Blog - The Raven Speaks
Proper Use Of The Dorsal Attachment On Your Harness
July 28, 2011
Rear “D” as point of attachment for the belay
We’ve encountered much confusion in our technical rope courses regarding the use of the dorsal attachment (Rear “D”) on a rescue harness. The Rear “D” has some use in confined space and fall protection, however, there seems to be a number of people who feel the Rear “D” is an appropriate point of attachment for the belay line during rope rescue operations. We DO NOT recommend the use of the Rear “D” as an attachment point for the belay for a number of reasons. Firstly, given a dynamic event that leaves the rescuer suspended by the Rear “D”, self rescue would be considerably more difficult, in fact, virtually impossible. Most research also indicates that the resulting forward hanging position would also increase the effects of harness suspension pathology, and in the event the rescuer is rendered unresponsive, this position may also lead to airway compromise. Although it may be convenient and tidy, we discourage the use of the Rear “D” as a belay attachment during rescue operations.
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