In addition to encompassing the guidance on storage, handling, installation and maintenance, which was first introduced in the last revision, this International Standard also provides discard criteria for those running ropes which are subjected to multi-layer spooling, where both field experience and testing demonstrate that deterioration is significantly greater at the cross-over zones on the drum, than at any other section of rope in the system. It also provides more realistic discard criteria covering decrease in rope diameter and corrosion, and gives one method for assessing the combined effect of deterioration at any position in the rope. When correctly applied, the discard criteria given in this International Standard are aimed at retaining an adequate safety margin. Failure to recognize them can be extremely harmful, dangerous and damaging.