Aerial Rope Equipment Information Page

Introduction 

 

This document provides essential safety information for the use, inspection, and maintenance of aerial apparatus consisting of 100% cotton ropes (3 ply, braided), and synthetic fibre ropes with polyester core and polyester or cotton covers (polySafe ropes, cotton covered hand loops, and cotton-covered corde lisse).

 


Lifespan

 

The maximum lifespan of the assembled product is determined by the shortest lifespan.*

 

Natural Fibres (100% cotton ropes, cotton cover) – 5 years*

  • Firetoys 3 Ply Free Rope with Steel Eye
  • Prodigy Braided Corde Lisse (Aerial Rope) – White
  • Prodigy Braided Cloud Swing - White- 6 metre
  • Prodigy Cotton Covered Aerial Rope (Corde Lisse)
  • Firetoys Cotton Covered Hand Loop Strap

Synthetic Fibres (polyester core, polyester cover, whipping) - 7 years*

  • Prodigy Aerial PolySafe Rope

Metal components – Indefinite*

 

*For more information see here.

 

Additional Lifespan Information for Cotton Cover on Cotton-Covered Corde Lisse

  • Due to the stretch of the cover compared to the core, it is not uncommon for the cover to rip toward the end of the rope’s lifespan.
  • If the cover rips, discontinue use of the rope immediately. Ropes cannot be re-covered due to the manufacturing process.
  • Use the detailed inspection information provided to discontinue use before the cover rips, as early warning signs can be identified

 


Inspection

 

Regular inspections are critical to ensure the safety of the rope and trapeze. Follow these guidelines for all components.

 

Before First Use

  • Use photos to record the original condition of the apparatus
  • Inspect the full length for any imperfections.

Before Each Use

  • Maintain a usage and inspection log, including any incidents.

Inspect the rope for:

  • Damaged, frayed, or worn fibres.
  • Wear or damage to eyes or attachments.
  • Contamination (e.g., dirt, oil, chemicals).
  • Loosening or slipping of splicing, whipping, or stitching.
  • Inspect immediately after any suspected dynamic loading event (e.g., a fall).
  • Ensure all equipment components are correctly positioned relative to each other.
  • Evaluate the storage environment for exposure to moisture, UV light, or chemicals when assessing rope condition.

 

Full Inspection (Every 6 Months)

A competent person must perform a thorough inspection every six months.

  • Date, inspector’s name, and photographic documentation
  • Comparison to original condition

Follow these steps:

  • Examine the rope and splicing, whipping, or stitching for signs of damage or deterioration.
  • Smell the rope for mildew or chemical contamination.
  • Bend the rope into a U-shape to check for stiff or crunchy areas and inspect internal fibres for damage.
  • Check the entire equipment for cracks, distortion, corrosion, wear, burrs, or discoloration from extreme heat (above 100°C).
  • Inspect attachment points and holes for wear. Record the shape of connection points and welds with photos and compare to previous inspections. Do not use the equipment if changes are observed; contact the manufacturer.
  • Record any defects with photographs and compare them to original records.

For steel components showing wear, measure material loss against the original diameter:

  • 5% loss: Increase inspection frequency.
  • 5–10% loss: Retire the equipment or replace affected parts.
  • Contact the manufacturer if you have concerns about the equipment’s condition.

 

PolySafe Ropes/Cotton covered hand loops/Prodigy Cotton Covered Aerial Rope 

  • Damage to the cover may indicate damage to the load-bearing core.
  • Examine full length for cuts, abrasions, or damage to cover/stitching.
  • Check internal fibres for lumps, kinks, or irregularities.
  • Surface fibre chafing is normal but must be monitored—especially at eyes, attachments, and high-stress areas.
  • Local abrasion from sharp edges under tension can cause significant strength loss.
  • Cross/longitudinal cuts, selvedge or stitching damage may indicate core damage.
  • If core is exposed → discontinue use immediately.
  • Flaking or softening of cover suggests chemical damage.
  • Glazed or fused fibres indicate weakening, especially at eyes.

 


Cleaning


Ropes 

  • Remove hardware before washing.
  • Hand wash the rope with cold water and a mild detergent. Wipe down or spot clean, but do not submerge or soak the rope, as it may not dry fully. 
  • Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub. 
  • Ensure no grit or dirt particles remain in the rope’s fibres. 
  • Gently squeeze out excess water and hang the rope to dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Ensure internal fibres are completely dry before use. 


Drying Instructions 

  • Never tumble dry, even on the lowest setting. Tumble drying will damage the fibres, making them weaker and, therefore, no longer safe to use. 
  • Dry inside, away from sunlight. 
  • If your training space is well-ventilated, you can hang the rope from a point and let it dry there. You can direct a fan at the bottom to speed up drying. 
  • Ensure the rope is completely dry before using it again.