If an escape rope has been exposed to heat or an IDLH environment, what action should be taken?

• A. Replace
• B. Repair
• C. Retire
• D. Inspect

Answer: (A)

Exposure to heat or an IDLH environment can damage escape rope so its strength is no longer reliable, even if the rope looks okay on the outside. Because safety during egress depends on predictable performance, the only appropriate action is to replace the rope with a new, known-good one. Repairing it isn’t a valid option for rescue rope, and relying on inspection cannot guarantee safety since some damage isn’t visible. Retiring the rope from service is appropriate, but the immediate, correct step to ensure a safe ascent or descent is to replace it.