Formerly under the jurisdiction of Committee F32 on Search and Rescue, this specification was withdrawn in January 2024 in accordance with section 10.6.3 of the Regulations Governing ASTM Technical Committees, which requires that standards shall be updated by the end of the eighth year since the last approval date.

This specification covers the general characteristics of low stretch or static kern mantle ropes used for rescue applications, whatever their constituent material. The rope shall be fabricated from continuous filament heat and light-resistant material of industrial, high tenacity grade. Material used in the construction of life rescue rope shall be sufficient to produce a rope which meets the physical properties and performance requirements specified. Properties such as diameter, minimum breaking strength, elongation, and knotability of a life safety rope shall be determined. All rescue ropes shall have an internal marker running the entire length of the rope which includes at least the name of the manufacturer, the year of manufacture of the rope, the country of origin, and the standards with which the rope complies. All information shall be repeated at least every three feet. All rescue ropes shall include a warning label containing at least the following: a warning that serious death or injury may result from the improper use of the rope, a warning that special training and knowledge are required to use the rope, and a warning that the use and inspection of the rope shall be in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

1.1 This specification covers the general characteristics of low stretch or static kernmantle ropes used for rescue applications, whatever their constituent material. This specification does not apply to dynamic rope intended for lead climbing.

1.2 This specification covers small diameter sizes commonly used in life safety applications. These include sizes 7 to 16 mm (⁹/₃₂ to ⁵/₈ in.).

1.3 The values stated in SI units shall be considered as standard. Values in inch-pound units are included for reference.

1.4 In the event of any conflict between the text of this specification and any references cited, the text of this specification takes preference.

1.5 This specification may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.