Abstract: A rescue lanyard is described herein to be used with a safety harness worn by a person. The lanyard comprises a main strap having a first attachment portion for attaching the main strap to a structure and a second attachment portion for attaching the main strap to the harness, and a secondary strap secured to the main strap adjacent the first attachment portion and having a third attachment portion to be attached to the harness via an emergency descent control device. In a safety mode of operation, the first attachment portion of the main strap is attached to the harness and the second attachment portion is attached to a structure so as to retain the person wearing the harness during a fall. In a self rescue mode of operation following a fall, while the person hang from the main strap, the third attachment portion is first attached to the harness via the emergency descent control device and the main strap is then cut so as to allow the person to descent from the structure using the descending device.

Abstract: A Simple Climber's Multi-Tool which performs multiple safety functions for the field of rock climbing. The device is a convenient effective safety back-up device to be used with a solo lead climbing belay device. The device also functions as a standard belay and rappel device. With the addition of an Attachment Snap Hook, the device is an auto-locking belay device for one or two ropes. With the addition of a loop of cord, it can perform functions otherwise performed with specialty knots for safety and self-rescue such as the Prusik knot, Bachman knot, and Klemheist knot. The device can be easily moved along the rope when the First Snap Hook is gripped and pulled with respect to either end of the rope, but will jam the rope against movement when the Main Body of the device is constrained from movement and an end of the rope is pulled with respect to the device.

Abstract: Provided is a descending device and method for controlling a rate of descent. The descending device includes a housing comprising a channel for receiving a tether along which the descending device is to travel during a descent. A cover conceals at least a portion of the serpentine pathway to minimize introduction of foreign bodies into the serpentine pathway. A first arcuate surface defines at least a portion of the serpentine pathway and a second arcuate surface defines at least another portion of the serpentine pathway. Each of the first and second arcuate surfaces includes a different radius of curvature. The descending device also includes at least one of a third arcuate surface adjacent to an entrance to the serpentine pathway and having a third radius of curvature that is shorter than both the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature, and a descent control lever to be manually actuated between a plurality of positions by the user to selectively control the rate of descent.

Abstract: A belaying device for a rope comprises a metal body having at least one slit for passage of a loop of a rope, and a retaining element in the form of a bow integral to the body without being articulated on the latter, and designed to control the relative separation movement of the body with respect to a carabiner passing through the loop. The device further comprises flexible means arranged to move the body towards the carabiner when blocking of the rope takes place, and to move the body away automatically when the rope is released.

Abstract: This invention relates to a stationary friction-type descent control device for use with an anchored rope and a load supporting harness characterized by a block of metal having several channels spaced by furrows providing benefit of friction and a rotatably fixed mandrel having the simultaneous purpose of first slowing the advancement of rope by friction and secondly by means of said friction causing rotation of the mandrel shaft whereby a cam action impinges upon an advanced section of channeled rope providing yet additional benefit of friction; and with a detachable plate to provide simple access to the channels for sinuously installing an unloaded medial section of rope and with the plate reattached and maintained in place by means of a carabiner positioned through aligned slotted openings in the block and plate a person may descend a rope at a governed rate of speed

Abstract: The present invention, the PERB, relates to a personal emergency rescue/security belt. The PERB is comprised of one band with the body (10); forming ? shape, and with the use of the first tri-glide lock (13a, 13b); which adjust the body formed “ ” shape by fixing intersection points (11, 12) in which a band meets, and it is characterized by a first binding buckle (18a, 18b) that locks together; binding both extended ends from an intersection point of the said band. The present invention described in the above, simplifies the configuration. The PERB can be put on rapidly and easily, and the cost is lower and is more light-weight, and provides multi-purposes. The PERB is changeable into emergency life-saving equipment to carry a person on a rescuer's back, under a rescuer's arm, or on a stretcher. Particularly, in the case of an emergency, the injured person is rapidly escorted from the accidental disaster, or he may escape by means of putting the PERB on by himself to reach safety.

