In a low-angle descent, which role is primarily responsible for controlling the descent speed?

In a low-angle descent, which role is primarily responsible for controlling the descent speed?

• A. Brake Man
• B. Rope Tech
• C. Descent Operator
• D. Safety Officer

Answer: (A)

Controlling descent speed on rope comes from applying friction with the braking device. The person assigned to brake manages the rope’s friction, modulating how freely the rope feeds to keep a steady, safe pace and stopping when needed. This direct control is essential even on a low-angle descent, where small changes in speed can quickly become unsafe if not handled smoothly. The other roles support the operation in different ways: the Rope Tech handles rope setup and condition, the Descent Operator may work with the descent device but doesn’t take primary responsibility for speed control, and the Safety Officer focuses on overall safety procedures rather than actively regulating descent rate.

Controlling descent speed on rope comes from applying friction with the braking device. The person assigned to brake manages the rope’s friction, modulating how freely the rope feeds to keep a steady, safe pace and stopping when needed. This direct control is essential even on a low-angle descent, where small changes in speed can quickly become unsafe if not handled smoothly.

The other roles support the operation in different ways: the Rope Tech handles rope setup and condition, the Descent Operator may work with the descent device but doesn’t take primary responsibility for speed control, and the Safety Officer focuses on overall safety procedures rather than actively regulating descent rate.