5.1 Inspect the rope and related equipment at the beginning of every work period at least daily in most instances and particularly following any incident which could have damaged the rope or installation. The entire length of rope should be inspected and particular attention paid to those sections that experience has proven to be the main areas of deterioration. Excessive wear, broken wires, distortion and corrosion are the usual signs of deterioration. For a more detailed examination special tools are necessary which will also facilitate internal inspection (see Fig.3.) In the case of ropes working over drums or sheaves it is particularly necessary to examine those areas entering or leaving the grooves when maximum loads (i.e. shock loads) are experienced, or those areas which remain for long periods in exposed places such as over a jib head sheave. On some running ropes, but particularly relevant to standing ropes (e.g. pendant ropes) the areas adjacent to terminations should be given special attention (see Fig. 3).
 
Note: Shortening the rope re-positions the areas of maximum deterioration in the system. Where conditions permit, beginoperating with a rope which has a slightly longer length than necessary in order to allow for periodic shortening.

When a non-preformed rope or multi-layer rope is used with a wedge socket and is required to be shortened, it is essential that the end of the rope is secured by welding or brazing before the rope is pulled through the main body of the socket to its new position. Slacken the wedge in the socket. Pass the rope through the socket by an amount equivalent to the crop length or sample required. Note that the original bent portion of the rope must not be retained within the wedge socket. Replace the wedge and

pull up the socket. Prepare and cut in accordance with section 4.12. Ensure that the rope tail cannot withdraw through the socket, see section 4.13.

Failure to observe this instruction will result in a significant deterioration in the performance of the rope and could render the rope completely unfit for further service.

In cases where severe rope wear takes place at one end of a wire rope, the life of the rope may be extended by changing round the drum end with the load end, i.e. turning the rope end for end¹ before deterioration becomes excessive.

5.2 Remove broken wires as they occur by bending backwards and forwards using a pair of pliers until they break deep in the valley between two outer strands. Wear protective clothing such as overalls, industrial gloves, helmet, eye protectors and safety footwear during this operation. Do not shear off the ends of broken wires with pliers as this will leave an exposed jagged edge which is likely to damage other wires in the rope and lead to premature removal of the rope from service. Failure to wear adequate protective clothing could result in injury. Note: Broken wires are a normal feature of service, more so towards the end of the rope¹s life, resulting from bending fatigue and wear. The local break up of wires may indicate some mechanical fault in the equipment. Record the number and position in the rope of any removed broken wires.

5.3 Do not operate an appliance if for any reason (e.g. rope diameter, certified breaking force, rope construction, length or strength and type of rope termination) the wire rope and its termination is considered unsuitable for the required duty.

5.4 Do not operate an appliance if the wire rope fitted has become distorted, been damaged or has deteriorated to a level such that discard criteria has been reached or is likely to be reached prior to normal expected life based on historical performance data.

Rope distortion is usually a result of mechanical damage and can significantly reduce rope strength.

5.5 An authorized competent person must examine the rope in accordance with the appropriate Regulations.

5.6 Do not carry out any inspection, examination, dressing/lubrication, adjustment or any other maintenance of the rope while it is suspending a load, unless otherwise stated in the OEM's instruction manual or other relevant documents. Do not carry out any inspection or maintenance of the rope if

the appliance controls are unattended unless the surrounding area has been isolated or sufficient warning signs have been posted within the immediate vicinity. If the appliance controls are attended, the authorized person must be able to communicate effectively with the driver or controller of the appliance during the inspection process.

5.7 Never clean the wire rope without recognizing the potential hazards associated with working on a moving rope.

Failure to pay attention or take adequate precaution could result in injury.

cleaning by cloth/waste, the material can be snagged on damaged surfaces and/or broken wires. If cleaning by brush, eye protectors must be worn. If using fluids it should be recognized that some products are highly inflammable. A respirator should be worn if cleaning by a pressurized spray system.

Failure to take adequate precaution could result in injury or damage to health.

Only use compatible cleaning fluids which will not impair the original rope lubricant nor affect the rope associated equipment.