Abstract: There is disclosed herein a descent device (10) comprising a hollow spool (12) rotatable about a rotational axis (14) and a lifeline, in the form of a braided steel cable (not shown), wound about the spool (12). A centrifugal brake mechanism (18) including a brake assembly, comprising a pair of brake shoes (20) and associated brake pads (21), is engageable with the spool (12) to apply a braking force to the spool (12) as the spool (12) rotates. Biasing members, in the form of a compression springs (22), extend between the brake shoes (20) for biasing the brake shoes (20) and pads (21) into engagement with the spool (12).