New tourniquet board leash to assist shark attack survival

Ben Matson picture
Ben Matson (thermalben)
Swellnet Dispatch

Following a successful crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo in 2015, US-based company OMNA have launched their revolutionary surfing legrope with built-in tourniquet in Australia.

The ankle tourniquet cuff includes a self-locking mechanical ratchet, and can be used to control life-threatening bleeding on a limb in the event of a shark attack. 

"Recent studies have shown that tourniquets placed before the onset of shock have a 96% survival rate, and can be worn for one to three hours without the loss of a limb," said Conner Henderson, Founder of OMNA.

The OMNA Tourniquet Board Leash comes in multiple sizes and options including Shortboards, Long Boards, Big Wave, Body Board and SUP. More information here. 

Comments

stuck-in-darwin's picture
stuck-in-darwin's picture
stuck-in-darwin Thursday, 31 Aug 2017 at 4:41pm

I'll bet these sell well around Balina. What a great idea.

ironclad's picture
ironclad's picture
ironclad Thursday, 31 Aug 2017 at 6:23pm

wow.....these are great!!
Buy one ...and I don't even work for the company.

OMNA_Actual's picture
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OMNA_Actual Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 1:51pm

LABOR DAY SALE 20% DISCOUNT FOR FIRST 25 ORDERS USE DISCOUNT CODE BZ2PETK9QXEP AT CHECKOUT

mattlock's picture
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mattlock Thursday, 31 Aug 2017 at 9:30pm

But are they a good leg rope. Might be shit. Lose your board , then drown...if you are a gumbie.

OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 1:56pm

They're made from the same TPU used by other surf leash manufacturers. However, OMNA TQ Leashes are produced in an FDA-Registered / ISO 9001 / ISO 13485 facility. A normal leash maker has none of those quality management certifications. Stainless Steel 304 Swivels molded directly into the cord, Premium High Strength Webbing Class 1 (Critical Use) Webbing. Your typical leash maker doesn't use that level of webbing either.

MP's picture
MP's picture
MP Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 6:37am

Only $80, are you kidding me? Twice the price of a premium legrope. These will be as popular in Ballina as the gear Tom Carroll is flogging:virtually non existent.

OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 1:59pm

Made in the USA, and in an FDA-Registered / ISO 9001 / ISO 13485 facility means you do pay more, but you get a tremendous amount of value and versatility from one product. You can even detach the TQ Cuff and take it with you to do anything, anywhere.

I focus's picture
I focus's picture
I focus Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 8:15am

Great idea better than nothing, if you are a long way from the beach you will die without a tourniquet. It's a shame that you lose the leg rope deploying the tourniquet if you are assisting a victim they are likely to lose conscious where you need both hands.

If you have sets going over the top of you losing your board with a white hanging around could be a problem.

OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 2:02pm

You don't lose the leg rope deploying the tourniquet. There are two types Stock and Premium. Stock means the TQ Cuff and Leash are connected with a stainless steel 304 set screw, just like normal. Premium means it comes with a quick release pin and cord (ss-304), which you can detach when you choose to separate the leash and TQ. Also in the future the Mini Versions will be available for all the grommets with smaller limbs.

braudulio's picture
braudulio's picture
braudulio Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 4:19pm

I think what I focus is getting at is a situation where I am assisting someone that requires the tourniquet (can't even bring myself to write shack attack victim) in the surf. I have your product he/she doesn't. I would have to detach my legrope to apply the tourniquet since surely the last thing you really want in that situation is my board attached to their leg.

Vic Local's picture
Vic Local's picture
Vic Local Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 12:35pm

It's the legrope tourniqet for people who can't tie a knot in an ordinary leg rope. Also if it is used inappropriately people can lose a leg unnecessarily. Save the $$$ and spend it on first aid training folks.

OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 2:13pm

Vic Local, obviously I have no idea if you are just fake profile used by another company to talk shit about competitors products, and yes that's a real thing people, but here goes: There are several reasons that your comment is ill advised, and I'll try not to write a novel here so I'll just hit the points because the facts and statistics crush everything you said. For example, the leg rope is made of polyurethane which is meant to stretch, said material stretching continues even once wrapped, meaning it loses occlusion pressure over time, and you keep bleeding. Also the cord Is not an actual medical device, it can't be used one-handed, and if you are bleeding from some of kind of accident or predation your fine motor skills will be compromised due to stress. We don't rise to the occasion, we sink to our level of training, and there is no replacement for good gear. This provides a legitimate, regulated medical device that can be applied in 30 seconds or less, which means you can get it on before you bleed out, and with one-hand. Also Kragh et al concluded in a pivotal tourniquet study, Baghdad, Iraq, in 2008 that, "Improvised Tourniquets have a 75 % failure rate." https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s... OMNA TQ Leashes evolve the surfboard leash from a mere retention system, to a retention system and actual medical device in one. You can even take the Tourniquet off the leash and take it with you hiking, etc. Feel free to log onto our homepage and review the doppler ultrasound study results that show 100% arterial blood flow occlusion when an OMNA TQ is used on an arm or leg, and more importantly that the Leash Cord Failed to occlude arterial blood flow. Should people get TQ training, absolutely, and that's even specified in the instructions for use, and we have links on our website to training organizations. Tourniquets are routinely used in Orthopedic Surgery 10's of thousands of times a day in the world. The risk of complications does not spike until the 2-hour mark. There are incidents of people having tourniquets on in great excess of that time mark and not losing a limb. I suggest you contact TacMed Australia to run you through some Bleeding Control training so you can provide accurate information when you comment.

radiationrules's picture
radiationrules's picture
radiationrules Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 7:36pm

A bit heavy with your comeback OMNA - I recently went to a surf rescue training run by Surf Life Saving Australia and the advice was use of torniquets was not desirable by amateurs (like me) and where possible that medical professionals or life savers should be consulted before applying. Obviously "ideally" doesn't figure in life or death - but their dialogue was around a lot of limbs lost unnecessarily. In other words I've been told similar information by a reputable source.

Vic Local's picture
Vic Local's picture
Vic Local Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 7:45pm

I wouldn't take everything the SLSA said as gospel truth. I've had to do a few basic first aid courses with SLSA to get a meaningless qualification and the volunteer first aid instructor was absolutely clueless. Obviously it comes down to the instructor on the day, but there seems to be zero quality control at SLSA.
In terms of consulting a life saver before applying, I'd say yes to the professionals and an absolute no the volunteer 16 year old doing their first season. SLSA would be the absolute last place I go to for training or medical advice.

OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 5:38am

Do a course with TacMed Australia in the AU, or NAEMT B-Con in the US. They are both great organizations, with great reputations. OMNA is providing the products, companies like the aforementioned provide the training & instruction.

OMNA_Actual's picture
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OMNA_Actual Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 9:28am

Radiation Rules, CoTCCC has extensively studied combat trauma since the Vietnam War, and is one of our primary resources for TQ guidelines and best practices. What is the name and website of your reputable source? Here's one of ours http://cotccc.com. They have debunked the myth that has been perpetuated by misinformed civilians that if you apply a tourniquet you will lose the limb. It's simply not true. TQ's are routinely used in surgery everyday, and you don't see people walking around missing limbs everywhere you go do you? A tourniquet can be worn for up to 2-hours before the risk of complications from the tourniquet begins to rise. In the civilian setting you should be able to get to a trauma center in 2 hours. There are even reported cases of some people having a TQ on for as much as 8 hours and not losing a limb.

People should complete bleeding control training from a reputable organization that specializes in bleeding control or tactical medicine, and that has an actual name other than, "A reputable source." Training is not the responsibility of OMNA it is the responsibility of the customer to obtain that training. If you read the instructions for use, you will see that in order to register your TQ and validate your warranty you must submit with your product registration form an accredited certificate of bleeding control training. While OMNA cannot force people to complete the appropriate training, we have incentivized people to get the training prior to use, which means that over time we can increase the number of people certified, and have more TQs and other immediate response medical gear more readily available to the average person. So get trained, practice, and don't rely on someone else to save you if you don't have to, because if you are, you'll most likely be dead or have lost so much blood that you are dying before they even get to you.

Furthermore, in regards to your vague claim of amputation rates. Many of the amputations that do coincide with TQ's are due to the length of time the TQ is applied, and or the actual traumatic injury. If a shark bites your leg off at the knee, its already amputated before you even get a TQ on, and if you don't get a TQ on, you're dead. Another example, if your arm gets mangled, etc, in a car accident and you are bleeding profusely putting a tourniquet on saves your life, but is not the cause of the loss of limb. If the trauma is already so bad that your limb is mangled you are going to lose it from the trauma, not the tourniquet. The tourniquet allows you to be able to be transported to the hospital ALIVE and get surgical treatment, or you can refuse to use a tourniquet and die from bleeding out. In addition, hypovolemic shock is one of the biggest killers as well, and that condition manifests when you lose 1/5 of your blood (Mayo Clinic). At that point you are in or going into decompensated shock, your body is shunting blood, and your organs begin to fail because your heart doesn't have the blood supply needed to perfuse your body. You have a very limited supply of blood in your body, and you need every bit of it, why would you risk dying over something that is preventable?

The following military studies provided information regarding amputation rates among casualties treated with pre-hospital tourniquets. A summary calculation was conducted with an output estimate of 19%, with a 95% confidence interval from 16% to 23%.

Kotwal et al. 2011: 10 amputations among 62 survivors. Amputation rate was 16%.

Brodie et al. 2009: 8 amputations among 61 survivors. Amputation rate was 13%.

Clasper et al. 2009: 3 TQ casualties and 3 non-tq casualties. Amputation rate was 13.6%

Kragh et al. 2009: 97 limbs of 307 treated with tourniquets were amputated among the 232 total casualties. Amputation rate was 32% of limbs.

Beekley et al. 2008: 28% of tourniquet patients vs. 25% of no- tourniquet patients required debridement amputation.

Dayan et al. 2008: 1 amputation. Amputation rate of 20%

Kragh et al. 2008: 51 amputations among 256 pre- hospital tourniquet uses (20% amputation rate).

Lakstein et al. 2003: 16 amputations among 91 survivors. Amputation rate of 18%.

radiationrules's picture
radiationrules's picture
radiationrules Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 12:02pm

OMNA - in your haste to rebut my information you failed to read that I had included the name of "my reputable source" it was "Surf Life Saving Australia". Here is a link to the course I participated in too - http://www.surfersrescue365.asn.au/. Maybe you can contact these people and educate them as to how your device could be used within their course; it sounds like you know a lot and have a lot of relevant information to share. My only suggestions is you change your tone, personally I find it very off-putting. You come across as a real smart arse.

casey1005's picture
casey1005's picture
casey1005 Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 2:23pm

This is an ingenious idea. This could save a lives and limbs. I'm definitely buying one of these. It would add that extra comfort when in the water.

Buddhaispeace's picture
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Buddhaispeace Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 2:35pm

Vic local: curious about the knot tying comment. When you hit the point of re-assessing then adjusting the tourniquet; are you saying to just tie a Mo Betta knot and let your patient bleed out in front of you? Do you have and medical training whatsoever? This is a great tourniquet: that can be used anywhere and adjusted one handed! Don't save money Vic Local buy the tourniquet and pay for some formal training.

Vic Local's picture
Vic Local's picture
Vic Local Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 3:18pm

Buddhaispeace. I have over a decade of advanced first aid for wilderness regions, and I'd be very comfortable creating a viable torniquet using a standard legrope. I'd be also confident managing bleeding via pressuring the femoral artery. Perfect for a bad bite where the limb is still attached.
If you're dealing with a serious injury for an extended period of time, you need knowledge and training that allows immediate action. This would be followed by extended patient care before handing over to a medical professional.
Yes this product may help in a best case scenario, but it may not be available all the time. Take the scenario where the leg rope is damaged by the shark or you are called into action while walking a dog along the beach. What then? You'd be looking for the cool calm collected guy with a dog lead and a clue.
First rule of going into the wild. Equipment is no substitute for knowledge and experience.

I focus's picture
I focus's picture
I focus Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 6:21pm

Great that you have that training Vic Local just the vast majority don't.

As mentioned calmly taking your own leg rope of and applying in blood stained water with a white hanging around and with the unfortunate victim likely to be lacking a full sized board or none at all meaning the major injury well below the water line (you get the picture) is a long way from dry land in the outback.

Applying a tourniquet designed for the task and being able to rapidly (what is it 3 to 5 mins to bleed out?) has to be applauded IMHO.

OMNA_Actual's picture
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OMNA_Actual Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 4:42am

I focus, a person can bleed out in as little as 3 minutes, but you can go unconscious in a matter of seconds. I know Ben Gerring was unconscious before they ever got him to shore, and that the leash cord as an improvised didn't work. I've also spoken with Leeanne Ericson who had a white pointer take a chunk out of her leg in April. She also said that they tried to improvise a tourniquet with the leg rope, and it didn't work. "75% of improvised tourniquets fail (Kragh et al, 2008." The latter is from a study conducted at the combat surgical hospital in the Baghdad, Iraq, Green Zone, so it doesn't get more legit than that. Leg ropes can't be used one-handed, OMNAs TQs can.

dfinglide's picture
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dfinglide Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 4:35pm

This is a great idea,having good equipment @ hand is always a plus. First Aid training is something we all should have.

tubeshooter's picture
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tubeshooter Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 6:19pm

I can see the merits in the idea . But if I was going to go to trouble of taking a tourniquet out in the surf I would have thought having a similar device strapped around your waist, or even thigh etc would be a better option, given there's a 50/50 chance of the shark removing or disabling the leg with the legrope attached. And also given the shock factor thats usually involved in such incidences, making it harder for the user to rationally dissect all the operating components in an emergency, even if it wasn't you that was bitten.
I,m certainly not bagging the product, I think it's a great idea, especially for remote areas.

Vic Local's picture
Vic Local's picture
Vic Local Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 7:19pm

When you calmly and rationally analyse the chances of witnessing a serious shark attack, this isn't a product I would normally purchase. Given that most people have limited finances and limited space in a first aid kit, I can think of hundreds of other items that would be much cheaper and more likely to save a life. Put this product up against a few mils of adrenaline and a syringe ($5) to treat anaphylaxis and I will go with the jabber every time. A packet of OTC aspirin for $2 is way more likely to save a life of a bloke having chest pains compared to this legrope. A packet of sugar is way more likely to be used for a hypoglycemic person. Wound cleaning medication can also prevent systemic infections, and a good dose of anti-histamines and dressings never goes astray in a kit. etc etc etc. No matter how you slice and dice it, priorities need to be made. You can't afford and carry equipment/medication for every possible situation. I've stitched up crew in Indo, run out of stitches and then improvised by tying hair either side of the wound. If you want bang for your buck in terms of first aid, spend it on training. A quality medical app on your phone is also a brilliant way to spend $5.
I calmly look at the likelihood and seriousness of trauma and sickness for the destination I'm going, and pack a first aid kit accordingly. But hey, if I'm going to the NSW north coast, it would make the cut. Anywhere else, I will pass.

tubeshooter's picture
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tubeshooter Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 7:49pm

I usually work well offshore , as a skipper, You don't have to tell me about training ,stitching guys up, or what to stock in my medical kit. No phone reception where I work so the App would be useless.

Vic Local's picture
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Vic Local Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 8:00pm

The Travel Health app works without coverage. It's a ripper.

tubeshooter's picture
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tubeshooter Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 9:40pm

So do I , I haven't lost anyone yet . Some of them just aren't as pretty as they used to be.

OMNA_Actual's picture
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OMNA_Actual Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 5:47am

Vic Local, can you tell us all where you received your training, the organization or company, and their website(s)? Also will you reveal your real name so we can determine if you are a troll, or fake profile for a company?

I'd like to help re-educate them regarding current TTPs of TCCC. Your continuum of care you are suggesting is incorrect. US SOF & CoTCCC use the continuum MARCH. Massive bleeding, Airway, Respiratory, Circulation, Head / Hypothermia. That is the correct order of treatment. I've never been to Indonesia, but I have deployed 16 times for the GWOT so I would say I have relevant knowledge, training, and experience to provide recommendations for BLS.

OMNA TQs are multi-functional medical devices that have applications far greater than one mechanism of injury, or sport. They are the only maritime tourniquet in the world. They are amphibious meaning they are made to withstand the ocean, but they can be used in all environments, with the exception being volcano diving. Shark or not, you will have a legitimate, and validated tourniquet with you that you can carry, or wear, wherever you go, and if something happens in the water you're ready to help yourself or others. It's a win-win, for the general public as the product is a catalyst to enable more laypeople to become certified in bleeding control training, and increase access to tourniquets quickly. Hemorrhaging is the leading cause of preventable death regarding trauma (CoTCCC). Do people need training? Yes Does OMNA provide training? No, OMNA manufactures medical devices. Are there reputable organizations that provide bleeding control training? Yes, log onto https://www.omnainc.com/pages/training and click one of the hyperlinks.

OMNA_Actual's picture
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OMNA_Actual Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 4:51am

Tubeshooter, we also offer an Amphibious Tourniquet that is designed for Divers, Spearfishing, etc, that can be worn, and does not attach to a leash. You can easily wear this on your ankle, wrist, or attach it to your gear. Also its not just for shark attacks, that is just one mechanism of injury, and you can detach it from the leash and take it with you camping, hiking, etc. You purchase a product that is multi-functional and has an enormous amount of uses and applications where it can be used, which is unlike most products that have one use or application. Even just having it in your car, could save someones life in a car accident, or worse if some terrorist decides to run people down with their car. As for getting training, the instructions for use that accompany all TQs specify that in order to validate your warranty you need to register your product and submit an accredited TQ / Bleeding Control Certificate. This dynamic was set-up to help facilitate getting more laypeople educated and trained in bleeding control, and current TCCC TTPs. While not everyone will comply, there is still a net benefit to the general public, and its always better to have it, and not need it, than to need it and not have it. Log onto omnainc.com and check out the FAQ page to see a video of someone who goes unconscious from an arterial bleed in 30-40 seconds.

