum personal safety
requirement for variety of technical rescue operations, including emergency shoring and lifting
operations. This equipment does however not protect against every hazard that may be
present in certain technical rescue operations. In some cases additional protective
equipment may be required.
· A helmet appropriate to the environment you are working in should be
worn at all times.
· Eye protection appropriate to the risk of the work you are doing should
be used.
· Appropriate gloves should be worn at all times to protect your hands.
· Sturdy long-sleeved working clothes should be worn as a minimum
requirement. Of course, if the environment requires more significant
protection, this should be used. Incorporated reflective material is
always beneficial for visibility.
· Safety boots with ankle and toe protection are also a must for the
technical rescue environment.
Some extra pieces of personal safety equipment may only be required in certain
situations. Each rescuer should have access to this equipment in case it is required. 9
· Hearing protection.
· Knee and elbow protection.
· Dust masks or other respiratory protection.
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Personal safety
While safety officers should always be assigned in rescue operations, ultimately
every rescuer is responsible for his or her personal safety. To be sure of this, rescuers should
always be aware of their surroundings and how they use their rescue equipment. Some
generic points should always be remembered.
· At all times observe the equipment manufacturers’ operating instructions.
· Pay attention to movement of

objects you are working on and
around, including shifting or
moving overhead loads.
· Always monitor vibrations or movements that may affect the environment you
are working in.
· Keep hands and feet away from

any potential pinch points.
· Always return all equipment not

in use to the designated tool
staging area and leave them in
the safe position.
10
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Personal safety
· Protect against the effects of prolonged exposure to extreme environments
such as loud noise, bright light or extreme temperatures.
· The maximum allowable capacity of

each piece of equipment should never
be exceeded.
· Equipment should only ever be used for applications for which it has been
designed. It is also vital to read and understand equipment manufacturers’
user’s manuals.
· Because hoses are susceptible

to damage (cuts, abrasion,
kinks, burns, chemical
contamination etc.) extreme
care must be taken. Damaged
hoses should never be used
and should be immediately
removed from service.
· Always check equipment for damage and do not use equipment if it is not in
good condition. Maintenance should be conducted according to manufactures’
recommendations.
· Be aware of potential tool

movements and reactions of
tools that may lead to injury or
trapping of rescuers or patients. 11
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Equipment handling
A - Shoring
When working with emergency shoring equipment the following general safety points
should be noted regarding their safe operation.
· Wherever possible, position

shores on a stable, flat solid
base without protrusions or
loose material. If this is not
possible, be sure to make use
of the appropriate heads and
accessories such as base
plates and tension straps
to counteract the unstable
situation.
· The rescuer should never move

under or in the path of a load
that has not been secured by
either cribbing or shores that
have been mechanically locked
off.
· Shores should never be side

loaded. In all cases shores
should be placed in such a way
that the load only
acts down the
centre of the
shore.
12
Other safety points, specific to different rescue applications, will be covered in the
operational chapters of this book.
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Equipment handling
B – Lifting equipment
No matter what lifting equipment is used, there are a few points that must always be
taken into consideration for safe working with such tools.
· In all cases any lift or space

created must be followed with
chocks or mechanically locked
shoring.
Beware of placing fingers under a lifted load. Always push

cribbing into place carefully.
· Always closely observe all the

effects of the lifting process to
ensure that the situation is not
being made unstable.
· Always star t with the most

appropriate tool for the initial
insertion space you have. This
will ensure the efficient use of
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available capacity and stroke.
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Equipment handling
· At no time should more than
two high-pressure lifting bags
be used on top of one another.
The practice of using bags on
top of each other should only be
seen as a last option when
absolutely necessary.
If two high-pressure bags are
stacked, be sure to place the
largest bag at the bottom. Also
be sure to have them centered on one another.
Low-pressure high-volume bags should never be used stacked

on each other.
· While lifting bags are designed

to be resistant to damage,
all efforts should be made to
ensure lifting surfaces are free
of sharp edges or protrusions
as these may damage the bag.
In certain cases where this
cannot be controlled it may be
necessary to provide appropriate
soft flexible protection.
· Avoid off center loads.
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Use of unsecured headers above lifting equipment should be

avoided as the risk of them being displaced does exist.
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Equipment handling
C – Hydraulic equipment
Hydraulic equipment such as spreaders, cutters, rams and jacks play an important
role in various technical rescue situations. The following general points should always be
considered, no matter what technical rescue discipline these tools are being used for.
· Tools should only be carried and

operated using the designated
handles and controls.
· Never put your hands on the

blades, arms or heads of any
of these tools.
· Do not use the hoses to carry,

pull or move the tool or pump.
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16
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Terminology
To allow for good communication during shoring and lifting operations all rescuers on
the scene should use standard equipment terminology. The following labeled diagram
displays the terminology that will be used throughout this book when discussing shoring.
ho
lm
at
ro heads
extension ho
lm
at
ro
strut
Using standard terminology such as this will dramatically increase team efficiency as
well as remove any chance of misunderstandings that may lead to unsafe actions. Using the
Holmatro® PowerShore™ Emergency Shoring System as an example, we will have a closer
look at each of these components and identify which of the different components are best
suited to different shoring situations.
Don’t be concerned if you still do not fully understand the application of every piece
of equipment by the end of this chapter. The chapters to follow will give step-by-step examples 17
of their use. Of course you can always come back to this chapter at any time while going
through the examples to see what system would be best to use.
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Struts
hydraulic
Variations in strut types occur due to pneumatic
the different combinations of locking and
operation systems available. There are three
different types of operating systems for
struts. These are hydraulic, pneumatic and
manual
manual. There are also two types of locking
systems for struts. These are Auto-lock and
Locknut locking systems (which are similar in
nature to the pin and collar systems).
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Strut operating systems
Auto-lock locking system Locknut locking system
These 3 operating and 2 locking system combinations make the possibility for 5
different types of struts.
Hydraulic (Oil) Pneumatic (Air) Manual
Hydraulic Pneumatic Auto-lock Manual Auto-lock

Automatic locking
Auto-lock strut strut struts do not exist
Hydraulic Pneumatic Manual Locknut
Locknut locking
Locknut strut Locknut strut strut
18 All of the struts can be used with any of the extensions and heads. The whole
system, from struts through to extensions and heads, is universally compatible. This means
that any number of combinations can be used to develop the exact system required to shore
a particular environment.
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Struts
A - Manual struts
These are the simplest of the strut types even though they have the same rated
strength as all the other types. The difference between this strut type and the others is that
they are extended and retracted manually. The advantage of this is that there is no need for
compressed air or hydraulic pressure to open these struts. This also however, means that
these struts cannot be extended from a remote location (remote shoring). For this reason,
this type of strut is not supplied in an automatic locking (Auto-lock) type strut.
Simple vehicle shoring application with manual struts

The use of manual struts is in most cases limited to structural collapse environments
or simple vehicle shoring scenarios where no remote shoring requirements exist.
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Manual struts in window Securing a manual strut in a doorway

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Struts
Manual threaded type:
this strut has a very small retracted

length and is ideal for shoring small gaps or any
situation where a small insertion space is
required.
Manual Locknut type:
this strut has the same Locknut system and stroke as available on the hydraulic and
pneumatic strut types.
The biggest advantage of the manual strut system is the fact that there is no need
for a supply of compressed air or a hydraulic pump to operate it. This means that it can be
used in any remote area or confined space without any need for hoses or pumps to set the
system in place. As seen in the picture a hook wrench can be used to tighten the strut in
place.
20
No air or hydraulic supply needs to be used to secure a manual strut type

