Replacing Webbing in the LEVR Escape System // CMC Pro Tip

By CMC
8/16/22

This CMC Pro Tip explains how to use the LEVR Web Replacement Kit to install new Fire Escape Web in CMC’s LEVR Escape Systems.

The LEVR Web Replacement Kit is a spare part compatible with CMC’s LEVR Escape System and LEVR BT Escape System. This Kit is intended to replace webbing in systems used for training with a backup belay; it is not intended for systems used in personal escape on the fire ground. CMC recommends using dedicated training systems to reduce wear on personal units. By installing replacement webbing, the LEVR Escape System is no longer a CMC manufactured system. All individual components maintain their certifications and/or warrantees, however, the user assumes responsibility for the proper assembly and function of their system.

The LEVR Escape System is the most compact escape system available. It is built around CMC’s patented LEVR Descender, a next-generation device that uses its lever-shaped handle for improved descent control, fast and easy horizontal pay-out, reliable edge transition, and intuitive operation. Designed to assure rapid emergency egress with safe, controllable descent, this escape system is now offered with either the Flash.G™ or Flash.2™ Escape Anchor. For advanced users, CMC’s LEVR BT Escape System allows a rescuer to lower a subject and then lower themselves.

 

**Full Transcript Below**

Items Needed

  • LEVR Web Replacement Kit
  • LEVR Escape System
  • Heat Gun or Lighter
  • Scissors or Razor Blade
  • Cutting Board
  • Scotch Tape (optional)

Remove existing web from the system

  • Use scissors or razor blade to cut the sewn term from the Flash Anchor.
  • Make an additional cut to remove the shrink-wrapped section.
  • Pull the web backwards through the LEVR to disassemble the system. Hold the LEVR and web at perpendicular angles for easy payout.
  • If using the BT System, make another cut to remove the sewn term from the captive eye.
  • Dispose of the spent web.

Install new web in the system

  • Open CMC’s LEVR Web Replacement Kit.
  • Girth hitch the web loop through the Flash Anchor Attachment Eye.
  • Dress and weight the hitch to make sure it is properly seated.
  • Holding the LEVR with the CMC Logo facing up, push the web down through the opening in the aluminum bollard.
  • Feed the web along the bollard track so that it goes up the back of the device and passes to the front again.
  • Continue to follow the groove around the bollard and pass it through the window on the back of the handle.
  • It may be helpful to fold the taped end of the web and use needle nose pliers to pull it through the bollard.
  • If the web starts to fray, apply scotch tape near the end, and make a clean cut over the tape with a sharp razor blade.
  • Pull the web backwards through the LEVR until the sewn term is 2-3 inches from the device.

Securing the tail of the standard system

  • Tie a figure eight at the web end to serve as a stopper knot. Leave 2 inches of tail.
  • Place shrink tubing over the web end, letting it overhang by 1/8 inch.
  • Shrink the tubing using indirect heating from a heat gun or lighter.
  • Pack the system in its deployment bag. Test to confirm smooth operation.

Securing the tail of the BT System

  • If using the BT System, place shrink tubing over the web tail before tying a knot.
  • Tie the web around the captive eye using a figure eight follow-through. This knot has an average strength over 13.5 kN and is easy to tie, recognize, and check.
  • (An alternative option is the Scaffold knot, which cinches to the carabiner and also has an average strength above the system rating of 13.5 kN – Not Pictured.)
  • Snug the knot up against the carabiner. Leave only 2 inches of tail on the end.
  • If necessary, make an additional cut to shorten the tail if necessary.
  • Dress and weight the knot to make sure it is properly seated.
  • Position the shrink tubing so it covers both the ingoing and outgoing strands of web. Allow it to overhang the cut end of web by 1/8 inch.
  • Shrink the tubing using indirect heating from a heat gun or lighter.
  • Pack the system in its deployment bag. Test to confirm smooth operation.

Important product information

  • This LEVR Web Replacement Kit is intended to replace webbing in LEVR Escape Systems used only for training scenarios with a backup belay.
  • This Kit is not intended for systems used in personal escape on the fire ground.
  • CMC recommends using dedicated training systems to reduce wear on personal units.
  • By installing replacement webbing, the LEVR Escape System is no longer a CMC manufactured system.
  • All individual components maintain their certifications and/or warrantees, however, the user assumes responsibility for the proper assembly and function of their system.

 

Renderings of the LEVR web routing path