Actually in the recent NCORC meeting, OYRA planned to follow USS. A productive discussion with a healthy advocacy from SSS (and assist from BAMA) led to a decision to not follow USS.
Some key points discussed and I followed up on some research:
The issue w HMPE is meltdown of lifeline under load by running rigging friction- more of an issue on big boats big conditions and wrong line. There is specific line sold for lifeline which has outer chafe guard layer. This line is also pre-stretched and set (by some polymer) and is difficult to splice by amateurs.
The failure of HMPE is often by DIY spectra (easy to splice) line splices coming undone and improper ferrels in stanchion (need rounded) causing chafing.
Addressed by education and periodic inspection- WIP
A key benefit identified of HMPE is a source of additional longlines in hawaii races for jury rig. A tipping point in the discussion.
http://norcalorc.org/gear