EN 1891 is a European standard that specifies safety requirements and test methods for low stretch kernmantle ropes used in rope access, rescue, and other work-at-height or fall protection systems. It is widely referenced in industries like rope access, rescue services, and caving, where controlled rope descents and ascents are performed.
🔍 What is EN 1891?
EN 1891:1998 is titled:
“Personal protective equipment for the prevention of falls from a height – Low stretch kernmantel ropes.”
It applies to low stretch kernmantle ropes, which have a core (kern) made of fibers providing most of the rope’s strength, and a sheath (mantle) that protects the core.
🧵 Products Applicable to EN 1891
Ropes conforming to EN 1891 are primarily used in:
- Rope access work (industrial climbing)
- Rescue operations
- Caving and speleology
- Work positioning systems
- Fall protection backup systems (not primary fall arrest)
- Tree climbing (arboriculture)
They are not dynamic ropes and should not be used for climbing falls.
🧪 Testing and Requirements of EN 1891
EN 1891 defines two rope types:
| Type | Diameter (mm) | Intended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Type A | ≥10.5 mm and ≤12.0 mm | Main working lines, rescue, positioning |
| Type B | ≥8.5 mm and <10.5 mm | Light-duty tasks, limited use, requires higher skill |
✅ Main Testing Criteria
| Test/Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Sheath Slippage | ≤20 mm after testing |
| Knotability (Flexibility) | Must allow tying of common knots (e.g., figure-8) |
| Shrinkage in Water | <5% length shrinkage after immersion |
| Impact Force Test (Dynamic strength) | Type A: Arrest 5 falls with 100 kg; Type B: 5 falls with 80 kg |
| Static Strength | Type A: ≥22 kN; Type B: ≥18 kN (unaged rope) |
| Static Elongation under Load | <5% elongation at 150 kg load |
| Fall Arrest Performance | Rope must not break or allow excessive fall distance |
| Sheath Slippage Under Tension | Must not exceed threshold values under load cycles |
| Abrasion Resistance | Must survive a number of abrasion cycles with minimal wear |
| Thermal Resistance | Maintains integrity up to 150°C under load |
📦 Labeling Requirements
Ropes must be permanently labeled (or come with labels) including:
- Manufacturer name/trademark
- Year of manufacture
- Type (A or B)
- Diameter
- Standard (EN 1891)
- CE mark
- Unique identification number (for traceability)
🧾 Additional Notes
- EN 1891 ropes are semi-static – they stretch under load, but not as much as dynamic climbing ropes.
- The CE mark under EN 1891 implies that the rope has passed third-party conformity assessment (typically by a notified body).
- Regular inspection and retirement criteria (e.g., cuts, glazing, sheath damage) are essential to maintain compliance.
