Abstract: The present invention relates to a descent or escape device which can be used in a safe and easy manner as a means of emergency escape upon occurrence of a fire in hotels and other buildings, and also as a safety means for working in high places. The escape device is used together with a single rope and has such a structure that said rope is always stressed by the load of a person's body weight, thereby causing a braking action to control the speed of descent. The descent or escape device therefore ensures easy and safe descent at a desired speed of descent by appropriately manipulating an operating rod of the descent device.