1. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.1 Ropes and Knots

2. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.2 Objectives (1 of 2) Identify the different materials that fire service rope is constructed from and their characteristics. Describe the differences between life safety and utility ropes. Define the basic terminology used when discussing ropes and knots.

3. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.3 Objectives (2 of 2) Identify the basic knots used by the fire service, how to tie each of them, and their uses. Describe the proper methods of inspection, maintenance, and storage of ropes. Describe the method of rigging basic firefighting equipment to be hoisted. Identify the pros and cons of natural vs. synthetic ropes.

4. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.4 Introduction Rope is one of the most important and routinely used tools in the fire service. Firefighters need to know the primary uses of rope in the fire service; how to tie the knots used; and how to properly inspect, maintain, and store rope.

5. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.5 Rope Materials and their Characteristics (1 of 2) Rope characteristics will determine specific applications. NFPA 1983 outlined standard for ropes used in the fire service. Natural materials –Manila –Sisal –Cotton

6. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.6 Manila Rope

7. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.7 Rope Materials and Their Characteristics (2 of 2) Synthetic materials –Nylon –Polypropylene –Polyethylene –Polyester –Specialty fibers such as Kevlar

8. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.8 Polyethylene Rope

9. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.9 Construction Methods and Their Characteristics Rope categories – Dynamic – Static (low stretch) Rope construction – Laid (twisted) – Braided – Braid-on-Braid – Kernmantle

10. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.10 Primary Uses Utility Firefighting and rescue

11. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.11 Utility Rope Uses

12. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.12 Life Safety Rope Ropes, harnesses, and hardware must comply with NFPA 1983. NFPA 1983 categorizes ropes and sets minimum strength requirements.

13. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.13 Rope Nomenclature

14. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.14 Knots Half hitch Overhand (safety) Clove hitch in the open Clove hitch around an object Becket bend Double becket bend Figure eight Follow-through figure eight Figure eight on a bight Rescue Water

15. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.15 Inspection Inspect and maintain ropes to insure their readiness for an emergency. Log all life safety rope inspections. Individually identify ropes. Immediately remove damaged rope from service. Inspect all ropes periodically and after every use. Inspections should be visual, tactilely (bare hands), and encompass the entire length of the rope.

16. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.16 Inspecting Rope

17. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.17 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.

18. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.18 Rope Storage

19. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.19 Rigging for Hoisting One of the primary uses of rope is for hoisting of tools and equipment. Clove hitch, half hitches, and figure eight are most often used for hoisting. Tag line may also be used.

20. CHAPTER 15 Copyright © 2007 Thomson Delmar Learning 15.20 Summary This is only basic rope information. Knot tying and rope use should be practiced regularly. Proper maintenance and inspection is essential.