The Incredibly Important Safety Section

Although this may seem the least interesting part of this website it is vital that you should read and understand this section as your rope, can often be the most vital link of the safety chain and subject to the most wear and tear and in ways which may not be apparent immediately. So please take the time to read and familiarise yourself with the attributes / failings of ropes and you will always be in a better and safer position on the crag.

A general guide is at the minimum to check your ropes frequently. If there are any signs of fatigue or wear, replace the rope immediately. Things to look for: excessive fraying of sheath, exposed core bundles, glossy marks or hard glazed areas, lack of uniformity in diameter size, discoloration, inconsistency in texture, excessive stiffness or softness. Ropes displaying any of the above should be replaced immediately. Ropes used extensively should be changed after three months. If you are uncomfortable using your rope or question the integrity of the rope for any reason, retire it. It is not as valuable as your life.

The following guidelines may be used as a rough indication, but not sole indication of the service life of your rope product. The following time periods reflect use and retirement criteria:

• 3 months-one year: when used frequently and intensively.
• about two years: when used regularly on weekends.
• about 2-4 years: when used occasionally.