Abstract: A support device including a hook for suspending a person wearing the support device on a rope. The person may be fastened into the support device by means of a transverse belt attached to the upper torso, with the transverse belt extending through slots provided in the support device. The support device includes a spreader bar whose length corresponds approximately to the width of a human chest, with the rope-retaining hook being attached to the spreader bar at a point midway between the ends thereof. The spreader bar is made of a substantially rigid material and serves, when the belt is applied to the person, to support said person in the area defining the width of the chest. Accordingly, for all practical purposes, no lateral forces are transmitted to the person by the pulling of the rope and, consequently, no discomfort through chest constriction is caused by the support device.

Abstract: A support device including a hook for suspending a person wearing the support device on a rope. The person may be fastened into the support device by means of a transverse belt attached to the upper torso, with the transverse belt extending through slots provided in the support device. The support device includes a spreader bar whose length corresponds approximately to the width of a human chest, with the rope-retaining hook being attached to the spreader bar at a point midway between the ends thereof. The spreader bar is made of a substantially rigid material and serves, when the belt is applied to the person, to support said person in the area defining the width of the chest. Accordingly, for all practical purposes, no lateral forces are transmitted to the person by the pulling of the rope and, consequently, no discomfort through chest constriction is caused by the support device.