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3.0 INSTALLATION AND USE
3.1 BEFORE EACH USE: Carefully inspect the R550 Rescue & Escape Device in accordance with Section 5 of
this instruction.
3.2 PLANNING: Plan your emergency escape system and how it will be used before starting your work.
Consider all factors that will affect your safety before, during, and after an escape. Consider the following
when planning your system:
A. ANCHORAGE: Select a rigid anchorage point that is capable of supporting the load specified in
Section 2.3 of this instruction.
B. DESCENT PATH AND LANDING AREA CLEARANCE: The planned descent path must be unobstructed. The
landing area must be clear of obstructions to permit safe landing of the user. Failure to provide an unobstructed
descent path and landing area may result in serious injury. Maintain a minimum distance of 31 cm from any vertical
surface to ensure safe descent. A separate pulley is available for use with the R550 Rescue & Escape Device that
can be used to re-direct the lifeline away from obstructions.
C. TESTING THE SYSTEM: DBI-SALA recommends performing a test descent using a 55 kg test weight.
The descent speed should be uniform, and allow the user to reach the landing area safely. Record all
descents in the Descent Log (Section 10).
D. SHARP EDGES: Avoid using this equipment where system components will be in contact with, or abrade
against, unprotected sharp edges. An Edge Protector (Figure 2) or protective padding must be used
when descending over sharp edges.
3.3 INSTALLATION: The R550 Rescue & Escape Device is available in several configurations and, therefore, its
installation will vary.
WARNING: When connecting the R550 Descender to an Anchorage, confirm that the connection arrangement will not
block or restrict a descent.
• Connecting the R550 Descender to an Anchorage:
See Figure 3 for examples of connection of the Emergency
Descent Device to an anchorage. See Section 2 of this IFU
for compatibility and anchorage strength requirements.
In Figure 3:
A Anchorage D Web Lanyard
B Anchorage
Connector E Anchorage Connector
(Web Sling)
C Carabiner
• Connecting the R550 Descender to a Fixed Ladder:
See Figure 4 for an example of attachment of the R550 to
the rungs of a fixed ladder using a DBI-SALA ladder bracket
accessory. The R550 Descender mounts on the Ladder
Bracket by fitting the lower eye of the R550 over the pin on
the ladder bracket and inserting the Ball Lock Pin through
mounting holes in the R550 anchor loop and ladder bracket.
R550 Descenders mounted with the ladder bracket still
require that the unit be secured by the anchorage handle to
an anchorage of sufficient strength (see Section 2.3).
In Figure 4:
A Anchorage E Fixed Ladder
B Anchorage Connector
(Web Sling) F Ladder Rungs
C Carabiner G Ladder Bracket
D Ball Lock Pin
• Preparing the Lifeline: Lower one end of the lifeline to the ground or landing below. Ensure the
lifeline is free of knots or kinks.
3.4 USE - SINGLE PERSON UNASSISTED ESCAPE: Procedures for performing an unassisted descent with the
R550 Rescue & Escape Device are as follows:
WARNING: The users of this equipment must be in good physical condition. The user must have the ability to absorb the landing.
Step 1. Connect to a Full Body Harness or other Body Support: (See Figure 5) A full body harness
or other means of supporting the user must be used with the R550 Descender. Do not use a body
belt with this device. When using a full body harness, connect the Snap Hook on the lifeline to the
front (A) or back (B) D-ring . Ensure the D-ring is positioned to hold the user upright. See the full
body harness manufacturer’s instructions for more information.
WARNING: Do not use a body belt with this equipment. Body belts do not support your entire body,
which may result in serious injury.
Step 2. Prepare the Lifeline for Descent: Prior to descent, the section of lifeline between the user and
the R550 Descender must be tightened to remove any slack. Tighten the lifeline by pulling on
the free end of the rope until slack between the user and R550 Descender is removed. Once the
lifeline is taut, hold the free end of the lifeline tightly until descent is initiated.