Clam's picture
Clam's picture
Clam Friday, 1 Sep 2017 at 8:04pm

"They're made from the same TPU used by other surf leash manufacturers. However, OMNA TQ Leashes are produced in an FDA-Registered / ISO 9001 / ISO 13485 facility. A normal leash maker has none of those quality management certifications. Stainless Steel 304 Swivels molded directly into the cord, Premium High Strength Webbing Class 1 (Critical Use) Webbing. Your typical leash maker doesn't use that level of webbing either."
_________________________________

Will this brand of legrope compare to the best leashes on the market in terms of breaking strain ?
The majority of leashes are not good quality welds and joins .
There is only a minority of good brand leashes.
The method of joining the cord to the velcro parts is key .
Hopefully this brand produces a quality leash and also longer models .
Medium wave surfers aren't the only ones in shark bite danger so i hope to see longer than 6 and 8 foot models , Add 12ft model perhaps.

The tourniquet part looks very good value .

Google search articles;
http://www.theinertia.com/surf/here-is-a-leash-specifically-designed-to-...

https://www.omnainc.com/

OMNA_Actual's picture
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OMNA_Actual Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 5:10am

Clam, to answer your question, yes. We current stock 4' to 10' x 5mm to 8mm diameter leashes. In the next few months we will be adding TQ competition leashes, and 12' and 14' SUP Leashes as well.

Buddhaispeace's picture
Buddhaispeace's picture
Buddhaispeace Saturday, 2 Sep 2017 at 1:40am

Vic local: you have "ten years of wilderness survival" I'm curious what credible courses you've attended that teach femoral pressure point over a tourniquet? ALS, BLS, TCC, Having attended live tissue, BLS, ALS, and TCCC I know that pressure points preformed without a tourniquet are considered last ditch or "heroic efforts". Limbs are not due to the use of a tourniquet, since with modern times victims are transported to the next echelon of care within 60-120 minutes often referred to as the golden hour. You seem to reference that shark may take the rope, excellent point, how will you be "tying you special super cool decade old wilderness knot at that point"? The rule taught in all survival aid courses: two is one and one is none. I personally, saw the a fermoral pressure point doesn't work, you have to reach in a pinch it closed. Pressure and a tourniquet combined are considered optimal but if you have the option you are taught to go with the tourniquet. That is accepted, practiced and taught across the spectrum of critical lifesaving aid...from military where the average lad has two tourniquets on his person at all times to BLS which has two tourniquets in the kit issued out. I don't honestly you are a real person. Sounds more like you are I'm guessing made a competitor of the product or you work under the competitor of this product, either way doesn't matter, what is important and tragic is that: YOU ARE GIVING MEDICAL ADVICE THAT IS NOT IN ACCORDANCE WITH ESTABLISHED LIFESAVING PROTOCALS, YOUR ADVICE IS UNFOUNDED AND DANGEROUS! For anyone else reading there are some constants. Massive bleeding requires a tourniquet; that is a constant. Some variables are: if the shark returns, if you can find a mate on the beach with a dog collar as Mr. Vic Local the Wilderness Expert suggested, whether you lose your leash in the process. Those are variables. You need to be prepared and when I see a solid product come to the general market, I'm impressed. Lastly let's address the in full losing limbs from tourniquet application. Restricting blood flow to tissue is what causes nescropsy of tissue, without fluid exchange tissue will die that is a know fact. Regardless of whether you are attempting a pressure point or using a tourniquet; the same action is occuring, you are stopping blood flow to the affected area. In cases where you may not receive next echelon care you 24 hours or more then, yes, you run the chance of amputation of the necrosed tissue. Think Vietnam era problems...NATO T across the forehead and all that. Virtually non-existent in our day and age. Then there you have to decide or use combat triage, what is worst losing a limb (that in the case of a shark bite that may need to be amputated anyway) or losing your life( when pressure points or lack of dog collars are your "medical training"). This is a great product and I am personally happy the military concepts that are saving lives each day are now finding their way to the civilian market that are affordable and are multifaceted. From Free fall to surfing to wilderness adventures it's always good to have two tourniquet in your kits. Something else to mention for extremity snake bites it is recommended to apply a light to mederate pressure tourniquet in order to slow the flow of poison until next echelon care can be reached. That alone makes this a MUST HAVE for anyone who ventures out in the wild.

