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Fibre ropes
Australian Standard
Part 1: Care and safe usage

AS 4142.1—1993
This Australian Standard was prepared by Committee TX/4, Ropes and Cordage. It was
approved on behalf of the Council of Standards Australia on 9 August 1993 and
published on 22 November 1993.
The following interests are represented on Committee TX/4:

Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Australian Chamber of Manufactures
Australian Lightweight Vertical Rescue Instructors
Australian Maritime Safety Authority

Department of Defence
Emergency Management Australia
New South Wales Fire Brigades
Police Department, N.S.W.
South Australian State Emergency Service
State Emergency Services, N.S.W.
Textile Clothing and Footwear Council of Australia
Review of Australian Standards. To keep abreast of progress in industry, Australian Standards are subject
to periodic review and are kept up to date by the issue of amendments or new edit ions as necessary. It is
important therefore that Standards users ensure that they are in possession of the latest edit ion, and any
amendments thereto.
Full detail s of all Australi an Standards and related publications wil l be found in the Standards Australia
Catalogue of Publications; this information is supplemented each month by the magazine ‘The Australian
Standard’, which subscribing members receive, and which gives detail s of new publi cati ons, new edit ions
and amendments, and of withdrawn Standards.
Suggesti ons for improvements to Australian Standards, addressed to the head offi ce of Standards Australia,
are welcomed. Noti fi cati on of any inaccuracy or ambiguity found in an Australi an Standard should be made
without delay in order that the matter may be investigated and appropriate action taken.
This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 90138.

AS 4142.1—1993
Australian Standard
Fibre ropes
First publi shed as part of AS L18 — 1963.

Second editi on 1971.
AS L56 fir st published 1971.
AS L57 fir st published 1971.
AS L18 — 1971, AS L56 — 1971 and AS L57 — 1971
revised, amalgamated and redesignated
AS 1504 — 1974.
AS 1752 fi rst published 1975.
Second editi on 1983.
Second editi on AS 1504 — 1983.
AS 1054 — 1983 and AS 1752 — 1983 revised,
amalgamated and redesignated in part as
AS 4142.1 — 1993.
PUBLISHED BY STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

(STANDARDS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA)
1 THE CRESCENT, HOMEBUSH, NSW 2140
ISBN 0 7262 8502 1
AS 4142.1 — 1993 2
PREFACE
This Standard was prepared by the Standards Australia Committee on Ropes and Cordage
to supersede Appendix D of AS 1504—1983, Fibre rope—Three-strand, hawser laid and
Appendix D of AS 1752—1983, Fibre rope—Eight-strand plaited .
The Standard has been greatly expanded to include information related to the handling of
large ropes on ships.
This Standard is part of a series on fibre ropes. Other Standards in the series include—
(a) AS 4142.2 Fibre ropes, Part 2: Three-strand hawser-laid and eight-strand
plaited ;
(b) AS 4142.3 Fibre ropes, Part 3: Man-made fibre rope for static life rescue lines;
and
(c) AS 4143 Methods of test for fibre ropes
The term ‘informative’ has been used in this Standard to define the application of the
appendices. An ‘informative’ appendix is only for information and guidance.
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Care should be taken to ensure that materi al used is from the current editi on of the Standard and that it is updated whenever the
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The use of materi al in print form or in computer software programs to be used commercially, with or without payment, or in
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3 AS 4142.1 — 1993
CONTENTS
Page
SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL

1.1 SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . ... ... .. . .. .. .. . .. ...... ... 4
1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS . . . . .. . .. ... ... . ... .... ... ...... .. . 4
1.3 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... ......... ... . .. . .. . . .. . .. ... 4
1.4 CLASSIFICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .. .. . .. .. ... .... ... . .. .. . ... 4
SECTION 2 CAUSES OF DAMAGE TO ROPES

2.1 GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.2 CHEMICAL DAMAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.3 PHYSICAL DAMAGE AND DEGRADATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
SECTION 3 SELECTION OF ROPES AND FITTINGS

3.1 SELECTION OF ROPES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3.2 SELECTION OF FITTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
SECTION 4 USE OF ROPES

4.1 REMOVAL OF ROPE FROM A COIL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.2 REMOVAL OF ROPE FROM A TURNTABLE OR FLANGED REEL . . . . . 13
4.3 ROPE STORAGE AND STOWAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.4 PROTECTION FROM ABRASION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.5 PROTECTION IN THE CASE OF SLUNG LOADS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.6 KINKS IN LAID ROPES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.7 COUPLING LAID ROPES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.8 SHARP BENDS IN ROPES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.9 FIBRE AND WIRE ROPES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
SECTION 5 MAINTENANCE
5.1 INSPECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
5.2 ACTION FOLLOWING INSPECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
SECTION 6 SAFE WORKING

6.1 MATERIAL AND LOAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
6.2 DANGER FROM SNAPPING ROPES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
6.3 RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE USE OF ROPE ON DRUM ENDS . . . . . . 19
6.4 PERSONAL PROTECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
6.5 ROPE CONTAMINATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
6.6 STRENGTH LOSS DUE TO KNOTS AND SPLICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
6.7 TERMINATING ROPE ENDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
APPENDICES
A METHOD OF CALCULATING SAFE WORKING LOADS . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
B EQUIVALENT DEADWEIGHT BREAKING LOADS FOR
THREE-STRAND HAWSER-LAID AND EIGHT-STRAND PLAITED ROPES 24
AS 4142.1 — 1993 4
STANDARDS AUSTRALIA
Australian Standard
Fibre ropes
S E C T I O N 1 S CO P E A N D G E NE R A L
1.1 SCOPE This Standard gives guidelines on the care, inspection and maintenance of
fibre ropes, and recommendations on safe use of ropes.
1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS The following documents are referred to in this

Standard:
AS
1380 Fibre rope slings (of natural or synthetic rope)

