Latchways has revolutionised the rescue process with the development of the Latchways PRD®—an integrated harness system allowing self-rescue. The lightweight, unobtrusive rescue device is contained in a small ‘backpack’ attached to a full body harness and is designed to be used in conjunction with a fall protection system or anchor point.
In the event of a fall the Latchways PRD® harness suspends the user and then allows them to gently lower themselves to the ground in a controlled descent. The device features a 20 m spool of Aramid rope which is released at a controlled rate through an integral braking mechanism. The innovative design uses quality componentry and a limited number of moving parts to always ensure 100%mechanical integrity.
Features
- Descent height: 20 m
- Complete weight: 3.6 kg – (1 kg harness/2.6 kg rescue device)
- User weight: 59 – 140 kg
- Descent speed: 0.5 – 2 m per second
- Secondary release mechanism: Should the user not be able to rescue themselves, the device can be activated by a third party
- Component parts: Descent line made from Aramid rope (UHMwPE rope with Aramid overbraid)
- Training: Minimal user training required—no annual user refresher training required
- Maintenance: Periodic examination limited to a series of visual inspections carried out by a competent person (full instructions provided)
Standards
The Latchways PRD® consists of a full body harness and integral descender device that conforms to all the required standards:
- The harness conforms to EN361: 2002 and EN 358:1999 (depending on model)
- The descender device conforms to: EN 341: 2011 Type 1, Class D
- The ‘backpack’ and harness are:
- Waterproof and dustproof IP56 (Ingress Protection)
- -20ºC to +60ºC operating temperature
- Successfully assessed against EN 13463-1:2009 and EN 13463-5:2003 under ATEX category Ex II 2 G c IIC T3
