Abseil technique for beginners
Connect the abseil device to the harness. A safety rope is also usually attached by the instructor, so that the abseiler can be belayed down the descent.
One hand must grasp the rope below the abseil device and pull the rope behind the back. This is then the hand that controls the descent by slowly releasing the rope. The legs should be set apart and be almost straight, lean back at about 80 degrees to the rock face.
ABSEIL SAFETY BACK-UPS
Deadman’s break – A safety rope is not always used if dealing with beginners or even people who have already abseiled several times. In these situations it is advisable to still use some form of safety backup. This could be the use of a Shunt or prusik knot attached below or above the abseil device. This is then attached to the abseiler’s harness. As they abseil, they hold the Shunt or prusik in the open position. If they get out of control and let the rope go, they are automatically stopped by the Shunt or prusik. These devices can also be used to remain stationary on the rope if needed.
It is a not a good idea to wear gloves as gloves can easily cause people to abseil too fast. The rule here is “if the heat caused by friction is burning your hand, it could be burning the rope”.
Fireman’s Break- Another way to safeguard an abseiler is to position a person at the bottom of the rope. This person then holds the rope but does not apply any downward pressure. If, however, the abseiler gets out of control the person below simply pulls down on the rope. This action causes the abseiling device to jam.
There is a danger of abseiling off the end of the rope. This situation can easily arise when the bottom of the cliff is out of sight to the Supervisor. To help prevent this, tie a knot in the end of the rope. A simple over hand knot will do. Better still, tie a loop at the end or if using double ropes, tie the two ends together. This has the additional function of enabling the abseiler to come to the end and put one foot into the loop, putting downward pressure on the rope. This causes the abseil device to jam, enabling the person to connect prusik loops to ascend back up the rope.