2089 Sheave blocks (including ships’ cargo blocks) of maximum lift 60 t
4142 Fibre ropes
4142.2 Three-strand hawser-laid and eight-strand plaited
4142.3 Man-made fibre rope for static life rescue lines
Admiralty Manual of Seamanship, Vol. II.
1.3 DEFINITIONS For the purpose of this Standard, the definitions below apply.
1.3.1 Safe working load (SWL)—the maximum working load which should be applied to
a rope consistent with the factor of safety recommended for the conditions under which
the rope is to be used.
1.3.2 Twist—twist is defined as S twist (left-hand lay) or Z twist (right-hand lay),
according to which of these letters has its centre inclined in the same direction as the
surface elements of a given twisted yarn (or strand).
NOTE: When applying this rule it is essential that the yarn (or strand) axis be parallel with the
major axis of the letter as shown in Figure 1.1.
1.3.3 Shall—indicates that a statement is mandatory.
1.3.4 Should—indicates a recommendation.
1.3.5 May—indicates the existence of an option.
1.4 CLASSIFICATION Fibre ropes are divided into two basic classes: natural fibre
ropes and man-made fibre ropes. Each class is subclassified according to the specific
material used. The classification system is shown in Table 1.1.
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5 AS 4142.1 — 1993
(a) S twist (b) Z twist

FIGURE 1.1 TWIST DIRECTION
TABLE 1.1
CLASSIFICATION OF FIBRES
Natural fibre Man-made fibre
Manila Polyamide (nylon)

Sisal Polyester
Cotton Polyethylene
Coir (coconut fibre) Polypropylene
Hemp Aramid
Flax Vinylal
High-modulus polyolefin
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AS 4142.1 — 1993 6
S E C T I O N 2 C A U S ES O F D A M A G E T O R O P E S
2.1 GENERAL Damage to ropes can be caused by a number of chemical and physical
factors. Clauses 2.2 and 2.3 give information on chemical and physical factors relevant to
all fibre ropes. Tables 2.1 and 2.2 provide detailed information on each of the specific
fibre types listed in Table 1.1.
2.2 CHEMICAL DAMAGE Each type of fibre is sensitive to certain chemicals. These
sensitivities are listed in Table 2.1 for natural fibres and Table 2.2 for man-made fibres.
The utmost care should be taken, both in use and storage, to reduce exposure of the rope
to harmful agents. When such exposure is unavoidable, the sensitivity of the fibre should
be considered when selecting the rope and in setting expectations for its durability and
performance.
2.3 PHYSICAL DAMAGE AND DEGRADATION

2.3.1 External wear External wear due to dragging the rope over a rough surface will
damage any rope to a certain degree, resulting in broken fibres projecting from the
surface. This is noticeable on comparing a well-used rope with a new one. If not too
extensive, this disarrangement and breakage of external fibres is harmless, and the broken
fibres projecting outward may even protect the inner fibres from further damage.
2.3.2 Local abrasion Local abrasion, caused by dragging the rope over a sharp edge
whilst under tension, may cause serious loss of strength. Slight damage to the outer fibres
and an occasional torn yarn may be considered of negligible importance, but serious
damage to one strand in three-stranded or eight-stranded ropes or moderate damage to
more than one strand warrants rejection.
2.3.3 Cuts and contusions Cuts caused by a rope being under tension over a sharp edge,
and contusions caused by dropping or landing heavy masses on a rope, or similar careless
usage, can cause internal as well as external damage. Such damage may be indicated by
local rupturing or loosening of the yarns or strands but contusion damage may not be
apparent except on very close examination. Without obviating the need for proper
inspection procedures, care should be taken to prevent contusions occurring.
2.3.4 Internal wear Internal wear may be caused by particles of grit picked up off
surfaces, blown by the wind, or forced in as a result of the rope being trodden on or
driven over, also by salt crystals formed after a rope dries out following contact with sea
water. It may be indicated by excessive looseness of strands or yarns, or by the presence
of powdered fibre.
2.3.5 Overloading Overloading may cause permanent elongation; consequently the
extension available in an emergency may be reduced. Overloading could also cause
breaking of more highly stressed fibres, leading to eventual failure at loads well below the
normal breaking force.
2.3.6 Mildew Mildew and similar micro-organisms will attack natural fibre rope under
certain conditions of dampness and warmth. Mildew does not, in general, damage
man-made fibre rope.
2.3.7 Heat Heat will damage most ropes but the effect is worst on man-made fibre
ropes, some of which will soften or melt at temperatures readily reached in use.
Figure 2.1 shows the effect of heat on the breaking strength of three-strand ropes of
several different fibre types. Ropes should not be used in conditions where the softening
point is approached. In particular, surging (slipping while under load) of man-made fibre
ropes on drum ends should be avoided as surging causes melting and fusing with resultant
strength loss.
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7 AS 4142.1 — 1993
2.3.8 Cold Where rope is for use in temperatures below −10°C, advice should be sought
from the manufacturer. Frozen ropes should not be used; not only will ice crystals damage
the fibres, but their rigidity will prevent the adjustment that enables the load to be
distributed over the entire cross-section when passing over a sheave or fairlead, and the
breaking strain may well be exceeded, even if only the ‘safe working load’ is applied.
2.3.9 Weathering and sunlight Excessive exposure of all textile fibres to weathering
and sunlight will weaken the fibres. Unnecessary exposure should be avoided. However,
weathering and sunlight will degrade polyolefin fibres (polyethylene and polypropylene)
more rapidly than others. Additives may be used during manufacture to reduce the rate of
degradation caused by sunlight.
FIGURE 2.1 THE EFFECT OF HEAT ON 16 mm DIAMETER THREE-STRAND ROPES
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AS 4142.1 —1993 8
TABLE 2.1
CHARACTERISTICS AND PROPERTIES OF NATURAL FIBRES USED IN ROPEMAKING
Specific Environments to which Environments to which Strength and elongation characteristics
Fibre Description Reaction to heat
gravity the fibre is sensitive the fibre is resistant (see Note)
Brown, harsh, springy fibre — Mineral acids, detergents, Volatile petroleum Chars then —
Coir
from the outer covering of chemical salts, weathering, solvents, mineral oils, ignites at approx.
(Cocos nucifera )
coconuts sunlight, fungi alkalis 140°C
Vegetable fibre obtained 1.50 Mineral acids, particularly Alkalis and weak acids, Yellows slowly 20% to 25% rope elongation causes
from the flower surrounding sulfuric acid organic solvents at 120°C rupture
Cotton
the seeds of various species
(Gossypium )
of Gossypium Alkalis cause swelling but Decomposes at Wet strength slightly higher than dry
not damage 150°C strength
Vegetable fibre obtained 1.54 Moisture, sunlight, hot Cold dilute acids, volatile Chars then 5% to 10% rope elongation causes rupture
from the stem of an annual diluted acids, cold petroleum solvents, ignites at 130°C
Flax plant concentrated acids alkalis Wet strength higher than dry strength
(Linum usitatissium )
Yellowish white to grey in
colour
Vegetable fibre obtained 1.50 Mineral acids, paints, Volatile petroleum Chars then Dry strength higher than wet strength
from the leaves of the detergents, chemical salts, solvents, mineral oils, ignites at 149°C
Abaca plant fats, some oils and organic alkalis When dry, 2.8% elongation in fibre and
Manila
solvents, weathering, 13% elongation in rope causes rupture
(Musa textilis)
Lustrous, cream white to sunlight, fungi, moisture
brown When wet, 3.2% elongation in fibre and
15% elongation in rope causes rupture
Vegetable fibre obtained 1.50 Mineral acids, paints, Volatile petroleum Chars then Dry strength higher than wet strength
from the sisal plant detergents, chemical salts, solvents, mineral oils, ignites at 130°C
fats, some oils and organic alkalis When dry, 2.9% elongation in fibre and
Sisal
Cream white in colour solvents, weathering, 13% elongation in rope causes rupture
(Agave sisalana )
sunlight, fungi, moisture
When wet, 3.4% elongation in fibre and
16% elongation in rope causes rupture
Vegetable fibre obtained 1.54 Moisture, sunlight, Cold diluted acids, Chars then Wet strength higher than dry strength
Hemp from stems of an annual hot diluted acids, alkalis, petroleum ignites at 130°C
(Cannabis sativa ) plant similar to flax, but cold concentrated acids solvents When dry, 5% to 10% elongation in rope
coarser causes rupture
NOTE: The figures given for strength and elongation characteristics for ropes are those for three-strand hawser-laid and eight-strand plaited rope constructions. Ropes of other
constructions may have characteristics at variance with the listed values.
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9 AS 4142.1— 1993
TABLE 2.2
CHARACTERISTICS AND PROPERTIES OF MAN-MADE FIBRES USED IN ROPEMAKING
Fibre Description Specific Environments to which Environments to which Reaction to heat Strength and elongation
gravity the fibre is sensitive the fibre is resistant characteristics (see Note)
Aramid: A fibre in Continuous filament 1.44 Long exposure to Dilute mineral acid, Decomposes at 371°C Dry strength equal to wet strength
which the fibre- hydrochloric acid, organic acids and alkalis,
forming substance is hydrobromic acid and organic solvents, mildew 4% elongation in rope causes
a long chain sulfuric acid, bleaching, and fungi rupture
synthetic polyamide sunlight
in which at least
85% of the amide Very sensitive to abrasion
linkages are if unprotected
attached directly to
two aromatic rings
Imide groups may