Abstract: A Self-Belay And Rappel Device (10) is presented which will arrest the fall of a climber who is solo lead climbing, and will also allow the climber to rappel down a Rope (36). The simple and inexpensive device comprises a Left Side Face (12), a Right Side Face (14), Cylindrical Stand-Offs (16) which separate and join to the two side faces, and a Brake Surface (18) extending between the two side faces. In use for fall arrest, the device is attached, using two karabiners, both to a climber's chest harness and to the climber's waist harness. A third karabiner is clipped through two slots in the device, one slot in each of the two side faces. The fall of a climber causes the third karabiner to be pulled up within the two slots, ultimately locking the device against the climber's Rope (36) by causing the Rope (36) to become pinched between a portion of the third karabiner and the Braking Surface (18).

Abstract: A building evacuation device is provided for lowering a load (e.g. a person or another object) from a multi-story building to the ground at a controlled rate. The device includes a cable that may be unwound from a spool to allow for the load to be lowered to the ground, where the spool is connected to a rate governor to control the rate at which the cable may unwind and, in turn, the rate at which the load will be lowered to the ground. The unwinding of the cable imparts a corresponding rotational motion on the rate governor, which, in turn, translate such motion to a braking device that imparts a braking force on the rotation of the spool to control the rate at which a person is lowered to the ground.

Abstract: The invention relates to a belayer/descender safety device (1), cooperating with a rope (2), comprising means (5) to hold said rope (2) and rotationally fixed to a chassis (6) on which enclosure means (10) for said rope (2) are mounted with pivoting and cooperating with said holding means (5). The enclosure means (10) and the chassis (6) comprise a housing (12) in opposition in the locking position which cooperates with a hook means, in particular, a spring hook, wherein said holding means (5) has the form of a pulley housing means for regulation of the speed of rotation thereof.

Abstract: An energy absorber for minimizing elongation upon deployment when used in a personal fall arresting system. The energy absorber contains at least two tear-away members in which each tear-away member includes upper and lower webbings that are each two ply members. The back ply of the upper webbing is mounted adjacent to the face ply of the lower webbing with this webbing being of about equal length and width. Exterior tear elements run back and forth sinusoidally between attachment points on the face ply of the upper webbing and the back ply of the lower webbing. Interior tear elements run back and forth sinusoidally between attachment points on the back ply of the upper webbing and the top ply of the lower webbing. The absorber, including the at least two tear-away members, can be made from a continuous strip of material wherein the tensile strength of each of the tear elements of each tear-away member is less than that of the attachment points.

Abstract: A roping device for operating on a rope includes a first body portion (11) providing an attachment means (34) at one end, the body portion (11) including a first plate (18) having a front face and a reverse face and a second plate (20) having a front face and a reverse face. The plates (18, 20) are oriented in different planes defining an acute angle between the intersection of those planes. A first rotatable sheave (12) is mounted on the front face of the second plate (20) rotatable about an axis which is substantially perpendicular to the second plate. The first sheave (12) has a groove defining a generally semi-circular rope guide path having a first end and a second end. The first end of the guide path opens onto the front face of the first plate, and the second end of the guide path opens onto the reverse face of the first plate (18).

Abstract: A tall structure external emergency escape system comprises a platform which is movable to and from a generally vertical position of non-use and a generally horizontal position of use. A cable system is mounted to the platform. The cable system includes a cable having a fixed end and a free end. The fixed end is mounted to an anchor mechanism on the platform. The free end is capable of extending downwardly from the platform to a receiving area. The system further includes a sling/harness which would be worn by a person. A clamp mechanism secures the sling/harness to the cable.

Abstract: The use of a fall arrest lanyard that provides fall arrest forces at least two primary levels is disclosed. One example provides a lanyard with a pair of shock absorbers of different capacities in series. Other examples use a single shock absorber that provides at least two distinct levels of arrest force. Varying the strength of the attachment area that is to be separated to provide the arrest force and by varying the amount of area being separated at one time varies the levels of arrest force.

