prca standards september 2008

PROFESSIONAL ROPES COURSE ASSOCIATION Ropes Challenge Course and Zip Line Canopy Tour (Adventure Aerial Park) Standards – September 2008 version Copyright © 2003 – 2008 : Ownership and ALL Rights Reserved. www.prcainfo.org

One licensed copy may be used by current PRCA Members ONLY. Proof of membership must accompany this document at all times. No other copies or electronic files may be retained without the written consent of the PRCA.

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Ropes Challenge Course Installation & Operational

S T A N D A R D S Ropes Challenge Course and Zip Line Canopy Tours (Installation, Operation, Training)

SEPTEMBER 2008



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Preface:

The purpose of document is to develop user friendly standards, ropes challenge course documents, and to define, document and outline the construction / operational practices for the ropes challenge course industry; specifically that of best practices. These standards will be used for course evaluations, insurance criteria, and professional development. This document is created using information known at the time of its inception. Further, as new information and techniques become available, this document will be updated. These standards are descriptive of practices as we understand them and are not meant to be prescriptive. Creating standards that include the range and breadth of possible applications and environments is impossible, therefore readers are expected to apply the INTENT of each standard to their specific situation.

Further, for the purpose of inclusiveness, other industry standards have been reviewed and applicable portions have been adapted specifically for the use of the ropes challenge course industry; e.g. Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Cordage Institute (CI). Harmonization efforts of the standard have also been conducted with the Association for Challenge Course Technology and other international standards developing organizations.

These standards will be used when the assembly of such products outlined within these standards are used for the construction of a ropes challenge course and canopy zip line tours (adventure aerial tours). These standards are applicable to low and high ropes challenge courses, canopy zip line tours (adventure aerial tours), stand alone elements such as a Leap of Faith, Zip Line, or the similar. Many of these standards and practices will be applicable to other structures such as indoor and/or outdoor climbing structures such as towers.

Definition of SAFE: “SAFE” is a relative term and is used in the context of this document as measured against an industrial risk management plan. Therefore no activity is 100% safe, rather, purposeful design and care has been taken to minimize potential risks to an acceptable level.



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History of the organization:

The Professional Ropes Course Association (PRCA) was first talked about at numerous Association for Experiential Education (AEE) conferences and among ropes course programmers and professionals, dating back to 1994. The main purpose of the discussion was centered on the need for an "inclusive and participatory" ropes course association whose decision making structure and standards are based on the input of all its members while attempting to provide an equal impartial representation on the Board of Directors and allowing for membership to have representation on the Board. Further, there was a desire to have a ropes challenge course association which provided information to its membership base. There was additional desire to promote practices and to develop user friendly standards that went beyond the basic minimum. To address all of these needs and desires and to strengthen the effectiveness of the PRCA standards, a solid representation within the ropes course industry was sought via electronic invitation. By collaborating with other industry organizations and input of other industry leaders, a more inclusive situation was achieved.

The following professionals served as a primary review committee of the initial standards drafts. This review and input team consisted of Steven Gustafson, Experience Based Learning, Joel Cryer, Southwest Center for Experiential Learning - Peter Smerud, Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center - Wesley Hunter - ACME Ropes Courses - Peter Martini, Corporate Outdoor Training - John Springer, Fourwinds - Jim Willis, Executive Edge, Inc. A second, third, forth, and fifth version, with revisions, was circulated and expanded to include a broader range or ropes course professionals. By the end of the review process, over 12 persons had direct input into the creation of the standards while another 30 served on an “At-Large” review team and contributed their thoughts and suggestions. Combined, the review committee and At-Large members represent experience in construction of hundreds of ropes challenge courses and over a million participant days of experience.

In 2005, the PRCA became the first ropes challenge course Accredited Standards Developer (ASD) with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and has been working via ANSI approved standards review procedures for the development of an American National Standard (ANS). This includes harmonization of the PRCA with other International standards writing organizations and current United States de facto standards such as the Association for Challenge Course Technology. This process ensures fairness and non duplication with current standards. This ANSI format operates on a Consensus Body model consisting of professional engineers, programmers, equipment manufactures, and builders.



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History continued:

It is the hope that as more standards from other industries can be harmonized to the specific requirements of the ropes challenge course industry, the broader and safer the standards will become. Further, these standards are written with the intention of being without borders. Our practices are written with the products generally available in the United States, however, may be applied worldwide.

This document should be considered a “work in process” as alterations and edits will occur from time to time. Where possible, manufacturer information on products has been gathered. Additionally, the PRCA has been part of third party break tests to acquire information beyond theory, to help guide these practices. These break tests have typically been of multiple samples.

The creation of the PRCA standards has multiple rationale:

1. To provide a document that can serve as a standard for organizations and individuals to reference in accordance with any local or state regulations.

2. To provide a community for organizations and individuals to share ideas and information.

3. To establish common practices and suggest additional application practices.

4. To be ongoing and adaptive as new information becomes present, relevant to the ropes challenge course industry.

5. In the presence of, and endorsed by, a licensed and insured professional engineer in your state, to be a resource and suggestive of variations that may be adapted to these standards as applicable.



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Disclaimer and Appropriate Use Statement:

It must be emphasized that these standards represent neither a complete training on “how to construct ropes courses” or “how to operate a ropes course,” applications, safety systems, or facilitation. The reader must obtain the proper training and experience in order to make sound judgments when applying the content of these standards to any specific ropes challenge situation. The consultation with a licensed engineer in your state is highly recommended. A commercial ropes course vendor can work with and provide your licensed engineer with information to assist this process and ease the installation of your course.

These standards are for educational use only and to provide a venue for collaboration among challenge course practitioners. An equally important aspect of construction, operation, or training, is an apprentice period by where new builders / instructors shadow and observe more experienced staff. This process allows for an increase in comfort level around an individuals specific competencies. A knowledgeable and mature contractor / instructor realizes their own limitations and operates safely within their training level. This document may not be duplicated without the expressed written consent of:

Professional Ropes Course Association, Inc. 6260 E. Riverside Blvd. #104 Rockford, IL 61111 815.637.2969 815.637.2964 fax www.prcainfo.org

This version supersedes all previous versions.



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Product and Application Information

When questions arise concerning local building codes or deviations from the standards, consultation with a licensed engineer in your state for review of local building codes, ground conditions, and/or other variables is required.



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Weather resistant materials shall be used. (E.G. galvanized or zinc plated as appropriate.) Hardware that shall come in contact with newer wood treatment chemicals shall be researched for the appropriate usage.

PURPOSE OF DOCUMENT

Thimble Eyelet Angle Thimble Rapid Link

1/2 x 6” Drive Lag

3/8” - 7x19

GAC wire rope

14,400 lb (6,545 kg)

5/8” - Thimble Eye Bolt (TEB)

Angle Type also shown (ATEB)

5/8” - Oval Eye Bolt (OEB)

5/8” Nut Eye Bolt (NEB)

5/8” - Machine Bolt

Shoulder Lag Eye Screw (SLES)

Zinc plated copper ferrule

2”x2” curved square washer Double coil lock washer

1/2” x 6” staple

Serving sleeve

3/8” heavy duty thimble

No wrench Ground anchor

Fist Grip U-clip

Turnbuckle (eye : eye shown)

Wire rope grab Load limiting device

Shear Reduction Block (SRB)

Utility pulley w/ back-up



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Facilities and Grounds

1. The facilities and grounds will have clear ownership and all permits, licenses, or other agreements will be secured prior to course installation and operation.

2. Facilities and grounds will have reasonable access for the use of emergency vehicles or other requirements for course access where applicable.

3. All areas shall be reviewed by proper authorities for underground and overhead obstacles and dangers such as gas lines, electrical lines, water lines, or other utilities. (e.g. Many locations provide free digger services. You may check with your local utility company for any services offered in your prospective course area.)

For International locations contact:

One Call Alliance – part of the Common Ground Alliance.

http://www.commongroundalliance.com/Template.cfm?Section=OCSI_Committee1&CONTENTID=2486&TEMPLATE=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm

4. Course areas should be maintained and kept free of any dangerous obstacles such as dead trees, hazardous materials, explosive materials, sharp objects or debris, or dangerous insects or animals such as poisonous snakes.

5. All local or federal statues shall be adhered to where appropriate.

6. Ethical and professional business conduct will be maintained while operating a facility. Examples would be proper liability insurance, completed operations insurance if constructing ropes courses, workers compensation insurance, maintain fire code mandates and fire extinguishers, food and health codes, etc.

