What should be done with natural fiber ropes that show signs of mold or mildew?

Natural fiber ropes that exhibit signs of mold or mildew should be immediately removed from service for several important reasons. Mold and mildew can compromise the integrity and strength of the rope, leading to potential failure during use. The presence of these growths signifies that the rope has been exposed to moisture and possibly not maintained properly, increasing the risk of degradation.

Removing the rope from service protects both safety and operational effectiveness. While cleaning might remove the visible signs of mold, it does not guarantee that the structural integrity of the rope has not been compromised. Sterilization may not be effective either, as it could still leave the rope weakened. Further inspection might provide more information on the condition of the rope, but if mold or mildew is present, the safest and most responsible course of action is to remove the rope from service immediately to prevent any accidents or failures that could occur due to compromised equipment. This approach ensures safety for personnel and mitigates the risk of failure during operations.