be substituted for up
to 50% of the amide
groups
Polyamide: A fibre Continuous filament and 1.14 Some strong oxidizing Alkalis, alcohols, esters, Nylon 6 softens at Dry strength 5% to 10% greater
in which the fibre- staple agents and mineral acids ketones, hydrocarbons, approx. 195°C and melts than wet strength
forming substance is most bleaching solutions, at between approx.
a long chain Soluble in formic acid, fungi 215°C and 221°C When dry, approx. 40%
synthetic polyamide concentrated sulfuric acid elongation in rope causes rupture
which at least 85% and phenolic compounds Nylon 6,6 softens at
of the amide approx. 229°C and melts When wet, approx. 35%
linkages are Sunlight at between approx. elongation in rope causes rupture
attached directly to 249°C and 260°C
aliphatic or cyclo-
aliphatic groups
Polyester: A fibre in Continuous filament and 1.38 Alkalis, phenolic Most organic and mineral Softens between approx. Dry strength equal to wet strength
which the fibre- staple compounds, concentrated acids, organic solvents, 227°C and 229°C
forming substance is sulfuric acid bleaches and oxidizing Approx. 35% elongation in rope
a long chain agents Melts between approx. causes
synthetic polymer 250°C and 257°C
composed of at least
85% by weight of
an ester of
substituted tere-
phthalate units and
parasubstituted
hydroxy-benzoate
units
(continued )
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AS 4142.1 —1993 10
TABLE 2.2 (continued )
Specific Environments to which Environments to which Strength and elongation

Fibre Description Reaction to heat
Polyethylene: A Continuous filament, 0.95 Some strong oxidizing Most acids and alkalis, Softens between approx. Dry strength equal to wet strength
fibre in which the monofilament or film agents, chlorosulfonic cold alcohols, ethers, 115°C and 126°C and
fibre-forming acid, concentrated nitric esters, ketones, most melts between approx. Approx. 40% elongation in rope
substance is a long acid but only at elevated bleaching solutions 124°C and 138°C causes rupture
chain synthetic temperature
polymer composed Bacteria and fungi
of at least 85% by Attached by petroleum
weight of ethylene solvents, chlorinated and
aromatic hydrocarbons
Sunlight, if not stabilised

Polypropylene: A Continuous filament, 0.91 Some strong oxidizing Most acids and alkalis, Softens between approx. Dry strength equal to wet strength
fibre in which the monofilament, staple, or agents, chlorosulfonic most cold organic 140°C and 165°C and
fibre-forming film acid, concentrated nitric solvents, most bleaching melts between approx. Approx. 30% elongation in rope
substance is a long acid but only at elevated solutions 160°C and 177°C causes rupture
chain synthetic temperature
polymer composed Bacteria and fungi
of at least 85% by Swells in some chlorinated
weight of propylene hydrocarbons at room
temperature then dissolves
at elevated temperatures
Swells only at elevated

temperatures in other
chlorinated hydrocarbons
Toluene and xylene
Sunlight, if not stabilized