7. Facilities shall be posted with appropriate warnings and signage to warn the general public of dangers.

8. Element areas should be free from obstacles which would impair normal operations. Trees or other obstacles will be removed to allow for normal belay operation. Low branches or other injury causing obstructions will be removed. Some activities may require a wider pathway to operate within, such as 6’-8’ on each side of the cable. (e.g. zip lines)



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Support Structures

Trees

The use trees for the installation of a ropes course will be of suitable strength and stability to support anticipated loads and forces generated by the use of a ropes course, belay cables, or hand and foot cables. A certified professional such as an arborist should be consulted with any specific questions surrounding a trees health, strength, or maintenance. Trees that are commonly used for the construction of ropes courses are White Oak, Red Oak, White Pine, Red Pine, Yellow Pine, Maple, Hickory, Ponderosa Pine, Norfolk Pine, or other similarly strong trees with solid and deep roots. Typical tree diameters at the point of belay or guy wire attachment should be at least 10 inches, however, this may vary given the type of species, the hardness of the wood, roots, and soil type / depth. Trees with multiple main trunks or “V” shape crotches should be avoided. When in doubt, consult with and seek the opinion of a certified arborist. Live trees will be at least equal to in size and quality to its utility pole counter part classification measurements, pertaining to class, size, and species at the point of terminations.

For more information: Tree Care Industry Association http://www.natlarb.com See Appendix O

Poles

1. All high elements shall be constructed with new or like new (non-used) CLASS 2 utility poles minimum for the anchor and/or support of belay and down guy wire cables, unless otherwise engineered by a licensed and qualified professional. Poles shall be treated with a decay resistant material. A cedar pole would be an example of a naturally decay resistant wood. Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA), Ammonia Copper Quaternary ammonia (ACQ), or Copper Boron Azole (CBA) are acceptable forms of treatment. For international courses, local weather resistant lumber may be utilized. Poles should be graded and stamped. Variables such as wind load, ground conditions, cross bracing, internal guy wires, snow loads, etc. shall be considered when determining the class pole. Contact a local engineer to determine site specific requirements.

2. Poles used for aerial structures such as balance logs, high beams, or other climbing elements, shall be of suitable size to bear any normal loads or forces generated during normal use, to include participant weight, forces and wind loads. Typically, these are CLASS 3 or CLASS 4 poles. Poles used to support combination elements such as a Balance Log with a Dangle Duo or Cargo Net climbs, should be of sufficient size to bear the combined loads of the pole, participants, the other structures attached to the pole, and participants on attached element. New or like new CLASS 2 poles or better, are recommended.



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3. Pole depth will be calculated by taking ten percent (10%) of the poles overall length, plus an additional two feet or five (5) feet deep, whichever is greater. Some installations and applications may require greater depths or the addition of crushed stone, concrete, or other medium to help ensure a solid setting. A foundation assessment will be conducted by a qualified professional to determine ground soil characteristics for actual pole placement, method, and/or depth. Different soil loams will require additional setting considerations. Local utility pole standards offer a guide for unusually hard or soft soil conditions.

Example: Class II, 55’ CCA Southern Yellow Pine

{55 foot x .10} + 2 feet = 7.5 feet deep

Buildings, Barns, Other Structures

Care will be given to understand structural supports of building structures before the installation of a ropes course or climbing wall. Consultation with a qualified professional is recommended. Further, special considerations should be given to regional building codes and other forces such as snow loads, hurricane areas, or earthquake zones for examples. These other variables will have relevance and may affect course design. Towers to be constructed and guyed to withstand wind loads common to the area. A professional engineer will be consulted for installation design.

Platforms

Platforms used on ropes challenge course will be constructed in a fashion to support at least 2 times the anticipated load generated by individuals on the platform. Typical construction materials include 2x6 treated timbers for braces and 2x6 or 5/4 deck board, treated, for top boards. Preferred attachment of surface boards will be with deck screws rather than nails. Platform will be attached to poles using lag screws or through bolts. Typical mounting hardware may include 1/2 inch carriage bolts and 1/2 inch x 5 inch forged lag screws. Multiple hardware attachment points may be appropriate when smaller hardware is used, such as 3/8” x 5” lag screws. Use appropriate hardware for the anticipated loads the platform will be expected to carry.

Climbing Walls

The climbing wall will typically have commercially-made climbing holds. All climbing wall holds and features will meet or exceed the Climbing Wall Association (CWA) (www.climbingwallindustry.org) guidelines. These holds will be attached to the wall using 3/8" cap head screws and T-nuts. There should be climbing holds of various shapes and sizes on each wall. There will be additional T-nuts installed to facilitate the layout of the wall (approximately 1 per 3 square feet).



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Hardware General: 1. All hardware shall be corrosion resistant. 2. All decking boards will be attached with corrosion resistant wood screws, nails, or

other hardware as engineered.

3. Hardware that will come in contact with newer pole treatment chemicals such as ACQ will be resistant to the corosive nature of the treatment.

1. Cable

All belay, element, and construction cables (a.k.a. wire rope) used on a ropes challenge course will be at least 3/8’ - 7x19 Galvanized Aircraft Cable (GAC), with a rated breaking strength of 14,400 lb or greater. Larger and stronger diameter cable may be appropriate for certain designs such as two person Zip Lines or where more than two persons are required to clip into the same belay cable for protection. In high corrosive areas such as near oceans or in environments with acid rain, stainless steel cable may be appropriate. Stainless steel will be at least ½” in diameter due to a lower breaking strength. All cable will be of a “flexible” nature and product such as 1x7 cable products are not appropriate for use on a ropes challenge course.

2. Cable - Retirement Considerations

There are many factors that go into the retirement criteria of cable; duration of use, loss in diameter due to wear or elongation, rust, broken filaments or strands, or electrification due to lightning strikes. Since cable is the primary life line, it should be replaced when any doubt about its integrity is raised for any of the above or other rational.

The following criteria is used by ANSI and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) to determine cable wear characteristics when used for crane and rigging operations. Wire rope wear will differ from the rigging industry and the ropes course industry for many reasons, to including but not limited to, lower stresses, non-moving cables, lower risk of abrasives, lower risk for dirt, and fatigue. Common predominate characteristics for wire rope failure on a ropes course would be broken wires, rusting, fast cooling from lightening strikes, or cable wear.



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The following are required standards established by ANSI/ASME B30.5 that provide specific reasons to replace wire ropes in an industrial setting.

Broken wires – “For running ropes, replace when you see six randomly distributed broken wires in one lay – or three broken wires in one strand in one lay.” Since this is applicable to haul lines, rather than life lines, it is prudent to error on the conservative side and suggest any broken wires. Further, this may not apply to stationary belay cables, but may have relevance to moving cables such as the ones utilized on hydraulic lines on newer climbing walls. NOTE: See Zip Lines, page 46.

One broken wire extending from rope’s core - When you see one outer wire broken at the point of contact with the rope’s core which has worked its way out or looped out from the rope structure, you’ll need to conduct additional inspections of that section of rope.

Extensive rope wear – When wear reaches one-third the original diameter of the outside individual wires, it’s time to replace the rope.

Rope distortion – Replace any rope with evidence of kinking, crushing, bird caging or any other damage resulting in distortion of the rope structure.

Heat damage – Because heat exposure can damage the rope and it’s lubricant, always remove ropes damaged by heat from any source. (Stationary belay cables do not require the need for lubrication. Further, it is not recommended where contact with human surface areas may transmit lubricant onto other life line equipment such as harnesses or belay ropes.)

Reduction in normal diameter – Replace any wire rope when its normal diameter has decreased more than:

1/32 in. (0.8mm) for diameters 3/8 in. (9.5mm) to and including 1/2in. (13.mm).

(Most conventional ropes course belay cables fall into this guideline range)

Additional Retirement Criteria:

1. Wire rope being over grown by a tree so a complete visual inspection is not possible.

2. Wire rope installed in a fashion that does not allow for complete inspection.

3. Wire rope that is deformed due to repeated use or improper / repeated wire rope clip attachments.



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Bolts

1. Any through bolt used to terminate belay cables are normally 5/8” forged and galvanized and one piece construction material with a breaking strength of 12,500 lb. or greater. Examples would be Thimble Eye Bolts (TEB), Angled Thimble Eye Bolts (ATEB) or Nut Eye Bolts (NEB). Tear drop shaped Oval Eye Bolts (OEB) may be appropriate for inline loads of elements only and should be avoided for any angled loads and their use for belay cable terminations (Please refer to Appendix A). The use of screw on eye nuts or thimble eye nuts is prohibited.

