Abstract

This specification covers six mechanical tests, one corrosion resistance test, and the minimum performance requirements for these tests. This specification applies to carabiners designed specifically for use by rescue personnel during both training exercises and actual rescue operations. Two different types of carabiners are defined, a heavy-duty rescue carabiner and a light-duty rescue carabiner. The mechanical tests are: gate function test, gate locking mechanism function load test, major axis gate closed function load test, major axis gate closed ultimate strength test, major axis gate open ultimate strength test, and minor axis gate closed ultimate strength test. Carabiners may disengage or eject parts from the test fixture. Use a safety screen and wear safety glasses while testing.

This abstract is a brief summary of the referenced standard. It is informational only and not an official part of the standard; the full text of the standard itself must be referred to for its use and application. ASTM does not give any warranty express or implied or make any representation that the contents of this abstract are accurate, complete or up to date.

1. Scope

1.1 This specification covers six mechanical tests, one corrosion resistance test, and the minimum performance requirements for these tests. This specification applies to carabiners designed specifically for use by rescue personnel during both training exercises and actual rescue operations. This specification does not apply to recreational use carabiners.

1.2 Two different types of carabiners are defined in this specification, a heavy-duty rescue carabiner and a light-duty rescue carabiner.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.4 Tests contained herein are destructive in nature. Carabiners subjected to any of these tests shall not be used in any way after testing except in evaluation the results of such testing.

1.5 This specification does not imply approval of any method of use of rescue carabiners. In addition, the tests described are laboratory tests and do not duplicate field conditions. Furthermore, the test load values contained herein are not to be interpreted as the forces which a rescue carabiner may be subjected to, or may be expected to sustain, in actual field use.

1.6 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

B117 Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus

E4 Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines

Keywords

carbiners; rescue; rescue operations;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 97.220.40 (Outdoor and water sports equipment)

DOI: 10.1520/F1956-99R05

ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.

ASTM F1956