Knot: Difference between revisions

The tension from the load causes the rope to work back through the knot in the direction of the load.  If this continues far enough the working end will pass into the knot and the knot will unravel and fail.  This behavior in knots can be worsened when the knot is repeatedly strained and let slack, dragged over rough terrain, or subject to repeated impacts such as against a [[mast]] or [[flagpole]].  Even with secure knots some slippage may occur as the knot is first put under real tension.  This can be dealt with by leaving plenty of rope at the working end outside of the knot and by dressing the knot cleanly and tightening it as fully as possible before loading.  In some cases the use of a [[stopper (knot)|stopper knot]] or, even better, a [[backup knot]] can prevent the working end from passing through the knot, but it is generally better to use a more secure knot if one is observed to slip.  In life critical uses backup knots are often added to already secure knots in order to maximize safety.