Vic Local's picture
Vic Local's picture
Vic Local Saturday, 2 Sep 2017 at 6:16pm

Whatever Buddhaispeace. Take your conspiracy theories about me being a shill for one of your competitors and stick it right up your clacker. the fact is, this post and the comments coming from you, the developer, and clam, looks like a paid advertisement.
Where exactly did I post false information on first aid?
Sorry mate but the likelihood of using this product is so remote it's not a priority purchase, especially when there are alternative options. Most surfers would put their boards on the roof with two straps that would work just as well.
Your attempts to mock my first aid training are pathetic. If you had any clue, you'd know there's specific wilderness and expedition multiday first aid courses out there with written and practical exams to ensure quality control. Try getting a job as a ski patroller, expedition leader, or adventure guide without them. And by the way, you're completely full of shit in regards to a pressure tourniquet for a snake bite. The standard treatment is to use a pressure bandage(s) from the bite right up the entire limb and not a localised tourniquet. Grow the fuck up dude.

I focus's picture
I focus's picture
I focus Saturday, 2 Sep 2017 at 7:33pm

Agree the snake bite bit but the rest is reasonably valid unlike your dismissal of the product.

You are 300 meters out and a bloke loses a leg to a great white...............WTF are the "other options" other than a torniquete?

Clam's picture
Clam's picture
Clam Saturday, 2 Sep 2017 at 9:26am

"Will this brand of legrope compare to the best leashes on the market in terms of breaking strain"?

"The majority of leashes are not good quality welds and joins".

Clam's picture
Clam's picture
Clam Saturday, 2 Sep 2017 at 10:59pm

"the fact is, this post and the comments coming from you, the developer, and clam, looks like a paid advertisement."

Disagreed Vic local . Obviously you didn't understand the question i asked about quality of the leash.
I agree about the likelihood of the leash tourniquet getting eaten by a shark though, unfortunately that's true .

Am doubtful if there will be replies to my question about the urethane joins and breaking strain etc..
Thats what the first and foremost
requirement of a leash is in my experiences, Not busting !
IF its a good strong legrope then it will succeed.
A product like this needs to be bombproof and hopefull, it is ?
They will either be a gimmick or genuinely good i presume .
Are there any results of legrope snapping tests ? There should be cos theres some cheap plastic budget style fake leashes around these days .

OMNA_Actual's picture
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OMNA_Actual Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 6:08am

Tensile Strength (kg/cm Squared): Test ASTM-D412 Spec: > 280 Test Results: 356.

Elongation (%): Test ASTM-D412 Spec: > 420 Test Results: 748

100% Modulus (kg/cm Squared): Test: ASTM-D412 Spec: > 50 Test Results: 61

Shore A Hardness: 91

Ratcheting Mechanism Break Strength: 272 kg's (Actually a lot stronger than that, but we advertise less for customer safety. It's not about making money, its about innovating to evolve existing systems, products, etc.

Nylon Webbing: Class: 1 (Critical Use) Meaning made for medical devices, or life saving equipment, which. other companies are not using high-grade webbing because their leashes are sporting goods, and OMNAs are medical devices. Tensile Strength: 2000 pounds (907 kgs).

Quality > Quantity:
Water Sports Companies don't have to have quality management systems to manufacture leg ropes. Companies that manufacture medical devices must have quality management systems. I've talked to just about every surfboard leash manufacturer in the world, and they've never cared enough to work with OMNA or evolve the leash into a medical device despite meeting with their representatives in-person at the Surf Expo. They are more concerned with selling massive quantities of product. IE they are primarily profit driven. I'm not saying their products suck, I've surfed with some of their leashes over the years and some are good, they aren't medical devices though. What I am saying is that OMNA is more concerned with providing you the most value for dollar you spend. That's why we endeavor to make only high-quality multi-functional products. It's not about the money, it's about you the people in and out of the water, and OMNA wanting to improve life for the public at large by providing products that can save someones life. Maybe that paradigm is something that's only cultivated in the military / combat situations where you learn to put others and the team ahead of your wants, need, or ambitions. I don't know the answer to that, but I know that if we can save one persons life it will be worthwhile.

crustt's picture
crustt's picture
crustt Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 9:43am

What sort of thread do you use?

OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 12:13pm

Anefil Nylon.

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crustt's picture
crustt Monday, 4 Sep 2017 at 7:39am

Just asked as you bang on a bit about using the best quality webbing, Anefil nylon is what I would use if my budget was tight, does the job good enough though. I'd use PTFE because it's the best I have.
General purpose polyester webbing is fine for a legrope, I think your leg would be pulled out of it's socket before it would fail. The most important part in the quality of a leggy is how the urethane cord is attached to the board and the ankle strap.
I wouldn't buy one or make my own, I have enough trouble trying to put my wetsuit on the right way with out worrying about a checklist before I paddle out.

OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual Monday, 4 Sep 2017 at 9:03am

Crustt, thanks for the constructive feedback. We will review our thread specifications and modify to PTFE or other type to ensure we are using the best thread possible.

