ASTM F1956-20

Standard Specification for Rescue Carabiners

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.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Gate Function Load Test—This test verifies that the gate can be opened (with the gate locking mechanism in the unlocked position) and that the gate can not be opened (with the gate locking mechanism in the locked position) while loaded with Function Test Force #1 along the major axis.  
5.2 Gate Locking Mechanism Function Load Test—This test verifies that the gate locking mechanism can be unlocked, after Function Test Force #2 has been applied along the major axis and released.  
5.3 Major Axis Gate Closed Function Load Test—This test verifies that the gate functions as originally intended, after Function Test Force #3 has been applied and released.  
5.4 Major Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength Test—This test is intended to show the ultimate strength of the carabiner in the major axis with the gate closed.  
5.5 Major Axis Gate Open Ultimate Strength Test—This test is intended to show the ultimate strength of the carabiner in the major axis with the gate open.  
5.6 Minor Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength Test—This test is intended to show the ultimate strength of the carabiner in the minor axis with the gate closed.  
5.7 Corrosion Test—This test is intended to verify that the carabiner is produced from a corrosion-resistant material, or adequately covered with a protective coating.
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 standard-duty rescue carabiner.  
1.3 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.  
1.4 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.  
1.5 Quality control is solely the responsibility of the manufacturer or purchaser, or both, and is not addressed by this specification.  
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.  
1.7 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles f...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Mar-2020
• ICS: 97.220.40 - Outdoor and water sports equipment
• Technical Committee: F32 - Search and Rescue
• Drafting Committee: F32.01 - Equipment, Testing, and Maintenance

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM F1956-13 - Standard Specification for Rescue Carabiners
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM E4-14 - Standard Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2014
• Refers: ASTM B117-11 - Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2011
• Refers: ASTM E4-10 - Standard Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2010
• Refers: ASTM E4-09a - Standard Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2009
• Refers: ASTM B117-09 - Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Refers: ASTM E4-09 - Standard Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2009
• Refers: ASTM E4-08 - Standard Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Refers: ASTM B117-07a - Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2007
• Refers: ASTM B117-07 - Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2007
• Refers: ASTM E4-07 - Standard Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2007
• Refers: ASTM B117-03 - Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2003
• Refers: ASTM E4-03 - Standard Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
• Effective Date: 10-Aug-2003
• Refers: ASTM E4-02 - Standard Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
• Effective Date: 10-Nov-2002
• Refers: ASTM B117-02 - Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus
• Effective Date: 10-Oct-2002

Overview

ASTM F1956-20: Standard Specification for Rescue Carabiners establishes a comprehensive set of requirements and testing procedures for carabiners specifically designed for use by rescue personnel. This international standard details minimum performance, mechanical, and corrosion resistance criteria, promoting safety and reliability in both training and real-world rescue operations. The specification distinguishes between heavy-duty and standard-duty rescue carabiners, emphasizing products intended for life-supporting functions in demanding environments, such as firefighting, technical rescue, and industrial rescue scenarios.

ASTM F1956-20 applies strictly to professional rescue carabiners-not recreational models-ensuring critical hardware meets consistent performance and durability standards.

Key Topics

The standard covers several essential areas to ensure rescue carabiner quality and safety:

• Mechanical Testing: Six specific tests evaluate the carabiner's performance and structural integrity:

  • 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
  • Minor Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength Test

• Corrosion Resistance: A dedicated test verifies the carabiner’s material or coating provides adequate resistance to corrosion, an essential factor for equipment intended for outdoor or harsh environments.

• Product Marking: Clear, durable labels and symbols must indicate manufacturer, performance ratings (major/minor axis and open gate strengths), and provide instruction references. This ensures traceability and proper application ability in the field.

• Classification of Duty: Differentiates between heavy-duty and standard-duty rescue carabiners, catering to varying operational needs and safety factors.

• Testing Protocols: All outlined tests are destructive, meaning tested carabiners must not be reused. Testing is carried out with precise conditions and fixtures for consistency.

• Safety Precautions: The standard highlights the potential hazards of testing procedures, advising the use of safety screens, personal protective equipment, and best laboratory practices.

Applications

Rescue carabiners certified to ASTM F1956-20 are vital safety components in a wide range of scenarios where reliable human support is needed. Typical applications include:

• Technical Rope Rescue: Used by search and rescue professionals, firefighters, and emergency services to anchor, connect, or support loads in complex rescue systems.
• Industrial Emergency Response: Essential in confined space rescue, high-angle environments, and situations requiring fast, secure connections.
• Firefighting Operations: Provides reliable connections in personal escape systems, lowering operations, and high-rise rescue situations.
• Training and Drills: Ensures rescue teams can confidently and repeatedly practice using carabiners that perform to the same standard as those in real-life emergencies.

By adhering to ASTM F1956-20, organizations ensure they utilize equipment tested to the most relevant and rigorous industry standards for rescue carabiners.

Related Standards

Various standards complement or reference ASTM F1956-20 to provide a comprehensive safety framework for rescue equipment:

• ASTM B117: Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus – referenced for corrosion resistance testing of carabiners.
• ASTM E4: Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines – ensures the accuracy and calibration of force measurement equipment used in mechanical tests.
• NFPA 1983: Standard on Life Safety Rope and Equipment for Emergency Services – often cross-referenced for compatibility and performance expectations in rescue gear.
• EN 362: European Standard for Personal Protective Equipment against Falls from a Height – Connectors.

By following ASTM F1956-20 and related standards, manufacturers, emergency response teams, and safety officers can ensure the reliability and safety of rescue carabiners in critical, life-supporting roles.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:F1956 −20
Standard Specification for
Rescue Carabiners
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1956; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.1 This specification covers six mechanical tests, one
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
corrosion resistance test, and the minimum performance re-
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
quirements for these tests. This specification applies to cara-
biners designed specifically for use by rescue personnel during
2. Referenced Documents
both training exercises and actual rescue operations. This
specification does not apply to recreational use carabiners. 2.1 ASTM Standards:
B117 Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus
1.2 Two different types of carabiners are defined in this
E4 Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
specification, a heavy-duty rescue carabiner and a standard-
duty rescue carabiner.
3. Terminology
1.3 Tests contained herein are destructive in nature. Cara-
3.1 Definitions:
biners subjected to any of these tests shall not be used in any
3.1.1 carabiner—load-bearing, connective device with a
way after testing except in evaluation the results of such
self-closing gate.
testing.
3.1.2 durably affıxed—manner of attaching information di-
1.4 This specification does not imply approval of any
rectly to the product which endures for the life of the product.
method of use of rescue carabiners. In addition, the tests
3.1.3 heavy-duty rescue carabiner—carabiner that meets the
described are laboratory tests and do not duplicate field
specifications for a heavy-duty rescue carabiner as defined in
conditions. Furthermore, the test load values contained herein
Section 9.
are not to be interpreted as the forces which a rescue carabiner
may be subjected to, or may be expected to sustain, in actual
3.1.4 locking carabiner—carabiner with a locking mecha-
field use.
nism that reduces the possibility of a gate being opened
inadvertently. A locking mechanism requires at least two
1.5 Quality control is solely the responsibility of the manu-
different consecutive manual actions to open the gate (one
facturer or purchaser, or both, and is not addressed by this
manual action to release the gate locking mechanism and one
specification.
different manual action to open the carabiner gate).
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the
3.1.5 non-locking carabiner—any carabiner that does not
standard.
have a locking mechanism that reduces the possibility of a gate
1.7 This standard may involve hazardous materials,
being opened inadvertently.
operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to
3.1.6 rescue carabiner—carabiner intended for life support
address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its
in rescue systems. It may be classified as heavy-duty or
use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to
standard-duty.
establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental prac-
3.1.7 standard-duty rescue carabiner—carabiner that meets
tices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations
prior to use. the specifications for a standard-duty rescue carabiner as
defined in Section 9.
1.8 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
3.1.8 ultimate strength—maximum force sustained by a
carabiner during an ultimate force test, prior to failure.
This specification is under the jurisdiction ofASTM Committee F32 on Search
and Rescue and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F32.01 on Equipment,
Testing, and Maintenance. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved April 1, 2020. Published June 2020. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1999. Last previous edition approved in 2013 as F1956 - 13. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/F1956-20. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1956−20
3.1.8.1 failure—point at which some part of the carabiner range, and calibrated periodically in accordance with the latest
physically breaks or distorts to an extent that the test members revision of Practices E4.
are released.
6.2 Test Fixtures and Supplies:
6.2.1 There are four test pins required, two test pins with 6
4. Requirements
6 0.05-mm radii and two test pins with 5 6 0.05-mm radii.
4.1 Product information shall include the following items:
Test pins must be AISI SAE Type 01 Tool Steel (commonly
4.1.1 Manufacturer’s or Distributor’s Name or Logo—A
purchased as 01 Drill Rod) heat treated to a minimum
clear indication as to who is responsible for the primary
Rockwell hardness, C scale 60. The mean surface roughness,
manufacture or distribution, or both, of the product.
Ra must not exceed 0.8 µm and the peak to valley height.
4.1.2 Major Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength—A clear
Rmax, must not exceed 6.3 µm. The fixture must be designed
indication as to the major axis gate closed strength by either
to prevent the test pins from rotating and so that the carabiner
symbol or pictorial representation.
isfreetolocateitselfonthetestpinswhenforceisapplied.See
4.1.3 Minor Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength—A clear
Figs. 1 and 2.
indication as to the minor axis gate closed ultimate strength by
NOTE 1—Test pin cross section is not required to be round. Any cross
either symbol or pictorial representation.
section necessary to prevent test pin failure or any design to prevent test
4.1.4 Major Axis Gate Open Ultimate Strength—A clear
pin rotation is acceptable, as long as the contact point (between test pin
indication as to the major axis gate open ultimate strength by
and carabiner) of the test pin has the specified radius, material type,
either symbol or pictorial representation. hardness, and surface roughness.
4.1.5 Lot Number—A manufacturer’s or distributor’s lot
6.2.2 Molybdenum-Based Grease.
number.
6.3 Test Conditions:
4.1.6 Either symbol or pictorial representation to read the
6.3.1 The ambient temperature, test samples, test fixture,
manufacturer’s or distributor’s instructions.
and supplies shall be between 15 and 23°C [59 and 73°F].
4.2 Lettering,symbols,andpictorialrepresentationsshallbe
6.3.2 All six mechanical tests must be conducted with the
durably affixed to the carabiner.
force applied parallel to the gravitational pull of the earth.
4.3 Lettering,symbols,andpictorialrepresentationsshallbe
7. Hazards
a minimum of 2 mm ( ⁄64 in.) in height.
7.1 Carabiners may disengage or eject parts from the test
5. Significance and Use
fixture. Use a safety screen and wear safety glasses while
5.1 Gate Function Load Test—This test verifies that the gate
testing. Do not perform these tests alone.
can be opened (with the gate locking mechanism in the
unlocked position) and that the gate can not be opened (with
the gate locking mechanism in the locked position) while
loaded with Function Test Force #1 along the major axis.
5.2 Gate Locking Mechanism Function Load Test—This test
verifies that the gate locking mechanism can be unlocked, after
Function Test Force #2 has been applied along the major axis
and released.
5.3 Major Axis Gate Closed Function Load Test—This test
verifies that the gate functions as originally intended, after
Function Test Force #3 has been applied and released.
5.4 Major Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength Test—This
test is intended to show the ultimate strength of the carabiner
in the major axis with the gate closed.
5.5 Major Axis Gate Open Ultimate Strength Test—This test
is intended to show the ultimate strength of the carabiner in the
major axis with the gate open.
5.6 Minor Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength Test—This
test is intended to show the ultimate strength of the carabiner
in the minor axis with the gate closed.
5.7 Corrosion Test—This test is intended to verify that the
carabiner is produced from a corrosion-resistant material, or
adequately covered with a protective coating.
6. Apparatus and Conditions
6.1 Test Apparatus—The test apparatus shall be maintained
in good operation condition, used only in the proper loading FIG. 1Major Axis Test Setup
F1956−20
with the same quality and performance as before the test. (The
use of tools or any device other than finger pressure is not
allowed).
9.1.2 With the gate locking mechanism in the locked posi-
tion and Function Test Force #1 applied along the major axis,
the gate must not open. (The use of tools or any device other
than finger pressure is not allowed.)
9.2 Gate Locking Mechanism Function Load Test—When a
locking carabiner’s gate locking mechanism is advanced to
its’s fully locked position, while the Function Test Force #2 is
applied along the major axis. The gate locking mechanism
must be able to be returned to it’s unlocked position after the
force is removed. (The use of tools or any device other than
finger pressure is not allowed.)
9.3 Major Axis Gate Closed Function Load Test—Each of
the carabiners subjected to Function Test Force #3 shall show
no evidence of distortion that impairs the designed function
after the test is conducted.
NOTE 1—Dimensions in millimeters.
9.4 Major Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength Test—Each
FIG. 2Minor Axis Test Pin Location
of the carabiners subjected to this test shall have an ultimate
strength equal to or greater than the major axis gate closed
minimum ultimate strength listed in Table 1.
8. Sampling
9.5 Major Axis Gate Open Ultimate Strength Test—Each of
8.1 Sample Selection—Randomly select the carabiners from
the carabiners subjected to this test shall have an ultimate
the same production lot in accordance with 8.2.2. Each user of
strength equal to or greater than the major axis gate open
this test method may specify the lot size from which the
minimum ultimate strength listed in Table 1.
carabiners are to be selected.
8.2 Number of Samples: 9.6 Minor Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength—Each of the
8.2.1 The same number of carabiners must be used for each carabiners subjected to this test shall have an ultimate strength
of the tests in this specification. equal to or greater than the minor axis gate closed minimum
8.2.2 A minimum of five carabiners will be used, in ultimate strength listed in Table 1
sequence, for the Gate Function Load Test, Gate Locking
9.7 Corrosion Test—Each of the carabiners subjected to the
Mechanism Function Load Test, Major Axis Gate Closed
corrosion test shall not have more than light-surface corrosion
Function Load Test, and Major Axis Gate Closed Ultimate
following the test. In addition, each carabiner gate shall open
Strength Test. A minimum of five carabiners will be used for
and close with the same quality and performance as before the
the MajorAxis Gate Open Ultimate Strength Test.Aminimum
test. (The use of tools or any device other than finger pressure
of five carabiners will be used for the MinorAxis Gate Closed
is not allowed.) Furthermore, each gate locking mechanism
Ultimate Strength Test. A minimum of five carabiners will be
must be able to move through its full range of travel with the
used for the Corrosion Test.
same quality and performance as before the test. (The use of
8.2.3 Label the randomly selected carabiners 1 through X
tools or any device other than finger pressure is not allowed.)
(X being the total number of carabiners sele
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: F1956 − 13 F1956 − 20
Standard Specification for
Rescue Carabiners
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1956; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
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-dutystandard-
duty rescue carabiner.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.
1.3 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.
1.4 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.
1.5 Quality control is solely the responsibility of the manufacturer or purchaser, or both, and is not addressed by this
specification.
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.
1.7 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 safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
B117 Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Apparatus
E4 Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 carabiner—a load-bearing, connective device with a self-closing gate.
3.1.2 heavy-duty rescue carabiner—durably affıxed—a carabiner that meets the specifications for a heavy-duty rescue carabiner
as defined in Section manner of attaching information directly to the product which endures for the life of the product.9.
3.1.3 light-dutyheavy-duty rescue carabiner—a carabiner that meets the specifications for a light-dutyheavy-duty rescue
carabiner as defined in Section 9.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F32 on Search and Rescue and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F32.01 on Equipment, Testing,
and Maintenance.
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2013April 1, 2020. Published February 2014June 2020. Originally approved in 1999. Last previous edition approved in 20052013 as
F1956 - 99 (2005).F1956 - 13. DOI: 10.1520/F1956-13.10.1520/F1956-20.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1956 − 20
3.1.4 locking carabiner—a carabiner with a locking mechanism whichthat reduces the possibility of a gate being opened
inadvertently. A locking mechanism requires at least two different consecutive manual actions to open the gate (see(one Appendix
X2).manual action to release the gate locking mechanism and one different manual action to open the carabiner gate).
3.1.5 non-locking carabiner—any carabiner that does not have a locking mechanism that reduces the possibility of a gate being
opened inadvertently.
3.1.6 rescue carabiner—a carabiner intended for life support in rescue systems. It may be classified as heavy-typeheavy-duty
or light duty.standard-duty.
3.1.7 standard-duty rescue carabiner—carabiner that meets the specifications for a standard-duty rescue carabiner as defined in
Section 9.
3.1.8 ultimate strength—the maximum force sustained by a carabiner during an ultimate force test, prior to failure.
3.1.8.1 failure—the point at which some part of the carabiner physically breaks or distorts to an extent that the test members
are released.
4. Requirements
4.1 Product information shall include the following items:
4.1.1 Manufacturer’s or Distributor’s Name or Logo—A clear indication as to who is responsible for the primary manufacture
or distribution, or both, of the product.
4.1.2 Major Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength—A clear indication as to the major axis gate closed strength by either symbol
or pictorial representation.
4.1.3 Minor Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength—A clear indication as to the minor axis gate closed ultimate strength by either
symbol or pictorial representation.
4.1.4 Major Axis Gate Open Ultimate Strength—A clear indication as to the major axis gate open ultimate strength by either
symbol or pictorial representation.
4.1.5 Lot Number—A manufacturer’s or distributor’s lot number.
4.1.6 Either symbol or pictorial representation to read the manufacturer’s or distributor’s instructions.
4.2 Lettering, symbols, and pictorial representations shall be durably affixed to the carabiner.
4.3 Lettering, symbols, and pictorial representations shall be a minimum of 2 mm ( ⁄64 in.) in height.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Gate Function Load Test—This test verifies that the gate can be opened (with the gate locking mechanism in the unlocked
position) and that the gate can not be opened (with the gate locking mechanism in the locked position) while loaded with Function
Test Force #1 along the major axis.
5.2 Gate Locking Mechanism Function Load Test—This test verifies that the gate locking mechanism can be unlocked, after
Function Test Force #2 has been applied along the major axis and released.
5.3 Major Axis Gate Closed Function Load Test—This test verifies that the gate functions as originally intended, after Function
Test Force #3 has been applied and released.
5.4 Major Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength Test—This test is intended to show the ultimate strength of the carabiner in the
major axis with the gate closed.
5.5 Major Axis Gate Open Ultimate Strength Test—This test is intended to show the ultimate strength of the carabiner in the
major axis with the gate open.
5.6 Minor Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength Test—This test is intended to show the ultimate strength of the carabiner in the
minor axis with the gate closed.
5.7 Corrosion Test—This test is intended to verify that the carabiner is produced from a corrosion-resistant material, or
adequately covered with a protective coating.
6. Apparatus and Conditions
6.1 Tensile Test Machine—Apparatus—The tension testing machine test apparatus shall be maintained in good operation
condition, used only in the proper loading range, and calibrated periodically in accordance with the latest revision of Practices E4.
6.2 Test Fixtures and Supplies:
6.2.1 There are four test pins required, two test pins with 6 6 0.05-mm radii and two test pins with 5 6 0.05-mm radii. Test
pins must be AISI SAE Type 01 Tool Steel (commonly purchased as 01 Drill Rod) heat treated to a minimum Rockwell hardness,
C scale 60. The mean surface roughness, Ra must not exceed 0.8 μm and the peak to valley height. Rmax, must not exceed 6.3
μm. The fixture must be designed to prevent the test pins from rotating and so that the carabiner is free to locate itself on the test
pins when force is applied. See Figs. 1 and 2.
F1956 − 20
FIG. 1 Major Axis Test Setup
NOTE 1—Dimensions in millimeters.
FIG. 2 Test Fixture Minor Axis Test Pin Location
NOTE 1—Test pin cross section is not required to be round. Any cross section necessary to prevent test pin failure or any design to prevent test pin
rotation is acceptable, as long as the contact point (between test pin and carabiner) of the test pin has the specified radius, material type, hardness, and
surface roughness.
6.2.2 Molybdenum-Based Grease.
6.3 Test Conditions:
6.3.1 The ambient temperature, test samples, test fixture, and supplies shall be between 15 and 23°C [59 and 73°F].
6.3.2 All six mechanical tests must be conducted with the force applied parallel to the gravitational pull of the earth.
F1956 − 20
7. Hazards
7.1 Carabiners may disengage or eject parts from the test fixture. Use a safety screen and wear safety glasses while testing. Do
not perform these tests alone.
8. Sampling
8.1 Sample Selection—Randomly select the carabiners from the same production lot in accordance with 8.2.2. Each user of this
test method may specify the lot size from which the carabiners are to be selected.
8.2 Number of Samples:
8.2.1 The same number of carabiners must be used for each of the tests in this specification.
8.2.2 A minimum of five carabiners will be used, in sequence, for the Gate Function Load Test, Gate Locking Mechanism
Function Load Test, Major Axis Gate Closed Function Load Test, and Major Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength Test. A minimum
of five carabiners will be used for the Major Axis Gate Open Ultimate Strength Test. A minimum of five carabiners will be used
for the Minor Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength Test. A minimum of five carabiners will be used for the Corrosion Test.
8.2.3 Label the randomly selected carabiners 1 through X (X being the total number of carabiners selected).
9. Performance Specifications
9.1 Gate Function Load Test:
9.1.1 With the gate locking mechanism in the unlocked position and Function Test Force #1 applied along the major axis, each
carabiner gate shall open and close as designed and with the same quality and performance as before the test. The(The use of tools
or any device other than finger pressure is not allowed.allowed).
9.1.2 With the gate locking mechanism in the locked position and Function Test Force #1 applied along the major axis, the gate
must not open. (The use of tools or any device other than finger pressure is not allowed.)
9.2 Gate Locking Mechanism Function Load Test—When a locking carabiner’s gate locking mechanism is advanced to its’s
fully locked position, while the Function Test Force #2 is applied along the major axis. The gate locking mechanism must be able
to be returned to it’s unlocked position after the force is removed. (The use of tools or any device other than finger pressure is not
allowed.)
9.3 Major Axis Gate Closed Function Load Test—Each of the carabiners subjected to Function Test Force #3 shall show no
evidence of distortion that impairs the designed function after the test is conducted.
9.4 Major Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength Test—Each of the carabiners subjected to this test shall have an ultimate strength
equal to or greater than the major axis gate closed minimum ultimate strength listed in Table 1.
9.5 Major Axis Gate Open Ultimate Strength Test—Each of the carabiners subjected to this test shall have an ultimate strength
equal to or greater than the major axis gate open minimum ultimate strength listed in Table 1.
9.6 Minor Axis Gate Closed Ultimate Strength—Each of the carabiners subjected to this test shall have an ultimate strength
equal to or greater than the minor axis gate closed minimum ultimate strength listed in Table 1
9.7 Corrosion Test—Each of the carabiners subjected to the corrosion test shall not have more than light-surface corrosion
following the test. In addition, each carabiner gate shall open and close with the same quality and performance as before the test.
(The use of tools or any device other than finger pressure is not allowed.) Furthermore, each gate locking mechanism must be ab
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