(continued )
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11 AS 4142.1— 1993
TABLE 2.2 (continued )
Fibre Description Specific Environments to which Environments to which Reaction to heat Strength and elongation
Vinylal: A fibre in Continuous filament and 1.38 Concentrated mineral acids Common solvents and Yellows at 218°C Wet strength about 75% of dry
which the fibre- staple alkalis, bacteria, sunlight strength
forming substance is Melts at 235°C
a long chain Approx. 25% elongation in rope
synthetic polymer causes rupture
50% by weight of
vinyl alcohol and
acetalized to a level
where the total of
vinyl alcohol units
and any one or more
of the various acetal
units is at least 85%
by weight of the
fibre
High-modulus Continuous filament or film 0.98 Similar to polyethylene Similar to polyethylene Melts at approx. 150°C Dry strength equal to wet strength
polyolefin: A fibre
in which the fibre- 2% to 5% elongation in rope
forming substance is causes rupture
a long chain
synthetic polymer
85% by weight of
olefins
NOTE: The figures given for strength and elongation characteristics for ropes are those for three-strand hawser-laid and eight-strand plaited rope constructions. Ropes of other
constructions may have characteristics at variance with the listed values.
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AS 4142.1 — 1993 12
S E C T I O N 3 S EL E C TI ON O F R O P E S
A N D F I T T I N G S
3.1 SELECTION OF ROPES

3.1.1 Selection according to environment The fibre type and construction of the rope
which is selected should be appropriate to the environment in which the rope will be used,
bearing in mind all the possible sources of degradation.
3.1.2 Selection according to load The size of the rope selected should be adequately
strong for the loads likely to be applied. In all cases, an adequate safety margin should be
allowed between the greatest load which may be applied to the rope in normal use, and
the minimum breaking force of the rope.
For the method of calculating the safe working load (SWL), see Appendix A.
WARNING: UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD A FIBRE ROPE BE
LOADED IN EXCESS OF ITS SAFE WORKING LOAD (SWL). THE
MINIMUM BREAKING LOAD SHOULD NEVER BE CONSIDERED AS
BEING THE SAFE WORKING LOAD.
NOTES:
1 Commonwealth, State or Territory laws may prohibit a rope being intentionally loaded in
excess of its SWL.
2 Equivalent deadweight breaking loads for three-strand hawser-laid and eight-strand plaited
rope are given in Appendix B.
3.1.3 Selection according to handling method Where a task requires a rope to be

hand-held, consideration should be given to fibre type, diameter and construction to
ensure an adequate grip can be maintained.
3.2 SELECTION OF FITTINGS Fittings and gear to be used with the rope should be
appropriate for the rope and the work to be done with it. Since rope is damaged by being
bent around sharp or small radius corners, thimbles, sheaves and other fittings should
have minimum dimensions according to the size, material and construction of the rope.
NOTE: Further information on the selection of fittings may be obtained from AS 2089, and the
Admiralty Manual of Seamanship, Vol. II.
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13 AS 4142.1 — 1993
S E C T I O N 4 U S E O F R O P E S
4.1 REMOVAL OF ROPE FROM A COIL When removing lengths of rope, or the full
rope, from a coil, sufficient of the bagging should be removed to enable the starting end
to be identified. Determine whether the rope is Z twist (right-hand lay) or S twist
(left-hand lay). If it is Z twist, uncoil or unwind the rope so that it comes off the centre of
the coil in an anticlockwise direction. For S twist rope, uncoil in a clockwise direction.
4.2 REMOVAL OF ROPE FROM A TURNTABLE OR FLANGED REEL When the

full length of the rope is to be removed from a coil, it is easier to place the rope on a
turntable and uncoil from the outside. Unless this is done frequently enough to justify a
purpose-built turntable, a jury rig using a cross of suitable wood and a strop led up
through the centre of the coil to a hook is sufficient. If a swivel can be incorporated so
much the better, otherwise the turntable will have to be landed from time to time to take
the turns out of the suspension.
When removing rope from a flanged reel, the reel should be placed on an axle or turntable
and then the rope pulled off in a straight line while the reel rotates.
4.3 ROPE STORAGE AND STOWAGE Where ropes are stored or stowed this should
be done in a well-ventilated, dry atmosphere, away from heat, strong light, and damaging
chemicals. Ropes should be protected at all times. After breaking out from the original
coil, small ropes should be made up in a manner appropriate to their intended use. Large
ropes should be coiled or flaked on gratings.
Z twist rope should be coiled clockwise, S twist rope anticlockwise. Eight-strand plaited
or squareline rope may be coiled either way. Plaited sheath on plaited core and plaited
sheath on parallel or twisted core fibre ropes (see AS 4142.3) should be chained or
loosely packed in a bag. Any rope, irrespective of construction, may be flaked; alternate
layers should be flaked at right angles to each other.
Storage conditions should be selected to counter the causes of degradation and associated
problems noted in Section 2.
4.4 PROTECTION FROM ABRASION Ropes should not be dragged over sharp,
rough or dirty surfaces especially if the rope is under tension. Special care should be
taken where fairleads, bitts, block sheaves, bollards or cleats have been cut by wire; sharp
or rough edges should be filed smooth. In very bad cases it will be necessary to stop
using ropes until the bearing surface has been built up and smoothed down.
Where abrasion is likely to occur, such as when a rope subjected to varying loads rests on
an immobile surface, the rope should be protected, e.g. by padding the rope or the surface.
Where loads are not too high, and the surface is smooth, abrasion may be acceptable for
short periods of time. Where abrasion is permitted, the ropes should be inspected from
time to time, and adjusted if necessary to spread the wear over a longer length of rope.
4.5 PROTECTION IN THE CASE OF SLUNG LOADS Where a rope passes over a
sharp edge, the rope should be protected. The damaging effect of the sharp edge will be
worsened when a greater load is on the rope and a sharper angle is made in the rope.
Where for any reason the rope cannot be easily protected, it may be preferable to reduce
the load in each part of the rope by increasing the number of parts of rope used to sling
the load.
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AS 4142.1 — 1993 14
4.6 KINKS IN LAID ROPES A rope must never be put under tension in an attempt to
remove a kink as this causes permanent damage to the rope and a substantial loss of
strength.
Where several kinks settle in the same place, then, depending on the twist of the kinks,
either—
(a) the rope will unlay for a short distance; or
(b) the individual strands will develop kinks.
In either case the rope will lose a significant amount of its strength and become unusable.
Should this happen the rope should be cut, the damaged section removed, and a short
splice put in.
Kinks develop when turns are put on or taken off a drum end or capstan. This increases or
decreases the twist in the rope and is initially seen as a series of turns or loops in a short
length of rope. When the radius of the turn or loop has been reduced to less than the
diameter of the rope it is known as a kink.
Where a kink has developed, the procedure to remove it is to pull the rope on either side
of the kink towards the kink, thus increasing its radius. Eventually the kink will become a
turn, which can then be rolled out of the rope.
The probability of kinks developing can be reduced by—

