(1) Climbing ropes must be used by employees working aloft in trees. These ropes must have a minimum diameter of 0.5 inch (1.2 cm) with a minimum breaking strength of 2300 pounds (10.2 kN). Synthetic rope must have elasticity of not more than 7 percent.

(2) Rope must be inspected before each use and, if unsafe (for example, because of damage or defect), cannot be used.

(3) Rope must be stored away from cutting edges and sharp tools. Rope contact with corrosive chemicals, gas, and oil must be avoided.

(4) When stored, rope must be coiled and piled, or must be suspended, so that air can circulate through the coils.

(5) Rope ends must be secured to prevent their unraveling.

(6) Climbing rope must not be spliced to effect repair.

(7) A rope that is wet, that is contaminated to the extent that its insulating capacity is impaired, or that is otherwise not considered to be insulated for the voltage involved cannot be used near exposed energized lines.