Product Spotlight: Petzl I’D EVAC
When it comes to rescue situations and material handling, the gear you use can have a huge impact of the success and ease of the task at hand. The I’D EVAC from Petzl offers a unique spin on the traditional Petzl I’D Self Braking Descender and Our Gear Experts® are going to break down all of the features of the I’D EVAC.
A Unique Spin on a Classic Device
If you have any experience in at-height work, then you most likely heard of or used the Petzl I’D Self Braking Rope Descender. This device is incredibly versatile and intuitive when it comes to descending ropes in rope access or any at-height application. It’s often used as a rope descender, work positioning aid, mechanical advantage device, and in rescue kits. And now, Petzl has developed the I’D EVAC which is a unique spin on the traditional I’D.
The Petzl I’D EVAC
The Petzl I’D EVAC is similar to the traditional Petzl I’D, but it has some slight changes and improvements to make it uniquely positioned for certain applications. It was designed to attach directly to an anchor instead of a harness which provides an easier method for lowering a fallen worker in a pickoff situation. This configuration also helps aid in the precise control of materials when used as part of a rigging tag line. It is important to note that the Petzl I’D EVAC is not ASME B30 rated for material handling. That means that while it’s an excellent solution to help position equipment on a tag line, it cannot be used in place of an ASME B30 compliant rigging block.
Key Features
One of the best things about the standard Petzl I’D, is the excellent build quality. The I’D EVAC doesn’t disappoint. It maintains the same quality as the standard version while featuring some specific design features that make it a better solution for certain applications. Rope installation is as easy as opening the side plate and matching the rope configuration to the etched markings on the inside. The handle features an anti-panic function to stop the descent of the device if the user pulls too hard on the handle. And, if the user happens to let go, the spring in the handle will push the handle back to the locked position automatically. One of the biggest changes on the I’D EVAC is the handle orientation. It’s been changed to provide a more comfortable pull when it’s attached to an anchor. While the traditional I’D can be attached to an anchor, you’d have to push the handle up to lower the load on it. Now, with the handle orientation on the EVAC, you can pull the handle down to lower a load. Another big difference is the actual pull distance of the handle itself. The EVAC features a shorter release (about a quarter of a turn) until the rope starts to run through it.
Versatility
While the major feature of the EVAC is the handle orientation, Petzl has added some additional improvements to help make this device even more versatile. There is an integrated hook on the side plate. That hook serves as an auxiliary break that allows you to increase the friction on the rope based on the weight of the load. It gives you increased control while lowering an object. And, the friction channel below the hook helps protect from rope abrasion. Lastly, the side plate can be locked with a screw providing an excellent solution for a ready to use rescue or evacuation kit. Like the Petzl I’D, the I’D EVAC can be a complete game-changer and provides a convenient option for rigging and rescue kits. If you’ve got more questions about the EVAC, our Gear Experts® are standing by to help with anything you might need. **The content of this blog is not intended to replace proper, in-depth training. Manufacturer’s instructions must also be followed and reviewed before any equipment is used. → Click here to check out the Petzl I’D EVAC → Click here  to check out the Petzl I’D Self Braking Rope Descender → Click here to check out our full selection of Petzl gear → Click here to learn more about ASME B30 Standards
Petzl I’D EVAC vs. I’D Self Braking Descender: The Video
Gear Up with Gear Experts: The Podcast
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