(i) taking in some slack in the rope between putting each turn on the drum to spread
the increased or reduced twist over a longer length of rope; or
(ii) running the windlass or winches in the opposite direction to normal from time to
time so that when the turns are put on the drum end the twist is reduced instead of
increased or vice versa.
4.7 COUPLING LAID ROPES A Z twist laid rope should never be coupled to an
S twist laid rope as they will unlay under tension and lose strength.
4.8 SHARP BENDS IN ROPES Using a rope over any fitting or edge which causes a
sharp bend in the rope should be avoided (see Clauses 3.2, 4.4 and 4.5).
4.9 FIBRE AND WIRE ROPES

4.9.1 Coupling When coupling a fibre rope to a wire rope, unless the fibre rope is
properly spliced into the wire as a tail, a thimble should be used to protect the eye of the
fibre rope. If the connection is to be permanent it is preferable to interlock thimbles, one
being fitted to each rope. If the connection is not to be permanent, a shackle should be
used to join the thimbles.
4.9.2 Wire and fibre ropes on bollards It is bad practice for a wire rope and a fibre
rope to lead from the same fairlead to the same bollard. The extension of a wire under
load is far less than a fibre rope, being about 1% as compared to about 18% to 35% for
roughly comparable fibre ropes (see Figure 4.1). The result of the ropes being extended,
e.g. as a result of the tide rising or cargo being discharged, is to rapidly transfer the load
to the wire ropes. This effect will occur wherever the ropes lead in similar directions.
Where it is necessary to put both wire and fibre ropes on the same bollard, it is essential
that the wire rope eye does not cross the fibre rope eye on the bollard. It is preferable for
the fibre rope to be placed on the bollard first, then for the wire rope eye to be brought up
through the fibre rope eye and placed on the bollard, resting above the fibre rope eye (see
Figure 4.2).
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15 AS 4142.1 — 1993
NO TES:
1 The wire rope is included for comparison purposes.
2 Eight-strand plaited rope has an elongation approximately 5% greater than a three-strand rope of the same
fibre type.
FIGURE 4.1 ELONGATION OF 48 mm DIAMETER THREE-STRAND

HAWSER-LAID ROPES UNDER LOAD
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AS 4142.1 — 1993
16
(c) Side view
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(a) View fr om above
(b) Secti on through bollard
FIGURE 4.2 WIRE AND FIBRE ROPES ON BOLLARD

17 AS 4142.1 — 1993
S E C T I O N 5 M AI N T E N AN C E
5.1 INSPECTION
5.1.1 General Care should be taken during inspection to avoid distorting the lay. After
inspection any report on the rope’s overall condition should be based on the section
showing the most deterioration.
Inspection of all fibre rope, whether natural or man-made, should be by touch and sight
throughout the entire length. This inspection will be best achieved by examining
approximately 300 mm at a time after it is pulled through one hand which is lightly
closed around the rope. This first touch should indicate the general condition and may
reveal defects such as narrowing, abrasion, cuts, contusions, slubs or hernias. Turning the
rope or line will reveal all sides of that section, allowing the entire line to be inspected.
Hawser-laid lines or ropes should be slightly untwisted to reveal the inner surface of the
strands.
Lines and ropes which are to be used to support human life should be inspected before
and after use. In emergency circumstances this may be achieved by a simple sight and
touch inspection when setting up the line for operation.

Inspection of all lines other than life support lines should be done at regular intervals.
WARNING: STRETCH TESTING OR PROOF LOADING OF LIFE SUPPORT
LINES SHALL NOT BE CONDUCTED AS THIS IN ITSELF HAS BEEN
KNOWN TO CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE LINES.
5.1.2 External wear The rope should be examined for external wear as follows:
(a) Examine the outside of the rope (Note 1).
(b) Note any signs of local abrasion (Note 2).
(c) Note any signs of cuts, nicks and contusions (Note 3).
(d) Note any reductions in diameter and excessive elongation of lay (Note 4).
(e) Note any signs of discolouration, and softening or powdering of the fibres (Note 5).
(f) In man-made fibre ropes, note any signs of localized fusion (Note 6).
NOTES:
1 Ordinary usage will cause a ‘fluffing’ of the outer yarns. This is normal and not serious.
With extreme usage, outer yarns become severed and strands flatten. Ropes in this condition
should be condemned.
2 A deep cut in a rope results in serious loss of strength.
3 Cuts, nicks and contusions indicate local rupturing or loosening of the yarns or strands. The
damage caused may be internal as well as external.
4 Changes to a rope’s diameter and length of lay are caused by overloading. Ropes that have
been overloaded should be condemned.
5 Discolouration and softening or powdering of fibres are caused by contamination with
corrosive substances.
6 Localized fusion is caused by heat generated through friction and causes considerable loss
of strength.
5.1.3 Internal wear Laid and eight-strand ropes should be examined for internal wear as
follows:
(a) For laid ropes, open up the rope by twisting the strands taking care not to kink
them. For plaited ropes, bunch up the rope to expose the interior of the rope.
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AS 4142.1 — 1993 18
(b) Check to make sure that the interior of the rope is as bright and clean as it was
when new.
(c) Note any signs of broken yarns, excessively loose strands and yarns, or an
accumulation of grit or powder-like dust (Note 1).
(d) For large diameter ropes (40 mm and over), check to see if internal yarns have
broken by carefully trying to pull out one of the suspect inside yarns (Note 2).
NOTES:
1 The defects in Item (c) indicate excessive internal wear between the strands as the rope is
flexed back and forth in use. Grit and dirt aggravate the problem, and should be removed by
washing the rope in clean water and hanging the rope to dry.
2 If a suspect yarn pulls out, the rope has been overloaded. When a rope is overloaded the
internal yarns fail first.
5.2 ACTION FOLLOWING INSPECTION After inspection the following action

