Trapeze and Bar Apparatus Information Page

Introduction 

This document provides essential safety information for the use, inspection, maintenance, and storage for aerial apparatus consisting of cotton rope trapezes, dyna core trapezes, shackle trapezes and metal components. 

Lifespan

Synthetics (not including silks/Hammocks) - 7 years*
Cotton - 5 years*
Metals - Indefinite

Retiring your equipment before these times should be based on regular inspections of your kit, according to the paperwork provided, by a competent person.

We provide logbooks with each piece of kit to aid with inspection and usage logs.

*from date of purchase.

Loading

  • The Working Load Limit (WLL) is calculated from a 5:1 Factor of Safety (FOS) based on damage, not destruction. 

  • Never exceed the manufacturer's WLL. 

Inspection

Dyna core

Keep a log of when you first used your trapeze and a general reference to its usage over its lifespan.

Before each use:

  • Check the connector is correctly inserted through the thimble eye of the Dyneema Core. You can open a gap in the cotton outer rope to visually confirm this.
  • Check the Dyneema is seated on the thimble.
  • Check the splice and whipping is secure on the ropes.
  • Check the ropes for damaged fibres.
  • Check the connectors for any sign of wear.
  • Check the gate is closed on the carabiner
Full Inspection (Every 3 Months) 

  • Check the internal Dyneema Core by opening gaps between the twists in the outer cotton rope. This can be made easier by bending the rope in a U shape.

  • Remove the shackles and check for wear at holes in the bar or on the pin of the shackle. If wear is present, then document and increase frequency of inspections. 5% material loss consider replacing the bar – never exceed 10% material loss on bar.

  • Inspect the thimble eyes on each end of the rope. Check the thimble for wear. Check the Dyneema core closely around the thimble eye for any abrasion of the Dyneema.Check the Dyneema is seated on the thimble

Polysafe

Before each use:

  • Check the PolySafe rope cover for any signs of wear.
  • Check the connectors for any signs of wear.
  • Check that the gate is closed on the carabiner.
  • Using a 4mm allen key, check the pin is locked on the shackle. Do not over-tighten.
  • We recommend you clean and reapply the blue thread lock on the shackles if and when it wears down from disassembly/inspection.

Full Inspection (Every 3 months or 30 hours of use):

  • Check the PolySafe rope cover for any signs of wear. If any wear through the cover is present, discontinue use. You can buy replacement PolySafe rope from Firetoys.

  • Remove the shackles and check for wear in holes in the trapeze bar, and pin of the shackle. If wear is present, then document and increase the frequency of inspections. At 5% material loss, consider replacing the bar. Never exceed 10% material loss. 

  • Remove the carabiners and perform a full inspection, checking for wear and ensuring the gate performs as expected.

Cleaning

Dyna core

For general spot cleaning of your ropes, you can wipe them down gently with a  mild detergent and dry completely before use. Do not submerge the ropes, or soak in  any liquids as it may not dry fully.

PolySafe

  • The polyester cover on the polysafe ropes can be wiped with warm water to remove excess dirt using a moist sponse or cleaning cloth,
  • If further cleaning is required, you can use a mild diluted laundry detergent or dish soap and scrub with a sponge or cloth. Dampen but do not soak.
  • The use of any cleansers that contain chlorine, bleach, disinfectants, solvents or abrasives is not recommended.
  • Use a sponge dipped in warm water to remove suds and soap.
  • Dry at room temperature, preferably in a shaded area with good ventilation.