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Struts
B - Pneumatic struts
These struts can be used with compressed air in situations were remote shoring or
follow-up shoring is required. The Locknut type struts can also be used as manual struts
where no compressed air is available or required or where remote shoring is not necessary.
Remote shoring used in trench rescue

Remote shoring: the process by which a shore is positioned in an unsafe area and then
extended from a remote safe location by either pneumatic or hydraulic pressure.
Follow-up shoring: shoring used to follow

a load that is being lifted by other
mechanisms such as lifting bags.
This shoring is extended and locks
automatically (due to compressed air
inside the strut) as the load is lifted. It is
intended to hold the load in the event of
lifting system failure. It is important to
remember that the shore is only totally
safe when the locking mechanism is
engaged.
21
Follow-up shoring used to back up

a lifting bag
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Struts
Pneumatic Auto-lock type:
the automatic locking system of this strut makes it possible to perform remote
shoring. It is, however, not suitable for use in inflexible spaces such as in most building
shoring situations. In this environment the force needed to set the automatic locking system
may disturb the balance of forces already in place.
This strut is very useful for follow-up shoring of heavy lift operations or in trench
rescue where remote shoring is required.
Pneumatic Locknut type:

makes use of a Locknut system for mechanically locking the extended strut. This
Locknut system is the same as the one used on the hydraulic and manual Locknut struts.
This is a very universal strut and can

be used for vehicle, trench or structural
collapse shoring. This type of strut can also be
used for follow-up shoring during heavy lift
operations but does not allow for remote
shoring (it does not automatically lock).
In other words, the rescuers will have to
physically secure the Locknut themselves as
the strut extends.
22
Rescuer securing the Locknut

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Struts
C – Hydraulic struts
Hydraulic struts are the most versatile of all the strut types. The reason for this is
the combination of a shoring system with the ability to perform lift operations. These struts
are a little heavier than their pneumatic and manual counterparts but have various
advantages in terms of multiple applications.
Hydraulic strut used in heavy rescue situation
The hydraulic lifting capacity of these

struts means that they can be deployed in a
variety of lifting operations from heavy vehicle
rescue through to lifting concrete or other
barriers in a structural collapse environment.
With proper training, the hydraulic Locknut
type strut can also be safely used for shoring
in non-movable or inflexible shoring
environments such as doorway or window
shores. In this situation it is important that
operators understand the importance of not
creating any lifting forces that may destabilize
the building.
23
Hydraulic shores carefully used in an

inflexible structural collapse situation
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Struts
Hydraulic Auto-lock type:
the automatic locking system of this strut makes it possible to perform remote
shoring. It is, however, not suitable for use in non-movable or inflexible shoring environments
(see page 23) for example, in building shoring. In this situation the force used to set the
automatic locking system may disturb the balance of forces in place. This system should not
be used where a lifting force may disturb the stability of the situation.
This strut is very useful for follow-up shoring of heavy lift operations. It even has the
ability, when used together with a second hydraulic strut that acts as a backup, to perform
the lifting and shoring simultaneously.
Hydraulic Auto-lock strut being used for combined shoring/lifting operation
24
In trench rescue, where remote shoring is required, these struts can also be used.
However they are a little heavier than the pneumatic type.
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Struts
Hydraulic Locknut strut:
the Locknut system used on this hydraulic strut is exactly the same as on the
equivalent pneumatic and manual struts. This strut can however only be extended using the
hydraulic pump, unlike the pneumatic type struts that can be extended manually as well as
with a compressed air system.
This is a very universal strut and can be used in vehicle stabilization and trench or
building collapse shoring. This strut can also be used together with a second hydraulic strut,
to perform lifting and shoring simultaneously. In trench rescue, where remote shoring is
required, these struts can also be used. It should be noted though that they are a little
heavier than the pneumatic type. This is however the only strut type that can be used for
remote de-shoring.
Remote de-shoring: the process by which a shore that is positioned in an unsafe area can
be removed working from a remote safe location. This is done by retracting the strut in a
controlled manner using the hydraulic pump. The Locknut will need to be released for this
technique to be used.
Both hydraulic strut types require a hand pump

to extend them. This may seem troublesome but
remember that it is this same hydraulic pressure that
makes it possible to provide a 10 t. / 22,000 lbs lifting
capacity. This is an advantage which, in most cases,
outweighs any difficulties of having a pump attached for
extension. Each pump also has a gauge on it, allowing
the operator to know exactly how much lifting force
is being exerted and what the limits are if
working over a certain length shore. This
25
issue of load capacity in relation to shore
length is covered in more detail on page 28.
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Strut application comparison

The following table illustrates which struts are suitable in different applications.
Manual Locknut strut Pneumatic Locknut strut
Can be used for

Can be used for
stabilization when using
Heavy vehicle stabilization when using
lifting bags or jacks
lifting bags or jacks for
rescue for lifting.
lifting. Can be used for
stabilization with This strut type has no manual follow-up shoring.
lifting operations lifting capacity which
This strut type has
limits its use in this
limited lifting capacity.
application.
Light vehicle rescue

Good strut for this Good strut for this
stabilization / application. application.
backup shoring
Good strut for this

Good strut for this
application. Especially
application. This strut type
Trench rescue when working in narrow
can be well used for
shoring trenches, and when used
secondary / replacement
for secondary /
shoring.
replacement shoring.
Can be used for Can be used for
stabilization when using stabilization when using
Collapsed lifting bags or jacks
lifting bags or jacks for
for lifting.
structure lifting lifting. Can be used for
This strut type has no manual follow-up shoring.
operations lifting capacity which
limits its use in this This strut type has
application. limited lifting capacity.
Collapsed Good strut for this Good strut for this

application. Especially application when used
26 structure when working in confined without air supply
shoring spaces. (as a manual strut).
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Pneumatic Auto-lock strut Hydraulic Locknut strut Hydraulic Auto-lock strut
Can be used for

stabilization when using Good strut for this
lifting bags or jacks for Good strut for this application. Can be used
lifting. Can be used for application. Can be used for lifting and stabilization
automatic follow-up for lifting and stabilization in one. This strut can be
shoring. in one. used for remote shoring
This strut type has and lifting.
Good strut for this
Good strut for this application. Can be used
Can be used for this application. Can be used for lifting and stabilization
application. for lifting and stabilization in one. This strut can be
in one. used for remote shoring
and lifting.
Good strut for this Good strut for this Good strut for this
application. This strut application. This strut application. This strut
can be used for remote can be used for remote can be used for remote
shoring. shoring. shoring.
Can be used for

stabilization when using Good strut for this
lifting bags or jacks for Good strut for this application. Can be used
lifting. Can be used for application. Can be used for lifting and stabilization
automatic follow-up for lifting and stabilization in one. This strut can be
shoring.
in one. used for remote shoring
This strut type has and lifting.
Good strut for this

Not suitable for application. Does however Not suitable for 27
this application. require well trained user this application.
aware of lifting capacity.
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Length extensions
For the PowerShoreTM system, extension
pieces are used to customize the length
of the shore you are creating.
Any of the extensions can
be used with any of the
struts and heads. Each
extension is color coded
so that it can be easily
identified.
The overall strength of the system is dependent on the total length once it is in place.
The graph below shows how, up until 1.325 m / 53 in. the strength of the system created
will have a maximum capacity of 100 kN or 10 t. / 22,000 lbs. After this, the shore will
gradually begin to lose load bearing capacity as the system is lengthened, with a limit of
4.5 m / 180 in. shown. Shores built on the basis of this graph will provide a 4:1 safety factor.
28
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Heads
There are various types of heads that can be used to create your shoring system.
Different heads can be used depending on the environment and type of system you need to
create. The following table gives a breakdown of some of the applications for the different
head types.
Tilting heads:
This is probably the most universal of all head types. They
can be used at different angles in a variety of directions.
Tilting heads often have nailing holes so can be used
where nailing to a header or footer is required.
Swivel heads:
These heads have interlocking mechanisms that allow them
to be used together with more than one of the same type
of head for different shoring systems that can redirect
forces at different angles. These heads are generally used
in combination with a base plate.
Cross heads:
These heads grip well on the underside of vehicles and are
often used in systems for the stabilization of vehicles on
their sides.
Beam support heads:

These types of heads are mostly used in structural collapse
shoring operations. They normally support 10x10 mm / 4x4 in.
or 10x15 mm / 4x6 in. timber and have nailing holes. In some
cases they can also be used in heavy lifting operations where a
timber header is used to spread the lifting force of the strut.
V-block heads:
These V-block heads are generally used in vehicle rescue
where they do a good job of gripping onto inverted vehicle
29
sills. They can also be used in other situations for
supporting utilities such as pipes.
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Building up a shore
A - MAPS approach
For a good approach to creating a shoring system we should always follow the
MAPS system.
Measure – Either by actual measurement or by simply

assessing the length of shores you will need.
Assemble - Build up your shores in a safe location away from any hazards.
Position – The assembled shores are then

moved into place in the working area.
30
Secure – The shores are opened slightly until
they perfectly fit the location for which they are
intended.
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Building up a shore
B- Shore assembly
When assembling a shore, the first thing to remember is the terminology as

discussed earlier (page 17). We can only consider a shore complete when it has been
correctly assembled using the most appropriate strut, heads and where necessary,
extensions. In considering the actual assembly of the shore there are a few essential steps
that must be followed.
1. Choose the most appropriate struts for the application for which you will be using
the shore. (See strut application comparison on pages 26-27).
2. Select the heads you will require for the situation.
(See table of head types on page 29).
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3. Choose the length of extension you require. Remember to always use

as much extension as necessary to save the stroke of the strut for any
adjustments or lifting you may need to do.
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Always remember to use the least amount of separate extension pipes to create the
extension length you need. This will keep the complete shore lighter.
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Always keep the shortest extension pipes at the end of the shore and not in the
middle. This makes it easier to adjust length and decreases susceptibility to side loads.
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32
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Introduction
There are many different types of rescue equipment that can be used for lifting
operations. In this chapter we will limit our discussion to those pieces of equipment that are
solely designed for the purpose of lifting heavy loads from the ground up. These are:
• Lifting bags
- High pressure low volume
- Low pressure high volume
• Hydraulic wedge jacks
• Rescue lifting jacks
• Hydraulic shores
Hydraulic shores can be used for lifting loads and have the advantage of being able
to be used for shoring at the same time. These struts have been discussed in the previous
chapter.
It should be said that there are various other pieces of equipment such as spreaders
that can also be used for heavy lifting. These will however be discussed in the Hydraulic Assist
Equipment chapter.
33
Staged lifting equipment

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Lifting bags
There are several types of lifting bags available to rescuers. The most widely used
are high pressure low volume bags and low pressure high volume bags. Both these are
useful in different rescue situations.
A – High pressure lifting bags
High pressure low volume lifting bags, commonly called high pressure lifting bags,
work on a pneumatic system of 8 bar / 116 psi pressure. These bags, available in various
sizes, are exceptionally versatile and very robust in design. They are primarily used in
situations where lifting heavy loads with a very small initial insertion space is required. They
are also very useful in situations where small working spaces limit the use of larger hand
tools and other lifting devices.
34
Lifting bag used in small insertion space created by a hydraulic wedge

ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:30 Page 35

Lifting bags
B – Low pressure lifting bags
Low pressure high volume lifting bags, normally referred to as low pressure bags,
make use of more air to affect a lift. These bags work on a 0.5 bar / 7.25 psi pneumatic
system and use the large surface area of the bag to create lift. They are useful in those
situations where lifting or stabilizing of heavy
loads with large surface areas is needed.
They are especially useful on

soft or uneven terrain. These bags are
also used in certain trench rescue
incidents. Available in different sizes,
these bags are most often used in sets
of two side by side to increase stability.
35
Low pressure lifting bag used over the large Low pressure lifting bags used
surface area of the side of a tanker on soft ground
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:30 Page 36

Hydraulic wedge jack

A hydraulic wedge jack, sometimes referred to as a power wedge, is an exceptionally
useful auxiliary tool.
Its ability to create a 50 mm / 2 in. opening from an insertion space of only 6 mm / 0.25 in.
means that it is able to create opportunities to use high pressure lifting bags where this
would otherwise not be possible. The hydraulic wedge jack can also be used for forcing open
certain types of doors.
Wedge jack creating space for high pressure lifting bag Wedge jack used to force
open a rolling door
The wedge jack works by pushing a wedge out of the tool between two narrow
hardened plates. This creates over 20 tons of lift force between these plates.
36
Working action of a wedge jack

ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:30 Page 37

Lifting jacks
Hydraulic lifting jacks have been used for many years in
industrial applications. Despite their simple design, lifting
jacks are very useful rescue tools. These jacks have
been optimized for use by rescue professionals.
Jacks are often used

in sets of two with one jack
proportionally smaller than the
other. This allows for progressive
lifting from one jack to the next.
Toe jacks are also commonly

used by technical rescue teams.
These jacks were originally
designed for use on trams but
their toe design gives them the
added versatility of being a low
and high clearance jack in one.
Two proportionally sized lifting jacks used
for progressive lifting
37
Toe jack used for high Toe jack used for low
clearance lift clearance lift
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:30 Page 38

38
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:30 Page 39

Introduction
A wide variety of hydraulic rescue tools are available for assisting the rescuer during
emergency shoring and lifting operations. These include simple single acting jacks through to
advanced specially designed cutting tools for dealing with advanced vehicle construction. For
the purpose of this book only the basic tools used to assist in lifting and shoring operations
will be covered. For a more detailed review of hydraulic equipment used for extrication rescue
take a look at Holmatro’s Vehicle Extrication Techniques.
Hydraulic double acting hose systems: CORETM above, traditional below
The large majority of the hydraulic rescue tools are double acting. This means that
they have the ability to create force on both opening and closing. Double acting equipment is
usually powered by a portable pump connected to the tools by a hose system. In a coaxial
hose system such as the Holmatro R CORETM system this may appear to be a single hose.
However, there are in fact 2 hoses in the system, one providing hydraulic power to the tool 39
inside the one taking returning hydraulic oil back to the pump.
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:31 Page 40

Spreaders
Spreaders’ functions include spreading, squeezing and pulling, making
them useful for all sorts of rescue situations. While they are mostly used for
vehicle extrication, a heavy duty spreader is often seen as an essential
piece of equipment for general technical rescue applications. By using
different tips, a spreader can be transformed into a powerful squeezing,
pulling, cutting or lifting tool.
Cutting tips used on a spreader
Spreader used for space creation
40 Extra caution should be used when lifting with a spreader as

limited points of contact can lead to instability. A load lifted with
a spreader should always be chocked.
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:31 Page 41

Cutters
Hydraulic cutters are available in various shapes and sizes. Larger heavy duty type
cutters are well suited to cutting strong and often bulky components of vehicles. To this end
a good hydraulic cutter is considered an essential piece of any complete rescue equipment
set.
Smaller, more portable mini type cutters are also useful in the emergency shoring
and lifting environment. These cutters can be used to cut locks or reinforcement type bars in
hard to reach locations where space is often limited. This type of mini cutter is also growing
in popularity among technical rescue teams due to its versatility.
Mini cutter cutting Mini cutter cutting 41

reinforcement bars hardened chain
ESLT 03 14/01/08 9:41 Page 42

Rams
Rams are primarily used in vehicle extrication rescue for pushing vehicle components
away from trapped patients. They can of course be used anywhere where there is a need for
pushing power over large distances. When fitted with different heads, some rams (check with
your supplier) can also be used with chains as a pulling tool.
In general a ram is not considered to be a lifting tool. In this regard the use of rams
for long distance lifting should be avoided as any shift of the load may lead to extensive
damage to the ram if the piston is bent. It is also important to remember that rams do not
have mechanical locks so are always reliant on the maintenance of hydraulic pressure to hold
the load.
Ram with pulling head attached

(not all rams have the ability to pull)
Mini telescopic ram
used for space creation
42
If lifting with a ram is unavoidable always be sure to chock
the load as you lift.
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:31 Page 43

Combination tools
Combination tools, better known as combi tools, combine several functions in one tool.
The biggest advantage of such a tool is the fact that spreading, lifting, squeezing and
cutting can be done without having to change tools. It should also be mentioned however, that
combi tools have less capacity than dedicated cutters and spreaders. This means that
in certain cases a dedicated spreader or cutter may still need to be used. The use of
accessories for pulling with chains is also possible on a combi-tool.
Combi tool used for lifting Battery combi tool used for cutting
Extra caution should be used when lifting with a combi tool as 43
limited points of contact can lead to instability. A load lifted with

a combi tool should always be chocked.
ESLT 03 9/01/08 12:35 Page 44

Self-contained hydraulic tools

Self-contained hydraulic tools have become increasingly popular in the past years.
These tools are usually driven by either built in hand operated pumps or through the use of
battery technology. Battery technology has advanced significantly in the past few years. This
means that running hydraulic tools with electrical motors powered by battery technology is
more effective than before. It has of course always been possible to run tools off batteries,
but before now this would have required a large battery, less practical for the rescue scene.
Completely self-contained hydraulic tools (whether battery or manually driven) are

very useful for work in remote or difficult to reach places. They have become common place
pieces of equipment in most urban search and rescue (USAR) teams.
Self-contained tool used

in USAR environment
44
Self-contained tool carried over
difficult terrain
Self-contained combi tool used
for cutting
ESLT 03 9/01/08 12:35 Page 45

Hydraulic pumps
Hydraulic pumps are available in a variety of types. Petrol
driven pumps are however the most popular. New technology
used in these pumps makes them lighter, more portable
and quieter than previous models.
Hand and foot operated pumps make good backup

systems and can also be used in those environments
where operation of another sort of pump is not
possible. For hydraulic shoring operations only hand
pumps may be used. This is due to the fact that
hydraulic shoring requires precise control which is not
possible with a conventional motor driven pump.
Single acting hand pumps used with hydraulic shoring for fine control of lifting
45
Foot pump used Light weight pump - easy to

with wedge jack carry to the scene
ESLT 03 9/01/08 12:35 Page 46

46
ESLT 03 9/01/08 12:35 Page 47

Introduction
Good care of equipment on a regular basis will greatly increase the useable life of
your equipment and will also ensure its proper function when you really need it. To this end,
equipment care and maintenance should be incorporated into all training programs.
It should be mentioned that regular user maintenance and inspection does not
replace the need for periodic factory authorized service of your rescue equipment. In general,
annual inspection and service of your equipment should be performed by a manufacturer
certified technician. The equipment will be tested and the necessary routine maintenance,
such as the changing of fluids, will be done.
It is also important to remember that a rescuer’s care and maintenance does

not include making repairs. Damaged or faulty equipment requires the attention of a
manufacturer certified technician.
47
Equipment being serviced by a technician

in a mobile workshop
ESLT 03 9/01/08 12:35 Page 48

Care & maintenance

The following represents an overview of day-to-day care of the different equipment
groups discussed in this book. This chapter should in no way be seen as a complete
discussion of all maintenance issues surrounding all the different pieces of equipment
available. Always consult your users’ manual for complete instructions on care and
maintenance. Equipment manufacturers should always be able to provide you with more
detailed descriptions of product specific care and maintenance issues.
A - Shoring
· Check that all parts are clean and

free of damage, including
couplings, either air or hydraulic.
· It is especially important with

automatic lock type shores to
make sure the threads are clean
and free of damage. In the case of
pin and collar systems, make sure
that all pins and other loose parts
are properly attached. Locking
mechanisms should also be
tested, making sure they are
functioning properly.
· Other auxiliary equipment to your shoring, such as hydraulic hand pumps or

pressurized air regulators, should also be inspected.
48
Over and above this regular care, it is strongly advised that shoring equipment be
inspected by an authorized technician on an annual basis.
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:33 Page 49

Care & maintenance

B - Lifting bags
· Check the general condition of the

bag:
- Remove any glass or other minor
debris that has splintered into
the surface.
- Bags should be kept clean
using only soap and water.
· Bags must be removed from service if there are any signs of damage or
significant wear. Including but not limited to:
- The non-slip surface being worn away.
- Presence of cuts or punctures.
- Aramid inlay threads are visible.
· Check the condition of the connection nipple.

Worn or damaged nipples can lead to a bad
connection.
Other than these, an annual inspection by an

authorized technician is strongly advised.
C – Hydraulic assist equipment
For a more detailed discussion on the care and maintenance considerations for
hydraulic equipment, take a look at the “Equipment care” chapter of Holmatro’s Vehicle
Extrication Techniques. The following points represent an absolute minimum of what will be
required by the manufacturer:
· Regularly visually inspect components for external damage.
· Check all fluid levels on pumps.
· Keep all equipment clean and free of damage, including hoses and couplers.
· All tools should be left with their arms, blades or pistons in the safe position i.e.
49
slightly open, not under pressure.
Any worn or damaged hose should be immediately removed
from service.
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:54 Page 50

50
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:35 Page 51

Triangle of stability
When shoring equipment is used for stabilization of lifted loads, the principle of
working within an established triangle of stability should be applied. This means that the
shoring system one makes should always be assembled and positioned in a way that will
ensure it is capturing any potential destabilizing forces.
In this first theoretical

diagram we see that a lift angle
strait upwards (90°) will be very
effective at lifting. At this angle all
of the opening stroke of the shore
will contribute directly to the lift. At
the same time however a 90° angle
does not provide any stability
against lateral movement.
By using angles during lifting we create a more stable situation. A shore angled
between 45° and 60° protects against lateral movements. As we see in the theoretical
diagram below, three angled lifting forces may not be as effective at lifting, (they loose some
lifting force acting against each other and not all lifting stroke contributes to the actual lift)
but do act against the potential destabilizing lateral forces.
In reality, most lifting performed during rescue operations is actually a type of tilting.
In other words, we are not trying to completely lift a load off the ground. This is good news,
as lifting something completely off the ground will often lead to a very unstable situation (See
51
next chapter on center of gravity). When performing such lifting operations, it is important not
to forget the need for control of the lateral forces as seen in the theoretical diagrams above.
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:54 Page 52

