How to choose a rope and temporary lifeline for working at height

To work at height on a rope you need a low-stretch (semi-static) rope, normally compliant with EN 1891, with a diameter compatible with the fall arrest device you will use and a length equal to your run plus a margin for knots and anchor points. Where there is no fixed anchor, a temporary anchor line is fitted, referring to EN 795:2012 (type B or C). In the collection the diameters range from 4 to 14 mm and the lengths from 4 to 40 m.

The types

• Semi-static ropes: low-stretch, with sheath and core. The collection includes, for example, the AXIS 11 mm Petzl, the BEAM 11 mm and the BOA 10.5 mm Irudek.
• Ropes with sewn terminations: for example the AXIS 11 mm with two sewn terminations, which have a ready-made eye, or with just one, so you tie off the other end.
• Wire ropes and cables: also in galvanised steel, alongside the textile ropes.
• Temporary lifelines: temporary anchor lines with their accessories.
• Rope-based fall arrest devices: they slide along the rope and lock in the event of a fall; EN 353-2 applies to them when they are the guided type on a flexible anchor line.
• Fall arrest kits, rope protectors: protection against sharp edges, and the complete kit.

How to choose according to the job

The features to look at

• Standard: EN 1891 for semi-static ropes (class A has higher performance than B); EN 795:2012 for anchor devices, where type B is temporary and type C is a flexible line; EN 353-2 and EN 355 for fall arrest devices and energy absorbers.
• Diameter: from 4 to 14 mm; for work ropes the most common values are between 10.5 and 12 mm. The fall arrest device works only with the diameter stated by its manufacturer.
• Length: from 4 to 40 m. Allow for the run, anchors and margin.
• Construction and material: polyamide, polyester, galvanised steel, aluminium; the number of carriers (24, 32 or 40) describes how the sheath is braided.
• Weight per metre: from about 43 to 115 g: heavier to carry, but it does not indicate quality.
• Terminations: sewn (with a ready-made eye) or to be knotted. The stitching must be visually checked like the rest of the rope.
• Warranty: some data sheets state 3 years; it does not replace the checks before each use.
• Colour: some models are high-visibility yellow, useful when several people work close together.

Common mistakes

• Pairing a rope and a device without checking that they are compatible.
• Not protecting the rope from sharp edges.
• Keeping in service a rope that has held a fall.
• Not marking the rope: it must be identified so that its use and history can be traced.
• Ordering the right length for the run and forgetting knots, anchors and margin.
• Using a temporary line without training and without following the manufacturer's instructions.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a rope and a lifeline?

The rope is a single element; the temporary anchor line is a system with anchors, rope and accessories that creates the anchor point or line.

When should a rope be taken out of service?

When it has held a fall or when the visual check before use shows damage to the rope, stitching or connectors.

Which diameter should I choose?

The one specified for your fall arrest device or descender: you will find it in the manufacturer's instructions.

What does semi-static mean?

That the rope stretches little under load. It is the choice for working suspended and for rope access, whereas it is not designed to absorb a fall the way a dynamic rope is.

Is training needed?

Yes: anyone working at height with these devices must be trained and instructed in their use.

Ropes, lines and devices are in the ropes and temporary lifelines collection: if you are unsure about the standard, diameter or length, request a quote or advice from the AMES technicians.