LOLER older kit + central belt recommendation?

[Mr Fir]

Hello,

It has been a while (4 years) my ropes and harness have been in storage while away around the world. Now back and keen to climb again...but can I use this equipment?

 

I'm looking for a clause of sorts for stored, older kit. I know the history and use of my newer kit (2 years use max) and wouldn't hesitate to use them. However I believe my insurance is tied up with LOLER regs and that wouldn't normally cover them, being 6 years old.

 

Also looking for a reminder/ corrections on my very cobweb memory; ropes and harness 3 years, krabs 5 years. Rigging kit longer?

Any thoughts? Anybody around Edinburgh or the central belt up to the task?

 

Cheers, Fir

[Paddy1000111]

Harnesses (and most fabric gear) usually have a 5 year lifespan from the day it's removed from the packaging or up to 8 years if it was stored. I.e if it was stored for 3 years it could be used for 5. It depends on the manufacturer though. A lot of manufacturers of metal kit like carabiners etc give it an unlimited service life and its life is based on damage/wear/function. AFAIK the lifespan of rigging kit is the same as climbing. Only difference is the loler cert lasts 12 months and not 6. 

 

Ropes vary a lot too. Tuefelberger drenaline for example has a lifespan of 10 years or 8 years in use. If you have it spLIFEd then it's 7 years, if its been slaiced then it's 5 years. 

 

Basically you're going to have to go through your kit, find the manuals online and find the expiry dates

[Mr Fir]

Thanks Paddy, really helpful even when not the answer I was hoping for

 I'll get on the case and then take it to somebody to check and sign off.

For others in the same boat check out;

Contact Us – Tree Research Education and Environmental Service Ltd

TREESLIMITED.CO.UK

 

Edited October 26, 2020 by Mr Fir
adding info