Triangle of stability
In the case of a tilt situation, whether lifting or stabilizing, it is usually best to control
lateral forces by using connection straps between the base of your shore(s) and the object
you are stabilizing / lifting. When creating this network of straps it is important to control all
the potential forces. This is best done by creating a sort of triangle in which you can work
safely with your shore. By using the two diagrams below as examples we will discuss how the
straps between the shores and the object, control all potential Horizontal and Lateral forces.
Horizontal forces
· Straps used to close the triangle of forces stop the bottom of the load from
being pushed away from the strut.
· They also stop the base(s) of the strut from being pushed away from the load.
Lateral forces
· Straps used to close the triangle of forces stop the load from moving from
side to side.
· They also stop the base(s) of the shoring from slipping to one side or the other.
52
The importance of creating and working within this triangle of stability is critical to
successful application of a shoring system. This is especially true in vehicle rescue where
loads can easily move especially when wheels are still in contact with the ground.
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:54 Page 53

Center of gravity
Another important principle of load management is the consideration of a load’s
center of gravity. Top-heavy loads are particularly vulnerable to tipping over. This is all the
more true if these loads are lifted. Understanding where the approximate center of gravity
of a load lies will help the rescuer choose the best possible placement and use of their
stabilizing and / or lifting equipment. In some cases estimating the center of gravity can be
complicated. For this reason, principles such as using points of connection as high as
possible on the load are helpful.
It is well understood that lifting a load from a point

of attachment above the center of gravity is going to
provide the most efficient lift. In terms of
stability however, this lifting from above can
lead to uncontrolled movement, especially
at the point where the load leaves the
ground. Of course, in some cases such
a lift is just not possible or practical. In
these cases it becomes necessary to lift
from below.
When lifting or tilting from below, the rescuer should try to make the point of
attachment as high as practically possible. This should ideally be in line with or just
above the center of gravity. Again this may not always be possible, in which case extra
consideration for destabilizing lateral forces (as discussed earlier) should be controlled
and / or closely monitored.
A further consideration when stabilizing or lifting loads from two sides is to line up your points
of attachment. As one can see in the diagrams below, points of attachment that are not lined
up tend to cause the load to shift laterally rather than lifting up and / or stabilizing the load.
53
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:54 Page 54

54
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:36 Page 55

Introduction
In the case of a collision, vehicles often come to rest in unusual positions. With the
understanding that movement of the vehicle during rescue efforts may lead to further injury
of those trapped inside, it becomes very important to be able to rapidly stabilize a vehicle in
the position it is found in before extrication rescue efforts can begin on the vehicle.
Shored tanker in under-run situation
It is important that we firstly develop a clear understanding of the difference

between securing a vehicle and stabilizing a vehicle. Let’s for instance take the example of
a car on its side. If we simply tie this vehicle off with some rope this may well secure the
vehicle (in that it would not fall over) but it would not be stable. In order to truly stabilize a
vehicle we have to create ground up stabilization that will ensure the vehicle will not move
due to any of our extrication efforts. Once this has been achieved one can say that the
vehicle is stabilized.
A stabilized vehicle is one that will not move as a result of normal extrication rescue
procedures applied to it.
Some of the procedures covered in this chapter can also be found in the book
Holmatro’s Vehicle Extrication Techniques. The focus of this book is however more on
stabilization requiring shoring. If you would like to know more about basic stabilization or how 55
to perform extrication after stabilization take a look at Holmatro’s Vehicle Extrication
Techniques.
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:54 Page 56

Vehicle on its side
OBJECTIVE:
To minimize movement of the vehicle, that may negatively affect
trapped patients or injure rescuers.
SITUATION ASSESSMENT:
Special attention should always be given to potential hazards. In this
case (vehicle on its side) this can include dangerous fluids that may have
leaked out of the vehicle due to its position.
THE PROCEDURE:
STRUT CHOICE: a good strut type for this application is a basic manual strut (see pages 26-27).
To ensure the vehicle will not roll towards

its roof side, start by supporting it under
the A and C pillars.
Think ahead, avoid placing
stabilization in
areas where you
56 are likely to need
to cut later
during the
extrication.
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:54 Page 57

Vehicle on its side
Now place a base for your shore on the other side

of the vehicle.
It may also be useful to preposition the tension

straps you will need later to secure the base
of your shore.
Remember to consider triangulation of the forces in your

system, see pages 51-53 for more details.
Next, position your shore between the vehicle

and the base.
Remember to pay attention to

the point of contact between the
vehicle and your shore ensuring
a stable point of contact. A
cross head usually works best
for this.
Finally, secure your shore by tightening

the tension straps between the base
and the vehicle. At the same time recheck
your chocks on the other side. 57
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:54 Page 58

Vehicle on its side
It is important to have stable contact

points between the vehicle and
your straps. Also always try to attach
your straps as low as possible.
In some cases it may also be necessary

to stabilize the top / roof side
of the vehicle.
By using two hydraulic struts it is

also possible to lift a vehicle on its
side in a very controlled manner
so as to free a trapped limb.
58
No matter what type of stabilization system is created, the
principle of the triangle of forces should always be followed.
See pages 51-53.
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:54 Page 59

Vehicle on its roof
o
a tr
lm
ho
OBJECTIVE:
To minimize movement of the vehicle, that may negatively affect
trapped patients or injure rescuers.
Special attention should always be given to potential hazards. In this
case (vehicle on its roof) this can include dangerous fluids that may have
leaked out of the vehicle due to its position.
THE PROCEDURE:
STRUT CHOICE: a good strut type for this application is a hydraulic Auto-lock type (see pages 26-27).
Chock the space between the roof

of the vehicle and the ground.
This may be easiest
with inverted step
chocks.
59
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:37 Page 60

Vehicle on its roof
In some cases it may be necessary to add

additional blocks between the engine
compartment and the windshield for added
stability.
The pillars of a vehicle on its roof are,

in most cases, supporting the weight
of the underside of the car.
For this reason, shoring to take over this

support should be applied before cutting
any of the pillars to create space.
Remember to consider triangulation of the forces in your

system, see pages 51-52 for more details.
By using the tension straps attached

to the base of your shores in combination
with the opening of
the shores, the
system should be
secured.
60
Remember not to use too much of the stroke of your shores
that you may need later during space creation.
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:37 Page 61

Vehicle on its roof
It should now be possible to make any cuts

through pillars that may be necessary
for space creation.
If components of the vehicle will be lifted

with the ram to create space, the change
in height should be secured by following up
with the struts.
When the space has been created

and the shores are locked in place.
Detach and remove any unnecessary
hoses that may be tripped over.
61
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:37 Page 62

