Important: This is not meant to replace hands-on instruction, nor to replace the need for hands-on practice.

Below is a good figure (from Petzl) for an exercise on basic hauling systems.

This is a basic crevasse rescue system, but not the Z-pulley everyone memorizes. Do you know if this is simple, compound, or complex? Can you quickly determine the ideal mechanical advantage? And in the interest of looking ahead for possible complications - what could you do if this was implemented and you did not have enough advantage?

If you've taken a good class on this stuff you now have an opportunity to review your notes and knowledge. If you haven't and you think you've got the right answers send me e-mail if you'd like and I'll let you know! (The last question doesn't necessarily have a single right answer. There are options with pros and cons, of course.)