In ascending and descending situations, which type of rope is considered as backup?

In the context of rope access work, low stretch rope serves as the recognized backup option during ascending and descending scenarios. This type of rope is designed to have minimal elasticity, which significantly reduces the amount of stretch and potential fall distance in the event of an emergency or equipment failure. By minimizing stretch, low stretch rope enhances the safety of rope access technicians by providing a more reliable backup line that will maintain tension and stay secure under load.

Static ropes, while often used in other contexts, do not provide the resilience needed for dynamic situations where quick adjustments may be necessary. High stretch rope, on the other hand, can create excessive movement during a fall, leading to longer drop distances, which can jeopardize safety. Dynamic rope is primarily utilized in climbing situations where the ability to absorb impact forces is essential, and it is not suited for the controlled environments of rope access work where predictable dynamics are crucial.