WWTC Rope info & Lifespan

 

WWTC ropes are not certified for verticality, WWTC ropes are designed to be used in water environment with horizontal rope operations. Therefor any use should be in a manner that rope failure can not cause human injuries. This requires Swiftwater Rescue Technician Training. This training is available in your country by Rescue 3 International or Rescue 3 Europe. For example: appropriate hardware and change of direction need to be used on the rope when working with extensive forces (like Mechanical Advantage) and avoid abrasion over obstacles or  rocks.

WWTC rope lifespan:

Wash your rope!

Whether you’re in an industrial or wilderness setting, your ropes are going to get dirty. Dirt and other contaminants can drastically reduce the working life of your ropes. Ropes should be cleaned with mild soap and water and hung to dry in the shade

 

Inspect your rope!

No mater the age of your rope, regular physical inspection is critical. Check for excessive fraying, softness or stiffness, exposed cores, glazing or hard spots, and lack of uniformity in diameter, colour or texture. If you notice any of these issues, it’s probably time to retire your rope. Other things to be mindful of are sharp edges, excessive UV exposure, or chemical contamination.

General lifespan:

1 year of extensive (daily) use; 3 years of regular (weekly or seasonal) use; 5 years of occasional use. Absolut maximum is 7 year shelf life from first use if washed and stored properly. 10 year shelf life if unused. But rope needs to be replaced if visual or physical inspection shows a reason (deformities, irregularity - see above “Inspect your rope!").