Falltech Unidrive Manuel D'instructions page 9

the release head on the back of the rescue device can be operationally shifted and the direction of
travel of the rescue device selected. To descend, the travel direction lever must point towards the long
side of the rescue rope deployed to the landing spot. Direction switching of the travel direction lever
can only be done when there is no load on the device. If there is a suspended load, the load must be
held by operating the handwheel before the travel direction can be switched.
Before initiating the rescue or descent, all slack in the user connected side of the rope shall be
removed to prevent freefall.
The rescue system is now configured for Automatic Descent/Rescue of one or two users
simultaneously. For two-user simultaneous descent, both users must be connected to the rescue rope
carabiner and/or by approved alternate means.
If the descending load needs to be stopped, the user may use the device handwheel with minimal
effort/pressure. The user can now control the speed of the descent and stop it at any time. Do not
attempt to belay the rope unless specifically trained.
In the event of assisted rescue, it may be necessary for the rescuer to lift the victim in order to
disengage a personal fall arrest system. See Section 5.4 for Lifting procedures.
5.4 Rescue/Descent - Lifting
The Rescue Device shall only be used by persons who have been instructed in ts safe use and who
have the appropriate knowledge in its use as a self- or assisted rescue device. When lifting or
descending, the rescue rope shall not travel over sharp edges or abrasive surfaces. Protect ropes
against sharp edges, abrasive surfaces, and other hazards that may damage the rope during operation.
Wear protective gloves.
As part of the planned rescue operations, it may be necessary to raise the victim to the operating level
of the rescue device or raise the victim enough to remove the tension on an engaged personal fall
arrest system. When the load is stopped or there is no load on the system, the travel direction lever
may be switched while the load is held by the handwheel.
In order to lift, the rescue device travel direction lever must be engaged so that the load is held and
is not allowed to descend. In this configuration, upward travel may begin from one of three input
methods: a manually operated handwheel, a removeable, telescoping ratchet handle, or a drill bit
adapter for powered use. The UniDrive features a torque limiter to prevent the overloading of the
device during lifting operations.
After lifting, descent capability may be restored via the travel direction lever and the load being held by
the handwheel.
For lifting with a cordless screwdriver, FallTech recommend a minimum 18V/4.0aH power level. Do
not use an impact driver with the UniDrive as it already contains torque limiting and gear reduction
mechanisms to support smooth lifting.
Depending on the application or rescue operation, capacity may be limited by the number of and
length of descents. See Table 1B in Appendix A for complete capacity and performance specifications.
5.5 After Use:
The FallTech UniDrive Rescue Device shall be removed from service once used. In order to return to
service, a Competent Person shall fully inspect the device per the requirements of Section 7.0 after any
use or removal of product from storage container. To ensure prompt rescue for future use, it is critical
to fully inspect and prepare the UniDrive for future use before repacking.
Units that are used for rescue operations shall have their usage documented and recorded for regular
service based on usage. See Table 1B in Appendix A for rescue device usage limits.
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