If the fall factor is greater than ___ the rescuer should not use _____ rope.

If the fall factor is greater than ___ the rescuer should not use _____ rope.

• A. 0.5; Dynamic
• B. 0.25; Dynamic
• C. 0.25; Static
• D. 0.5; Static

Answer: (C)

Energy absorption in rope rescue hinges on how far you fall relative to the rope length. The fall factor measures that load: as it increases, more energy must be absorbed by the rope. Static rope has very little stretch, so when the fall factor is above a small threshold, the peak force transmitted through the system becomes high enough to risk rope or anchor failure and serious injury. Dynamic rope, on the other hand, can elongate significantly, absorbing energy and reducing peak forces on both the rope and the rescuer. Therefore, when the fall factor is greater than 0.25, static rope should not be used; dynamic rope is preferred to manage the impact.

Energy absorption in rope rescue hinges on how far you fall relative to the rope length. The fall factor measures that load: as it increases, more energy must be absorbed by the rope. Static rope has very little stretch, so when the fall factor is above a small threshold, the peak force transmitted through the system becomes high enough to risk rope or anchor failure and serious injury. Dynamic rope, on the other hand, can elongate significantly, absorbing energy and reducing peak forces on both the rope and the rescuer. Therefore, when the fall factor is greater than 0.25, static rope should not be used; dynamic rope is preferred to manage the impact.