2. When bolts are used to secure components on a ropes course such as beams, braces, or down guys, 5/8” forged and galvanized all thread and 5/8” forged and galvanized machine bolts may be used in conjunction with other appropriate hardware.

3. For bolt placement distances, please refer to Appendix E

Turnbuckles

The use of turnbuckles should follow the same strength and construction requirements as termination bolts. When used as part of a belay system, appropriate back-ups should be used in the event of turnbuckle failure.

Strandvise®

The use of the hardware material is not applicable for ropes course or zip line canopy tours. See PRCA website for product advisory. [ www.prcainfo.org ]

Wire Rope Clamps

1. All wire rope clamps utilized for course construction systems shall be appropriately sized U-clips or J clips, drop forged construction, galvanized, and tightened to manufacture recommendations.

2. Position of cable clamps from termination shall vary depending on termination methods e.g. through bolt or wrap around.



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Wrap Around - POLE - When using the wrap around method on a utility pole, the first clamp should be placed equal to or greater in distance from the pole as the pole radius.

Wrap Around – TREE - When using the wrap around method on a living tree, use only one wrap, ensuring the first clamp is placed equal to or greater in distance from the tree as the trees diameter. This increased distance allows for tree growth and less chance of cambium bruising or girdling. All trees used should be living and in good health. It may be appropriate to include padding for the cable, depending upon application and tension, to protect the tree.

Illustration A – Wrap Around Method

3. Placement of clamps apart from one another should be in compliance with manufacture installation specifications, typically provided on product labels and measured as “width of clamp base apart..”



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Termination and Connection Practices Elements

When terminating wire rope to be used as connections for elements such has foot cables or hand lines, two (2) cable clamps or 1 copper ferrule is minimal at connection points; Illustration B. Utilizing 3 cable clamps or dual copper ferrules are a better practice. All critical termination points that make up heavier systems should have a redundancy in place, which will be at least 80% of the systems engineered strength (e.g. Dangle Duo, Centipede, Balance Log, etc.) This will prevent injury or damage in the event the connection system was to fail, thus preventing the element from falling to the ground or on top of another element. If and when a redundancy is used, the material used must be completely visible for inspection and no part passing through a solid object. Below are some appropriate examples to terminate hand lines, foot lines, and redundancy loops. For a back-up example, please refer to Illustration C.

Illustration B –



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Illustration C – Element Back-up Example

This example reflects a system that backs-up the bolt head AND two cable clamps in the event of failure. A back-up for an element will follow the same criteria as a back-up for a belay cable. Other back-up methods are possible and may be preferred. Contact a qualified professional to determine which method is appropriate for your course.



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Belay Cables

Belay cables shall have a redundancy system in place, equal to or greater than 80% of the systems engineered tensile strength at terminations.

Belay cables shall be installed in such a manner that prevents the cable from moving up or down the pole, tree, beam, etc.

Belay cables shall be constructed with new materials from reputable suppliers.

Belay cable systems shall have a minimum Safe Working Load (SWL) or Working Load Limit (WLL) of 2,300 lb. This will be calculated by the SWL of the weakest link in the system.

Belay cables shall be installed without multiple sections or joined cable lengths (e.g. cable must be an uncut continuous piece.) Splicing of cable or welding of bolts is prohibited.

Illustration D.1 –



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Belay Cable Example Terminations w/ Back-ups continued

NOTES:



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Belay Cable Example Terminations w/ Back-ups continued

NOTES:



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Down Guy Wires

1. Guy wires are a critical component of above ground structures, specifically those utilizing utility pole construction and supporting belay cables. When down guy wires are used, the termination on the pole in relationship to the primary load generating cable, such as a belay cable, must be within 12 inches or less. Further, down guy wires will retain at least a 1:1 ratio of rise to run, relative to the installation point on the pole. In short, for every 1 foot of rise on the pole, the anchor base must be set back 1 foot away from the base of the pole. Therefore, a cable placed at 35 feet will have a ground anchor placed 35 feet from the base of the pole, achieving a 45 degree angle. A foundation assessment should be conducted by a qualified professional to determine ground soil characteristics for actual guy anchor placement, method, and/or depth. When soil conditions are not known, the lowest rating for the ground anchor should be used, often referenced as poor soil conditions rating.

2. Ground anchors will carry a pull out capacity equal to or greater than 6,000 lb. and be

placed in good soil conditions.

3. Guy wires for utility pole courses may be anchored to suitable trees where ground anchors are not available. An arborist should be consulted to determine tree stability and health.

4. Depending on design, elements built in trees may not require guy wires unless tree flexion may cause dangerous situations or overload a tree’s holding capacity.

For more information:

Consult your local utility company for ground conditions specific to your area.



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Safe Working Load / Working Load Limits

Safe Working Load (S.W.L.) and Working Load Limit (W.L.L.) will be a 1:5 ratio of a products tensile strength or 20% of the rated breaking strength when calculated for metal products. For example, the SWL of a belay cable, before wire rope clip reductions, would be:

3/8 in. - 7x19 GAC rated at 14,400 lb. times .20 = 2,880 lb SWL

With wire rope fasteners attached:

U-Clip clamps have a rated reduction of 20% on wire rope. Thus a more accurate SWL would be:

3/8 in. – 7x19 GAC @ 14,400 lb times .80 = 11,520 times .20 = 2,304 lb SWL

Fist Grip clamps have a rated reduction of 20% on wire rope and does not distort the cable. Thus a more accurate SWL would be:

3/8 in. – 7x19 GAC @ 14,400 lb times .80 = 11,520 times .20 = 2,304 lb SWL

Double Copper Ferrules have a rated reduction of 5% on wire rope. Thus a more accurate SWL would be:

3/8 in. – 7x19 GAC @ 14,400 lb times .95 = 13,680 times .20 = 2,736 lb SWL NOTE: The use of u-clips and copper ferrules do not allow for cable adjustments after installation.

Lobster Claw examples made with multiline rope:

1/2 in. spliced multiline lanyard would be:

1/2 in. 3 strand multiline rated at 5,800 lb. times 6.66% = 386 lb SWL

5/8 in. spliced multiline lanyard would be:

5/8 in. 3 strand multiline rated at 8,200 lb. times 6.66% = 546 lb SWL Note: These figures are theoretical in nature and have not been tested on a live person in a ropes course environment. We can only speculate to the accuracy based on manufacture rated break strengths, manufacturer recommendations, and independent break test conducted on certain products.

Other materials such as commercial pre-sewn webbing lanyards may also be used.



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The Cordage Institute specifies that the Safe Working Load of a rope shall be determined by dividing the Minimum Tensile Strength by the Safety Factor. Safety factors range from 5 to 12 for non-critical uses, 15 for life lines. SWL= Minimum Break Strength / Safety Factor.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) also defines the SWL as 1:15 per their 1983 standard.

Course Repairs and Construction Updates:

Providing repairs to an older ropes challenge course presents unique obstacles. Often, dated practices are still in operation at the time new staples are required or a bolt or two are becoming overgrown. In instances where repairs are conducted, new product will be used and installed to current standards. Measures will be taken to provide for a clean update and all used product will be removed from the course to prevent unsightly hardware, possible objects that may cause injury, or inadvertently be used by staff for inappropriate uses.

For example, the replacement of an overgrown bolt on a belay cable should result in a completely new belay cable and bolts at both ends. Simply replacing one bolt and reattaching the old belay cable, which is now used, with possible rust, and deformations from the old wire rope clips, is not recommended. Additionally, old ropes, cables, or other hardware should be completely removed from the course if not in use.

Common Conversions

2.2 lb = 1 kg

225 lb = 1 KN (kilo Newton)

1 inch = 2.54 cm (centimeter)

1 foot = 30.48 cm

1 cm = 0.39 inch

1 meter = 3.28 feet

30m rope = 98.425 foot rope



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Ropes Course Inspections

An annual inspection [visual and tactile] (plus or minus 60 days from last inspection) shall be conducted and documented by a properly trained and insured professional. More frequent inspections such as quarterly inspections by in-house program staff are recommended. Inspections should include course, facility, safety equipment, and operational manuals. Annual inspections are in addition to, visual daily and quarterly inspections conducted by the program.

