Hanging aerial silks safely requires specific equipment and proper technique. While there are several methods, a common and secure way involves using an aerial eight (also known as a rescue eight or figure eight descender). This guide focuses on that method, incorporating a key step from the provided reference.
Essential Equipment
Before you start, ensure you have the correct, certified aerial rigging equipment:
- Aerial Silks Fabric: Your specific length of fabric.
- Aerial Eight / Rescue Eight: The piece of hardware used to attach the fabric.
- Carabiners: Load-rated locking carabiners suitable for aerial use. Typically requires two: one to attach the aerial eight to the rig point connection and one for the rig point connection itself.
- Swivel (Optional but recommended): Allows the silks to spin freely without twisting the rigging.
- Rig Point: A certified, load-rated overhead structure or rigging system designed for aerial loads. Never hang silks from non-certified points like ceiling beams, tree branches, or plumbing.
| Equipment Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Aerial Silks Fabric | The material you climb and perform on. |
| Aerial Eight | Connects the fabric tails securely. |
| Locking Carabiners | Securely connect hardware components. |
| Swivel (Optional) | Prevents fabric twisting during spins. |
| Certified Rig Point | Safe overhead anchor for the entire system. |
Step-by-Step Guide: Rigging with an Aerial Eight
This method focuses on creating a loop in the silks that passes through the aerial eight, securing the fabric ends.
1. Prepare Your Fabric
Lay your silks out flat and find the exact center point of the entire length of fabric.
2. Attach Fabric to the Aerial Eight
This is a critical step in securing your silks using this method.
- Take the center of your fabric.
- Run it through the base of your aerial eight. The base is typically the larger loop or opening.
- Pull it through about a foot and a half down, between the two tails of the fabric. This creates a bight (a loop) of fabric coming through the aerial eight.
This specific technique, as shown in the reference, creates the initial pass of fabric through the device. You will then continue wrapping the fabric around the body of the aerial eight to complete the secure knot.
3. Complete the Aerial Eight Knot
Once the fabric bight is pulled through the base:
- Bring the two tails of the fabric up towards the smaller loop (the top) of the aerial eight.
- Wrap both tails together around the back of the aerial eight's central bar.
- Pass the tails down through the large loop (the base) again, coming down alongside the initial bight.
- Pull the tails tight to snug the fabric securely around the aerial eight. You should have the aerial eight encased by the fabric, with the two tails hanging down freely, separate from the loop that goes around the rig point connection.
4. Connect to the Rig Point
- Attach a load-rated locking carabiner through the smaller loop (the top) of the aerial eight.
- If using a swivel, connect the carabiner from the aerial eight to one end of the swivel.
- Attach a second load-rated locking carabiner (or appropriate rigging hardware) to the other end of the swivel (if used), or directly to the first carabiner, and then connect this to your certified rig point connection (e.g., a steel ring, eye bolt, or other certified anchor).
- Ensure all carabiners are locked and properly oriented.
5. Dress the Rig
Check that all components are neatly arranged and that there are no twists or catches in the fabric or hardware. The two tails of the silks should hang freely below the aerial eight, ready for use.
6. Perform Safety Checks
Before allowing anyone to use the silks:
- Visual Inspection: Check all hardware (aerial eight, carabiners, swivel) for any signs of wear, damage, or deformation.
- Connection Check: Ensure all carabiners are fully closed and locked. Verify that the aerial eight knot is correctly tied and snug.
- Rig Point Check: Confirm the connection to the rig point is secure and the rig point itself is sound.
- Test Load: Apply a controlled, increasing load to the silks to ensure the system holds securely before full use.
Following these steps helps ensure your aerial silks are hung safely and correctly using the aerial eight method. Always prioritize safety and consult with experienced aerial riggers if you are unsure about any part of the process.
