3M Rollgliss R550 Rescue & Descent Device DBI-SALA

3M Rollgliss R550 Rescue and Descent Device DBI-SALA Dual-User Vertical Evacuation

This model is also available in multiple lengths to match the actual height of your structure; select the 50, 100, 200, 300 or 500 ft version from the drop-down menu.

3M ref.: 3325050, 3325100, 3325200, 3325300, 3325500

Quick to deploy, the R550 gives teams a ready-to-use rescue line that maintains steady speed even when two people ride the descent. Combine the sealed, humidity-monitored case and you get a turnkey ANSI/CSA-compliant kit that stays mission-ready for up to 10 years of storage—ideal for towers, silos, or high-access maintenance crews.

“Descent-only” version. The device ensures controlled descent (0.6 m/s to 1.2 m/s) but does not include the winch handle. The standard kit includes the R550 descender, a Kernmantle rope, a snap-on ladder bracket, and the required carabiners. For the “descent + emergency hoist” version, see product (FPLR5503327).

Evacuate two workers in under a minute without sacrificing control.

Jobsite safety and vertical control

• User-controlled descent with automatic speed regulation between 0.6 - 0.9 m/s for one worker and 0.6 - 1.2 m/s for two workers.
• Mounts directly to ladder rungs via the clip-on bracket; locking pin secures the unit before use.
• Kernmantle rope (polyester sheath, nylon core) designed for use along tower legs or access ladders.
• The Rollgliss R550 is intended solely for rescue operations and controlled descent; it must never be used as a primary fall-arrest device

Compliance and compatibility

NIOSH/ANSI/CSA-compliant solution for utilities, wind energy, construction, oil & gas, mining, and general industry. Interfaces with DBI-SALA/Protecta harnesses and certified anchors. For additional high-safety gear, visit the category.

Technical Specifics

• Sylprotec code: FPLR5503325| 3M ref.: 3325
• Lifeline length: up to 152.40 m (500 ft), rope diameter: 9.5 mm (3/8 in)
• Capacity: up to 2 users, combined 620 lb (282 kg)
• Net weight: 7.5 kg (16.6 lb)
• Materials: aluminum housing, powder-coated steel ladder brackets, galvanized steel hooks
• Options: rescue wheel, moisture-proof case with 10-year storage rating and external humidity indicator
• Key benefits: rapid ladder installation plus dual-user evacuation in a single certified kit

Professional use and workflow

• Attach the bracket to the ladder or anchor, lock the pin, and tension the lifeline.
• Clip the descent line to the rescuer/victim harness (use dorsal or sternal ring) and test tension.
• Control speed via the device brake; stop or pause by holding the tail line.
• After landing, reel the rope back through the unit to position the hook for the next evacuee, and log the descent in the journal.
• Important: the snap-on ladder bracket has a load capacity of 140.6 kg (310 lb); for any descent involving two users whose combined weight exceeds this limit, the R550 device must be anchored to a certified independent anchor point rather than relying solely on the ladder bracket.

Storage, inspection, and service life

• Keep the device in its sealed case or a dry cabinet away from UV, dust, and chemicals.
• Inspect the rope, hooks, brackets, and humidity indicator before every shift; replace worn components immediately.
• Follow the 3M descent journal to track cumulative descent distance and ensure compliance with ANSI Z359.4 / CSA Z259.2.3 service intervals.
• If the device is not permanently stored in its humidity-resistant sealed case, a full monthly inspection is required in addition to the mandatory annual inspection; use of the sealed case reduces this requirement to an annual check of the external humidity indicator.

Maintenance for 3M Rollgliss R550 Rescue and Descent Device DBI-SALA

• Before every use, inspect the lifeline (abrasion, kinks), carabiners, ladder brackets, brake levers, and (if supplied) the case’s humidity indicator.
• After each descent, record the traveled length in the ANSI/CSA log and wipe the rope clean and dry with a soft cloth (no harsh solvents).
• Store the unit in its protective case or a dry cabinet, shielded from UV and dust; reseal the weatherproof box once the device is dry.
• Have a competent person perform a detailed inspection at least annually (or more often based on service conditions) and remove from service any components showing wear, corrosion, or heat damage.
• Have the complete unit inspected by an authorized 3M service center every five years (every two years for devices used for training purposes); failure to perform this periodic overhaul may compromise the proper functioning of the device and the safety of users.

Tip for the rescue and controlled-descent device

Before any work at height, make sure your rescue plan includes a team specifically trained on the Rollgliss R550 and document a hands-on drill. Running periodic test descents (using a 55 kg / 120 lb test load) confirms the controlled speed, highlights potential obstacles, and keeps the crew ready to respond without delay.

FAQ about the Rollgliss R550

Why choose an R550 over a basic descent device?

It combines dual-user capacity, automatic braking, and a ladder-ready bracket, reducing installation time during critical rescues.

Can the system support regular drill descents?

Yes, just record each drill in the descent log and inspect the rope afterward to stay within the cumulative descent limit.

What’s the advantage of the sealed storage case?

The case protects the rope from moisture and dust for up to 10 years; the external humidity indicator lets you verify integrity without opening it.

Need matching fall-protection gear?

Looking to round out your fall protection program? Consider the rescue pole for the Rollgliss R550 (FPLR550POLE), the descent 3M Rollgliss R550 with hoist (FPLR550), the sealed case for the Rollgliss R550 device (FPLR550CASE), a permanent roof anchor connector (FPA826), a temporary stainless-steel concrete (FPAF075N), or a robust fixed anchor (FPA822). Complete your setup with the mandatory harness sign (ECO130) and the galvanized steel sling (FPAE). Each component of a harness-lanyard-anchor system can save lives at height.

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