What happens if one bolt fails in a quad anchor system?

In a quad anchor system, if one bolt fails, it can lead to extension in shock loading. This occurs because the load that was previously distributed among all four anchors shifts primarily to the remaining three anchors. As the load increases on the remaining anchors, particularly during dynamic events—such as a fall or sudden movement—the system experiences additional forces that can result in shock loading.

Shock loading refers to the sudden increase in load on the anchor points beyond the static load they were designed to hold. The failure of one bolt can create an imbalance, potentially exceeding the load limits of the remaining anchors and leading to a cascade of failures if not properly managed. Thus, it's crucial for rescuers to understand that the integrity of the entire system can be compromised when one component fails, emphasizing the need for redundancy and careful construction of anchor systems in rescue scenarios.