Your feedback and input is valuable to us. Information or ideas you submit that are used by OMNA to improve our current products or to create new products may be rewarded with sponsorships, discounts, samples, or addition to our external product testing team. Send an email to [email protected] so we can talk about this more.

crustt's picture
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crustt Monday, 4 Sep 2017 at 9:04am

Thanks for the automated response :)))

OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual Monday, 4 Sep 2017 at 9:25am

Not automated, but that is our policy, you can find it on the info page on our website. If you want to get involved you know what to do.

Clam's picture
Clam's picture
Clam Monday, 4 Sep 2017 at 11:55am

Reposting the question;
"Did you say that the TQ can be bought separately, as in Separate from the Legrope ?"
"Can you BUY the TQ as a Separate Device ?"

Why is it so hard to get an answer...

OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual's picture
OMNA_Actual Monday, 4 Sep 2017 at 12:12pm

Clam, did not see this question before.

The TQ that is currently sold as a stand-alone TQ is our Amphibious TQ. It is $44.99, and will be in-stock for purchase September 8th. It is the same TQ, rugged, maritime, and wearable, just no leash. We made this version for all other water sports and maritime professionals. IE Scuba, spearfishing, etc, but is still applicable to surfing, etc.

At this time we are not selling the TQ Leash models without the leash. That is something that can be an option in the future though. Since its a medical device we would have to update all records, registrations, and medical device representatives in order to proceed with that option. Is that something you are interested in seeing offered by OMNA Inc?

We are currently running a two sales:
1. 10% off Amphibious Tourniquets, TQ Tethers, and Apparel. Enter Discount Code: SUMMER17 at checkout.
2. 20% off TQ Leashes & Apparel with Discount Code: SUMMER

Best way to get a direct answer is to email [email protected].

Clam's picture
Clam's picture
Clam Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 2:07pm

"Tensile Strength (kg/cm Squared): Test ASTM-D412 Spec: > 280 Test Results: 356.
Elongation (%): Test ASTM-D412 Spec: > 420 Test Results: 748
100% Modulus (kg/cm Squared): Test: ASTM-D412 Spec: > 50 Test Results: 61
Shore A Hardness: 91"

So how does the strength compare to other legrope brands ?
Sorry , i dont understand this information .
Does anyone ?

Buddhaispeace's picture
Buddhaispeace's picture
Buddhaispeace Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 5:57am

Vic local: Clearly you have won this verbal joust. When you start using facts such as: Un-named multi day courses that have written tests and practical examinations, webbing from car racks to out perform medical grade devices...mind blown! I'm glad you hit the thread with those facts because I was beginning to think that you had zero medical training . Your credilibily is in line with the facts you have presented(NON-EXISTENT). No worries or reason to be upset cupcake, it's never too late to get some training maybe you could actually attend one of the un-named courses you spoke of. As far as snake bites go, you know as well as I do: compressing tissue at the site is less effective than above site. You truly have ZERO understanding of human physiology, and have attended ZERO formal training. Wait a second, do you secretly work for a dog leash company? Have a nice day pumpkin I mean Vic Local

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Vic Local's picture
Vic Local Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 10:21am

Webbing? Really Bhuddaispeace, you will have to point out to anyone following this post exactly where I mentioned webbing.
I get it, you need to sell product, but belittling a person who has years of experience in the field and spreading BS information about snake bite treatment just makes you look stupid.
I strongly suggest people look up information about WFR (Wilderness First Responder) courses. They are typically 80 hours long with written and practical exams, and cost about $800 to attend. It's minimum standards for anyone guiding in remote regions. Ski patrollers, field staff in national parks, and outdoor educators need to have this training to get an interview. Usually these courses are internationally recognised.
Sorry Bhuddais peace, I hate to break this news to you but I have passed this course and re-certified it 3 times with refresher courses. I've also upgraded to allow injections and will be doing a specialist mental health in remote regions course soon.
The WFR courses involve multiple training scenarios where students need to adapt limited equipment to get the job done. You learn how to make stretchers out of backpacks and ropes, make traction splints from standard camping equipment, evacuation skills etc.
Don't take it personally but here's the rub with your product. The chances of using it are so remote, and there are other options available for someone with good training. There hasn't been a shark attack where this product would come in handy within 2000km of me over 35 years of surfing. I've only ever seen one shark in the water, and that wasn't bothering anyone. Using your product is winning the lottery odds mate. But as I mentioned it before, if I lived in South Africa or Northern NSW I would consider buying it.
For 99.9% of the population, my advice would be spend you cash on training.

