Leigh,

Keep in mind that most of the preferred methods for technical rescues are top-down repels/access as opposed to bottom-up belayed/lead climbing. Yes, there are situations, such as tower rescues, where bottom-up belayed/lead climbing is required, but whenever possible we (at least our team) prefer top-down rescues. It allows for the use of low-stretch ropes, team based rescues, separate belay and main lines and minimizes shock loading rescue systems.

Rescue harnesses are designed for longer hang times, then a conventional lead climb harness. Class 3 harnesses are now the NFPA standard, with all loops, clips, rings, etc. are rated for general use or a particular rescue application.

As to “pilot error proof”, if that is the polite way of saying is it idiot proof blush, well no. Most Firefighters will tell you if there is way to break, override or defeat a safety feature; some Firefighter somewhere will break, override or defeat the system. Despite color-coding, numbering/lettering, etc., I have seen equipment/gear used in some of the most interesting ways grin.

Pete