Escape Kits, Systems and Components
Sterling Rope pioneered the development of escape systems that allow rapid egress and selfrescue. Our escape systems are designed around our proven ropes and optimized for use with our intuitive F4™ device. Only Sterling offers kit options that can be configured to handle a wide range of scenarios and budgets.
Here we help you to: • Discover our full line of escape kits and systems • Identify the components that make up a system, learn how to select the options that fit your needs • Obtain a list of training resources that will help ensure proper deployment and use in the field
Bailout: Rigging a Remote Anchor
Equipment Advice and Training
When it comes to exiting an Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) environment, many factors need to be assessed. One primary bailout consideration is the choice of anchor. Though conditions may force the use of a sill anchor, the preferred option is to locate a suitably substantial object for remote anchor placement. In most cases, the closer to the exit point, the better. After an anchor is located, knowing how to secure the rope becomes paramount. Pictured are three options for connecting the rope.
Use of life-safety equipment requires proper training, and this is especially critical with escape systems. Realistic training is the only way to prepare for a maneuver which will be performed under the most extreme and stressful circumstances, when other options have been exhausted. When selecting a trainer, a safe learning environment supersedes all other priorities. Top instructors not only have extensive experience with vertical rope work, but they also teach escape methods with backup safety protocols always in place for students. Sterling Rope offers its own on-site training center complete with classroom, two-story training area for bailout instruction, and other amenities. We’ve also partnered with the best training firms in North America to create a network of expert trainers who can help you and your department get the most out of your escape systems. Please contact us for more information.
Kits and Systems
The terms “kit” and “system” are used to describe different types of bundled equipment groups assembled by Sterling Rope.
Systems
Kits
A system is a collection of components, certified end-to-end to the NFPA 1983 Standard for Escape Systems,
A kit is a collection of individually certified components combined to perform together.
which means the entire system is tested from the anchor point to the harness attachment point.
All components of Sterling Rope kits are certified as individual components to the NFPA 1983: 2012 standard.
Sterling Rope offers several certified systems, all feature FireTech™ and SafeTech™ ropes.
Sterling Anchors, escape ropes, F4 Descent Device, Bolt Escape Belt™ and Safe-D™ Carabiner are UL®/3rd party certified.
By choosing a Sterling Rope kit or system, you can also be certain that the components will perform flawlessly together. Regardless of what type of solution you choose, Sterling’s options provide certified, reliable means of escape and an extra measure of safety. At Sterling Rope, we offer a variety of pre-selected configurations, including six certified systems. These have been designed to address the safety needs of various fire departments around the globe. However, you also have the ability to build your own kit to meet the needs of your department.
Our kits and systems are normally composed of four distinct items: Anchors, Ropes, Descent Control Devices and Storage/Carrying bags.
Good A knot can be used with any connector or hook.
Sterling Rope is a certified ISO 9001 company.
Better A hook with a hitching slot, such as the Lightning™ Hook, can easily be secured by feeding a bight of rope through the handle and passing it back over the hook itself. Very secure and faster than a knot.
Best The Lightning GT™ features a unique gated slot on the back side of the hook that allows the rope to be quickly wrapped around the handle two or more times for a secure lock-off. No need to work with extra rope, pass over the device, or tie any knots. Simply click, click and go.
$1.00 of each F4 sold is donated to the National Fallen Firefighters Fund.
The opposite side of this brochure lists Sterling’s component offerings, specifications and suggested usage for each. The NFPA has developed specific standards for all components used in escape systems. All Sterling Rope Components are certified to the latest requirements. We have included this data for reference as well.
Sterling Rope Company, Inc. 26 Morin Street Biddeford, ME 04005-4413 U.S.A. sterlingrope.com (800) 788-ROPE