According to industry standards, when should a Brake Bar Rack or Figure 8 descender be retired?

A Brake Bar Rack or Figure 8 descender should be retired when there is a specified amount of material loss, which generally falls in line with industry standards concerning safety and equipment integrity. In this case, a 15% material loss is considered the critical threshold at which the device may no longer function safely. This standard is based on the understanding that any significant wear can compromise the descent control capabilities of the device, leading to potentially dangerous situations during rescue operations.

The choice of 15% as the cutoff reflects a balance between ensuring that equipment remains functional while prioritizing safety. As equipment is subjected to repeated use, stress, and wear, regularly checking for material loss is essential in ensuring continued safety during operations. Equipment with less than 15% material loss is often viewed as suitable for continued use, while anything at or above this threshold raises concerns about the overall safety and effectiveness of the descender in high-risk situations. The specific figure chosen emphasizes proactive maintenance and the importance of adhering to industry best practices.