An operator is inspecting a regular lay wire rope on a mobile crane. They observe several broken wires. Which of the following is the maximum number of randomly distributed broken wires permissible in one rope lay before the rope must be retired according to CSA Z150?

Question: An operator is inspecting a regular lay wire rope on a mobile crane. They observe several broken wires. Which of the following is the maximum number of randomly distributed broken wires permissible in one rope lay before the rope must be retired according to CSA Z150?

Answer options: ✅ Six broken wires in one lay or three broken wires in one strand in one lay.

• Twelve broken wires in one lay or six broken wires in one strand in one lay.
• Three broken wires in one lay or one broken wire in one strand in one lay.
• Nine broken wires in one lay or four broken wires in one strand in one lay.

Correct answer: Six broken wires in one lay or three broken wires in one strand in one lay.

Explanation: CSA Z150, Clause 5.2.2.1 (b) states that a running wire rope shall be retired if there are six randomly distributed broken wires in one rope lay, or three broken wires in one strand in one lay. Exceeding this limit indicates a significant reduction in the rope's strength and integrity, posing an unacceptable safety risk.