Line (Ropework)

A length of rope, cordage or wire assigned to a particular working purpose aboard a vessel.

Once cordage is selected and put to use it is commonly named for its function, such as a sheet, halyard, mooring line, painter or towline. Material, construction, diameter, stretch and termination are chosen for the expected load and handling requirements.

Lines deteriorate through chafe, ultraviolet exposure, heat, chemicals, overload and contamination. Safe handling requires clear leads, suitable fittings and awareness of bights, pinch points and snap-back zones; no line should be assumed suitable for lifting people or arresting a fall.

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