This International Standard specifies the minimum practical design factors, Z_p, for the various classifications of mechanism, rope types, rope duties and types of spooling and demonstrates how these are used in the determination of the minimum breaking force of the wire rope.

It specifies the selection factors for drums and sheaves for the various classifications of mechanisms, rope types and rope duties and how these are used in the determination of the minimum practical diameters of drums and sheaves that work in association with the selected wire rope.

A list of types of cranes and hoists to which this standard applies is given in Annex A.

Annex B gives factors, additional to those mentioned above, which might need consideration when selecting the wire rope and associated equipment.