Final answer:
Safety rope must be taken out of service if it has sustained an impact load, as this can compromise the rope to a point where it is no longer safe for use in rescue operations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Life safety rope must be removed from service if it has been subjected to an impact load. The safety rope is an essential tool in rescue operations and its integrity is critical for ensuring the safety of both the rescuer and the person being rescued. Safety ropes are designed to withstand certain types of stress and usage, but an impact load can compromise the rope's structure, potentially leading to failure during a critical moment. Such an event could involve the rope bearing a sudden force, as in a fall arrest scenario, which generates significant energy that the rope must absorb. This kind of strain can cause damage that is not always visible, making the rope unreliable for future use. Therefore, a rope that has sustained an impact load should be retired from active duty to prevent accidents.