Abstract: A device for roping down a load with a cable, the device includes a housing and a centrifugal brake assembly mounted within the housing. A shaft is mechanically coupled to the brake assembly. A pulley is provided for rotatably contacting the cable so that the rotational speed of the pulley substantially correlates with the longitudinal movement of the cable, the pulley is mechanically coupled to an outer segment of the shaft. The brake assembly includes an annular braking ring mounted within the housing defining a ring braking surface. A braking actuator is rotatably mounted inside the braking ring for rotation about a rotation axis. The braking actuator has three actuator arms extending outwardly. Three braking components each having a radially outwardly located braking surface are also provided. The braking components are mounted inside the braking ring for contacting a corresponding arm contacting surface and sliding therealong.

Abstract: A simple, economical, and highly effective auto locking belay device is presented, certain embodiments of which contain no moving parts. The simplicity of the device is due to the fact that it derives certain functionality from its attachment carabiner that would normally be found within an auto-locking belay device itself. In its simplest form, the Device (10) comprises only a Body (14) with an Inner Channel (16) and a Pin (12). The attachment carabiner supports the path of the rope through the device, constrains an axis of rotation around which the device rotates, and provides one of two surfaces between which the rope is pinched. The device is able to extract these functions from the carabiner due to a unique, and counter-intuitive, placement of the carabiner within the same geometric plane as the path of the rope through the device.

Abstract: A Simple Climber's Multi-Tool (10) is presented which performs multiple safety functions for the field of rock climbing. Most importantly, the device fulfills a heretofore unmet need for a convenient effective safety back-up device to be used with a solo lead climbing belay device. The Simple Climber's Multi-Tool (10) also functions as a standard belay and rappel device. With the addition of an Attachment Snap Hook (52), the device is an auto-locking belay device for one or two ropes. With the addition of a loop of cord, it can perform functions otherwise performed with specialty knots for safety and self-rescue such as the Prusik knot, Bachman knot, and Klemheist knot. The device comprises a Main Body (12) to which is attached a Snap Hook Containment Loop (20), and a First Snap Hook (24). A Rope Channel (18) runs through the device. A unique shape of the Back Face (15) of the device is of primary importance to its rope jamming capability.

Abstract: A Simple Climber's Multi-Tool (10) is presented which performs multiple safety functions for the field of rock climbing. Most importantly, the device fulfills a heretofore unmet need for a convenient effective safety back-up device to be used with a solo lead climbing belay device. The Simple Climber's Multi-Tool (10) also functions as a standard belay and rappel device. With the addition of an Attachment Snap Hook (52), the device is an auto-locking belay device for one or two ropes. With the addition of a loop of cord, it can perform functions otherwise performed with specialty knots for safety and self-rescue such as the Prusik knot, Bachman knot, and Klemheist knot. The device comprises a Main Body (12) to which is attached a Snap Hook Containment Loop (20), and a First Snap Hook (24). A Rope Channel (18) runs through the device. A unique shape of the Back Face (15) of the device is of primary importance to its rope jamming capability.

Abstract: A line clamp or stopping apparatus includes a housing one part of which serves to clamp or wedge a line subjected to high tension upwards of ten tons. The other part of the housing controls the first part. An eccentric wheel rotates freely within the first part in response to movements of the line and is guided within a space or gap between the wheel and a braking element. The control includes a toggle joint that applies significant forces on the brake when a safety is removed and a control lever is in a neutral or locking position. When the control lever is moved to the open or unlock or release position the toggle joint snaps and released the brake to increase the gap in the line receiving space to allow free movement of the line. A hydraulic brake can be used in place of the mechanical toggle joint.

Abstract: A belaying device for a rope comprises a cam able to rotate between a securing position corresponding to securing the rope by jamming effect against the stud and a separated position allowing the rope to run freely in the gap between the cam and the stud. The cam is associated with a triggering ratchet able to occupy either a locked position blocking the cam in the separated position or an unlocked position following a deliberate control action releasing said cam.

Abstract: The instant invention is a climbing device for belaying and rappelling. A tube is split into two pars that are hinged to pivot scissor-like. A loop of rope is inserted into the split tube and attached to the climber or an anchor with a carabiner. The split tube is open when the rope is slack and retains the one-piece tube belay device's characteristic advantages of smooth feed. The two parts pivot when there is tension in the rope, closing around the rope in a scissor-like movement that increases friction by pinching the rope against the carabiner, significantly reducing the brake-hand force needed to arrest and hold the weight of a climber. At least one spring applies the force that opens the spit tube when the device is not supporting a load. Alternate configurations include openings to control two ropes simultaneously; a lever to control the release of the rope when lowering a climber; and a means for attaching a second carabiner for rigging the device to belay a second with auto-braking.

Abstract: A method is provided for assisting multiple climbers in ascending and descending the same ladder using an apparatus that includes a plurality of counterweights and a rigging system coupled to the counterweights, the rigging system includes at least two subsystems, each subsystem includes at least one cable, at least one pulley, and at least one harness. The method includes configuring a first subsystem to assist a first climber in ascending and descending the ladder, configuring a second subsystem to assist a second climber in ascending and descending the ladder, coupling a first harness to the first climber, coupling a second harness to the second climber, using the first subsystem to assist the first climber in ascending and descending the ladder, and using the second subsystem to assist the second climber in ascending and descending the ladder.

Abstract: A system and method for allowing escape of many persons from a multistory building over a short period of time. The method and system include strategic placement and use of anchor points and components in conjunction with escape kits or devices so as to allow increased efficiency and safety of escape from the building for a plurality of persons in a coordinated manner, including escape of multiple escapees simultaneously or near simultaneously. The system and method include determining a strategic escape plan and configuration that incorporates consideration of building features, including features possibly interfering with escape routes, and three dimensional aspects of both building characteristics and anchor and escape kit and device features.

Abstract: A fall arrest device used with a fixed safety rope comprises a support arm articulated on a first spindle of the body, a roller in the form of a cylindrical wheel mounted rotating free on a second spindle securedly attached to the support arm, and a centrifugal coupling arranged between a drive member of the roller and the support arm so as to occupy a disengaged position or an engaged position. The centrifugal coupling comprises at least one flyweight movable along a ramp of the drive member against a compression spring, and a connecting interface engaged inside a cylindrical rim of the support arm to transmit the elastic force of the spring to the flyweight.

Abstract: A load lowering descent controller having a fixed cylindrical body or capstan about which a rope or cable is turned. The descent controller allows for lowering of the load at a controlled rate by adjusting the amount of friction between the controller and the rope or cable as a function of rope or cable turning and relative contact with rope or cable engagement surfaces in the controller.

Abstract: A safety anchor (20) for securing a user to a substantially vertical safety structure, e.g., elevator cable (21). Safety anchor (20) includes a back plate (26) to which are pivotally mounted a roller (28), inner cam assembly (30) and outer cam assembly (32). Each cam assembly (30,32) includes a lever arm (50,36) to which is mounted a cam (52,42). A user (25) is secured by means of carabiners and a short tether cable, for example, to the free ends of lever arms (50,36). Cable (21) threads between cams (52,42) which are pivoted to compress the cable in response to downward force exerted against the lever arms (50, 36).

Abstract: A movable fall-preventing device (1) for a belay support (6) includes an axis-retaining groove which retains the belay support (6) by means of a lever (16) that pivots between an open position and a closed position. One end of the lever comprises a locking cam and the other end is provided with a hole intended to receive a snap hook (5). An end stop system limits the pivoting movement of the lever (16) in an intermediary position when switching from the closed position to the open position. The end stop system comprises a retractable, movable stop (50).

