ISC has recently developed a new rescue descender fully compliant with a new European standard (pr)EN12481 and suitable for use by 1 or 2 persons (WLL 200kg)

ISC manufactures the descender from 7075 aerospace aluminium so it is incredibly strong but light - weighing just 440g. The device is anodised (red as standard) but colour options are available - and then laser etched with relevant information including an individual serial number. It has been designed for use on a variety of 10.5/11mm diameter semi static rope (unlike En341 which requires use of a nominated rope only). The device works very simply and can be fitted to the rope at any point, the sprung keeper allows the user to detach from the rope witohout detatching from their harness.

Once the rope is fully threaded & load applied the scarab will lock-on & will only move when the handle is squeezed. The more pressure is applied, the quicker the descent. But in a situation where the handle is fully depressed the panic break will slow the descent. Release the handle & the descent stops.

SEE Video
(please note this is a 7.7Mb file)

The scarab can also be used as an ascender or work positioning device, by pulling the rope out from the top bobbin. This allows rope to be pulled through the device whilst still locking-on if a load is applied.

Scarab can also be used as part of a hauling kit consisting of rope & pulleys, in for example confined space activity. The pulley sets provide mechanical advantage & the scarab provides the locking / braking / descending facility. The use of hand Ascenders is always recommended. See photos below.

Any user should have the necessary competence to work at height & be familiar with the instructions for use. The scarab is currently in use all over the world by military, tactical, SAR, fire rescue, rope access & arborists.