ROPES AND KNOTS Copyright© 2000. Delmar is a division of Thomson Learning.

Objectives 1 of 2 Identify the different materials that fire service rope is constructed from. Describe the difference between life safety rope and utility rope. Define basic rope terminology.

Objectives 2 of 2 Identify basic knots used in the fire service Describe the proper methods of inspection, maintenance, and storage of ropes. Describe methods of rigging basic equipment to be hoisted.

Introduction Rope is one of the most important and routinely used tools in the fire service. Firefighters need to know about what ropes are used, knot tying, rope inspection, and storage of ropes.

Rope Materials and Their Characteristics 1 of 2 Rope characteristics will determine specific applications. NFPA 1983 standard for ropes used in the fire service. Natural materials Manila. Sisal. Cotton.

Manila Rope

Rope Materials and Their Characteristics 2 of 2 Synthetic materials: Nylon. Polypropylene. Polyethylene. Polyester.

Polyethylene Rope

Construction Methods and Their Characteristics Rope categories: Dynamic. Static. Rope construction: Laid (twisted). Braided. Braid-on-braid. Kernmantle.

Primary Uses Utility. Firefighting and rescue.

Utility Rope Uses

Life Safety Rope Ropes, harnesses, and hardware must comply with NFPA 1983. NFPA 1983 categorizes ropes and sets strength requirements.

Rope Nomenclature

Knots Half hitch. Overhand (safety). Clove hitch in the open. Clove hitch around an object. Becket bend. Double becket bend. Bowline. Figure eight. Follow-through figure eight. Figure eight on a bight. Rescue. Water.

Inspection Ropes must be inspected and properly maintained. All life safety rope inspections should be logged. Ropes must be individually identified. Damaged rope should be removed immediately. Training ropes should be inspected after every use.

Inspecting Rope

Maintenance Ropes must be properly maintained. Follow manufacturer’s recommendations. Natural fibers limited to brushing off. Synthetic materials can be washed. Ropes must be dried prior to use. Ropes can be stored in coils or rope bags.

Rope Storage

Rigging for Hoisting One of the primary uses of rope is for hoisting. Clove hitch, figure eight, and bowline are most often used for hoisting. Tag line may also be used.

WRAP-UP This is only basic rope information. Knot tying and rope use should be practiced regularly. Proper maintenance and inspection is essential.