Abstract: An improved Belay Device is provided consisting of a Base (14), Rope Locking Ring (36), Cover (48), and Connecting Pin (58). The Base (14) contains a Protruding Cylindrical Core (18) with a Base Rope Channel (20). The Protruding Cylindrical Core (18) is received within a Central Hole (34) of the Rope Locking Ring (36). The Rope Locking Ring (36) contains an Upper Ring Rope Channel (38) and Lower Ring Rope Channel (40) that, in normal operating configuration, align with the Base Rope Channel (20) thus forming one continuous rope channel. An abrupt force on a rope passing through the device causes the Rope Locking Ring (36) to rotate with respect to the Protruding Cylindrical Core (18) thus destroying the alignment of the Lower Ring Rope Channel (40), Base Rope Channel (20), and Upper Ring Rope Channel (38). The rope thus becomes pinched or locked in the transition regions between these rope channels.

Abstract: A method for descending and/or lowering objects from a height employing a device that includes a fixed strand, a locking carabiner, and a simple harness. The carabiner serves as both a connector between the harness and the strand, and a friction device. Wrapping the strand one or more times around a side of the locking carabiner opposite its locking gate provides friction when the strand is pulled below the carabiner to apply tension thereto. This construction eliminates one component commonly used in similar systems, and results in a lowering and descending system that is lightweight, easy to use and is quick to set up and dismantle.

Abstract: Ladder climbing safety system for use with a trapeze set-up and which is separate and apart from the usual trapeze safety system. The ladder climbing safety system is arranged to engage a safety belt worn by the trapeze artist to prevent the person from falling when climbing the ladder while the trapeze safety system is arranged to engage the safety belt of another person to prevent the other person from impacting the ground while performing a trapeze routine. The ladder climbing safety system includes an ascending rope arranged proximate the ladder, an ascender attachable to the ascending rope and a coupling arrangement for releasably connecting the ascender to the safety belt of the person climbing the ladder.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention may include a line support system having a first and a second support member that may be elongate and form a unitary body, or separate bodies secured together, on a proximal end of the line support and are separated at a distal end of the line support. The first and second support members may be configured such that support may be provided by a biasing force at the distal end of the line support as the first support member and the second support member are resilient. The first and second support members may also be in close proximity to one another substantially along their lengths when the first and the second support members are unoccupied. The line support may also comprise a sliding retainer that may be selectively positionable about the first and second support members and configured such that the biasing force may be selectively adjustable.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention may include a line support system that may have a support member with an elongate body that may form a loop. The support member may be configured such that a positive biasing force may be provided at a distal end of the line support. The support member may have a first support arm and a second support arm that may be biased to abut one another and may be further capable of separating at the distal end of the line support when a sufficient force may be applied that overcomes the biasing force. The line support may also have an alignment retainer located at the distal ends of the first and second support arms that may be capable of assisting in positioning the first and second support arms in abutment so that they do not scissor. A bias adjustment mechanism may also be provided that may be selectively positionable about the first and second support arms and further may be configured such that the biasing force may be selectively adjustable.

Abstract: A figure eight descender for rappelling with a rope includes a first loop, a second loop, a neck connecting the first loop and the second loop, and a clip attached on the neck. The clip surrounds the rope so that the clip contains the rope between the first loop and the second loop, preventing the rope from sliding over the first loop or the second loop. The clip has a U-shaped body, and the body has a first end and a second end. The first end is supported by a hinge provided on the neck so that the body can pivot around the hinge, and the clip is spring-biased so that the second end is forced toward the neck.

Abstract: A rappel device is used in rapidly descending from a height using a rope and then quickly disengaging from the rope. The rappel device comprises a body having a rim which defines a rope opening therein. The body is further adapted to be affixed to a harness. A lock extends across the rope opening. The lock frictionally engages a rope extending through the rope opening. A retracting mechanism manually releases the lock from engagement with the rope. The retracting mechanism is biased to a secured position whereby the lock is engaged with the rope. The retracting mechanism, when actuated, manually releases the lock to an open position whereby the rope is quickly released from the lock.

Abstract: A termination arrangement for a horizontal lifeline cable (4) for use with a structure (6) includes an elongate stocking (14) of woven wire form surrounding an end section of the cable (4). The stocking (14) has a first end (22) adapted and arranged for secure connection to the structure (6), and a second end (28) secured to the cable (4). Tension applied to the cable results in elongation of the stocking (14) and contraction onto the cable so that the cable is securely gripped by the stocking.

