How to Maintain Your Skydiving Rig

Skydiving is one of the most thrilling and exciting sports in the world, combining both skill and courage. However, like any extreme sport, it requires proper preparation, knowledge, and most importantly, equipment maintenance to ensure safety. The skydiving rig, comprising your parachute, harness, and other essential equipment, is your lifeline when you're in the air. Proper maintenance of this equipment is not just a recommendation---it is a crucial part of skydiving safety.

In this article, we will dive deep into the necessary steps and guidelines for maintaining your skydiving rig. Whether you are a seasoned jumper or a beginner, understanding the importance of rig upkeep is essential to protect yourself and ensure that every jump is as safe as possible.

Understanding Your Skydiving Rig

Before we dive into the specifics of maintenance, it's essential to understand the different components of your skydiving rig and their function. A typical rig is made up of:

• Main Parachute: This is the parachute used for your descent and landing. It is the primary device in your rig.
• Reserve Parachute: This is a backup parachute used in case the main parachute fails to deploy or malfunctions. It must always be in good working condition.
• Automatic Activation Device (AAD): This device automatically activates your reserve parachute in the event that you do not deploy your main parachute at a certain altitude.
• Harness and Container: This is the system that holds both your main and reserve parachutes. It includes straps and buckles that keep the parachutes in place until deployment.
• Risers and Toggles: These are part of the control system of your parachute, used to steer and adjust your descent.

Each of these components requires attention to ensure that they function properly during a jump.

Regular Inspections

Routine inspections of your skydiving rig are the cornerstone of maintenance. Before and after every jump, you should inspect your rig thoroughly. This includes:

Pre-Jump Inspections:

Before every jump, a thorough inspection is required to ensure that your rig is in good working order. You should always conduct the following checks:

• Check the Main Parachute: Make sure that the main parachute is properly packed, free from any visible damage such as rips, holes, or abrasions. Ensure that the closing pin and flaps are securely fastened and that the deployment bag is properly aligned.
• Inspect the Reserve Parachute: This is a critical part of your safety equipment. Check that the reserve is packed properly and that the deployment system is functioning correctly. It should be inspected by a certified rigger every six months or after a specific number of jumps, depending on the manufacturer's guidelines.
• Examine the Harness and Container: Look for any fraying or signs of wear on the straps, buckles, and stitching. Ensure that the harness is properly adjusted and that it fits comfortably but securely.
• Check the AAD: The AAD should be tested regularly as per the manufacturer's instructions. This is typically done every 6-12 months or after any malfunction.
• Verify the Cutaway and RSL System: The cutaway system is essential for emergencies. It must function correctly to detach the main parachute if necessary. Similarly, the RSL (Reserve Static Line) should be checked to ensure it can automatically deploy the reserve parachute if the main chute is not deployed.

Post-Jump Inspections:

After every jump, you should inspect the rig again for any signs of wear and tear. Look for any new damage, such as abrasions on the harness, the main parachute, or the reserve. Be sure to check the reserve parachute's deployment system to ensure it hasn't been disturbed. If your AAD was activated during the jump, the entire rig should be carefully examined and serviced by a professional before you jump again.

Proper Packing of the Parachutes

Proper packing of both the main and reserve parachutes is crucial to ensuring a safe and smooth deployment. Improper packing can lead to malfunctions, such as tangled lines or delayed deployment, which can be dangerous.

Main Parachute Packing:

• Correct Folding: Ensure the main parachute is folded in the correct manner. Follow the manufacturer's folding instructions meticulously.
• Lines and Deployment Bag: Carefully lay out the suspension lines to prevent twists and tangles. The deployment bag should be free of debris, and the lines should be correctly stowed in the bag.
• Closing Flaps: Ensure the closing flaps are secure and that the closing pin is fastened properly.

Reserve Parachute Packing:

The reserve parachute should only be packed by a certified rigger. It must undergo a professional packing process at regular intervals, typically every 180 days. Reserve parachutes are more complex and require specific skills and tools to ensure proper function in case of an emergency.

• Reserve Deployment System: Make sure that the reserve's deployment system is working correctly. This includes the static line, pilot chute, and pin system.
• Inspection by a Certified Rigger: Only a certified rigger should pack or repack the reserve parachute. This ensures that the packing meets the required standards and that all safety protocols are followed.

Cleaning Your Skydiving Rig

Your skydiving rig is exposed to various elements during each jump, including dirt, rain, and salt from the air. Cleaning the rig regularly helps to maintain its integrity and prolong its lifespan. However, it's essential to clean it properly to avoid damage.

Cleaning the Harness and Container:

• Spot Clean: Use a soft cloth or brush to spot clean the harness and container. If they are particularly dirty, use a mild soap solution and a sponge to gently clean them.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use harsh chemicals or detergents, as these can weaken the fabric or stitching of the rig. Always follow the manufacturer's cleaning recommendations.
• Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning, make sure the rig is thoroughly dry before storage. Hang the rig in a well-ventilated area to ensure that it doesn't retain moisture.

Cleaning the Parachutes:

• Never Clean the Parachutes at Home: Parachutes should never be cleaned at home, as improper drying or cleaning can damage the fabric. Instead, take them to a professional cleaning service that specializes in skydiving equipment.
• Dirt and Debris: If your parachute picks up dirt or debris, a professional cleaner can remove it without damaging the fabric. Regularly inspect for any signs of mold or mildew and seek cleaning services as needed.

Store Your Skydiving Rig Correctly

Storage plays a significant role in maintaining the integrity of your rig. Storing your equipment in a humid or hot environment can lead to degradation of the fabrics, leading to reduced performance and safety.

• Keep It Dry: Always store your rig in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can weaken the fabric of the parachutes and other components.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Do not store your rig in places that experience extreme temperatures, as this can lead to damage to the materials.
• Store in a Rig Bag: When not in use, store the rig in a protective rig bag to shield it from dirt, dust, and potential damage.

Replace Worn-Out Components

Skydiving equipment, like any gear, will wear out over time. Some components, such as the main parachute, reserve, or harness, will eventually need to be replaced. It's essential to monitor the wear and replace components before they become a safety hazard.

• Replace Components as Needed: Pay attention to the condition of your rig after each jump. If any part of your rig shows signs of extreme wear, such as frayed straps or a compromised container, replace them immediately.
• Service Regularly: In addition to replacing worn-out components, regular servicing by a professional rigger is essential to ensure that your rig is safe and functional.

Repacking the Main and Reserve Parachute

Repacking is a critical aspect of rig maintenance. Both the main and reserve parachutes need to be repacked periodically to ensure they deploy properly in an emergency.

• Repacking the Main: The main parachute should be repacked by a certified rigger or a qualified jumper after a specific number of jumps or a set period.
• Repacking the Reserve: The reserve parachute must be repacked every 180 days or after it has been deployed. Only certified riggers should perform this task.

Monitor for Malfunctions and Wear

Skydiving equipment is built to last, but over time, it will experience wear and tear. It is vital to monitor your rig for any signs of malfunction, such as:

• Inconsistent Deployment: If your parachute has trouble deploying or opens slowly, this could indicate an issue with the packing or the equipment.
• Harness Malfunctions: Check for any difficulty in adjusting your harness, as this can signal damage to the buckles or straps.

Any time you notice a problem, address it immediately. A malfunctioning rig can put your life at risk, and waiting too long to address these issues is never worth the risk.

Conclusion

Maintaining your skydiving rig is not just about ensuring that your equipment stays in good condition---it's about protecting yourself and ensuring that each jump is as safe as possible. By following these maintenance practices, including regular inspections, proper packing, cleaning, and storage, you can ensure that your rig remains reliable and functional. Always remember that a well-maintained rig is a life-saving investment, and when it comes to skydiving, safety should always be the top priority.

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