STERLING FCX Descent Device Instruction Manual

: July 27, 2024
: STERLING

Table of Contents

FCX Descent Device
Maintenance:
KEEP THIS DOCUMENT & REGULARLY INSPECT EQUIPMENT
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FCX™
Care & Use Instructions

FCX Descent Device

Sterting Rope Company, Inc.
26 Morin Street, Biddeford, ME 04005
T 207-282-2550 F 207-282-2655
SterlingRope.com
Please permanently retain this and all user information after it is removed from the device. A copy of this and all user information should be retained with the device at all times and should be reviewed before and after each use. User should refer to and be aware of all relevant safety information before use.

WARNING

Activities utilizing this equipment are inherently dangerous and carry a signiticant risk of injury or death that cannot be eliminated.
Anyone using this equipment must read and thoroughly understand these instructions and refer to them before each use. These instructions OO NOT tell you everything you need to know.
It is the user’s responsibility to obtain specific training, have a rescue plan and the means to implement it.
Do not use unless you understand all risks and assume all responsibilities for damage, injury or death that may result from the use of this product.
Do not use around electrical hazards, moving machinery, near sharp edges or abrasive surfaces.
Sterling Rope Company, inc. (“Sterling”) is not responsible for any direct, indirect or accidental consequences or damage resulting from the misuse of this product.

IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS FOR CARE & USE.
PLEASE READ AND RETAIN FOR REFERENCE.
Proper Use:
The FCX descent control device is a solid aluminum body with three holes, a clip plate and a handle. Its function depends upon the friction gained by the rope going in and out of the holes and the pressure applied by tke clip plate against the rope. To load rope in the device, the handle and clip plate must be in the neutral position.
Weave rope through all holes as indicated by the diagram at the end of these instructions (back-side) making sure it goes through the bottom hole in the device and the concentric hole in the clip plate. Rope should be threaded such that the tail or brake side of the rope comes out of the device on the same side as the system is stored. Confirm that a stopper knot is tied at the end of your rope.
Attach the device to your harness with a connector through the large hole in the clip plate or via an approved tether.

NEUTRAL POSITION

The device is for one-time emergency use only. In the event of an actual emergency egress, the device should be retired immediately.
Safe use of the system REQUIRES TRAINING AND PRACTICE. All personnel must receive training from a qualified instructor. The fire escape system should be packed properly and ready for quick deployment prior to engaging in fireground operations. A safe
descent using this device requires a moderate amount of preplanning. Please follow your department’s protocol and training when employing the system in an emergency situation. While the auto-lock feature of the FCX is designed to allow both hands to be free while exiting a structure, safe use of the device during a descent requires control of the brake side of the rope at all times.
Horizontal Movement:
If using a remote anchor point, feed slack from the device by holding the device perpendicular to the rope, such that rope feeds straight out to the anchor and straight in from the rope storage. Smoothest operation will result if the clip plate is not loaded during this maneuver.
Descent:
Anchor rope securely. After allowing sufficient slack in the rope to clear any structure (i.e. window sill or parapet), evacuate and carefully load the device with body weight. Make sure there is no slack in the rope going to the anchor before loading the device. As soon as the device is loaded, the device wiil lock and prevent unintentional lowering. DO NOT SHOCK LOAD THE SYSTEM.
To descend, grasp the brake side of the rope and slowly pull the handle. Release the handle to stop.
IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT THE BRAKE STRAND OF THE ROPE IS CONTROLLED AT ALL TIMES. IT IS NOT SUFFICIENT TO MODERATE YOUR DESCENT WITH THE DEVICE LEVER ALONE.
Training:
Knowledge of the techniques required to properly and safely use this device can only be acquired through professional instruction received from a trainer who is qualified in teaching all aspects of firefighter safety and personal escape. Qualified instructors must understand the proper function and limitations of this device. It is the user’s responsibility to obtain proper training from a qualified instructor.

Such instruction wilt include evaluation of your understanding and ability to perform all tasks required to safely and effectively use this device.
Never attempt to use this device until you have received proper instruction and are deemed competent by your instructor.
It is recommended that separate devices be used for training. A firefighter’s personal escape device may be used for training if proper safety and inspection methods are used. All training evolutions must utilize a proper backup safety system, which may include,
but is not limited to, a separate belay system and padded landing zone. Proper PPE must be worn during all training evolutions. At minimum this should include heimet, harness, gloves, and turnout gear.

inspection Procedures:
This device must be visually and hand inspected by a qualified person, following these inspection procedures, before use and periodically throughout the lifetime of the product. The inspector must inspect for dents, cracks, sharp edges, deformations, gouges, corrosion or excessive wear, or any other signs of damage that may have resulted from use or storage. Ensure smooth and full range of movement and function of the control handle.
The inspector should ask the user the following questions:

Has the device been visually damaged?
Has the device been impact loaded or dropped?
Has the device been exposed to heat or direct flame impingement?
Has the device been exposed to liquids, solids, gases, mists or vapors of any chemical or other material that can deteriorate the components of the device?

If the user answered “yes” to any of the above questions, then refer to “Retirement Criteria” beiow.
It is recommended that all use and inspection information be kept in an equipment log and stored in a safe place. If you have questions or concerns, you may send the device to Sterling for evaluation.
Retirement Criteria:
This device is to be removed from service immediately if any of the inspection questions above cannot be answered or are answered “yes”, if the device does not pass visual inspection, if it has been used in an actual emergency egress or if there is any doubt about the safety or serviceability of the device.

Maintenance:

The auxiliary device must be kept away from acids, alkalis, and strong chemicals at all times. Do not expose the device to flame or high temperatures.
Store in a cool dry location. Do not store where the device may be exposed to moist air, particularly where dissimilar metals are stored together. If the device needs to be cleaned, hand wash with warm water and a mild detergent while working the handle.
Dry immediately. Do not use corrosive substances such as acetone or petroleum based solvents for cleaning.
Repair:
Any modification or repair of the device other than that authorized in writing by Sterling is prohibited due to the risk of impairing the function of the equipment. Any repair work or modification performed elsewhere shall release Sterling from all liability and responsibility as the manufacturer.

KEEP THIS DOCUMENT & REGULARLY INSPECT EQUIPMENT

INSPECTION LOG

Additional information regarding descent control devices can be found in NFPA 1500 and NFPA 1858 and NFPA 1983, incorporated in the 2022 edition of NFPA 2500.
THIS DESCENT CONTROL DEVICE HAS PASSED THE MANNER OF FUNCTION AND HOLDING LOAD TESTS USING THE FOLLOWING ROPE: