oSIST prEN IEC 62192-1:2026

Rope for electrical work - Part 1: work within the live working zone or in contact with live parts

Corde pour travaux électriques - Partie 1: Travaux dans la zone de travaux sous tension ou au contact avec des parties actives

Vrv za električna dela - 1. del: Delo v območju pod napetostjo ali v stiku z deli pod napetostjo

General Information

• Status: Not Published
• Public Enquiry End Date: 30-May-2026
• ICS: 13.260 - Protection against electric shock. Live working
• ICS: 29.240.20 - Power transmission and distribution lines
• ICS: 29.260.99 - Other electrical equipment for working in special conditions
• Technical Committee: DPN - Live Working
• Current Stage: 4020 - Public enquire (PE) (Adopted Project)
• Start Date: 20-Mar-2026
• Due Date: 07-Aug-2026
• Ref Project: prEN IEC 62192-1:2026 - Rope for electrical work - Part 1: work within the live working zone or in contact with live parts

Relations

• Splited From: SIST EN 62192:2009 - Live working - Insulating ropes
• Effective Date: 27-Jan-2026

Overview

oSIST prEN IEC 62192-1:2026 sets out requirements for insulating ropes intended for electrical work, specifically in applications involving work within live working zones or in direct contact with live parts up to 800 kV AC. Developed by CLC and IEC TC 78, this international standard provides specifications and testing criteria for Category 1 insulating ropes, which are essential tools for live working safety in power transmission and distribution. By establishing uniform requirements, the standard helps ensure reliable performance, durability, and user safety when ropes are relied upon for dielectric protection during energized operations.

Key Topics

• Scope of Application: Applies to ropes used for live working procedures requiring direct insulated contact with energized equipment and conductors. Focuses on Category 1 insulating ropes, which must meet rigorous electrical and mechanical performance criteria.
• Types of Ropes: Distinguishes between:
  • Type 1: Extruded thermoplastic jacket ropes.
  • Type 2: Overlay finish ropes (e.g. wax or coating enhancing dielectric properties).
• Physical and Dimensional Requirements:
  • Mandates strict tolerances on rope diameter and circumference.
  • Requires ropes to be free of contamination or manufacturing defects.
• Electrical Properties: Details requirements for dielectric performance under both dry and wet conditions.
• Mechanical Properties: Manufacturers must provide data on minimum breaking strength, elongation, and performance under load, referencing ISO 2307.
• Marking and Traceability:
  • Permanent and durable marking including product type, manufacturer, year, category, batch/serial number, and relevant performance ratings.
  • Must include the IEC 60417-5216 "Suitable for live working" double triangle symbol.
• Instructions for Use and Maintenance: Comprehensive user guidance must cover:
  • Proper storage and handling conditions.
  • Cleaning and inspection protocols.
  • Procedures for periodic testing and retirement criteria.
• Testing Requirements: Specifies methods for type testing, lot testing, and in-service validation, including both electrical and mechanical assessments for compliance.

Applications

Insulating ropes for live electrical work are critical for a range of safety-oriented activities in the power and utility sectors. Their primary applications include:

• Live working: Performing maintenance or installation on energized lines and equipment, using ropes as insulating tag lines, hand lines, or lifelines to protect workers from electrical hazards.
• Stringing and pulling conductors: Allowing safe manipulation of conductors and equipment during network construction or repair.
• Bare hand and helicopter techniques: Supporting advanced live working methods, including rescue, escape, and rope access procedures where insulation is vital.
• Tree trimming and right-of-way maintenance: Enhancing safety when working near energized distribution systems.
• Rescue operations: Providing an insulated means for emergency evacuation of personnel from energized areas.

Organizations using Category 1 insulating ropes must integrate them into their electrical safety programs, ensure staff are properly trained, and perform periodic rope inspections and dielectric testing according to the manufacturer's and standard’s guidance.

Related Standards

oSIST prEN IEC 62192-1:2026 references and aligns with several key international standards, ensuring compatibility and comprehensive safety coverage:

• IEC 60743 - Terminology for live working tools and equipment.
• IEC 60060-1 - High-voltage test techniques.
• IEC 60855-1 - Insulating foam-filled tubes and rods.
• IEC 61318 - Assessment of defects for live working equipment.
• IEC 61477 - Minimum requirements for utilization of tools and equipment in live working.
• ISO 2307 - Determination of physical and mechanical properties of fiber ropes.
• ASTM F1701 - Specification for unused rope with special electrical properties.
• Relevant IEEE and Cordage Institute documents (for recommended practices and maintenance guidance).

These related standards provide additional context for testing, maintenance, and terminology, supporting the safe selection, application, and management of insulating ropes in electrical environments.

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Keywords: oSIST prEN IEC 62192-1:2026, insulating rope, live working, electrical safety, dielectric rope, power transmission, electrical work, ropes for energized equipment, standardization, IEC, CLC, live parts, utility safety equipment, rope testing.

Standards Content (Sample)

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-maj-2026
Vrv za električna dela - 1. del: Delo v območju pod napetostjo ali v stiku z deli pod
napetostjo
Rope for electrical work - Part 1: work within the live working zone or in contact with live
parts
Corde pour travaux électriques - Partie 1: Travaux dans la zone de travaux sous tension
ou au contact avec des parties actives
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN IEC 62192-1:2026
ICS:
13.260 Varstvo pred električnim Protection against electric
udarom. Delo pod napetostjo shock. Live working
29.240.20 Daljnovodi Power transmission and
distribution lines
29.260.99 Druga električna oprema za Other electrical equipment for
delo v posebnih razmerah working in special conditions
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

78/1552/CDV
COMMITTEE DRAFT FOR VOTE (CDV)
PROJECT NUMBER:
IEC 62192-1 ED1
DATE OF CIRCULATION: CLOSING DATE FOR VOTING:
2026-03-13 2026-06-05
SUPERSEDES DOCUMENTS:
78/1540/RR
IEC TC 78 : LIVE WORKING
SECRETARIAT: SECRETARY:
France Mr Jonathan HIRTZ
OF INTEREST TO THE FOLLOWING COMMITTEES: HORIZONTAL FUNCTION(S):

ASPECTS CONCERNED:
Electricity transmission and distribution,Safety
SUBMITTED FOR CENELEC PARALLEL VOTING NOT SUBMITTED FOR CENELEC PARALLEL VOTING
Attention IEC-CENELEC parallel voting
The attention of IEC National Committees, members of
CENELEC, is drawn to the fact that this Committee Draft for
Vote (CDV) is submitted for parallel voting.
The CENELEC members are invited to vote through the
CENELEC online voting system.
This document is still under study and subject to change. It should not be used for reference purposes.
Recipients of this document are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which
they are aware and to provide supporting documentation.
Recipients of this document are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant “In Some Countries”
clauses to be included should this proposal proceed. Recipients are reminded that the CDV stage is the final stage for
submitting ISC clauses. (SEE AC/22/2007 OR NEW GUIDANCE DOC).

TITLE:
Rope for electrical work – Part 1: work within the live working zone or in contact with live parts

PROPOSED STABILITY DATE: 2028
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IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
CONTENTS
Contact . 2
CONTENTS . 1
FOREWORD . 4
INTRODUCTION . 7
1 Scope . 9
2 Normative references . 9
3 Terms and definitions . 9
3.1 Terms and definitions. 10
3.2 Abbreviated terms, symbols and units . 11
4 Requirements . 11
4.1 General . 11
4.2 Physical and dimensional . 11
4.2.1 General . 11
4.2.2 Physical . 12
4.2.3 Dimensional . 12
4.3 Electrical . 12
4.4 Mechanical . 12
4.5 Marking . 12
4.6 Instructions for use, maintenance, and care . 13
5 Tests . 13
5.1 General . 13
5.2 Atmospheric conditions . 13
5.3 Visual verification and dimensional checking. 14
5.3.1 Visual verification . 14
5.3.2 Dimensional check. 14
5.4 Electrical tests . 14
5.4.1 General . 14
5.4.2 Leakage current under dry conditions – Category 1 insulating rope . 15
5.4.3 Leakage current after water conditioning – Category 1 insulating rope . 21
5.5 Determination of break strength after wet electrical test . 22
5.6 Durability of marking – Type 1 and Type 2 insulating rope . 23
5.7 Verification of the required instructions for use . 23
6 Method of assessment of defects and verification of performance applicable to
insulating ropes during the production phase . 23
6.1 General . 23
6.2 Verification method for insulating ropes during the production phase . 23
6.3 Alternative means to test insulating ropes during the production phase . 23
7 Test report . 24
8 Modifications . 24
Annex A (informative) Rain Testing for Category 1 Insulating Ropes . 25
A.1 Ropes with insulating properties for rain . 25
A.2 Moisture absorption tests . 25
A.3 Test procedure. 25
A.4 Acceptance criteria . 25
A.5 Capillary absorption test . 25
A.6 Test procedure. 25
IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
A.7 Acceptance criteria . 25
A.8 Wet electrical tests . 25
A.9 Dielectric tests before and after wet conditioning . 25
A.10 Rise of current I1 and phase shift φ1 before wet conditioning . 26
A.11 Acceptance criteria . 26
A.12 Peak I2 and phase shift φ2 after wet conditioning . 26
A.13 Acceptance criteria . 27
A.14 Dielectric test under rain . 27
A.15 Acceptance criteria . 27
A.16 Dielectric test after mechanical fatigue . 28
A.17 Test procedure. 28
A.18 Acceptance criteria . 28
Annex B (normative) Suitable for live working; double triangle (IEC 60417-5216 (2002-
10)IEC 60417 [10] ) . 29
Annex C (normative) Markings to identify insulating rope . 30
Annex D (informative) Terminations . 31
Annex E (informative) In-service care and periodic testing . 32
E.1 In-service care and periodic testing - General . 32
E.2 Identification . 32
E.3 Storage . 32
E.3.1 In the field . 32
E.3.2 In the storage room . 32
E.4 Handling . 33
E.5 Periodic testing . 33
E.5.1 Inspection in the field before each use . 33
E.5.2 Periodic high voltage testing – 75 kV AC rms or 105 kV DC . 33
E.6 Application safety factor and working load limit . 34
E.6.1 Dynamic Loading Considerations . 34
E.6.2 Selecting an Appropriate Safety Factor . 35
E.7 Use with capstans or pulleys . 35
E.8 Cleaning, repair, and recycling . 35
E.9 Retirement . 36
Annex F (normative) Chronology of type tests . 37
Annex G (informative) Test requirements and criteria overview for Category 1
insulating ropes . 38
Annex H (normative) Classification of defects . 39
Annex I (informative) Rationale for the classification of defects . 40
Annex J (informative) Summary report of type testing example . 41
Bibliography . 42

Figure 1 – Electrode arrangement for dry and wet electrical testing . 15
Figure 2 – Example of test set up to measure leakage current . 16
Figure 3 – . 17
Figure 4 – Electrical test configuration . 18
Figure 5 – Upper electrode plate and split brass die clamp insert for the insulating rope . 19
Figure 6 – Lower electrode plate and split brass die clamp insert for the insulating rope . 20

IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
Table 1 – Sampling plan . 23
Table F.1 – Chronology and group of test pieces . 37
Table G.1 – Summary of test requirements and criteria for Category 1 insulating ropes . 38
Table H.1 – Classification of defects and corresponding test . 39
Table I.1 – Justification for the type of defect . 40

IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
Rope for electrical work –
Part 1: work within the live working zone or in contact with live parts

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for
standardization comprising all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees).
The object of IEC is to promote international co-operation on all questions concerning
standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To this end and in addition to other
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participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely with the International Organization for
Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by agreement between the two
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2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as
possible, an international consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical
committee has representation from all interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted
by IEC National Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that
the technical content of IEC Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the
way in which they are used or for any misinterpretation by any end user.
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5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies
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6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
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8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced
publications is indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) IEC draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may involve
the use of (a) patent(s). IEC takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or applicability
of any claimed patent rights in respect thereof. As of the date of publication of this document,
IEC [had/had not] received notice of (a) patent(s), which may be required to implement this
document. However, implementers are cautioned that this may not represent the latest
IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
information, which may be obtained from the patent database available at https://patents.iec.ch
and 9) IEC draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may
involve the use of (a) patent(s). IEC takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or
applicability of any claimed patent rights in respect thereof. As of the dat e of publication of this
document, IEC [had/had not] received notice of (a) patent(s), which may be required to
implement this document. However, implementers are cautioned that this may not represent the
latest information, which may be obtained from the patent database available at
https://patents.iec.ch and www.iso.org/patents. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying
any or all such patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such
patent rights.
IEC 62192-1 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 78: Live working. It is an
International Standard.
This edition as part 1 cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2009. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) Define Category 1 insulating ropes which is for direct energized contact (See 3.1.3);
b) Introduce Type 1 for Extruded Thermoplastic Jacket Ropes and Type 2 for Overlay Finish
Ropes (see Introduction);
c) Title was adapted to cover Category 1 insulating ropes;
d) Scope was improved (see 1);
e) Introduction was improved;
f) Normative references adapted to the new scope (see 2);
g) Terms and definitions adjusted (see 3);
h) Requirements reorganized (see 4);
i) Addition of requirements and tests for the mechanical properties to be performed, and
information to be provided by the manufacturer, recognizing that this document specifies
the requirements and tests for the electrical properties of a Category 1 insulati ng rope (see
4.4).
j) Revision of the test requirements of the insulating ropes which include (see 5.4):
1) Same test setup for dry and wet electrical tests;
2) Electrodes which provide capacitive current shielding and a uniform voltage stress;
3) Equal voltage stresses and reduced leakage currents when testing the rope dry and wet
(Type 1);
4) Reduced maximum leakage currents requirement in first minute to avoid mechanical
degradation and perceptible shock (Type 2);
5) Requirement to record the applied voltage and resulting leakage current continuously
during the test;
k) The Annexes were reordered, completed and improved to fit the new structure of the
document (see Contents)
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
XX/XX/FDIS XX/XX/RVD
Full information on the voting for its approval can be found in the report on voting indicated in
the above table.
The language used for the development of this International Standard is English.
IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
This document was drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2, and developed in
accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and ISO/IEC Directives, IEC Supplement, available
at https://www.iec.ch/members_experts/refdocs. The main document types developed by IEC
are described in greater detail at https://www.iec.ch/publications.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under https://webstore.iec.ch in the data related to
the specific document. At this date, the document will be
– reconfirmed,
– withdrawn, or
– revised.
IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
INTRODUCTION
Category 1 insulating ropes designed and manufactured according to this document contribute
to the safety of the users, provided they are used by trained and qualified persons, in
accordance with safe methods of work and the instructions for use.
This document defines the required electrical properties of insulating ropes which already meet
other specifications relating to mechanical strength, physical and construction properties, for
use as an insulating rope, where the dielectric properties of the insulating rope are required or
relied upon, at the power frequency system voltages up to and including 800 kV RMS. The
standard testing is performed to reflect AC conditions.
Insulating ropes are needed when working in an energized environment whether utilizing direct -
contact live working or in work in the live working zone (Category 1). Applications for insulating
ropes include but are not limited to general live working methods, pulling, and stringing of
conductor, bare hand methods, helicopter human external cargo, tree trimming, rescue and
escape, rope access, tag lines and hand lines.
Natural fibres such as cotton, sisal, hemp and manilla or synthetic fibres untreated or uncoated
such as nylon, polyester, liquid crystal polymer and aramid may be unsuitable for this
application, as are any other ropes that exhibit electrical conductivity . Examples of ropes which
are able to meet the requirements of this document are formed from fibres that have an extruded
thermoplastic jacket with sealed ends or other form of coating or additives, such as wax, which
enhances their dielectric and hydrophobic properties.
The purpose of this document is to focus on the insulating ropes that are used to insulate the
workers from direct contact with energized circuits (Category 1). A part 2 document will focus
on ropes used outside of the live working zone (Category 2). This document introduces different
testing methods for Type 1 and Type 2 (Category 1) insulating ropes with different acceptance
criteria.
This document does not propose to address all the safety factors associated with the use of the
insulating rope. It is the responsibility of the user to establish appropriate safety practices. The
end user is responsible to validate the testing data and reports provided by the supplier and to
ensure the conformity and validation prior to choosing an insulating rope and utilizing it in
service. The user is responsible for accurately assessing and testing the dielectric properties
of the rope in service.
The product covered by this document may have an impact on the environment during some or
all stages of its life cycle. These impacts can range from slight to significant, be of short -term
or long-term, and occur at the global, regional, or local level.
This document does not include requirements and test provisions for the manufacturers of the
product, or recommendations to the users of the product for environmental improvement.
However, all parties intervening in its design, manufacture, packaging, distribution, use,
maintenance, repair, reuse, recovery, and disposal are invited to take account of environmental
considerations.
NOTE from IEC: The following items were listed in the bibliography but not cited in the text.
Please find a suitable place to cite them to justify their inclusion in the bibliography:
IEC 60743:2013; Live working - Terminology for tools, devices and equipmentIEC 60743:2013
[1]
IEEE Guide for Maintenance Methods on Energized Power Lines," in IEEE Std 516-2021
(Revision of IEEE Std 516-2009), vol., no., pp.1-159, 13 Jan. 2022, doi:
10.1109/IEEESTD.2022.9678146. [2]
IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
ASTM F1701-12(2018), Standard Specification for Unused Rope with Special Electrical
PropertiesASTM F1701-12(2018) [3]
CI 1401-19: June 2019, Recommended Safety Practices for Use of Fiber Rope, Cordage
Institute[4]
J. Laninga, "Comparative Analysis of Dielectric Insulating Ropes for Live Working," 2 021 IEEE
Conference on Electrical Insulation and Dielectric Phenomena (CEIDP), Vancouver, BC,
Canada, 2021, pp. 426-429, doi: 10.1109/CEIDP50766.2021.9705429. [5]
CI 1500-02: May 2016, Test Methods for Fiber Rope, Cordage InstituteCI 1500-02:2016 [6]
IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
1 Scope
This document covers Category 1 insulating ropes that are utilized during Live Working (LW)
procedures in contact with parts of installations operating at voltages up to and including 800
kV AC. They shall already meet other specifications relating to mechanical strength, physical
and construction properties. Test acceptance criteria in this document are applicable for
insulating ropes with a diameter of 35 mm or less. Insulating ropes with larger diameters may
require increased leakage current criteria and engineering analysis for a particular application.
At the present time, insulating rope options include but are not limited to various styles,
materials, and construction, including extruded thermoplastic jacket ropes with sealed ends and
fibre with overlay/wax coating and additives. Informative Annex A pr ovides guidance for testing
ropes intended for use in rain conditions.
This document covers in-service care and periodic testing. The arc flash properties of the
insulating rope are not evaluated in this document but should be given consideration.
An acceptance test may be arranged between a manufacturer and the end user in order to
demonstrate that the product meets the specifications and requirements of this document.
The scope of this document does not presently include DC testing.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60060-1:2025, High-voltage test techniques - Part 1: General terminology and test
requirements
IEC 60212:2010, Standard conditions for use prior to and during the testing of solid electrical
insulating materials
IEC 60855-1:2016, Live working - Insulating foam-filled tubes and solid rods - Part 1: Tubes
and rods of a circular cross-section
IEC 61318:2021, Live working - Methods for assessment of defects and verification of
performance applicable to tools, devices and equipment
IEC 61477:2009, Live working - Minimum requirements for the utilization of tools, devices and
equipment
ISO 2307:2019, Fibre ropes — Determination of certain physical and mechanical properties
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
– IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org
– ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
3.1 Terms and definitions
3.1.1
energized environment
immediate surroundings of electrical apparatus, equipment and circuits that are or could
become energized
3.1.2
insulating rope
rope made of insulating material specifically designed or adapted, tested and maintained for
live working
Note 1 to entry: Ropes can only be considered insulating if they are free of contamination.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-651:2014 [7], 651-22-20, modified - Note 1 to entry has been added to
refer specifically to live working]
3.1.3
Category 1 insulating rope
Direct Contact ropes
synthetic rope with an extruded thermoplastic jacket or overlay finish designed, manufactured,
tested, and maintained to provide insulation for direct contact or within live working zones
Note 1 to entry: It is intended to come in contact with energized conductors, whether phase to earth or phase to
phase.
3.1.4
Category 2 insulating rope
Vicinity working ropes
synthetic ropes with an extruded thermoplastic jacket or overlay finish designed, manufactured,
tested, and maintained to provide insulation from electromagnetic induction and incidental
contact when working outside of the live working zone
3.1.5
overlay finish rope
oil, emulsion, lubricant, wax or the like applied to a yarn upon completion of textile processing
to enhance the intended performance of the finished fibre rope product
Note 1 to entry: For the application of insulating ropes the intended performance enhancement is the dielectric
properties of the fibre rope.
Note 2 to entry: In the document the overlay finish rope is typically referenced as Type 2.
[SOURCE: CI 1202-13:2013 [8], modified – Note 1 to entry has been added to refer specifically
to live working and arc testing]
3.1.6
extruded thermoplastic jacket rope
rope that is manufactured by the extruding process of forming a thermoplastic jacket outer layer
by drawing through a die
Note 1 to entry: In the document the extruded thermoplastic jacket rope is typically referenced to as Type 1.
[SOURCE: ISO 1968:2004 [9], 4.3.2, modified -The definition has been changed to refer
specially to the extruding process of forming a thermoplastic jacket to the outer layer]
3.1.7
termination
finish of the end of the insulating rope
IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
Note 1 to entry: Because insulating rope has special electrical and hydrophobic properties, the cut ends of the rope
may need special processes to assure the desired properties are not compromised.
Note 2 to entry: Determination as to whether the termination portion is to be considered as insulating shall be made
through testing by the end user or by the manufacturer.
Note 3 to entry: The termination shall be with a blunt cut (often a heat melt) or with an eye (soft eye or with a
thimble) or with a metallic mechanical assembly. Splicing, sewing methods or crimping are the various methods used
to create the eyes.
Note 4 to entry: For certain work methods (such as those involving life support ropes) industry standards do not
allow the use of knots either at terminations or to join ropes together. In cases where exceptions are necessary to
have knots, a proper evaluation should be performed and the WLL should be downgraded accordingly. It is known
that knots reduce rope strength by 40-60% and variations exist depending on which person tied the knot as well as
rope type and other factors.
3.2 Abbreviated terms, symbols and units
LW Live Working
˚C Degree Celsius
µA Microampere
A Ampere
AC Alternating Current
DC Direct Current
kg Kilogram
kV Kilovolt
m Metre
MBS Minimum Break Strength
min Minute
mm Millimetre
RMS Root Mean Square
s Second
W Watt
WLL Working Load Limit
Ω Ohm
4 Requirements
4.1 General
Category 1 insulating ropes covered by this document shall be deemed compliant by passing
all the requirements of clause 4 with results documented in a report of type testing. This shall
include proof that the applied voltage and leakage current were recorded continuously at a
frequency of at least once per second for the entire duration of the test.
Category 1 insulating ropes for direct energized contact are composed of Type 1 ropes, with
extruded thermoplastic jackets and Type 2 ropes with overlay finishes. Unless otherwise
specified the requirements apply to both Type 1 and Type 2 ropes.
4.2 Physical and dimensional
4.2.1 General
This part of the document provides the physical properties and the dimensional requirements
of a Category 1 insulating rope.
IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
4.2.2 Physical
Category 1 insulating ropes shall be free of visual contamination and all manufacturing defects
such as incorrect impregnation or faulty stranding or cabling.
An extruded thermoplastic jacket insulating rope shall have sealed ends. Their surface shall be
free of cuts and holes.
4.2.3 Dimensional
Diameter and circumference of the Category 1 insulating ropes is not given in this document
but a tolerance of ± 10 % is required on the nominal value.
NOTE National or regional standards could specify dimensioning where needed.
4.3 Electrical
Category 1 insulating ropes covered by this document shall have appropriate dielectric
properties under dry and wet conditions (as per 5.4.2 and 5.4.3 ).
4.4 Mechanical
The manufacturers shall provide the mechanical properties of the rope per the following
clause/subclauses of ISO 2307:2019 . At a minimum the manufacturer shall provide the
minimum breaking strength per 4.4, 5, 9.3, 9.7 and 11.5 and elongation at 50 % of t he breaking
strength per 9.6 and 11.4. Insulating ropes which are used in fall arrest systems shall meet the
performance requirements defined for such systems by recognized international standards.
4.5 Marking
The insulating ropes shall be properly identified as Category 1 and either Type 1 or Type 2.
Category 1 insulating ropes covered by this document shall be permanently marked with the
following items:
– name of the manufacturer, or trademark;
– year of manufacture shall be written clearly by 4 digits in the marking.
The following information shall also be supplied, either by a marking or other means on the
insulating rope or on each reel of the insulating rope or each smallest length:
– symbol IEC 60417-5216 (2002-10)– Suitable for live working; double triangle (see Annex
B);
NOTE The exact ratio of the height of the figure to the base of the triangle is 1,43. For the purpose of convenience,
this ratio can be between the values of 1,4 and 1,5.
– required markings for the product label have been added to the annex ( Annex C );
– reference number of the relevant IEC standard immediately adjacent to the symbol with year
of publication (four digits) (IEC 62192-1:2025);
– insulating rope Category 1;
– Type 1 or Type 2;
– serial/batch number;
– diameter;
– minimum breaking strength (MBS);
– working load limit (WLL);
– shelf life;
– service life.
IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
The marking shall be durable, clearly visible, and legible to a person with normal or corrected
vision without additional magnification. At a minimum there shall be one marking per length of
rope.
4.6 Instructions for use, maintenance, and care
Each reel or length of the Category 1 insulating rope shall be supplied with the manufacturer’s
written information and instructions for use, maintenance, and care. These instructions shall be
prepared in accordance with the general provisions given in IEC 61477:2009.
The information and instructions shall include as a minimum:
– instruction of use for a Type 1 or for Type 2 insulating rope;
– instructions for termination and off-cutting of the rope (see Annex D);
– instructions for handling, cleaning, storage, and transportation:
• the insulating ropes shall be always stored in atmospheric conditions as in subclause
5.2 by manufacturers, prior to testing and before use in the field. Extreme changes in
atmospheric conditions shall be avoided. Further guidance can be found in Clause E.3;
• a decrease or loss of insulating performance may occur in cases where insulating rope
is exposed to high humidity environments due to an improper storage condition or due
to prolonged use in such environments, or some other event causing contamination. In
the event of such types of exposure, electrical leakage testing should be carried out in
accordance with Clause E.5 .
– instructions for periodic testing, repair, and disposal of the insulating rope;
– retirement criteria and service cycle (refer to Annex E).
5 Tests
5.1 General
The present standard provides testing provisions to demonstrate compliance of the product to
the requirements of this document. These testing provisions are primarily intended to be used
as Type tests for validation of the Category 1 insulating rope design. Insulating ropes having
completed the production phase shall also be lot tested to the same testing requirements as
described in Clause 6. Testing shall be carried on test pieces as specified below. If one or more
test pieces fail during the type or lot testing, the product has not met the requirements of this
document and may not be used on or near energized equipment. Tests to be completed on 3
representative test (start, middle, end of production run) pieces (refer to Annex F). Dimensions
will vary and shape is to be circular. Two failures constitute a reject but if the failure is due to
test conditions (see following Note), the test can be repeated.
The type tests shall be performed according to the chronological order specified in Annex F.
Annex G provides an overview of the test requirements and criteria for the insulating rope
testing.
NOTE If the failure of the test piece is deemed to be the result of equipment, setup error or operational error the
test can be repeated.
Unless otherwise specified the tests apply to both Type 1 and Type 2 ropes.
5.2 Atmospheric conditions
Unless otherwise stated, the lengths of Category 1 insulating rope to be tested shall be
preconditioned for 4 h ± 0,5 h at a temperature of between 15 °C and 35 °C, with a relative
humidity of less than 70 %.
IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
5.3 Visual verification and dimensional checking
5.3.1 Visual verification
The Category 1 insulating ropes shall be visually checked that the requirements of 4.2 and 4.5
are fulfilled.
When visual verification is specified, it shall be understood to be visual verification by a person
with normal or corrected vision without additional magnification.
The test shall be considered as passed if all the corresponding requirements of clause Clause
4 are fulfilled.
5.3.2 Dimensional check
Nominal diameter and nominal circumference of the Category 1 insulating ropes shall be
measured to check for compliance with 4.2.3.
5.4 Electrical tests
5.4.1 General
Unless otherwise specified, the electrical tests shall be carried out in accordance with IEC
60060-1:2025.
A total of six test pieces are required for the electrical tests. Always handle test samples with
great care, using new and clean protective gloves and avoiding contacting the insulating rope
within the test area (see Figure 1 - B to C). Prior to the testing the insulating ropes shall be pre-
conditioned as defined in 5.2.
For extruded thermoplastic jacket insulating rope, before any electrical testing, a visual
inspection shall be done to verify if the ends are sealed.
IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
Key
A Insulating rope attachment point. Insulators can be used to isolate the insulating rope from other current
paths.
B Upper electrode
C Lower electrode
D Weight attachment point
K Mass 4,5 kg (a spring scale may be used as a substitute)
T Test Length
Figure 1 – Electrode arrangement for dry and wet electrical testing
5.4.2 Leakage current under dry conditions – Category 1 insulating rope
The electrical tests under dry conditions for Category 1, Type 1 and Type 2, insulating ropes
are described in the following clauses.
5.4.2.1 Test Set-up for both dry and wet conditions
The test shall be performed on three test pieces each with a minimum length of 1500 mm. A
voltage of 100 kV RMS shall be applied across a 300 mm length of insulating rope for 5 min
and the leakage current during this period shall be measured (see Figure 2 for example of a
test set-up).
IEC CDV 62192-1 © IEC 2026
Key
1 Rope test piece
2 Shielded wire
3 Faraday box. A shielded container enclosing and guarding the resistor R. Both the screen and the shield of
the measuring lead by-pass R and M, by providing a path for stray capacitive currents to ground.
4 Capacitive (or resistive) divider
R A 100-1000 Ω (depending on the voltmeter measurement sensitivity and the insulating rope characteristics),
50 W wire wound non-inductive resistor is recommended. A 50 W resistor at a minimum is recommended
because a hazardous condition would exist if the resistor failed and created an open circuit.
M Battery operated, true RMS, solid state voltmeter with shielded wires
A Insulating rope attachment point
B Upper electrode
C Lower electrode
D Weight attachment point
E Brass plates
Figure 2 – Example of test set up to measure leakage current
Prior to commencing tests with the test piece, the leakage current shall be measured with no
test piece in the test fixture to determine the background capacitive stray currents. The
measured leakage current shall be less than 6 μA at 100 kV RMS applied across the electrodes
with a 300 mm separation. This test voltage level is independent of the type of rope. If leakage
current of the test fixture exceeds 6 μA, the setup shall be repaired/reconfigured before
proceeding.
NOTE The position of the test setup in relation to grounded walls and the high voltage test supply can influence the
measured leakage current. It is suggested that:
a) Distance between test arrangement and grounded walls:
Distance can be greater t
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