Do you use bungee cords on a regular basis? It’s important to handle them with care. Elasticated shock cords may be an everyday piece of equipment, but they can be very dangerous. If used incorrectly, they can lead to serious facial and bodily injuries – and it’s always worth seeking the help of an expert, such as Ropes Direct, to make sure you are using the right cord for the job.
Why are bungee cords dangerous?
Bungee ropes are made from elasticated strands of natural rubber, with metal J-shaped hooks at each end, and this is why they can be dangerous. When in use (i.e. stretched out), tension builds in the elasticated strands and – if this tension is suddenly released – the cord backlashes. It’s possible for it to reach speeds of up to 60mph or more and this can cause serious injury upon impact.
How can I ensure my safety when using a bungee cord?
The goods news is, there are simple steps you can take to promote your safety:
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Know your limits
All bungee cords have a certain level of stretchiness. This is known as the cord’s ‘elongation’ rating and it’s important to note before you start to use your rope. You should never use a shock cord at its maximum elongation, as this can increase the chances of backlash – and, if you’re unsure what length of rope and elongation is best for your needs, our team of experts are always happy to help.
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Invest in bungee hooks
It’s good practice to secure bungee ropes in place using high-quality shock cord hooks – such as those available at Ropes Direct. This will reduce the likelihood of an unexpected release, particularly if you tie the rope securely to the hook and double check it’s positioning before you let go.
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Choose bungee ropes wisely
When buying new elasticated shock cord, always make sure it’s been made in line with relevant safety standards. Here at Ropes Direct, all of our bungee ropes are made in Europe by an ISO:9001 registered manufacturer. They are fully compliant with health and safety regulations and, as such, they are exceptional quality and designed with your safety in mind.
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Check for signs of damage
It may seem like an obvious point, but before you use a bungee cord, always check for any signs of damage. If you do spot a defect – whether that be general wear and tear, frays, cracks or something more – never try to fix it or patch it up. The best option will always be to invest in a new product.
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Be cautious
Of course, mistakes can sometimes happen. But if you’re using a bungee shock cord, you need to be as careful as possible. Try to maintain concentration when securing the rope in place and keep your face (and other vulnerable body parts) out of its potential recoil path – just in case it does release.
Get in touch for a bungee cord to rely on
Bungee cords can sometimes cause injuries. However, most incidents can be avoided – simply by following the steps outlined above and by selecting the right bungee rope for the job.
The team of experts, here at Ropes Direct, demonstrate a wealth of knowledge and experience in this area. Not only will they identify the ideal bungee shock cord for your needs, but they can also offer further advice and tips on how to ensure your safety. So why not get in touch today?
If you’re looking to invest in new elasticated shock cord or shock cord hooks, either give us a call on 01692 671721 or send an email to info@ropesdirect.co.uk and we will respond as soon as possible.