Ropes must be protected in which scenario?

Ropes must be protected in which scenario?

• A. They must be protected at all times
• B. Protection is optional
• C. None
• D. Ropes must be protected when going over coping or parapet

Answer: (D)

Ropes are vulnerable to abrasion and cutting when they encounter sharp or rough edges. Going over a coping or parapet creates exactly that risk point, where the rope can be pinched and worn down under load. Edge protection—such as pads, sleeves, or edge rollers—distributes the force and shields the rope from direct contact with the edge, preventing fraying or failure. So, in this scenario, protection is required to maintain rope integrity and safety. If possible, reroute to avoid the edge, but when the rope must cross over coping or parapet, edge protection is necessary.

Ropes are vulnerable to abrasion and cutting when they encounter sharp or rough edges. Going over a coping or parapet creates exactly that risk point, where the rope can be pinched and worn down under load. Edge protection—such as pads, sleeves, or edge rollers—distributes the force and shields the rope from direct contact with the edge, preventing fraying or failure. So, in this scenario, protection is required to maintain rope integrity and safety. If possible, reroute to avoid the edge, but when the rope must cross over coping or parapet, edge protection is necessary.