Which term describes distributing load among anchors to minimize single-point failure?

• A. Equalization
• B. Redundancy
• C. Tensioning
• D. Angling

Answer: (A)

Distributing load among multiple anchors to minimize a single-point failure is accomplished by equalization. This approach links several anchors so the load from the rope is shared across them, forming a common support. By doing so, no one anchor bears the entire force, and the system remains more secure if one anchor begins to fail or deforms. In practice, an equalized setup uses a master point or a tied/slack-table arrangement (like a cordelette or anchor slings) to ensure the forces are balanced across all anchors.

Redundancy also helps with safety, but it means having backup anchors rather than actively sharing the load among them. Tensioning and angling relate to adjusting or directing forces but don’t inherently describe sharing load across multiple anchors the way equalization does.