Descent using ascending devices

Overview

Using ascending devices to descend the working can be a useful technique in a variety of situations, such as; short descents to avoid changeovers, self-rescue, small adjustments to positioning and reducing slack rope between the chest ascender and descender when not possible from below e.g. Descending device is obstructed by a knot.

Important Considerations

• Devices are correctly attached to working line and hand ascender remains attached to device lanyard

• Minimize the potential to shock load ascending devices

• When handling the chest ascender ensure there is no risk of the device opening

• Descent using ascending devices is more physical than the traditional method of ascending – distance to descend and the physical effort should be taken into account

• Correct working line placement to enable efficient movement of the chest ascender and to minimise potential damage caused by teeth

Method

1. Starting the manoeuvre from a standard ascending setup, ensure the working line below the chest ascending device is positioned to the left side

2. If using a fixed back-up device, reposition the device lower on the back-up line to prevent it from becoming weighted when descending – take care not to create an unacceptable fall factor

3. With the hand ascender and foot loop in the same position on the working rope used when changing into descent, stand up to de-weight the chest ascender

4. With the chest ascender free of weight, push down on the top of the cam inside the chest ascender to create a gap between the rope and the teeth of the cam

5. Control your descent using your leg in the foot loop, keeping the cam pressed away from the rope with your finger while doing so

6. Stop, and allow the chest ascender to grip the working rope again before the ` back-up device or hand ascender become stuck

7. Reposition the hand ascender to the same position required for a changeover

8. Repeat steps 2-7.