9
Step 5.
Move disabled person in cradle to launch area. Pull on free end of rope to take up the slack. Rope must
be taught before descending. Slowly release cradle to begin descent.
Step 6.
The guideline attached to the bottom of the cradle is used to steer the cradle past obstructions to the
ground.
CAUTION: Exert steady pull on guideline - never tug violently, cradle may tear. Do not pull guideline to cause cradle
angle to exceed ten degrees to vertical. To avoid damage to the guideline, never wrap around any object to control
descent speed or direction of descent. Swing injury may result if guideline breaks. Do not put sharp objects in cradle
which may rip or tear cradle.
4.0
TRAINING
4.1
It is the responsibility of the user to assure they are familiar with these instructions, and are trained in the correct
care and use of this equipment. User must also be aware of the operating characteristics, application limits, and the
consequences of improper use of this equipment.
WARNING: Training must be conducted without exposing the trainee to a fall hazard. Training should be repeated on
a periodic basis. Always use a back-up system when training.
4.2
All persons should experience the descent on the Rescumatic® Emergency Escape Device before the event of
an emergency situation which will require it’s use. Demonstrations organized at the time of installation are strongly
recommended with repeat demonstrations every six months just after the maintenance check (see section 6.0).
Initial training is advised from a low height, for example a standing height of approximately six feet above ground.
This is usually done by attaching the Rescumatic® unit to a crane or hoist hook at ground level and then raising
a person off the ground a few feet before the descent is allowed to begin.
It is highly recommended that a full body harness be used by the trainee. The Rescumatic® Emergency Escape
Device should be attached to the dorsal D-ring or the front D-ring. Attachment of the harness to the descent
device is made by using a carabiner connected to the D-ring on the harness and the metal D-ring on the end of
the Rescumatic® body support.
A backup fall arrest system (such as a self retracting lifeline) should be utilized during all training descents. A
means of rescue should be available during all training descents.
5.0
INSPECTION
5.1
MONTHLY: A formal inspection should be completed by a competent person other than the user. A formal
inspection should be completed if the system parameters are changed, such as after a system is moved,
re-rigged, anchorages moved, guide cable angle changed, etc. Extreme working conditions may require
increasing the Inspection frequency. Inspect the Rescumatic® Emergency Escape Device according to sections
5.2 and 5.3. Record inspection results in the inspection and maintenance log in section 9.0.
5.2
Inspection steps:
Step 1.
Inspect device for loose fasteners and bent or damaged parts.
Step 2.
Inspect cover and base plate for distortion, cracks or other damage.
Step 3.
Device rope must pull out freely in both directions.
Step 4.
Inspect rope for cuts, wear, breaks, or abraded cover.
IMPORTANT: After several descents the outside portion of the rope will begin to loosen up and increase in diameter.
This is a sign of wear and will potentially cause interference and binding as the rope enters and exits the descent unit.
Inspect the rope carefully and replace the rope immediately if the rope cover is loose, warn, or begins to bunch up as
the rope enters the descent unit.
Step 5.
Inspect for corrosion.
