What action should be taken if a rope is found to be frayed?

When a rope is found to be frayed, it significantly compromises the integrity and strength of the rope, which is critical in rope access operations. Using a frayed rope poses a serious risk of failure, which can result in accidents or injuries. Therefore, the safest course of action is to remove the rope from service immediately. This ensures no one is placed at risk of using equipment that could potentially fail during use.

While options like using it with caution or marking it for later inspection might seem practical, they do not prioritize safety and can lead to dangerous situations. Repairing the rope is generally not a viable option either, as most frayed ropes cannot be reliably repaired to a safe standard. The best practice in rope access is always to err on the side of caution and ensure that all equipment is in optimal condition before use.