should be taken:
(a) If the rope is suspect in just one spot, the damaged section, which should include at
least 1 m of rope on each side of the damaged spot, should be cut out and the ends
joined by splicing.
WARNING: DAMAGED ROPE INTENDED FOR USE IN LIFE RESCUE OR
OTHER CRITICAL OPERATIONS SHALL BE CONDEMNED.
(b) If there is any doubt as to whether the rope has been damaged, the rope should be
condemned.
(c) When a rope has been condemned, it should be destroyed at once by being cut into
unusable lengths.
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19 AS 4142.1 — 1993
S E C T I O N 6 S AF E W O R K I NG
6.1 MATERIAL AND LOAD The appropriate safe working load should not be
exceeded during use. If it is not readily possible to ascertain the material a rope is made
from, it should be assumed that ropes which may be either manila or sisal are sisal, and
that man-made fibre ropes are polyethylene. (See also Clause 3.1.)
Standard colour codes to identify the fibre type of a rope are given in AS 4142.2.
For ease of working, it is normal to use a rope much stronger than is necessary in order to
cope with the occasional extra heavy or large load. When such a load occurs while using a
fibre rope sling or sling assembly, AS 1380 should be consulted so that sling angles
which could result in overloading the rope are not used.
6.2 DANGER FROM SNAPPING ROPES When heavy forces are applied to a rope,
e.g. in ship towing, berthing or unberthing operations, rope handlers should stay out of the
direct line of pull to avoid injury should a rope snap and lash back. A rope may swing if
it parts on a bollard, capstan, drum end or fairlead.
WARNING: MAN-MADE FIBRE ROPES USUALLY GIVE NO INDICATION

OF EXCESSIVE STRAIN AND MAY PART WITHOUT WARNING.
6.3 RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE USE OF ROPE ON DRUM ENDS

6.3.1 General Man-made fibre ropes have different handling characteristics from natural
fibre ropes when used on drum ends or capstan barrels.
6.3.2 Natural fibre ropes Natural fibre ropes char or burn but in use this usually only
affects the rope surface. Their coefficient of friction is both low and relatively invariant
with temperature. As a result, four or five turns may be needed for a given pull.
Extension of natural fibre ropes for a given load is low and, should friction be
insufficient, a short length only will surge around the drum. Nevertheless, a person
tending the drum should stand back at least 1.5 m, preferably 2 m, and, if possible, should
only hold the rope by the upper half. This person should always stand on the outside of
the rope, and should endeavour to keep out of the direct line between the lead off the
drum and the slack rope which has been handed in and thrown on the deck (see
Figure 6.1).
Overriding turns should be prevented, especially if five turns are used to heave in, by
occasionally surging the rope and allowing the rope to align correctly on the drum. If an
overriding turn develops, the windlass or winch should be stopped and the turn removed
by reversing the motion of the drum sufficiently to clear the turn.
6.3.3 Man-made fibre ropes Man-made fibre ropes have very low softening and melting
points, easily reached through friction (see Table 2.2). Their coefficient of friction also
increases as the temperature of the rope increases. No more than three turns on the drum
end should ever be used. If three turns will not hold the rope, the load is excessive.
Man-made fibre ropes have a high elongation for a given load so that if the grip is lost a
substantial length is likely to surge around the drum. It is therefore recommended that the
line handler tending the drum stands back at least 1.5 m, preferably 2 m, and grasps the
rope in such a manner that, if surging occurs, the rope will be jerked out of his hands.
WARNING: UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES IS THE ROPE TO BE GRIPPED
SO THAT, IF A SURGE OCCURS, THE LINE HANDLER WILL BE PULLED
ONTO THE DRUM.
The line handler should also stand on the outside of the rope (see Figure 6.1), and keep
well clear of the line between the lead off the drum and the slack rope on the deck.
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AS 4142.1 — 1993 20
Overriding turns are less likely with man-made fibre ropes, since only three turns are
used, but should they occur the winch should be reversed immediately.
Man-made fibre ropes under load should not be surged around a drum intentionally; the
high friction generates heat, which may melt the fibres, causing the rope to rapidly slip
around the drum thereby pulling the line handler on to the drum. The melting also reduces
the rope’s breaking force. The rope may then part, and either hot melted fibres or
backlash may injure the line handler. Instead of surging the rope, it is always preferable
to reverse the winch (walk back the rope), but if a sudden excess strain develops which
cannot be dealt with by reversing the winch, a turn or two should be thrown off and the
rope should be allowed to freely render until it is slack.
A man-made fibre cordage stopper should be used for holding man-made fibre hawsers.
The stopper (see Figure 6.2) consists of a length of polyester cordage, middled to form
two tails and made fast to an eyeplate or other fixture. The stopper should be laid
alongside the hawser with its tails pointing towards the source of strain; the tails should
be crossed under and over the hawser in the direction of the source of strain. The ends
should be kept in hand or stopped to the hawser.
WARNING: T HE CORRECT USE OF STOPP ERS CANNOT B E
ADEQUATELY LEARNT FROM A BOOK. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE
USE OF STOPPERS IS TAUGHT BY A SUITABLE EXPERT. DESCRIPTIONS

