Life span - time to replace

Even some ancient ropes can still hold a «short» sport climbing fall, whilst in comparison, a brand new rope can break over a sharp edge. Therefore, the lifespan of a rope is difficult to define. It depends on the type and the length of use, on shock loading and other influences that weaken the rope. In the end, with the private user, it’s a personal safety decision. At the latest, if you no longer have confidence in your old, furry, unmanageable rope you should «down grade» it to top roping only. For commercial users keeping a rope log is recommended.

Independent of frequency of use, a rope should be disposed of if:

1. The rope came in contact with chemicals, particularly acids.
2. The sheath is damaged and the core is visible.
3. The sheath is extremely worn, or particularly fuzzy.
4. The sheath has slipped noticeably.
5. Strong deformations are present (stiffness, nicks, sponginess).
6. The rope was subjected to extreme loads (e.g. heavy falls, clearly over fall factor 1).
7. The rope is extremely dirty (grease, oil, tar).
8. Heat, abrasion, or friction burns have caused damage.
   

The following table gives reference values for the usability of the rope:

The following table gives reference values for the usability of the harness: