NFPA 1983-2017 PDF Download

The NFPA 1983-2017 standard is a comprehensive document that establishes minimum requirements for the design, performance, testing, and certification of life safety ropes and associated equipment used by emergency services personnel and civilians during rescue, fire fighting, and other emergency operations or training exercises.

The standard covers various types of equipment, including life safety ropes, personal escape ropes, harnesses, belts, throwlines, and hardware. If a manufacturer combines specified rope and equipment items to create a system, that combination is tested and certified as a whole. However, individual pieces of equipment that are not assembled as a system are certified individually.

In the 2017 edition of NFPA 1983, provisions have been reorganized and updated to facilitate easier access and understanding for members of the fire service. Changes have been made to align requirements in labeling and information, design and construction, and performance. Additionally, corresponding changes in Chapter 1 address the scope and purpose of the standard, paving the way for the proposed NFPA 1858, which is a new standard related to the selection, care, and maintenance of life safety rope and equipment.

To ensure safe and successful emergency operations, it is important for responders to have access to and use the latest edition of NFPA 1983, which provides specifications for top-quality gear that meets the standards outlined in the standard.