26 Outcome 6: Climbing Equipment
Outcome/Competency: You will be able to describe the use and care of climbing equipment.
Timing: 1h30
Rationale:
Why is it important for you to learn this skill?
Climbing poles can be dangerous if done incorrectly. Technicians must learn how to select the right climbing equipment for the job including following any applicable regulations and safe climbing procedures. They also need to ensure that they understand how to properly select, fit, and maintain this gear. This knowledge can help prevent severe injury or even death.
Objectives:
To be competent in this area, the individual must be able to:
- Identify and demonstrate the assembly, use and maintenance of climbing gear
Learning Goals
- Describe use, maintenance, and assembly of climbing equipment
- Able to use, maintain and fit climbing safety equipment
Resources
Buckingham MFG super squeeze training video youtube
The adjustable short back belt from buckingham MFG youtube
Introduction:
In this section you will learn about various climbing equipment such as body belts, safety pole straps, fall arrest, climber kits, retractable lanyards and secondary pole straps. You will be presented with concepts and given an opportunity to try on some of the climbing equipment. You will then get an opportunity to test your understanding with short review exercises.
Instructions:
This information is also covered in the climbing course, so it may be treated as a review, or omitted if time is short.
- Cover the following content in each topic as a group (either reading out loud or independently) then give an opportunity to answer any questions.
- As you go through each piece of climbing equipment, give opportunities for students to try them on and help them fit them appropriately.
- Have students do the review questions independently, then take up answers.
Topic: Body Belt (15m)
Examine the physical condition of the belt. Check to make certain the D-rings are solidly fastened to the belt. Any missing rivets should be replaced. Check the buckle and the buckle tongue holes to see if they are in good condition.
Figure 16 Body Belt Certification Tag
The leather tool pouches, and the hook must be in good condition.
Carefully check the seams on the inside of the belt. The leather should not be cracked or cut.
Try the belt on for fit. It should sit firmly but comfortably on your hips. Once on the pole, the belt provides you with an improvised seat sling to lessen some of the weight on your legs.
Figure 17 Body Belt
Other accessories which can be used with the body belt are the tool pouch, back support belt, bolt bag, body belt supporter (more commonly known as a gut strap), and one hook.
Select a belt of the correct size as marked on the manufacturer’s label.
To determine your size, measure your waist from hip bone to hip bone and add two inches. Lay the body belt flat on a table and confirm the belt measurement between the inside edges of each D-ring.
Topic: Safety Pole Strap with Fal