TOP ROPE BELAY AND LEAD TEST REQUIREMENTS:
All belayers or lead climbers must have a current certification.
We thank you for taking the time to learn safe belay and lead technique.
Certification: Top Rope Belay
Edgeworks will issue a Belay Certification and allow climbers to top rope belay only if the climber meets qualifications and demonstrates the following:
Age and Gear Requirements:- Must be 14 years of age or older.
- UIAA approved harness worn above hip bones and doubled back when required.
- Belay device must be designed/manufactured for belaying; including ATC or grigri.(Homemade belay devices are not permitted, including figure eight descenders, tube style devices without a keeper wire, or rope brakes such as the Munter Hitch)
- Tie a figure 8 follow-through knot to harness attachment point with a minimum 6” tail.
- Proper attachment of locking carabiner to belay device and appropriate belay loop.
- Climber and belayer safety checks prior to climbing.
- Use of appropriate verbal belay communications.
- Proper belaying, taking and lowering techniques without releasing the brake hand.
Certification: Lead Climbing + Belaying
All lead climbers/belayers must be lead certified by gym staff. The lead test is on a 5.9 route (or harder). Lead climbers/belayers must demonstrate the following:
Lead Belaying:- All regular belay rules above must be followed.
- Belayer must spot the climber prior to the first clip.
- Belayer must stand into the wall to ensure that the rope does not catch the climbers leg/body during a fall or pull belayer into the wall.
- Belayer must be attentive and communicate with lead climber.
- Belayer must catch a leader fall without losing control and with minimal rope play.
- Leader must clip all quickdraws, in order and proper direction.
- Leader must demostrate incorrect clipping (back-clipping and z-clipping).
- Leader must appear safe.
- Leader must be willing to take a reasonable fall.
