Which practice protects a rope when rappelling near a sharp edge?

• A. Use edge protection
• B. Rappel angle toward the edge
• C. Skip edge protection
• D. Rely on anchors alone

Answer: (A)

When rappelling near a sharp edge, protecting the rope from abrasion is crucial. Placing edge protection creates a barrier between the rope and the edge, so the rope wears on the protector rather than directly on the sharp surface. This distributes the load more evenly and reduces the risk of the rope sheath being cut or worn through as you descend. Make sure the protector stays in place and that the rope slides over it, not directly over the edge, so you maintain a smooth, safe path. Other options increase wear or don't address the contact with the edge, so edge protection is the best practice in this situation.