AST Digital Magazine July 2017 Digital-July | Page 18

Volume 14
July 2017 Edition
The Guardian Escape System accomplishes this
by using a combination of several simple, low-
tech devices.
They require no power, are inexpensive, have a
long shelf-life and are easy to use.
They have developed permanent and portable
Escape Systems to attach to a structure.
Each System incorporates a Controlled Descent
Device, commonly referred to as a “CDD” which
works like a pulley.
Then the process repeats. Everyone gets out.
Escape Harnesses are permanently attached at
each end of the cable and full fire resistant Evac-
uation Suits are available.
Each CDD incorporates a poly-steel cable with
a neoprene inner lining and braided polyester
jacket to protect it against abrasion, moisture
and heat.
Cable lengths are currently available up to 1000
feet (305 meters) or about 100 floors.
In operation, a user slides an Escape Harness
over them, climbs over their balcony or out a win-
dow and the CDD slowly lowers them automati-
cally at the rate of 3 feet per second.
Other options are available for locations exceed-
ing these heights.
(See in Action, courtesy of High Rise Escape Systems and
YouTube)
This speed can be compared to a slow elevator.
As they descend, the opposite end of the cable
automatically retracts and reloads the CDD for
the next evacuee.
High Rise Escape has also developed fire resis-
tant Evacuation Suits for use with the CDD.
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