The last 2 digits from the batch number indicate the year of manufacture, i.e. 08 = year 2008.
What is the lifetime of my rope?
Lifetime = Time of storage before first use + time in use.
The lifetime of the rope in use must never exceed 10 years.
The total maximum lifetime (storage before use + lifetime in use) is limited to 15 years (i.e. if the time of storage was 6 years the maximum time in use is limited to 9 years:15 – 6 = 9). Attention: This is only a potential lifetime; a rope could be destroyed during its first use. It is the inspections which determine if the rope must be scrapped more quickly.
Proper storage between uses is essential.
The rope must be retired earlier:
- if it has held a major fall, approaching fall factor 2
- if inspection reveals or even indicates damage to the core
- if the sheath is very worn
- if it has been in contact with any active or dangerous chemicals
- if there is the slightest doubt about its security.
What is the lifetime of my harness?
Lifetime = Time of storage before first use + time in use.
The lifetime of the harness in use must never exceed 10 years.
The total maximum lifetime (storage before use + lifetime in use) is limited to 15 years (i.e. if the time of storage was 6 years the maximum time in use is limited to 9 years: 15 – 6 = 9).
Attention: This is only a potential lifetime; it is the inspections which determine if the harness must be scrapped more quickly. Proper storage between uses is essential.
The harness must be retired earlier:
- if it has sustained a heavy fall even if no damage is apparent
- if the webbing has been damaged by abrasion, cutting, chemical agents or any other means
- if the stitching has been damaged
- if the buckles are not working well
- if it has been in contact with any active or dangerous chemicals
- if there is any other doubt as to its security.