Inspections will contain the following information:

1. Organizational name; address, telephone numbers and other contact information

2. Course location and type (outdoor, indoor, pole, trees, climbing wall, tower, etc.)

3. Inspection definition, criteria, rating definitions and findings.

4. Course history to include construction date, vendor, last inspection, and other pertinent information to assist in course inspection.

5. Inspection of safety equipment to include harness, helmets, carabiners, ropes / types, belay devices, and other safety equipment as needed.

6. Review and document staff training practices, documentation of current training credentials, and proven competencies.

7. Any recommendation for repairs, deadlines, or follow-up services that may be required.

Grandfather Clauses / Dated Practices

The use of a “grandfather clause” may be appropriate for older courses that utilize older practices and that the replacement would cause undo financial hardship to replace. Often, these older practices have proven safe from numerous uses, however, may no longer be appropriate for use. This will be defined by a “critical” or “non-critical” application measure.

In the event a construction practice is “grandfathered”, it should be addressed within a recommended two (2) year timeframe. Longer or shorter timeframes may be appropriate as outlined by a qualified and insured commercial ropes challenge course professional. The practice of retaining a different qualified professional every two years to avoid this standard is prohibited.



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Pulleys / Trolleys

Strength, Quality, Use

a) Pulleys / trolleys utilized on belay / zip line (life safety) applications shall have a minimum rated strength of 5,000 lbs (22.2KN) per person and shall be of appropriate design, construction and engineering to address the loads, forces, friction, braking methods, sway, volume and speeds of the specific systems where employed.

b) Pulleys/trolleys shall be approved by the manufacturer for the intended use, e.g. cable pulley, zip-line trolley.

c) Pulleys / trolleys that serve as the user’s only means of connection to the belay / zip-line (life safety) systems shall have a redundancy system in place with a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds (22,2 KN) per person in the event of pulley/trolley failure.

Life Line Attachments

Carabiners (Karabiners)

All locking carabiners, locking snap hooks, or locking rapid links used for fall protection of a climber will have a minimum breaking strength of at least 5,000 lb. (22.22 KN) for the estimated life cycle of the product. 22 KN or less, will not be acceptable for life line applications.

Locking steel carabiners will be used at all safety applications, lanyards, and belay terminations will be used.

Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), Personal fall arrest systems (PFAS). - Vertical lifelines and lanyards shall have a minimum tensile strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2 KN). Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), Personal fall arrest systems (PFAS). - Connecting assemblies shall have a minimum tensile strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2 KN). ANSI A10.14: 4.3.3.10: Lifelines shall be designed, installed and used as part of a complete personal fall arrest system under the supervision of a qualified person maintaining a safety factor of at least two. Anchorages to which lifelines are attached shall be capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds (2273 kg) per employee attached, or shall be designed, installed and used as part of a complete personal fall arrest system under the supervision of a qualified person.



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Connectors Rescue Applications All locking carabiners, locking snap hooks, D-rings or rapid links used for rescue applications supporting a victim and one rescuer, shall have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2 KN) per person attached.

Ropes

1. All ropes used for the purpose of dynamically belayed elements will have a minimum breaking strength of at least 5,000 lb. (22.2 KN). Dynamic ropes must be Union Internationale des Associations d' Alpinisme (UIAA) or Certified European (CE) certified. Static rope may be appropriate in circumstances where other load absorption measures have been designed into the system, such as a tree course with canopy flexion or a load limiting device added within the belay system itself.

2. Dynamic rope is required for the belay of high load generating elements such as Leap of Faiths or Pamper Poles where other shock limiting devices are not present. A properly designed tree course may provide suitable flexion, in turn, acting as a shock limiting device; thus a static rope may be more appropriate in certain instances.

3. Ropes used for a two person lower will be rated for two persons.

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) states that static ropes used for a two person lower will be rated for a two person load. Therefore, an 11mm static rope may not be appropriate for a multiple person lower. The SWL of a two person lower needs to be calculated and be within 6.66% of the ropes rated tensile strength.

For more information on the Internet:

http://www.ropecord.com

http://www.osha.gov

http://www.nfpa.org



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Lanyards All safety lanyards used for belay shall have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 lb. (22.2KN) Lanyards may be constructed of cable, rope, and/ or webbing. Each material represents different use characteristics and the end user should be trained in variables such as stretch, elongation, construction, wear, and terminations such as swaging, splicing, or stitching.

Load Limiting Devices

The use of load limiting devices and/or proper training make it possible to achieve a load limit of 900 lb. or less. When connecting a person to a personal fall arrest system, the following will be true:

1. Limit the maximum arresting force on a falling employee to 900 pounds (4 KN) when used with a body belt; 2. Limit the maximum arresting force on a falling employee to 1,800 pounds (8 KN) when used with a body harness; 3. Personal fall arrest systems shall be rigged such that an employee can neither free fall more than 6 feet (1.8 m) nor contact any lower level. 4. The attachment point of a body harness shall be located in the center of the wearer's back near the shoulder level, or above the wearer's head. If the free fall distance is limited to less than 20 inches, the attachment point may be located in the chest position; and 5. The attachment point of a body belt shall be located in the center of the wearer's back.

NOTE: OSHA does not currently publish a maximum arresting force for the use of a Class 2 seat harness w/ front clip-in point. Therefore, it is recommended that the maximum fall distance of 6 feet be divided in half and be limited to 3 feet of total fall distance when a lobster claw is used with a Class 2 commercial seat harness. This may be accomplished with proper training.



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Course Operation / Instructor Manual

Training Aides

Equipment Care



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Course Operation / Instructor Manual PURPOSE

There are three major reasons why a program must develop an operation and instructor manual.

Primary: To maintain the safety of clients while using a ropes challenge course.

Secondary: To provide an educational resource and reference guide for staff participating in trainings and to act as a working resource for instructors to use in the field.

Tertiary: To support a risk management plan for a ropes challenge course program.

The following information in this section should be used as a basic outline from which programs can draw upon and expand from, specific items for their course operations. Because each program is unique, the operations and instructor manuals need to be customized for each particular program, mission, and objectives.

Pre-workshop Preparations 1. Programs should conduct a needs assessment to evaluate the purpose of and

the goals for a group.

2. For programs that conduct a medical screening prior to a groups’ participation on a ropes course, look for conditions that may create an unsafe experience for participants. Mental, physical, and emotional safety should be considered. Consultation with medical professionals is strongly suggested. If no medical screening, then it is recommended that clients be educated as to the physical nature of a ropes challenge course experience to aid in educated decisions around levels of participation. See Appendix K.

3. Ground and facilities shall be checked for operational safety prior to use.

4. Informed consents or risk appreciation forms (waivers) are recommended to support a risk management plan and to aid in the education of the participants as to course, objectives, and risk.

5. The weather should be evaluated to determine if natural conditions could cause an unsafe situation. This may include, but not be limited to heat, precipitation (rain / snow), temperature, wind, storms, or other geographical considerations such as elevation.



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6. An emergency plan should be in place in the event additional staff support or medical services are required.

Instructor Training

General Staff Requirements / Documentation 1. Staff minimum age requirement.

2. Determine additional training required; CPR, Life Guard, etc.

3. Outline job responsibilities.

4. Outline whom they are responsible to; e.g. Site Supervisor, Director

5. Outline renewal or ongoing training as required.

6. Able to perform the duties of the position.

7. Receive medical clearance for employment if certain medical conditions may inhibit job performance (e.g. narcolepsy, epilepsy, cancer, blindness, diabetes, etc.)

8. Selected education levels requirements.

9. Good driving record (if required for driving or employment screening.)

10. Any other program specific requirements.

Training Employees shall be properly trained on course operations, inspections, equipment inspection, rescue procedures, facilitation, and other course specific information required to operate program in a safe, professional, and ethical fashion.

Annual and documented training from a properly insured third party IS REQUIRED FOR AT LEAST ROPES COURSE DIRECTORS AND PREFERABLY SITE SUPERVISORS. This is common practice in the ropes challenge course industry. Second, third, and other generation training from within organizations is discouraged. Many benefits are derived from retaining a third party to evaluate and conduct staff trainings.

Programs will maintain staff profiles on all course instructors to include, but not limited to resume, technical abilities, responsibilities, performance evaluations, current training documentation, and professional development criteria.



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Pre Course Use: Safety Equipment Inspections Ropes Check for:

a. Sheath fray spots

b. Flat spots

c. Cuts in rope

d. Solvents odor / stains

e. Signs of weld abrasion

f. Review rope log from previous usage (See Rope Log, page 41)

Other Safety Equipment 1. Inspect harnesses for frays, cuts, broken buckles (same as for ropes)

2. Helmets are clean and in good working order

3. Locking carabiners are clean and operational

4. Friction devices / belay devices are clean and smooth

5. Avoid the storage of wet equipment.

Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), Personal fall arrest systems (PFAS). - Lifelines and lanyards shall be protected against cuts, abrasions, burns from hot work operations and deterioration by acids, solvents, and other chemicals. Personal fall arrest systems shall be inspected prior to each use for mildew, wear, damage, and other deterioration. Defective components shall be removed from service. Personal fall arrest systems and components subjected to impact loading shall be immediately removed from service and shall not be used again for employee protection until inspected and determined by a qualified person to be undamaged and suitable for reuse.



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Helmets

Helmets should be used when operating a ropes course or climbing wall when the risk of injury from falling overhead objects such as other climbers, or tree branches are present. With careful consideration, there may be instances where a helmet may not be required. When worn, it must be of solid construction and be UIAA or CE endorsed.

Pre Course Use: Element Inspection Do a visual inspection of element:

Any vandalism, broken glass, sharp objects?

Belay cables appear normal and have a proper back up?

Any visual damage to the element?

Construction looks acceptable? No missing clamps, kinks in the cable, downed tree limbs over elements?

Any sign of storm damage, lighten strikes, or fresh woodpecker holes?

Participant Skills Check

Participants shall be instructed on and conduct a skills test to insure their ability to understand and operate all safety equipment in a safe fashion; helmets, harnesses, carabiners, etc. Further, participants should receive a course orientation on principles, objectives, and foreseen expectations for participation.

Common Acceptable Belay Knots

Bowline on a Bight

The bowline on a bight with a double overhand back-up knot, showing 2”- 4” of tail.

Figure “8” Knot The figure “8” knot on a bight with a double overhand back-up knot, showing 2”- 4” of tail is the knot of choice.



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Belay Commands

Each program will use methodical belay and spotters commands that are consistent and uniform when providing services. Below is an example.

“On Belay” spoken by the climber to begin activity.

“Belay On” spoken by the belayer after the pre climb checks are completed.

“Climbing” spoken by the climber as a second check of belayer readiness.

“Climb” spoken by the belayer upon final preparation before belay begins.

Additional Commands (as required)

“On Rappel” spoken by the person after belay commands are done but before beginning decent.

“Rappel On” spoken by belayer when they are ready for the rappel to begin.

“Up Rope” spoken by climbing to have excess slack removed from belay line.

“Slack” spoken by climber when requesting 6-8” of slack in belay line.

Belay commands modified from “Mountaineering: The Freedom Of The Hills”,

The Mountaineers, Seattle, Washington, ISBN #0-89886-427-5.

Staff Responsibilities and Expectations

A program shall outline and define work related responsibilities and guidelines for employees working on a ropes challenge course. A clear hierarchy of operations will be established and shared with all staff.

Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), Personal fall arrest systems (PFAS). Training. Before using personal fall arrest equipment, each affected employee shall be trained to understand the application limits of the equipment and proper hook-up, anchoring, and tie-off techniques. Affected employees shall also be trained so that they can demonstrate the proper use, inspection, and storage of their equipment.



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Safety Equipment Care As with all ropes course safety equipment, care shall be taken to protect the equipment from obvious hazards that would compromise the equipment’s strength and operational properties. It is recommended that all ropes course safety equipment be stored in a cool dry location, away from chemical fumes, direct sunlight, high moisture, or other hazards that would damage or destroy the equipment. Other examples might include mice and other rodents, insects, or accidental contamination from bug sprays or insect foggers used to fumigate rooms and buildings. Below are some examples; other situations may occur.

Actual Examples: A camp stored all its’ safety equipment to include ropes, helmets, carabiners, and harnesses on wood shelves in an outside storage shed over winter. Upon inspection in mid-Spring, the equipment is removed and a family of mice is detected inside one of the helmets stacked on top of the harnesses and ropes. Upon close examination, the ropes and harnesses had been chewed and heavily soiled from mice droppings and urine. - COMMON

A university operates an indoor climbing wall. The equipment is stored on wood dowel rods in a locked cabinet within the building. At inspection one morning it is found that mice had gotten into the cabinet and chewed on the ends of the ropes. It was later determined that some residual food had gotten onto the rope by means of transmittal from the hands of a climber who had just eaten lunch. The mice could smell the food on the rope and decided to chew in that specific location. The university later instituted a no food or drink policy for the climbing area. - RARE

A camp was operating its’ ropes course during an overcast day with a light rain. The equipment got slightly damp and was still stuffed back into a stuff sack and placed in storage outside in a gear box by the base of the climbing tower. The equipment was not used until the next season and all the steel carabiners showed signs of pitted rust. The carabiners failed the annual inspection and needed to be replaced. - SOMEWHAT RARE

4. A camp noticed a wasp nest on the outside of the equipment shed were the ropes course equipment was kept. The maintenance department of the camp was notified and asked to remove the large nest over the weekend. The maintenance staff proceeded to heavily spray the nest and returned the next day to spray the nest with a water hose. When the ropes course staff returned to the shed on Monday, they noticed that the wasp spray and water had leaked through cracks in the wall and soaked the climbing ropes stored on the other side. Because of the wasp spray, the ropes were replaced. - RARE



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Ropes Ropes should be properly coiled using a Mountaineers or Butterfly coil, with all knots removed, and hung on wooden dowel rods, placed in a rope bag, or stored in a fashion to protect them dirt, contamination, or infiltration from rodents or poisonous insects such as scorpions or snakes.

Ropes shall receive a tactile inspection when coiled and when uncoiled, looking for damage or other visual and/or felt defects.

Washing Ropes Belay and rappelling ropes shall be keep clean and washed when needed. Always follow manufacturer recommendations.

Drying Ropes Washed ropes should be allowed to air dry slowly in a well ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or excessive heat or cold. Draping the rope in large weaves over tree limbs or picnic tables would be acceptable methods. Always follow manufacturer recommendations.

Harnesses Equal care should be provided to harnesses, much like the care given to ropes. Always follow manufacturer recommendations.

Carabiners Carabiners should be stored in a cool dry place. Slightly, non-pitted rust or oxidation may be removed with a slight rub of steel wool. Sticky or stiff gate springs may be lubricated with graphite powder. Oil based lubricates should be avoided as residue may come in contact with ropes, harness, or other nylon products. Always follow manufacturer recommendations.

Helmets Helmets should be kept clean and all fasteners, straps, buckles, or fast plastic clips checked to be in good and proper working order. Occasional disinfecting is recommended to prevent health concerns. The use of head liners or commercial coffee filters may be appropriate to minimize dirt, wear, and other health concerns.



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Disinfecting may be a water rinse with gentle drying in direct sunlight to allow Ultra Violet rays to naturally disinfect the inside surfaces. A mild 10% bleach to water solution may be used with a cotton cloth to wipe out the inside of the helmet. When a helmet is found to contain lice, a more demanding disinfecting will need to occur. Please check with you local health department for proper procedures, or simply dispose of the helmet. The use of hair nets may be appropriate.

In some cases where overhead hazards of tree limbs or falling rocks do not pose an immediate threat and the use of a helmet may actually pose greater health risks or other conditions such as participant overheating, or becoming caught on a climbing hold, it may be justifiable not to require the use of helmets. This situation should be completely examined and all risks considered. Ropes challenge course design and operation may have contributing factors.

Ground Cover When ropes challenge courses are constructed in trees, poles, or free standing structures, a shock absorbing ground cover should be used underneath and around element areas. A ‘zone’ of coverage should extend from directly underneath a specific element and outward to a distance of at least two (2) feet beyond the range of the spotters for the element. A common and inexpensive material is wood mulch with 6 - 8 inches of depth. Wood mulch should be free of sharp objects such as short branches which have not been properly shredded, broken glass, aluminum cans, or other trash items. Shredded recycled tires, pea gravel, or sand may also be appropriate. You may contact your local park district to find out about any specific standards or codes in your area used for play ground equipment for an alternate source of reference.

