DFMEA-based risk mitigation and validation of a controlled descent rescue device

Area of Science:

• Engineering
• Occupational Safety
• Emergency Preparedness

Background:

• Controlled fall rescue devices (CFRDs) are essential personal evacuation tools for high-rise buildings and hazardous environments.
• Ensuring the safety performance of CFRDs relies on mechanical reliability, ergonomic design, and robust risk mitigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically evaluate potential hazards associated with centrifugal brake-based controlled descent devices.
• To propose a comprehensive risk mitigation framework for enhancing the operational safety of CFRDs.

Main Methods:

• Hazard identification and risk analysis using structured engineering approaches.
• Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA) was employed.
• Ergonomics assessment and material suitability review were conducted.

Main Results:

• Identified critical risks including over-speed descent, thermal stress, spring malfunction, rope wear, and user interaction errors.
• Developed specific engineering controls and preventive strategies to address identified risks.

Conclusions:

• Detailed mitigation techniques were provided to ensure consistent braking performance and mechanical integrity.
• Enhanced user safety during emergency descents was achieved through proposed strategies.
• Outcomes support safer CFRD deployment and improved regulatory and design guidelines.