When switching from ascent to descent, leave the CLUTCH in STANDBY or STOP. This is a useful feature for technicians who need to frequently go hands free. The CLUTCH will continue to provide a safe and stable work position when the control handle is positioned in less than vertical orientation on the STOP/STANDBY side of the device. This locks the rope in place and tucks the Control Handle out of the way. When you reach the desired height, you can leave the CLUTCH in STANDBY for easy re-positioning, or rotate the control handle to STOP for added security. Repeat this process as needed, if a rest is required, sit in your harness and the CLUTCH will maintain your position hands free. Then, sit in your harness to transfer your weight to the CLUTCH Next, stand-up in your foot loop and simultaneously pull slack through the CLUTCH, Once your equipment is checked, you can begin making a basic ascent. The result is a 3:1 mechanical advantage where the technician is able to pull down with more leverage using body and rope weight.Ĭheck that the foot loop and safety lanyard or daisy chain are properly attached and adjusted. Run the rope tail from the CLUTCH up through this pulley to create a redirect. Sit in your harness and make adjustments for comfort.Ĭheck to make sure your backup device is working properly on the backup line.Ĭonfirm that the CLUTCH locks up when the control handle is let go and when it’s pulled to the ANTIPANIC position.Ĭonnect your ascender to the rope above the CLUTCH.

Remove slack from the line by pulling on the rope tail.

Load the rope and function test the CLUTCH. In this video, we complete each task using the Red 13mm CLUTCH.Īnchors, harness buckles, lanyards or daisy chains, backup systems, stopper knots, and equipment attachment points. I’m the director of the CMC Rescue School.įor this video, we will focus on the CLUTCH being used for personal ascent and descent on a mainline with a backup.īoth the 11mm gray CLUTCH and 13mm Red CLUTCH function the same in this scenario, the primary difference between them being the rope diameter compatibility. Suited to a multitude of rigging operations, the CLUTCH moves seamlessly between anchor-based systems and personal use. The CMC CLUTCH™ by Harken Industrial™ is the latest evolution in rescue and rope access hardware. Always use a backup when training or working on rope. While there are many ways to move on the rope, we recommend these approaches for utility and ease of use. We begin by demonstrating a simple step-up ascent method then progress to a Rapid Ascent and Descent (RAD) technique. This video explains how to ascend and descend with the 13 mm CLUTCH.

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