Clam's picture
Clam's picture
Clam Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 1:15pm

"Mr Gerring's brother Ben was killed by a suspected great white shark while surfing off Falcon last year.
He believes Ben may have survived the attack had his surfboard been fitted with a tourniquet strap.
The keen surfer expects the new surf straps will be available for purchase in surf, diving and camp shops in the coming weeks."

https://www.coastlive.com.au/news/local-news/brother-of-shark-attack-vic...

Thanks for your reply regarding the range of products.
Did you say that the TQ can be bought separately, as in separate from the legrope ?
If there is a problem with your omna legrope size ( ie xxl leashes ) then you can still have the TQ as a separate device ?
That sounds good !

Clam's picture
Clam's picture
Clam Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 2:03pm

FYI , just want to point out # Vic local isnt known to be a troll created to cause problems here .
He has been around for a while , commenting on surf forecasts for the torquay area etc . ( Correct ? )
-----------------------------------------------------

News Article quote :
"A PERSON CAN BLEED TO DEATH IN AS LITTLE AS 3 MINUTES, AND LOSE CONSCIOUSNESS WELL BEFORE THAT
“IF BEN OR SOMEONE AROUND HIM HAD BEEN SURFING WITH AN OMNA TOURNIQUET LEASH HE’D BE ALIVE TODAY.” - RICK GERRING (BROTHER OF BEN GERRING WHO DIED FROM BLOOD LOSS COMPLICATIONS CAUSED BY A 5-METER GREAT WHITE SHARK ATTACK JUNE 2016, PERTH, WA, AUSTRALIA)."

https://www.omnainc.com/

https://oceansafetyproducts.com.au/in-the-press/

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED
Your feedback and input is valuable to us.
Information or ideas you submit are used by OMNA to improve our current products or to create new products.

"Gerring said the surfing community were comforted by the roll-out of increased surveillance and beach signage, or Beach Emergency Numbers, at many local beaches which bore exact GPS coordinates to hasten emergency response times."
"Gerring is also working with US-based Carson Henderson to import leashes which feature an in-built tourniquet, a factor he says could prove crucial at many of Western Australia’s remote beaches.
“We needed to make a change and a new way of thinking in relation to shark mitigation and this is definitely a step in that direction,” Mr Gerring said. “I didn’t want my brother’s death to be for nothing -- good needed to come out of something so tragic and horrible.”

https://oceansafetyproducts.com.au/news/20170601/

"The new Beach Emergency Numbers (BEN) signage was installed at more than 80 coastal locations throughout Mandurah last week, with the aim of assisting emergency services to find locations quickly and effectively over long stretches of coast.
Each sign includes information to support emergency responders including official beach names, GPS co-ordinates, coding, closest street addresses and nearest crossroads."

https://thewest.com.au/news/sound-southern-telegraph/bens-lifesaving-leg...

tubeshooter's picture
tubeshooter's picture
tubeshooter Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 7:57pm

"the chances of using it are so remote", VL , A bit like an EPIRB, or life jacket on a boat etc . Ive spent a fortune on them over the years as a legal requirement . Never used one , but I feel a lot better knowing they're on hand.

I focus's picture
I focus's picture
I focus Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 8:04pm

"FYI , just want to point out # Vic local isnt known to be a troll created to cause problems here"

Thanks Clam I was about to arc up thinking WTF selfish (unt what about WA and other risk areas where we need people to invest into deterrents / mitigation methods etc so we can have a process of improvement reducing injury / death rates.

Clam's picture
Clam's picture
Clam Sunday, 3 Sep 2017 at 10:14pm

No worries ifocus , can you answer this please?
"Did you say that the TQ can be bought separately, as in separate from the legrope ?
. ...then you can still BUY the TQ as a separate device ?"

I focus's picture
I focus's picture
I focus Monday, 4 Sep 2017 at 9:57pm

Afraid I don't know the answer / product that well..........I should do.
I do carry a TQ with me in the water any way a military type you can buy on ebay for $7-$10 stuff it under the front zip of my steamer altho I am 6'1" I am pretty scrawny so plenty of room.

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Combat-Application-Tourniquet-Red-Tip-Militar...

I was handing them out to mates but a few found it to confronting so I stopped.

Clam's picture
Clam's picture
Clam Monday, 4 Sep 2017 at 1:14pm

quote, omna_actual ;
"The TQ that is currently sold as a stand-alone TQ is our Amphibious TQ.
It is $44.99, and will be in-stock for purchase September 8th.
It is the same TQ, rugged, maritime, and wearable, just no leash.
We made this version for all other water sports and maritime professionals.
IE Scuba, spearfishing, etc, but is still applicable to surfing, etc."

This is the answer to my question i think .

Although this next quote seems to confuse the answer ; "At this time we are not selling the TQ Leash models without the leash."