Large vehicle stabilization
OBJECTIVE:
To stabilize large vehicles that are not positioned in their normal
orientation (not on all wheels or unevenly loaded).
Always consider the load that a heavy goods vehicle may be
carrying. Also think about how your movement of a truck may affect this
load. Finally remember that large vehicles normally have heavy suspension
with a large amount of travel which can complicate stabilization and lifting.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS:
STRUT CHOICE: a good strut type for this application is a hydraulic Locknut type (see pages 26-27).
These types of rescue situations

can vary significantly. For this
reason a range of important
considerations are given rather
62 than a step by step procedure.
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:37 Page 63


Always begin with an initial safety assessment considering
any hazards to your approach.
When it is time to begin stabilizing

the vehicle, always begin by chocking any
wheels that are still touching the ground.
Don’t forget the large suspension normally found on these

vehicles. Wheels touching the ground may not be fully
loaded, and so may easily roll.
It is also important to
strap down components
of the vehicle or load
that may move during
rescue efforts.
Consider, for instance,

a floating cabin on
a heavy goods vehicle.
Before deciding on shoring

placement, it is good to get
an overview of the situation
allowing one to better
understand where the center
of gravity lies and what type 63
of load shifts may occur.
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:37 Page 64

With a good understanding of the different

forces at play in your situation, it will now be
possible to construct the best shoring
system to support the load.
Always start with the base plate, making

sure, by using tension straps, that you
control all possible horizontal and lateral
forces within the triangle of stability
(see pages 51-52).
When considering assembly of your shores,

make rough measurements first. This will
help the rescuer maximize the use of shore
stroke for any adjusting that may be required
later.
64
ESLT 03 14/01/08 9:45 Page 65


Use a minimum of two shores. This helps balance the load
being shored as well as providing a back up.
When positioning your shores consider

the most appropriate angle (see
pages 51-52).
It is best to use a swivel
type head in this
situation so that the
load will always be
directed through the axis
of your shore.
Once you have positioned your shores

always be sure to take up all the slack
in the straps connected to the base
of your shore.
Always remember to construct shores to replace

the integrity of vehicles structure (such as a roof)
that is going to be cut away during the rescue effort.
65
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:37 Page 66

Large vehicle lifting
OBJECTIVE:
To tilt or lift the weight of a large vehicle in such a way as to allow
extrication of entrapped persons.
Always consider the load that a heavy goods vehicle may be
carrying. Also think about how your movement of a truck may affect this
load. Finally remember that large vehicles normally have heavy suspension
with a large amount of travel which can complicate stabilization and lifting.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS:
STRUT CHOICE: a good strut type for this application is a hydraulic Locknut type (see pages 26-27).
The need for lifting large vehicles

is not limited to trucks. While a
truck vs. car under-run is used in
this step by step approach, the
principles discussed can be
66 applied to a host of other lifting
rescue situations.
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:55 Page 67


Always begin with an initial safety assessment considering
any hazards to your approach.
After the initial assessments, always start

by properly chocking any wheels in contact
with the ground. This includes both
the vehicle to be lifted and the vehicle
trapped below.
The next step requires the strategic

placement of your shoring system’s bases.
These should be secured using a network
of straps
between
the bases and
the vehicle that
will be lifted.
To ensure the best use of available

stroke for lifting, make rough
measurements of the shore length you
will need before assembling your
shore.
67
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:55 Page 68

As discussed in the chapter on load management

(see pages 51-53), a good balance between the ideal
lifting and stabilizing angle of your shoring
system will have to be chosen.
Always remember to consider the final result of your

intended lift, bearing in mind that the angle and length
of your shores will change as the lift is performed.
Use a minimum of two shores. This helps balance the load

being lifted as well as providing a backup.
Once the shores are in place at the

appropriate angle, all slack should be
taken out of the tension straps between
the shores’ bases.
Never move under an unsecured load. When working near

an unstable load always work on one knee, allowing one
to move away quickly if required.
Before beginning to lift the load,

always recheck the chocking of
wheels still in contact with the ground.
It is also good to post rescuers
at different locations around the load
68 to check for any abnormal movement
during the lift.
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:55 Page 69


Coordination of the lifting process should
be controlled by one assigned rescuer
from a position with a good view of the full
lifting process.
All lifted loads need to be secured. This can

be done using chocks and blocks however
this may be impractical when dealing with
large distances. Shoring is more efficient
and effective for this task.
No shored load is secure until it is mechanically locked.
Mechanical locking of shores should be

done at the same time on both sides.
This will help avoid rollover if there is failure
of the lifting system.
When locking the shores be sure to grip

the locknut from below so as to avoid a pinch
hazard.
Throughout the lifting process

recheck the chocks.
Only lift the load as much as

necessary to achieve the rescue. 69
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:55 Page 70

70
ESLT 03 14/01/08 15:43 Page 71

Introduction
This chapter gives insight into the basic applications of emergency shoring and lifting
in collapsed structure environments. For each specific application type a detailed explanation
of the build up and use of the PowerShoreTM system is provided. Details on secondary
extensive shoring such as raker systems, secondary timber shores or more long term
industrial type shoring are not discussed as they fall outside the scope of this book. This book
focuses on initial emergency shoring.
The main aim of any emergency shoring is to create a rapid safe area for emergency
operations. Bearing in mind that rescue operations may already be on the go when the
emergency team arrives the two main goals of emergency shoring are:
· to protect access and exit routes to and from trapped patients
· to create safe working areas around emergency operations that can
later, if necessary, be replaced by secondary shoring.
Shores built to protect Spot shore used to protect

a rescue scene an exit route
It is important that we understand why and where emergency shoring is required on
the rescue scene. Shoring by industrial standards is the temporary support of structures
during construction and / or demolition etc. in order to provide stability that will protect
property as well as workers and the public. Emergency rescue shoring on the other hand 71
is a temporary support of only those parts of the structure required to perform search
and rescue operations at a reduced risk to patients and rescuers. Emergency shoring is
generally built using systems that can be assembled and deployed rapidly.
ESLT 03 14/01/08 9:46 Page 72

Collapsed structure safety

Working in and around collapsed structures is inherently dangerous. The following
diagram highlights some of the many safety considerations when working in such an
environment.
Heavy items on the roof such as air-conditioning units or large

water tanks may fall off or through a damaged roof.
Sections of floor or wall panels may

only be hanging from rebar and likely
to fall.
Broken glass from windows may fall

with even the slightest wind.
Secondary explosions or aftershocks

may lead to additional falling
objects, but may also lead
to further collapse.
72
Broken gas and water lines will be hazards.

