This International Standard specifies the general characteristics of fibre ropes and their constituent materials. It is intended to be used in conjunction with the standards for the individual types of fibre rope, which cover the physical properties and specific requirements for that paritcular product type. This International Standard also gives some information on the use of fibre ropes and also on their inspection and retirement criteria. This International Standard does not intend to address all of the safety matters associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user to select a rope type of the size and with the physical properties to meet the requirements of the application and to determine the applicability of regulatory limititations prior to its use.