A controlled descent system consists of six
interdependent parts: 1) anchorage, 2) anchorage
connector or anchor, 3) rope, 4) controlled
descent device, 5) connectors, and 6) harness. To
perform particular rescues or to relieve situations
that can occur during training or recreational
use, a Rescue Transfer Unit is also required. The
system is only as strong as the weakest part in the
system. It is the responsibility of the user or trainer
to make sure he or she understands all of the
parts in the system and how to use these parts.
In this manual, the term "controlled descent
device" is used to refer to a piece of hardware,
like a DEUS 7300 device, that is used either as a
primary system or as a back-up belay to a primary
controlled descent device.
Anchorage – The anchorage is the object used
to secure the anchor. Professionals who work at
height usually rely on pre-planned anchorages
rated to support specific maximum loads,
depending on the standard followed, such as
NFPA, ANSI, CSA or EN. For EN, the anchor point
must comply with EN 795, be above the user and
withstand at least 12kN. For ANSI, the anchor
must comply with ANSI Z359.1 and withstand
22.2 kN. For training, anchorages should be
planned and rated so there is no chance of failure.
Selection of an appropriate rated anchor point is
critical to performing a safe escape or rescue at
height, and requires considerable training.
Anchorage connector – The anchorage
connector is an attachment device that connects
the controlled descent system to the Anchorage.
The DEUS 7300 Series device should only be
anchored using two locking carabiners. Ensure
that the connection between the anchorage and
the descender does not create obstacles that
could impede the descent.
NOTE – Both the anchorage and the anchorage
connector for a back-up belay should be entirely
independent from the anchorage and anchorage
connector used for the primary system.
SKYLOTEC-approved ropes – The DEUS 7300
Series is designed and approved for use ONLY
with DEUS-approved 11.5-12.5 mm ropes.
4. PARTS OF A DEUS 7300 SERIES DEVICE
There are no third-party approved ropes. Use of
any other ropes may result in injury or death.
For EN use, the 83208 rope must be used
with a sewn eye termination supplied by the
manufacturer. For NFPA/ANSI use, the 2WKK-
12MD and DR-7360706 ropes must be terminated
using a double figure eight knot. The knot must
be able to be untied without the use of a tool. The
knot shall include at least a 100mm tail beyond
the knot.
DEUS 7300 Series controlled descent device
– The DEUS 7300 Series can be used as a
primary descent system for rescue or work, or as
a back-up belay to your primary system. DEUS
7300 Series controlled descent devices are ideal
for applications where longer descents and heavy
use are necessary.
Features of the DEUS 7300 Series make the
devices appropriate for these applications, starting
with a robust, rugged construction and highly
engineered design. DEUS 7300 Series devices
also feature simple, automatic and hands free
operation, are speed limited with redundant
brakes for extra safety, and are built with DEUS
"Soft Engagement Technology" to minimize shock
load.
Connectors – DEUS 7300 Series devices require
at least two connectors: one to connect the person
to the system and one to connect the system to
an anchorage. Connectors must comply with EN
362, ANSI Z359.12, CSA, and NFPA 1983:2012.
Connectors must have a self closing and locking
gate.
Harness – A harness is what connects a person
to a controlled descent system. The purpose of
a harness is to secure the person to the system,
and to safely and comfortably distribute load
during descent. Your employer will determine the
type of harness that is appropriate. SKYLOTEC
recommends the use of an ANSI Z359.11 and EN
361 approved harness that is equipped with an "A"
fall arrest attachment point.
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