Abstract: A Safe Auto-Locking Belay Override Mechanism (24) is provided which causes an auto-locking belay device to lock a rope against movement if a belayer panics, as sometimes happens if a climber falls, after the belayer has overridden the normal function of the auto-locking belay device. The mechanism of the subject invention makes use of the realization that a belayer tends to grip an auto-locking belay device tightly when the belayer panics. The subject invention contains a pressure sensitive activation mechanism that acts on an override mechanism such that the normal function of the belay device will be overridden by only one of three different force levels. At either relatively low or relatively high levels of force exerted by the belayer on the pressure sensitive activation mechanism, the auto-locking belay device will function normally and lock a rope against further movement in the event that the rope exerts sufficient force on the auto-locking belay device such as when a climber falls.

Abstract: A safety device (100) includes a base (110), a handle (120) pivotally mounted on the base, a cleat (130) pivotally mounted on the base, and a cover (140) pivotally mounted on the base. A rope (99) is routed between the cleat and a bearing surface on the base, then between the cleat and a hub on the handle, then around the hub and between the hub and another bearing surface on the base, then between the cleat and the hub again. The handle may be squeezed against the base to control or limit descent along the rope, and in the event of excessively rapid descent, the device is urged toward a locked position relative to the rope.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a simple and convenient way to ascend and descend a rope without using a belayer. Embodiments of the invention can smoothly transition from a rope clamping position to a rope unclamping position, conveniently providing an effective rope management tool. Other embodiments of the invention are described in the appended claims.

Abstract: A belay device for climbing with at least one rope is provided. The belay device comprises a first plate having a first lobe with the rope wrapping at least partially about the first lobe and a second plate having a second lobe. A connection mechanism connects the first plate to the second plate through a rotation point with the rotation point positioned inside the second lobe. A first channel is defined by the first plate and the first lobe and the second plate and the second lobe with the rope moveable through the first channel wherein tension on the rope rotates the first plate and the second plate relative to each other thereby narrowing the first channel and impeding movement of the rope through the first channel.

Abstract: A fall arrest safety device for workers on transmission towers and the like includes a “matched” safety rail and brake trolley. The rail has a profile which includes a non-symmetrical profile portion and the trolley has a passageway of complimentary profile so that the trolley cannot be installed on the rail up-side down. A full body harness worn by a user of the device is clipped to the trolley and the trolley incorporates a brake which is spring-biassed into frictional engagement with the rail. The brake can be disengaged from the rail only by the user deliberately overriding the biassing effect.

Abstract: An easy to use and easy to store rescue apparatus for lowering a person from an upper level to a lower level during an emergency. The rescue apparatus is comprised of a body harness and a decender mounted on a chest portion of the harness in plain view of a wearer. In a first aspect of the invention, a descender is stored in a vertical pocket of the body harness. A rope is tightly coiled inside of the descender and as the rope is withdrawn it passes through a friction core which limits a rate of descent and removes twists from the portion of the rope which is in the process of withdrawal. A camshaft is provided in the decender for accommodating differences in body weight and satisfying the preferences of wearers of the apparatus. In a second aspect of the invention, the decender is attached and exposed the chest portion of the harness. In a third aspect of the invention, an alternate descender is attached to the same body harness in the same manner as the second aspect.

Abstract: An improved body harness for use during an emergency and for fire fighters, tree trimmers, window washers, mountain climbers and construction workers. A pocket is provided on the front of the harness for enclosing either a descender and/or a lifeline. The pocket is capable of withstanding the forces of the descender during a lowering of a person wearing the harness from a height to a relatively lower height. An aperture is provided in an upper portion of the harness for installing the harness over a head of the person. Three buckles are used for installing the harness on a person. The body harness is moderate in cost, easy to install and requires only a small amount of storage space when the harness is not in use.

