What is the rated strength of Water Rescue Throwline?

• A. 13.5 kN
• B. 40 kN
• C. 12 kN
• D. 8 kN

Answer: (C)

Rated strength is the maximum load a rescue line is designed to withstand before it may fail. For Water Rescue Throwline, the standard breaking strength is 12 kN, about 2700 pounds. This value reflects a safety margin for the dynamic forces that can occur when rescuers pull on the line to retrieve a person, while keeping the line light and easy to throw. A lower rating, like 8 kN, could fail under sudden loads, while a higher rating such as 13.5 kN or 40 kN would add unnecessary weight and stiffness for a throwline. So 12 kN is the typical, practical rating used for these lines.