R 408.10583 Fiber rope maintenance; inspection and replacement.

Rule 583. (1) An employer shall ensure that fiber rope shall be inspected visually before the start of each daily use as follows: (a) Externally for any of the following conditions: (i) Abrasions. (ii) Cut or broken fibers. (iii) Decay. (iv) Burns. (v) Lack of strength. (vi) Softness. (vii) Variation in size or roundness of the strands. (b) Internally, by separating the strands at 3-foot intervals, for any of the following conditions: (i) Broken fibers. (ii) Presence of grit. (iii) Mildew or mold. (iv) Color change of the fibers. (v) Powdering. (vi) Short loose fibers. A rope that has any of the conditions specified in this rule shall be replaced or returned to the manufacturer for repair. (2) A fiber rope shall be stored in a dry room in coils or on a reel. (3) A wet fiber rope shall be dried by placing it in the sunshine or a warm room hanging loosely over a rounded peg or hook. (4) A fiber rope shall not be kinked or run over sharp corners, shall not be used when frozen, and shall not be left in freezing temperatures when wet. (5) A fiber rope that is subjected to an impact load that is equal to or more than its rated capacity shall be replaced. (6) A thimble shall be used with fiber rope pursuant to the provisions of R 408.10581(2).