Abstract: A system for securing a worker to an elevated structure includes a flexible anchor line extendable across the structure, hooks at opposite ends of the flexible anchor line for engaging the structure, and a line storage device for releasably storing a portion of the flexible anchor line to adjust the length of line and tension the line to bring the hooks into anchoring engagement with the structure and secure the anchor line to the structure. One end of a restraining line is releasably connectable to the flexible anchor line. The opposite end of the restraining line is connected to a harness wearable by the worker. The system is a lightweight and reliable apparatus that is easily transported and operated by a worker to secure the worker to an elevated structure such as a cargo container in order to conduct work in safety.

Abstract: A figure eight descender for rappelling with a rope includes a first loop, a second loop, a neck connecting the first loop and the second loop, and a clip attached on the neck. The clip surrounds the rope so that the clip contains the rope between the first loop and the second loop, preventing the rope from sliding over the first loop or the second loop. The clip has a U-shaped body, and the body has a first end and a second end. The first end is supported by a hinge provided on the neck so that the body can pivot around the hinge, and the clip is spring-biased so that the second end is forced toward the neck.

Abstract: A movable fall-preventing device (1) for a belay support (6) includes an axis-retaining groove which retains the belay support (6) by means of a lever (16) that pivots between an open position and a closed position. One end of the lever comprises a locking cam and the other end is provided with a hole intended to receive a snap hook (5). An end stop system limits the pivoting movement of the lever (16) in an intermediary position when switching from the closed position to the open position. The end stop system comprises a retractable, movable stop (50).

Abstract: A safety device comprises vacuum anchors for attachment to a surface. The anchors are interconnected by a rigid track along which a carriage runs. The carriage includes means for connection to a safety line and harness. Such an arrangement provides enhanced freedom of movement and increased resistance against shearing forces when arresting a fall.

Abstract: A descender (10) comprising a base (11) having a connection means (26), a pivotal member (12) pivotally mounted on the base (11) about a pivot axis (1), the pivotal member (12) defining first and second spaced projections (14, 15) for engaging a rope (5), the base (11) defining a stop member (18) and a lever (23) pivotable between first and second end positions, the lever (23) and the pivotal member (12) defining complementary cam surfaces (24) to regulate the distance between the stop member (18) and the second projection (15), a resistance force applied to the rope (5) being at a minimum when the second projection (15) is moved away from the stop member (18) and the lever (23) is located in a mid-position, and is at a maximum when the lever (23) moves towards either end position wherein the rope (5) is pressed between the second projection (15) and a braking surface (22).

Abstract: A Prusik knot has several helical wraps around a tether line or a lifeline, a longitudinal loop extending over the wraps, and free end portions tucked or threaded under the loop. A special cover encases the free end portions of the knot.

Abstract: A fall protection restraint apparatus that is utilized during building construction comprising a base (20) that rests on the lowest floor surface of a building during construction. A number of poles (36) are connected to the base sequentially, as construction height requires, to form a structurally sound column. Support cables (40) are connected between the poles and the building under construction to horizontally support the column by forming a guyed matrix. A retractable lifeline lanyard (48) is attached to D-rings on the end cap (54) on the uppermost pole (36b), thereby allowing the lanyard to expand and retract freely until a sudden tug impedes and secures the lanyard's movement. A construction worker (50) wears a fall arrest harness (52) that is connected to the lanyard, thus providing protection. In the event of a fall, the lanyard limits and maintains the minimal distance between the worker and the column, thereby precluding a fall to the surface below.

Abstract: A method for descending and/or lowering objects from a height employing a device that includes a fixed strand, a locking carabiner, and a simple harness.

Abstract: A belaying descending device for belaying a leading or second mountain climber, and for controlled descending along a single or double rope, including a metal body having a pair of slits at least one slit for the rope to pass through, a first opening in the form of a securing bow for receiving a first snap-hook in a manner that at least one loop of the rope may pass through the first snap-hook, a second suspension opening for receiving a second snap-hook in the case of belaying of the second climber, and fixed stop means transversely offset with respect to said openings for limiting the movement of the rope through the slits.