If dynamic rope is used in a rescue and its elongation is unpredictable, what is the recommended approach?

• A. Use static rope instead for most rigging
• B. Use dynamic rope anyway
• C. Only use it for ascent
• D. Avoid edge protection

Answer: (A)

Rope elongation under load determines how stable and predictable a rig works. Dynamic rope is designed to stretch to absorb shock, but if you can’t predict how much it will lengthen in a rescue scenario, the rigging geometry can shift unexpectedly, making anchors and loads unsafe. For most rigging tasks, you want a rope whose length stays basically the same under load, so the system remains predictable and safer. Static rope has low elongation and predictable behavior, making it the safer default choice for most rigging work in rescue. Dynamic rope may be used only in situations where its stretch is intentionally relied upon and you can manage the risk, but not for general rigging. Edge protection remains important wherever rope runs near edges, but it doesn’t address the issue of unpredictable elongation.