Which safety instruction is correct for using a cable grab belay device?

• A. Lock it on the way down
• B. Lock it on the way up
• C. Do not lock it
• D. Keep it unlocked during descent

Answer: (A)

When using a cable grab belay device, the essential safety action during descent is to engage the locking mechanism so the device can hold and regulate your movement. Locking on the way down keeps the rope from feeding too quickly if you relax your brake hand, giving you a controlled, self-braking descent. If you don’t lock, or if you keep it unlocked during descent, the rope can slip through and you could lose control. Locking during descent is what provides the steady friction you rely on to lower yourself safely. Ascending usually requires releasing or unlocking to move upward, which is why locking on the way down is the correct practice.