For More Information and Guidelines:

US Consumer Products Safety Commission - Handbook for Public Playground Safety.

Erosion The introduction of wood mulch, water bars, or other materials to prevent the erosion of soil away for trees, poles, or anchors on a ropes challenge course is recommended.

Ground Hazards The ground area around ropes challenge course elements should be checked periodically for natural or man made hazards. Bees, snakes, rocks, exposed power cables, faulty electrical drop boxes, or gas pipes may be examples of ground hazards.



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ZIP LINES, CANOPY TOUR, COMMERCIAL ZIP LINE COURSES Installation / Inspection



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ZIP LINES, CANOPY TOUR, COMMERCIAL ZIP LINE COURSES Standard Zip Line, Commercial Zip Line and Canopy Tour Courses Canopy tours and/or commercial zip line courses utilize much of the same equipment, hardware, design and engineering requirements as standard ropes challenge course belay (life safety) and action/activity systems including zip lines. Canopy tours and/or commercial zip line courses commonly involve two or more zip lines, or action/activity systems being utilized for recreational, environmental education and/or ecotourism purposes. Such courses typically move participants in groups rather than just individuals, resulting in significant increases in capacity strength requirements, and cycles (participant days) of operation. This increased usage and commonly extended action/activity system length create variables that require additional considerations in design, engineering, construction, operation, equipment strength and longevity, inspection and maintenance. 1. General Zip lines, commercial zip line and canopy tour courses shall comply with all applicable sections of this standard and the additional specific requirements. 2. Zip Lines, General Compliance Criteria a) All zip lines shall be designed, selected, engineered and installed to support the

anticipated maximum intended loads, including rescue load requirements for that application as shall be determined by standard engineering practice in compliance with this Standard, applicable building codes, and legal requirements as established by applicable regulatory entities governing occupational safety. See ANNEX Design Loads. ANNEX Fall Protection System Anchor Requirements

b) The Safety Support (life safety, belay) line calculations for determining design loads in accordance with ANNEX Design Loads shall include under live loads a traffic load of 180 pounds (.8kN) per person and a dynamic load that shall not exceed the applicable portion of Note.1.2.(1)) and/or Note.1.2.(2)) and shall be calculated utilizing a minimum safety factor of 3. See ANNEX Fall Protection System Anchor Requirements

(Note.1.2. Personal Fall Protection Systems (Belayed) (1) Fall Arrest Systems :

i) If utilizing a full body harness with a dorsal attachment the system shall be configured to limit free fall distance to 6 feet (1.8m) or less and be equipped with an approved load limiting device or engineered system which limits maximum arrest forces to 1,800 pounds (8kN) or less.

ii) If utilizing: • a full body harness with a front mounted D ring near the sternum, • or a commercial life safety seat harness Class II • or a commercial climbing harness with appropriately rated waist attachments; the system shall be configured to limit free fall distance to 2 feet (0.61m) or less. and shall limit maximum arrest forces on the user to 900 pounds (4kN) or less through system design, engineering or the use/combined use of approved load limiting device(s).

iii) NOTE: When working with persons up to 88 pounds (40kg) the maximum arresting forces on the user shall be limited to 562 pounds (2.5kN) or less.

See ANNEX Fall Protection System Anchor Requirements



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(3) Work Positioning Systems :

i) shall be designed to support a worker on a vertical surface while working with hands free

ii) shall secure the worker by harness to an anchor or anchors using a lanyard(s) and/or approved connecting system configured to prevent the user’s from incurring a free fall..

iii) if a potential for a free fall exists the user shall utilize either an appropriately rated personal fall arrest system that limits free fall distance to two feet (0.61m) or less with a maximum arrest force of 900 pounds (4kN) or less.

iv) NOTE: When working with persons up to 88 pounds (40kg) the maximum arresting forces on the user shall be limited to 562 pounds (2.5kN) or less.)

See ANNEX Fall Protection System Anchor Requirements c) Zip line materials, construction, installation, inspection and maintenance shall comply

with the applicable requirements of this Standard. d) Zip lines shall have no exposed wires/strands within reach of the users that may result

in injury. e) Where a portion of the zip line or landing area is not visible from the zip departure

point a departure procedure system shall be utilized to ensure a clear unobstructed run. f) The elevation of a zip line is not specified; there shall be adequate clear space above,

below and around the zip line to ensure that the user will not strike or contact any obstruction, object or person unless specifically engineered and designed to do so.

g) Rescue ropes, equipment appropriate to applicable rescue loads, plans and rescue trained personnel, designed to be able to retrieve a participant from anywhere within zip line spans shall be present during use.

h) Items carried by users that may cause entanglement in safety equipment or component parts shall be secured in a proper fashion.

3. Single Cable (wire rope) Zip Lines, Compliance Criteria Zip lines that are designed to utilize one cable (wire rope) for both the action/activity progression line (user support/transport) and the belay (life safety) support line shall be designed and engineered in accordance with 1.2.a) and 1.2.b). 4. Double Cable (wire rope) Zip Lines, Compliance Criteria Double cable (wire rope) zip lines shall be designed to utilize one cable (wire rope) for the action/activity progression line (user support/transport) and a separate cable (wire rope) for the belay (life safety) support line. The safety support line shall be designed and engineered in accordance with 2.a) and 1.2.b). The action/activity progression line (user support/transport) shall minimally be designed and engineered to support the maximum intended loads in accordance with 2.a). 1.5. Zip Line Arrival Point, Protection, Braking a) The zip line ending speed shall be appropriate to the level of the course, and arrival

point dismount method. b) Courses shall have appropriate safety devices (impact absorbing materials, ground

cover, load limiters, landing mats, nets, etc.) installed as necessary at the zip line arrival point.

c) One and/or more of the following methods shall be used dependent upon the arrival speed of the zip line:



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i) Impact absorbent ground cover, impact absorber/load limiter, landing mats, nets, water landings or other protection methods existing or installed in arrival area to reduce injury potential. (May be a passive braking system or component elements of active or passive braking systems).

ii) Active braking systems (User action required) (1) Users shall be trained and equipped to brake prior to traversing zip line (2) An auxiliary braking system shall be installed as fail-safe for an uncontrolled or

too fast approach (3) User equipment must protect from burns, cuts, entrapment and abrasions (4) Procedures shall be in place to assist or remove users unable to actively brake. (5) A level of passive braking system should always be in effect (gravity,

engineered, mechanical. (This system may be the auxiliary braking system) iii) Passive braking systems

(1) shall not require any action by the user (2) shall always be in effect (gravity, engineered, mechanical, etc.)

1.6. Zip Line Take off Platform, Types Takeoff platforms involve a supported departure from the edge of the platform, or a gradually descending ramp from which the participant moves forward and steadily weights a self-belay or self-belay/support system. a. Take-off platforms shall be engineered and/or programmed to prevent the participant or

employee from striking any portion of the platform or lower obstacle during the take off.

b. Take off platforms shall not involve a user free fall drop in excess of 2 feet (.61m) before fully engaging the self-belay (life safety) subsystem and/or action/activity progression (user support / transport) subsystem.

1.7. Zip Line Angled Landing Platforms a) Zip line and/or canopy tour landing platforms of a walking landing ramp type, shall

allow the applicable braking system and the users’ momentum to gradually dissipate over a short distance permitting the user to come to a full upright stop.

b) Angles of inclination of the landing ramps shall not constitute a tripping hazard for the user.

c) Where necessary impact absorbing material should be utilized to prevent injury. 2.0. Canopy Tour/ Commercial Zip Line Tour – Supporting Structures 2.1. Criteria a) All supporting structures shall be of suitable size, strength and stability to support the

maximum intended loads as shall be determined by standard engineering practice in compliance with this Standard, applicable building codes, and legal requirements as established by applicable regulatory entities governing occupational safety. See Annex Design Loads.

b) Trees: A certified tree care professional shall be conferred with on tree health, care, and proper applications for support of engineered loads and termination of materials. A certified tree care professional should conduct onsite assessments for locations or trees that present concerns or special applications.

c) Wood poles shall be new or like new (non-used) utility poles of suitable size, strength and stability to support the maximum intended loads as shall be determined by standard



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engineering practice in compliance with this Standard, applicable building codes, and ASCE/SEI 7-05.

d) Structural glued laminated timbers, structural steel or substitute members and precast reinforced concrete columns and poles are permitted when such item is determined by standard engineering practice to be of suitable size, strength and stability to support the maximum intended loads, and they are installed in compliance with applicable standards and manufacturers recommendations.

Consultation with a professional engineer should be considered. 2.2. Foundation A foundation assessment should be conducted by a qualified professional to determine ground soil characteristics for actual pole or supporting element placement, method, compression ratings, and/or depth. 3.0. Ground Guy Anchors and Guy Cables (wire rope) 3.1. Strength a) Ground guy anchors rated pull out strength shall be designed to support the maximum

intended loads as shall be determined by standard engineering practice in compliance with this Standard, and applicable building codes.

b) Ground guy anchors shall be visible and marked at the ground surface level after placement to allow for identification of future anchor pull or creep. See Annex Design Loads.

c) Guy cable (wire rope) strength shall be appropriate to ensure that the WLL and required safety factors of the specific guy cable usage are not exceeded.

Consultation with a professional engineer should be considered. 4.0 Zip Line / Canopy Tour Platforms 4.1. General a) Zip Line, commercial zip line and /or canopy tour platforms shall be designed and

constructed to support the intended loads and comply with this Standard, applicable building codes, and legal requirements as established by applicable regulatory entities governing occupational safety.

b) Elevated platforms shall be designed and constructed with adequate room to allow for safe participant belay (life safety), and action/activity progression line hookups and disconnects and where necessary shall have travel restraint anchorages appropriate in strength and number to the intended use. See ANNEX Fall Protection System Anchor Requirements

c) Access to and from elevated platforms shall be by acceptable method and protected from fall hazard as necessary.

d) Ground based platforms with of a fall hazard height of 4 feet (1.2m) or more shall have: i) Appropriate fall protection systems in place ii) If railings are used they shall be in compliance with local building codes and have a

mid-rail. ii) Constructed access steps should have a uniform spacing, depth and height, but with

a minimum rise of six inches but no greater than nine inches where possible.



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iii) Platforms shall be well anchored and affixed to either the ground or other fixed object (i.e. tree, building, rock, pole, etc.).

e) Platforms should be clearly marked as to maximum user occupancy. 4.2. Zip Line, Commercial Zip Line /Canopy Tour Facilitation - Travel Restriction a) Where a participant or employee on a platform at height is not secured to an assisted

belay, self-belay or other life safety support line while there is an immediate fall hazard they shall be attached to a restraint/travel restriction fall protection lanyard and appropriate restraint/travel restriction or better anchorage. (Restraint / travel restriction requires that the user may not reach a fall hazard).

b) Independent anchorages are preferred for each person; use of the same anchorage shall require doubling or proportionally increasing the required travel restriction anchorage minimum tensile strength 1,000 lbs (4.44kN). See ANNEX Fall Protection System Anchor Requirements

5.0. Commercial Zip Line / Canopy Tour Course Marking 5.1. Commercial Zip Line / Canopy Tour Course Marking a) Commercial zip line / canopy tour courses that are user self-guided or semi-self-guided

shall post action/activity element / platform markers in a position where users will be able to see the notice before attempting to negotiate an element.

b) Users shall be trained and knowledgeable in the marking system employed on the course.

c) Efforts shall be made to post the notices at the same location in respect to the starting point of each element.

d) The element /platform markers shall contain the following minimum information: i) Element number/letter, name and description ii) Maximum number of users allowed on the element and/or platform at one time (if

different from general course description) iii) Special action/activity system instructions (kneeling, sitting, standing, etc.) iv) Safety instructions (method of attachment to belay/safety systems, transfer method,

travel restriction attachment, etc.) v) Difficulty of the specific action/activity element, course or course variation

a) Courses that have more than one action/activity element departing from a single platform or location shall clearly identify the overall difficulty of the course and the individual elements by a numeric or color code system.

b) The minimum course difficulty shall be designated by the most difficult element that a user would have to negotiate to complete the full course.

c) The minimum course difficulty shall be indicated at the beginning of the course.

d) Where two or more elements depart a single platform or location each shall be identified by the difficulty code system defined above.

e) In order to create a uniform industry wide system of difficulty codes the color code system should be used.

f) Color code Difficulty Rating System: the following colors should be used in ascending order of difficulty: Green (Easy) - Blue - Red - Black (Very Difficult).

e) Whenever possible, pictograms shall be utilized for element markers to ensure that instructions are clearly understood by the user.



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6.0. Lanyards 6.1. Type a) Only dual safety lanyards or “Y” style lanyards equipped with auto-locking carabiners

or auto locking snap hooks in compliance with G.8. shall be used. b) These shall be connected to approved harness systems accordance with ANNEX

Belay Rope & Lanyard Termination/Connections. c) Lanyards shall be engineered and designed to minimize entrapment hazards. d) Steel connectors shall be used for all steel to steel hook-up points. 7.0. Pulleys/Trolleys 7.1. Strength, Quality, Use a) Pulleys/trolleys shall be shall be of appropriate design, construction and engineering for the

intended use. b) Pulleys/trolleys shall be approved by the manufacturer for the intended use, and utilized in

accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. c) Pulleys / trolleys utilized on belay / zip line systems and utilized solely as user support / transport

applications shall have a minimum breaking strength of at least two times the foreseeable force permitted on the system, or shall withstand a static load of 3,600 lbs. (16 kN) per user.

d) Applications utilizing pulleys / trolleys solely as user support components shall employ an independent separate personal fall arrest system with a minimum rated strength of 5,000 lbs (22.2kN) per person.

e) User support / transport rated pulleys / trolleys shall not be utilized where a free fall is anticipated prior to the user fully weighting the pulley / trolley.

f) Pulleys / trolleys on belay / zip line systems and utilized as belay (life safety) connector applications shall have a minimum rated breaking strength of 5,000 lbs (22.2kN) per person.

g) Applications utilizing pulleys / trolleys that serve as the user’s sole method of connection to the belay / zip-line (life safety) system shall have a engineered or designed redundancy system in place with a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds (22,2 kN) per person in the event of pulley/trolley failure.

8.0. Carabiners, Snap-Hooks, Rapid Links, Connectors 8.1. Construction a) Carabiners and snap-hooks shall be auto-closing and auto-locking and require at least

two deliberate consecutive actions to open. b) Carabiners, snap-hooks, rapid links, D rings and other approved connectors utilized in

life safety connections shall have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2kN)

c) Carabiners and snap-hooks shall comply with the gate strength and other applicable requirements of ANSI/ASSE Z359.1 (2007) for the manufacturer’s estimated life cycle of the product.

8.2. Rescue Applications a) All carabiners, locking snap hooks, D-rings or rapid links used for rescue applications supporting

a victim and one rescuer, shall have a minimum breaking strength of 7,000 pounds (31.11KN) for the manufacturer’s estimated life cycle of the product.



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b) Support of additional rescuers / persons shall require increasing the MBS by 5,000 pounds (22.2kN) per person.

9.0. Inspections 9.1. Professional Inspection Inspections by a Qualified Person, including but not limited to a Qualified Ropes Challenge Course Professional, Licensed Professional Engineer or Commercial Ropes Course Vendor (Qualified Person) shall be conducted and documented: a) In accordance with the builders/installer/manufacturers’ recommendations and based on

a risk management assessment considering upon frequency of use, number of participants, previous history of wear, repair and maintenance, environmental factors that may effect materials or

b) at least annually. 10.0 Safety Training / Briefing 10.1. Safety Briefing All users shall receive a safety briefing covering the equipment, procedures, applicable marking systems and methods that they will be utilizing during tour operation. This will include at a minimum an overview of harness, carabiner/connectors, lanyard, helmet, and other pertinent equipments’ function, limitations and operation; safe progression procedures, emergency procedures, overview of course and any other information necessary to safely navigate the course.



