What is a disadvantage of long lowers using the SMSB system?

In long lowers using the SMSB (Safety Management System Belay) system, maintaining constant load tension can indeed be challenging. When a rescue technician is performing a long lower, the dynamic nature of the system can lead to variations in load tension due to factors like friction, the weight of the load, and the angle of the rope. This variability can compromise the effectiveness of the belay system, making it difficult to ensure that the load remains steady throughout the operation.

The inability to maintain constant tension can impact the safety and control of the lowering process, as fluctuations in load tension may lead to sudden jerks or drops, increasing the risk of accidents. Proper tension is crucial for both the safety of the person being lowered and for the operative managing the system, as it affects how smoothly the operation can be executed.

While other options address important considerations, they do not encapsulate the specific challenge presented by long lowers with respect to managing load tension, which is integral to the safe function of a rescue operation using the SMSB system.