AND ILLUSTRATIONS CAN MISLEAD INEXPERIENCED OPERATORS.
6.4 PERSONAL PROTECTION

6.4.1 Hands Where a rope is allowed to slip through the hands, the skin may be
damaged. The damage may vary from slight abrasion to severe burns, and may make it
difficult or impossible for the rope handler to grip the rope. Consideration should be
given to protecting the hands with gloves or mittens when handling ropes and should take
into account the guidelines in Clause 6.4.2.
6.4.2 Dangers of loose clothing Accidents have occurred, sometimes with fatal results,
when loose clothing has become entangled with rope and the wearer has been pulled
around a drum end or into a block or other machinery. Loose clothing should not be worn
when handling ropes in the vicinity of machinery.
Similarly gloves can get caught resulting in severe mangling of hands or hands and arms.
In some instances the injury is more extensive than may have resulted with ungloved
fingers where the fingers only may have been crushed. If worn, hand protection should be
such that the hand can be easily slipped out of it. Consideration should be given to the
use of mittens in place of gloves.
WARNING: A PERSON HANDLING A ROPE SHOULD BE CORRECTLY
DRESSED FOR THE JOB AT ALL TIMES AND SHOULD TAKE CARE THAT
HAZARDS ARE NOT CREATED OR INCREASED BY INAPPROPRIATE
CLOTHING.
6.5 ROPE CONTAMINATION If ropes are contaminated by salt they should be hosed
down with fresh water before they are hung up to dry. This will not normally be practical
with mooring ropes. If contamination by chemicals (including detergents) occurs (see
Section 2) the rope should be rinsed well and hung up to dry in a shady ventilated area.
Heat should not be used to dry ropes. If contamination is suspected in a rope intended to
be used in supporting a person, the rope should be condemned.
Ropes should be stored away from contaminating chemicals (see Section 2).
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21 AS 4142.1 — 1993
FIGURE 6.1 STANDING POSITION FOR USING A ROPE ON A DRUM END
FIGURE 6.2 MAN-MADE FIBRE CORDAGE STOPPER
6.6 STRENGTH LOSS DUE TO KNOTS AND SPLICES

6.6.1 General Modifications to a rope reduce its breaking force. A splice used to form a
loop or to join two ropes will reduce the rope breaking force by over 10%. Knots used for
similar tasks may reduce the breaking force by over 40%. If practical, a splice should be
used rather than a knot. Note that if an eye splice already exists in a rope, the insertion of
one or more short splices in the same rope does not result in a significant further
reduction in the rope’s strength.
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AS 4142.1 — 1993 22
6.6.2 Knots Not all knots are suitable for all ropes; the construction of a rope and the
material from which it is made will have a significant effect on the suitability and safety
of a knot.
Care should be taken to ensure that a knot is properly tightened prior to putting a load on
it. This is achieved by firming the knot in the correct fashion by locating each part of the
rope which forms the knot so that each part travels the shortest practical distance through
the knot. The knot should then be held firmly and each strand of the rope individually
tightened in turn. Pulling the rope without holding the knot will not adequately tighten a
knot.
WARNING: KNOTS CANNOT BE ADEQUATELY LEARNT FROM A BOOK.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE TYING AND USE OF KNOTS ARE TAUGHT
BY A SUITABLE EXPERT. DESCRIPTIONS AND ILLUSTRATIONS CAN
MISLEAD INEXPERIENCED OPERATORS.
6.6.3 Splices Certain types of rope, e.g. three-, four- and eight-strand and
double-braided, may be spliced. Appropriate splices should be learnt from experts,
especially in cases where a spliced rope is to be used in an area where the safety of a
person’s life may be at risk.
6.7 TERMINATING ROPE ENDS Ends of ropes should be back-spliced, whipped,

clamped or heat-sealed, as should ends of strands when splicing a rope. Whipping should
be done according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for the particular fibre type and
rope construction.
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23 AS 4142.1 — 1993
APPENDIX A
METHOD OF CALCULATING SAFE WORKING LOADS
(Informative)
A1 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SAFE WORKING LOAD, MINIMUM BREAKING

FORCE AND SAFETY FACTOR A rope’s safe working load (SWL) is related to its
minimum breaking force by the following equation:
. . . A1
where
BF = the breaking force of the rope
SF = a safety factor.
A2 LEGAL SAFETY FACTORS Where the safety factor is prescribed by law, that
factor should be used in calculating the SWL for a rope.
A3 SAFETY FACTORS DEPENDENT ON CONDITION OF USE Where no safety

factor is prescribed by law, safety factors no lower than those shown in Table A1 should
be used. Higher safety factors may be used.
TABLE A1
SAFETY FACTORS
Condition under which rope is to be used SF

Ropes not subject to flexing or twisting, e.g. standing rigging, ropes secured at 5
both ends to non-rotating mounts
Ropes subject to occasional flexing or twisting, e.g. ropes in made up articles such 6
as slings, tow ropes
Ropes used to support persons either directly or indirectly, e.g. gantlines securing 8
bosun’s chairs or stages, lizards, life rescue ropes
Ropes in arduous or continuous use, where the load frequently closely approaches 9
the SWL, or where the rope is continuously exposed to flexing or twisting, e.g.
ropes used to move railway trucks by heaving on a capstan, ropes used in endless
belts to drive machinery
A4 SAFE WORKING LOADS FOR HAWSERS AND SIMILAR ROPES Where the
SWLs of fibre ropes used as hawsers on ships are not directly subject to the rules of a
shipping classification society, they should be equivalent in strength to wire ropes
specified for use in the same situation by the relevant regulatory authority.
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AS 4142.1 — 1993 24
APPENDIX B
EQUIVALENT DEADWEIGHT BREAKING LOADS FOR THREE-STRAND
HAWSER-LAID AND EIGHT-STRAND PLAITED ROPES
(Informative)
B1 METHOD OF USING EQUIVALENTS Table B1 sets out the deadweight breaking

loads for various sizes of three-strand hawser-laid and eight-strand plaited ropes which
have been manufactured to AS 4142.2.
Table B1 may be used in either of two ways:
(a) Given an existing size of rope, and rope material, the deadweight breaking load may
be obtained from Table B1. Table B1 can then be used to find other rope options.
Any rope of a suitable material giving the same or a greater deadweight breaking
load may be used to replace the existing rope.
(b) Given a load to be suspended, multiply the load by the legally prescribed safety
factor to obtain the minimum breaking load required for the rope. Where no safety
factor is prescribed, select an appropriate value from Table A1 of Appendix A. Enter

the body of Table B1 with this minimum breaking load and select a size of rope of
the desired fibre listed as having a deadweight breaking load of equivalent or greater
value than the calculated minimum breaking load.
B2 FITTINGS Where fittings are already in use for a particular size of rope, it will
generally be impractical to use a larger size of rope as a replacement. Similarly, for
certain applications, there may be a minimum value for the size of rope suitable for use as
a replacement.
B3 SLINGS AND SIMILAR LIFTING ARRANGEMENTS When calculating the

