Ropes and Knots 1

Introduction Rope is one of the most important and routinely used tools in the fire service. In this chapter, you will learn: How to select the proper rope The proper uses of rope in fire service The essential skill of knot tying How to properly inspect, maintain, and store rope 2

Rope Materials and Their Characteristics Variety of materials Different characteristics Earliest ropes made of natural materials Life safety lines 3

Natural Materials Category includes: Manila Sisal Cotton Share same poor characteristics Rot Mildew Abrasion resistance Natural deterioration Very low strength-to-weight ratio Low shock load absorption capability 4

Type 1 manila rope. 5

Synthetic Materials Primary synthetic materials: Nylon Polypropylene Polyethylene Polyester Ropes made of these are the rule rather than the exception. High strength-to-weight ratio 6

Brightly colored polyethylene rope floating on water. 7

Construction Methods and Their Characteristics Construction techniques: Laid method Braided Braid-on-braid Kernmantle Two broad categories: Static Dynamic 8

Example of laid construction method. 9

Example of kernmantle construction method with the outer kern cut and pulled back at the end, showing the inner mantle section. 10

Primary Uses Fire service utilization Two classifications: Utility Safety Firefighter should be familiar with department standard rope use. 11

Firefighting and Rescue Uses Structural search and rescue guide ropes NFPA 1983 Light use General use Tensile strength requirements 12

Fire Service Knots Each service will have preferred methods and knots. Knots expected for various situations Some knots introduced with switch to synthetic fibres 13

Terms Used for Rope and Knots Separate and distinct parts of a rope: Working end Standing part Running end 14

The three parts of a rope: working end, standing part, and running end. 15

Left to right: a round turn, a bight, and a loop. Take the loose end of the working end after tying the primary knot, and secure it by making a round turn around the standing knot and bringing the loose end through. Make a round turn in the standing portion of the rope, and slide the round turn down over the object being hoisted. 16

Knots Dressing Setting Common knots: Half-hitch and overhand (safety) knot Clove hitch Becket bend and double Becket bend Bowline knot and figure-eight knots Rescue knot and water knot 17

(A) A loose and sloppy knot. (B) A knot properly dressed and set. (A) (B) 18

Inspection All ropes must be inspected and properly maintained. Inspections should be a matter of department policy. Life safety rope found damaged must be removed from service. Ropes should be inspected along their entire length. 19

It is very important that rope is inspected as it is being put back into a rope bag. 20

Laid (Twisted) Firefighters should look and feel for: Foreign matter Slippery spots Voids in centre fibres Stiff or hard spots and soft spots Laid ropes should be untwisted at random intervals. 21

It is important to twist apart a laid rope to inspect between strands. 22

Braided Should be visually and tactilely inspected Inspecting inside is not possible. Strands appear on the surface. 23

Braid-on-Braid No way to see inside braid Pay attention to tactile inspection. Outside braid will sometimes slip over the inner braid. Outside braid represents 50 percent of strength. 24

Kernmantle Cannot see kern portion Tactile inspection is best and only way to discover damage. Key is to search for a different feel: Flat spots Voids Bunches Stiffness Limpness 25

Maintenance Not difficult Placing new rope into service Carefully adhere to manufacturer’s instructions. 26

Cleaning Follow manufacturer’s instructions. Brush dirt off natural materials. Lose 50 percent of strength when wet Do not regain strength when dry Synthetic materials can be cleaned: Hand wash Rope washer Clothes washing machine 27

A kernmantle rope can also be “chained” and washed in a front-loading washing machine. 28

Drying Rope must be completely dried prior to storage. Different methods Lay flat to dry Hang to dry Use clothing dryer with extreme caution. 29

The two most common methods of storing life safety ropes (bagged or coiled). 30

Rigging for Hoisting One of the primary uses Smaller rope can be utilized Can be stored bagged or coiled Tag/guide lines 31

Specific Tools and Equipment Axe Pike poles Hoselines Power tools Ladders 32

Securing a Rope between Two Object s Need to secure a rope between two objects may arise Rope may be used as a barrier. Figure eight on a bight may be used to secure an anchor point. 33

Lessons Learned Ropes have many uses. Fire service uses ropes on a regular basis. Experience is the most effective teacher. Firefighters are encouraged to practice the basics learned. Maintenance of rope 34