apparatus and methods for operating a winch system comprising a wire spooled onto a drum rotatably mounted to a shaft . a permanent magnet is mounted to the drum such that , when an electric current is applied to a coiled winding mounted to the shaft , the drum rotates about the shaft . the winch comprises a first braking system that controls the rotation of the drum about the shaft by controlling the application of the electric current to the coiled winding . the winch also comprises a second braking system that mechanically engages the drum so as to prevent the rotation of the drum about the shaft . the winch is used in conjunction with a control system that facilitates the use of the winch with lifting and supporting personnel working in elevated environments .