ESLT 03 14/01/08 16:30 Page 73

Cables supplying electricity

to the building may be damaged
leading to an electrical hazard.
Various loose items such as

signs or panels may fall.
Damaged columns are a sign

of heavy structural damage.
In an effort to control movement in and out the hazardous area, always enforce 73
the use of working zones. The inner, or action zone, is for rescuers actively involved in rescue
operations; the secondary zone is reserved for all other emergency personnel. All non-
emergency service persons should be kept clear of these two zones.
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:45 Page 74

Principles of emergency shoring

Just because it is emergency shoring does not mean it can be assembled in an
inferior or unsafe way. All emergency shoring should be built using the same engineering
principles as found in more extensive secondary shoring. The only difference is that
emergency shoring needs to be rapidly assembled and deployed.
A shoring system should be like a double funnel or wine glass. It needs to collect the
load at the top of the shore, redirect that load through the shore and then finally redistribute
the load on a stable surface below or at the other end of the shore.
load
collection
load
redirection
load
redistribution
Depending on the nature and amount of structural damage to the building or

structure you are working on, varying amounts and types of shores may be required. Your
specialized “Collapsed Structure Rescue Team” or “Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team”
should have a structural specialist to help make the calculations of how many and what type
of shores will be required.
Timber is normally used at the top and / or bottom of your emergency shoring
system to collect and distribute the load according to the double funnel principle. In addition
some consider timber to also act as an audible or visual warning of increased load as it
deforms.
74
Wherever possible use timber between your shore
and the damaged structure.
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:45 Page 75

Window / doorway shores
OBJECTIVE:
To support openings in walls thus creating a safe access and / or exit
route for rescuers. These shores may later be replaced with secondary shoring.
They may also be used in buildings where door or window headers
have been damaged. This type of shore should be built up in a safe area and
then moved into place.
THE PROCEDURE:
STRUT CHOICE: a good strut type for this application is any Locknut type strut (see pages 26-27).
This shore system makes use of two shores

with one header and footer the width of the
opening. The shore system should be
assembled in a safe area and then moved
into place.
75
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:45 Page 76


First make rough measurements
or estimations of the width
of the opening.
On the basis of this, cut or choose two

pieces of wood to use as the header
and footer of the system.
After placing the header and footer on top of each

other in the opening, measure the length of shore
required.
Now select the appropriate struts and

extensions for the measured space and
assemble two shores of the same length.
76
Auto-lock struts should not be used for this type of shore
(see pages 26-27).
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:45 Page 77


Now that the shores are assembled,
nail the heads to either end of the wood
header ensuring the shores remain parallel.
In some cases it may be helpful to leave

space to the outside of the shores to
allow secondary shoring later if required.
A wood footer can be prepared in the
same way.
Always position any air or hydraulic connection points to

the outside of the window or doorway.
The assembled shore system can now

be moved into place.
Now extend and lock the shores in place

using the required system.
Manual system used.
Hydraulic system used.
77
Remember never to lift or push with a shore system
in a collapsed structure environment.
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:55 Page 78

“T” / Spot shores
OBJECTIVE:
To provide initial stabilization of dangerous areas where fully braced
systems (such as column shores) may be constructed later.
The exact number of T / spot shores required to stabilize a certain
area will have to be calculated to ensure that the correct amount of
stabilization is achieved. The structural specialist on your team will be able
to help with these calculations.
THE PROCEDURE:
STRUT CHOICE: a good strut type for this application is any Locknut type strut (see pages 26-27).
This type of shore should be assembled in a safe area and

then moved into place. They are normally installed with wood
above and below to spread the load.
Depending on the nature of the

ground you are working on, it may be
78
best to make use of tilting heads at
the base.
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:55 Page 79

First make rough measurements

or estimations of the shore length
needed.
If a doorway shore is already in

place, a measurement of the extra
length to the roof can be added
to the height of the doorway shore.
Now select the appropriate struts and

extensions for the measured space and
assemble your shore in a safe environment.
A beam support head should be nailed to the

center of the timber header.
A timber footer may be prepared in the same

way if required.
Auto-lock struts should not be used for this type of shore

(see page 26-27).
The shore complete with header and / or footer

can now be moved into place.
79
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:55 Page 80

Now extend and lock the shore in

place using the required system.
Remember never to lift or push with a shore system in a

collapsed structure environment.
Remember that as the length of any shore

increases, load capacity decreases
(see page 28).
As a final step remove

any hoses or other
components that may get
in the way during rescue
operations.
80
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:55 Page 81

Progressive lifting
OBJECTIVE:
To safely and systematically lift a heavy load, making use of
complementary lifting equipment.
Always lift with a good overview of the situation. Small lifting
actions in one area can dramatically affect the structure elsewhere.
THE PROCEDURE:
Start by ensuring all necessary

lifting equipment is readily
available. This equipment
should ideally be staged
close by.
81
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:47 Page 82

Progressive lifting
Start by creating an opening for your high

pressure lifting bag(s). In many cases this
is best done with a hydraulic wedge.
The space created by the hydraulic wedge

should be secured using wedge blocks.
Never place you fingers under or near a load being lifted.
Now slide your lifting bag into place. This is

best done with a wedge block against the
bag so that your fingers are not in danger.
Always position your bag(s) completely (past
the center of the bag) under the load before
inflating.
All lifted loads should always be backed up using blocks,

wedge blocks or a mechanically locked shoring system.
As the lifting bag is inflated, the progression

to the next lifting tool can be considered.
In this case the logical progression is
82 to a lifting jack.
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:56 Page 83

Progressive lifting
If the lifting bag needs to be left in place,

a shut-off hose with a safety valve
should be used.
Larger lifting bags can also be backed

up using automatic follow-up shoring
(see pages 21-22).
Always be extra cautious when lifting loads

at angles. Be sure that your lifting action will
not cause the load to shift uncontrollably.
This is best controlled by good chocking.
83
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:56 Page 84

84
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:56 Page 85

Introduction
Around the world trenches are dug for various
reasons such as the laying of pipes and cables or for
creating foundations. The number of trench collapses
varies significantly from country to country. The cause,
however, is almost always the same. Trenches collapse
due to inadequate shoring by those responsible for
digging the trench. In order to be able to work in a trench
safely, so as to extricate the injured and / or entrapped
persons, it is necessary for the rescue services to be
able to rapidly create a safe area around the patient.
While this chapter provides a basic overview of
emergency shoring used in trench rescue, it is not meant
to take the place of specialized trench rescue training
Collapsed trench
required to perform such rescue operations. If rescuers
are not aware of the risks and how to work safely in and around a trench, this can easily lead
to death and injury. It is essential that rescuers do not move into a trench that is not properly
shored. Moving into an unsafe trench will only put the rescuers at risk of becoming injured,
entrapped or worse in the very likely event of a secondary collapse.
Properly shored trench
Rescuers should never move into an un-shored trench.

85
Even in training, caution should be taken in and around un-shored trenches. For many
of the pictures used in this chapter a safe concrete training trench was used.
ESLT 03 17/01/08 10:56 Page 86

Trench safety and terminology

In all cases it is vitally important that a trench rescue scene is approached with
extreme caution. Many hazards can exist on such a scene and are beyond the scope of this
technical skills orientated book. It is, however, strongly advised that for complete knowledge
on this matter, an established trench rescue training program is used.
The diagram below highlights some of the many considerations that have to be taken
into account when working at a trench rescue scene. It also serves to explain the trench
terminology that will be used in the rest of this chapter.
Ladder(s) for access.
Atmospheric monitoring
and necessary ventilation.
Low pressure bag used

for backfill behind
shoring.
Staging area
for additional secondary
shoring material.
86 Shoring
planks.
Shoring boards.
ESLT 03 17/01/08 14:34 Page 87

Limited access
side
Head
Soil pile
Toe
Wall Edge
Edge
Toe
Working Toe
side Floor
Inner or action circle

for rescuers directly
involved.
Secondary zone reserved for all

other emergency service personnel.
All non-emergency service persons
should be kept clear of these
two zones.
87
Shoring board used as edge padding.

ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:47 Page 88

Trench rescue approach
OBJECTIVE:
To create a safe working environment around the edge of the trench,
so as to allow shoring work to be done, minimizing the risk of further collapse.
The greatest risk to the approaching rescuers is a secondary
collapse leading to the rescuer becoming trapped in the trench. The
following approach aims to minimize this risk.
THE PROCEDURE:
This procedure represents the absolute minimum of safety steps that need to be taken in
an approach to a trench rescue.
Always approach the trench from the head,

with caution, using edge padding to spread
your weight over the ground.
88
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:47 Page 89


After placing a ladder in the trench at the
head, encourage those in the trench who are
not entrapped to leave the trench.
From here one

can now assess
the shoring needs.
Once contact has been made with

a conscious patient this contact
should never be broken.
In the meantime, other members of the team

can begin to place boards at the edge of the
trench so as to spread the weight of rescuers
who will be working there.
It may also be necessary to position more

ladders to allow escape for those remaining
in the trench or for any rescuers that may
accidentally fall in during rescue efforts.
Never approach the edge of a trench without edge padding 89
in place no matter how stable it might seem.

ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:48 Page 90

It may also be necessary to clear the soil pile

from close to the edge to allow access.
After doing this, always place boards

on the ground to help spread the weight.
Perform gas monitoring

continuously and provide
necessary ventilation.
Rescuers should never move into an un-shored trench.
Finally, your trench rescue equipment should

be staged in a specific order, allowing quick
and easy access to the tools required.
90
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:48 Page 91

Rapid safe area creation
OBJECTIVE:
To rapidly create a safe working area (safe haven) from where rescue
and emergency medical care can be given to trapped persons.
A location for rapid safe area creation should be chosen based on
where the patient(s) is / are located.
THE PROCEDURE:
STRUT CHOICE: a good strut type for this application is any Auto-lock type strut (see pages 26-27).
Position the shoring team with one rescuer

on the limited access side (where the soil
pile normally is) and at least two on the
working side (see page 87).
91
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:48 Page 92

From the working side, position the first

shoring plank into the toe on the opposite
(limited access) side of the trench.
This shoring plank should be left lying

against the edge of the working side
of the trench.
Now slide the first shoring board over

the shoring plank already in place.
Next pass the shoring plank and board

together to the limited access side of trench.
These can then be held in place by the one
rescuer on the limited access side
of the trench.
92
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:48 Page 93


From the working side place the second
shoring plank into the toe of the working side
of the trench. Pass the top of this shoring
plank to the limited access side where it
should be rested against the shoring plank
and board already in place.
Again from the working side, slide the second

shoring board into place using the shoring
plank to guide it into the working side toe.
After doing this the shoring plank can be

handed back to the working side.
93
ESLT 03 11/01/08 10:48 Page 94

While the shoring planks and boards

are being positioned, the first shores
can be configured, based on the width
of the trench.
Using ropes lower the first shore to the bottom

of the trench no more than 0.6 m / 2 ft. from
the floor. Then extend the shore enough to hold it
in place using the required system.
The advantage of an Auto-lock type strut is that

it will lock in place without a rescuer having
to move into the trench.
Now check for the need to backfill with soil

or lifting bags in any spaces left between
the shoring boards and the walls of the
trench. After doing this the shore can be
extended.
Locking is achieved automatically when using

an Auto-lock type strut.
94
Never enter a trench that is not completely shored with

a mechanically locked system.
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:56 Page 95


The same procedure should be followed for the top
shore. The top shore should not be positioned more
than 0.6m / 2 ft. below the edge of the trench.
There should not

bemore than 1.2 m /
4 ft. between shores.
If necessar y, more
than two levels of
shoring may need to
be used.
Shores that do not

lock automatically
should be locked starting with the top shore as rescuers
move into the safe area created. Hoses of locked shores
can be removed.
At the same
time, nailing
the shores in
place can
begin.
Until the shores are nailed in place, all ropes

used to lower the shores should be secured
above.
In some cases it may be necessary to

replace your emergency shoring with other
95
secondary shores such as wood or simple
industrial type shores. This is normally seen in long trenches where multiple safe areas need
to be created.
ESLT 03 17/01/08 9:42 Page 96

Acknowledgments
This book would not have been possible without the assistance and valuable input
of the following persons and organizations.
For their roles in formulation and discussion of the many techniques and strategies
described in this book:
· Rod Campbell - Central University of Technology, South Africa
· Rob Owen – Fishbone Research Limited, United Kingdom
· Road Accident Rescue Committee – Queensland Fire and Rescue Service,
Australia
· Peter Fiset – Holmatro Rescue Equipment, United States
· Dave Dalrymple – Roadway Rescue, United States
For their assistance in proof reading and content consultation:

Ad Rombouts, Fran Dunigan, Giff Swayne, Malcolm Stirk, Tony Barboza
For technical assistance and photographs:

· Holmatro Rescue Equipment
· Piba, Antwerp Provincial Institute of Fire and Ambulance Service Training,
Belgium
· Anne Arundel County Fire Training Academy, United States
· Swedish Rescue Services Agency, Sweden
· Wennergren Maskin, Sweden
· Durban University of Technology Dept. Emergency Medical Care & Rescue,
South Africa
Finally a special word of thanks to all the operational rescuers from around the world,
who have shared their personal rescue experiences with me. Your valuable input is greatly
appreciated.
96
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:56 Page 97

Notes
97
ESLT 03 9/01/08 15:56 Page 98

Notes
98
ESLT 03 11/01/08 15:00 Page 99
This publication is brought to you by:
www.holmatro.com
ISBN: 978-90-812796-1-1
ESLT 03 11/01/08 14:38 Page 100
ISBN 978-90-812796-1-1

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ESLT 03 9/01/08 12:33 Page 1

The extrication scene is inherently hazardous. Your personal safety depends

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

SHORING EQUIPMENT p.16

LIFTING EQUIPMENT p.32

HYDRAULIC ASSIST EQUIPMENT p.38

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

LOAD MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES p.50

VEHICLE RESCUE p.54

COLLAPSED STRUCTURE RESCUE p.70

TRENCH COLLAPSE RESCUE p.84

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

· At all times observe the equipment manufacturers’ operating instructions.

· Pay attention to movement of

· Keep hands and feet away from

· Always return all equipment not

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

· The maximum allowable capacity of

· Because hoses are susceptible

· Be aware of potential tool

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

· Wherever possible, position

· The rescuer should never move

· Shores should never be side

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

· In all cases any lift or space

Beware of placing fingers under a lifted load. Always push

· Always closely observe all the

· Always star t with the most

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

Low-pressure high-volume bags should never be used stacked

· While lifting bags are designed

· Avoid off center loads.

Use of unsecured headers above lifting equipment should be

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

· Tools should only be carried and

· Never put your hands on the

· Do not use the hoses to carry,

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

Auto-lock locking system Locknut locking system

Hydraulic (Oil) Pneumatic (Air) Manual

Hydraulic Pneumatic Auto-lock Manual Auto-lock

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

Simple vehicle shoring application with manual struts

Manual struts in window Securing a manual strut in a doorway

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

this strut has a very small retracted

Manual Locknut type:

No air or hydraulic supply needs to be used to secure a manual strut type

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

Remote shoring used in trench rescue

Follow-up shoring: shoring used to follow

Follow-up shoring used to back up

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

Pneumatic Locknut type:

This is a very universal strut and can

Rescuer securing the Locknut

EMERGENCY SHORING AND LIFTING TECHNIQUES

Hydraulic strut used in heavy rescue situation

The hydraulic lifting capacity of these