minimum breaking force required for a rope, due consideration should be given to the
increase in tension which results when a load is suspended by ropes which are not
vertical, e.g. when an object is suspended by two or more ropes leading to the same hook.
See AS 1380 for the effect of sling angles and the allowances to be made for them.
B4 EQUIVALENCE OF THREE- AND EIGHT-STRAND ROPES Not all sizes of

rope listed in Table B1 are available in both three-strand and eight-strand form. Where
both forms are available in the same fibre they are generally interchangeable. However,
the above factors should be given consideration before any change is made.
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25 AS 4142.1 — 1993
TABLE B1
EQUIVALENT DEADWEIGHT BREAKING LOAD OF THREE-STRAND
HAWSER-LAID ROPE AND EIGHT-STRAND PLAITED ROPE
Deadweight breaking load

t
Size* Polyethylene Polypropylene
Manila and Vinylal Polyester Polyamide
film or
sisal staple Staple Monofilament filament filament
multifilament
3 — 0.082 0.109 0.102 0.154 0.173 0.219
4 0.140 0.136 0.208 0.200 0.241 0.296 0.320
5 0.177 0.226 0.268 0.286 0.331 0.400 0.500
6 0.266 0.317 0.376 0.399 0.457 0.565 0.750
7 0.344 0.445 0.495 0.544 0.644 0.770 1.02
8 0.482 0.571 0.622 0.697 0.864 1.02 1.35
9 0.533 0.726 0.772 0.896 1.08 1.27 1.70
10 0.635 0.898 0.944 1.09 1.31 1.59 2.08
12 0.953 1.30 1.26 1.54 1.87 2.27 3.00
14 1.28 1.77 1.44 2.08 2.56 3.18 4.10

16 1.80 2.32 2.12 2.79 3.05 4.08 5.30
18 2.16 2.98 2.59 3.46 4.06 5.10 6.70
20 2.87 3.63 3.16 4.26 5.08 6.32 8.30
22 3.40 4.39 3.75 5.08 6.10 7.65 10.0
24 4.06 5.21 4.39 6.10 7.11 9.08 12.0
28 5.41 — 5.95 8.03 9.65 12.2 15.8
32 6.93 — 7.77 10.4 12.2 15.7 20.0
36 8.63 — 9.82 13.1 15.5 19.4 24.8
40 10.5 — 12.1 15.6 18.8 24.0 30.0
48 14.8 — 17.1 22.3 26.4 33.5 42.0
56 19.9 — 23.4 30.2 35.6 44.8 56.0
64 25.6 — 30.5 38.6 45.7 57.9 72.0
72 32.0 — 38.6 48.5 57.9 72.1 90.0
80 39.2 — 47.7 60.0 71.1 88.4 110.0
* Size is indicated as the rope’s nominal diameter, in millimetres, for three-strand hawser-laid
ropes and as its size number for eight-strand plaited rope.
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Licensee: Mr Wayne Williams

Date: 27 Sep 2005

Conditions of use: Click here for full conditions of Licence

This is a licensed electronic copy of a publication where SAI Global Limited

International Standards on-line at www.standards.com.au

Part 1: Care and safe usage

The following interests are represented on Committee TX/4:

Australian Maritime Safety Authority

This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 90138.

Part 1: Care and safe usage

First publi shed as part of AS L18 — 1963.

PUBLISHED BY STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

appendices. An ‘informative’ appendix is only for information and guidance.

 Copyri ght STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL

SECTION 2 CAUSES OF DAMAGE TO ROPES

SECTION 3 SELECTION OF ROPES AND FITTINGS

3.2 SELECTION OF FITTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

SECTION 4 USE OF ROPES

SECTION 6 SAFE WORKING

Part 1: Care and safe usage

1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS The following documents are referred to in this

1380 Fibre rope slings (of natural or synthetic rope)

(a) S twist (b) Z twist

FIGURE 1.1 TWIST DIRECTION

Natural fibre Man-made fibre

Manila Polyamide (nylon)

2.3 PHYSICAL DAMAGE AND DEGRADATION

FIGURE 2.1 THE EFFECT OF HEAT ON 16 mm DIAMETER THREE-STRAND ROPES

Imide groups may

TABLE 2.2 (continued )

Specific Environments to which Environments to which Strength and elongation

Sunlight, if not stabilised

Swells only at elevated

Toluene and xylene

Sunlight, if not stabilized

TABLE 2.2 (continued )

3.1 SELECTION OF ROPES

3.1.3 Selection according to handling method Where a task requires a rope to be

4.2 REMOVAL OF ROPE FROM A TURNTABLE OR FLANGED REEL When the

The probability of kinks developing can be reduced by—

4.9 FIBRE AND WIRE ROPES

FIGURE 4.1 ELONGATION OF 48 mm DIAMETER THREE-STRAND

(c) Side view

(b) Secti on through bollard

FIGURE 4.2 WIRE AND FIBRE ROPES ON BOLLARD

touch inspection when setting up the line for operation.

5.2 ACTION FOLLOWING INSPECTION After inspection the following action

WARNING: MAN-MADE FIBRE ROPES USUALLY GIVE NO INDICATION

6.3 RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE USE OF ROPE ON DRUM ENDS

USE OF STOPPERS IS TAUGHT BY A SUITABLE EXPERT. DESCRIPTIONS

6.4 PERSONAL PROTECTION

FIGURE 6.1 STANDING POSITION FOR USING A ROPE ON A DRUM END

FIGURE 6.2 MAN-MADE FIBRE CORDAGE STOPPER

6.6 STRENGTH LOSS DUE TO KNOTS AND SPLICES

6.7 TERMINATING ROPE ENDS Ends of ropes should be back-spliced, whipped,

A1 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SAFE WORKING LOAD, MINIMUM BREAKING

A3 SAFETY FACTORS DEPENDENT ON CONDITION OF USE Where no safety

Condition under which rope is to be used SF

B1 METHOD OF USING EQUIVALENTS Table B1 sets out the deadweight breaking

factor is prescribed, select an appropriate value from Table A1 of Appendix A. Enter

B3 SLINGS AND SIMILAR LIFTING ARRANGEMENTS When calculating the