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ANNEX

Design Loads Design Loads Determining the Design Load (DL) consists of three major steps: 1) Determine the Applied Loads (AL). 2) Calculate the Combined Load (CL). 3) Multiply the Combined Load by the Factor of Safety (FS) for the intended application. Step 1: Applied Loads (AL) Applied loads are primarily broken into three categories: • Live Load (LL): Loads produced by the use and occupancy of the structure. • Dead Load (DL): Loads produced by the weight of all materials used to construct the structure. • Environmental Load (EL): Loads produced by the environment in which the structure is located, such as snow load, wind load, seismic load, rain load, etc. Live Loads Live loads are to be determined using the ASCE/SEI 7-05 “Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures” –Second Edition ASCE-7 , Section 4.0, where applicable. For ropes course specific live loads, there is potentially an infinite amount of loading scenarios. While it is impossible to create a prescriptive table that covers all possible loading scenarios, as changes in the positioning of belayer, ground belay anchors, and other vectors encountered in the system rigging may result in loads being substantially amplified when forces are applied at varied angles. (E.g. horizontal belay cable (wire rope life line) could be improperly tensioned resulting in greater than 10 times the applied load being carried across the system) Table 1.0 gives live loads applied during a vertical free fall, belay arrest scenario at the ideal assisted belay angle (Figure 1.0. Table 1.0 is given as an example of a typical ropes course live load scenario; however live loads shall be calculated on a case by case basis, by an experienced qualified ropes challenge course professional and/or a professional engineer. Table 1.0 also does not reflect the forces/loads of a self-belay or continuous belay system with or without the use of deceleration devices.



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Free Fall Distance (ft)

Arrest Distance (ft)

Total Fall Distance (ft)

Human Weight (lbs)

Load on Rope (lbs)

Load on Rope or Cable (kN)

Load on Anchor (lbs)

Load on Anchor (kN)

1 5 6 250 300 1.3 600 2.7

2 5 7 250 350 1.6 700 3.1

3 5 8 250 400 1.8 800 3.6

4 5 9 250 450 2.0 900 4.0

5 5 10 250 500 2.2 1000 4.4

Table 1.0: Free fall belay arrest load

Free Fall Distance: Vertical distance of free fall before rope or cable is tensioned and anchor is loaded. Larger free fall distances result in larger loads.

Arrest Distance: Vertical distance between when anchor is loaded and the falling body is slowed to a stop. Shorter arrest distances result in larger loads.

Total Fall Distance: The fall Distance plus the arrest distance is the total distance that the body will fall.

Human Weight: Weight of falling body. Larger weights result in larger loads.

Load on Rope: The tension force that the safety rope will be exposed to.

To Anchor

To Falling

Body

To Belay

Figure 1.0: Free body diagram for load on anchor values in table 1.0.



46

Dead Loads Dead loads are to be determined using the ASCE/SEI 7-05 “Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures” –Second Edition ASCE-7, Section 3.0, where applicable. All dead loads are to be calculated using the unit material weights as specified by the manufacturer, if available. If this information is not available, the commentary ASCE/SEI 7-05, Section C 3.0, may be used w/ permission from the building authority in the jurisdiction where the structure is to be built. Environmental Loads Environmental loads are specific the geographic location in which the ropes course structures are to be constructed. The building authority, in the jurisdiction where the structure is to be built, will be able to help determine the proper environmental loads. These loads include, but are not limited to, snow load, wind load, seismic load, rain load, etc. Step 2: Combining Loads (CL) After all of the Applied Loads are identified, they are to be combined as specified in ASCE/SEI 7-05, Section 2.0. Step 3: Applying Factor of Safety (FS) In ropes course applications, the Factor of Safety is to be applied after all of the loads are identified and the Combined Load (CL) is determined. The Factor of Safety used is dependant on the ropes course application as shown in Table 2.0.

Application Factor of Safety (FS)

Design Load

(DL)

Structural Steel (columns, beams, etc) 2 2 x CL

Structural Concrete (foundations, columns, etc.) 2 2 x CL

Wooden Structural Members and Hardware (platforms, stairs, rails, etc.) 2 2 x CL

Belay(life safety) Cables (wire rope) 3 3 x CL

Ground Anchor Pull Out Capacity 3 3 x CL or 6,000 lbs, whichever is

greater.

*Non-Metal Lifeline Products (ropes, lanyards, webbing, etc.) 15 15 x CL

*Non-Metal Non-Lifeline Products (ropes, lanyards, webbing, etc.) 10 10 x CL

*Metal, Lifeline and Non-Lifeline Products (cables, eye bolts, etc. - maintain WLL of 20%) 5 5 x CL

Table 2.0: Factors of Safety.



47

When using multiple components in the same system, the system as a whole is only as strong as its weakest link. Therefore, the design load must be calculated for each component in the system. Then each component’s manufactured design strength

must meet or exceed its design load.



48

ANNEX

Belay Rope and Lanyard Terminations /Connections (Normative) Belay rope and/or lanyard terminations/connections between the participant or worker and the belay system shall be selected from the table below and shall be based on a risk assessment addressing the site needs, participant / worker body type, participant / worker experience, element and equipment availability. The connection shall comply with the listed requirements for the chosen type of connection. All attachments shall be made to the manufacturer’s designated load distribution point(s) on the harness for that type of activity. Where applicable the belay station should employ like attachments.

Type Description Requirements Examples

S Single attachment on harness

Removal requires applying at least three separate deliberate unlocking

actions or a tool.

The connector or knot will under user support or fall arrest maintain

its ideal loading orientation.

The connection method shall not allow an occurrence where it may be cross loaded or the locating portion

becomes the primary support element

Triple action auto-locking gate carabiner with a captive eye. See

note§

Rapid Link. ∗

Retraced figure of eight knot. ∗∗

Girth hitch of

engineered lanyard***

D-1R Double attachment on

harness - single attachment point on rope/lanyard

Two opposed connectors that require removal by applying at least two

separate deliberate unlocking actions.

Double auto-locking carabiners.

Screw Gate Carabiners.

Double action auto-snap

hooks.

D-2R Double attachment on

harness - two attachment points on rope/lanyard

Each connector removal requires applying at least two separate deliberate unlocking actions.

Double auto-locking carabiners.

Double action auto-snap hooks.

Retraced figure of eight

knot. ∗∗

§ A auto-locking triple action carabiner is defined as any carabiner or carabiner system that once closed and locked requires three separate actions to open the gate. A captive eye is a manufacturer’s device or component of the particular carabiner which ensures the ideal loading orientation of the carabiner when supporting the user, or preventing/arresting a fall. NOTE: The use of a single auto- locking triple action carabiner for connection must be in compliance with the carabiner manufacturer’s recommendations. E.g. Petzl specifies two triple locking carabiners with reversed gates for harness attachment be used in ropes course applications. * Usually only suitable for permanent or semi-permanent applications ** Retraced figure of eight knots shall have a minimum 6 inch tail past the end of the knot. The tail may be tied off in a “back-up” knot. The completed knot shall only present one obvious connection point. The securing of a rope to a support, anchor, harness or other item

with a knot shall be permitted providing the specific knot does not decrease the initial breaking strength of the rope below 5000 pounds (2268 kg) considering the users intended deceleration and the reductions of tensile strength over the course of daily use.

*** Component portion of lanyard (e.g. webbing loop) engineered specifically for girth hitching to harness. The girth hitching component must maintain a minimum breaking strength of 5000 pounds (2268 kg) once applied and considering the users intended deceleration and the reductions of tensile strength over the course of daily use during its expected life cycle.



49

Annex - Catenary (Horizontal) Tensioning; Loaded Sag

The geometry of a horizontal cable (wire rope), as shown in Illustration D, results in loads on the span line and its anchors well in excess of the load being supported. This multiplying effect makes it vitally important that the geometry and construction of the horizontal cable is such that these loads can be withstood and not exceed the WWL of the system’s weakest connection. A minimum of a 10% load sag shall be maintained for assisted belay systems. A minimum of a 5% load sag shall be maintained for any self-belay or cable (wire rope) continuous belay systems. NOTE: The examples given below are based on one user without the addition of fall impact loads for process clarity only. All overhead horizontal belay cables (wire ropes) should be designed for a minimum of two and possibly three person capacity (user, rescuer and possibly co-worker/rescuer). Loads created from impact due to falling are to be considered within the equations. A professional engineer, Qualified Ropes Challenge Course Professional or Commercial Ropes Course Vendor shall design, engineer and install all belay lifelines and systems.

L

D

F

QQ



50

The following equation gives a simplified approach to calculating the tension (T) in the cable due to a Force hanging at rest as shown in Illustration D:

.%1031.11,%571.5

),(,

sin2

0

0

sagsag

lbsLoadFwhere

FT

≈=Θ≈=Θ

=

Θ=

Notice in the above equation that the span length L is not included. The equation assumes that the cable weight is negligible; however this is not the case for longer span lengths. In order to approximate the additional tension due to cable weight, an adjustment can be added to the equation as follows:

( )

)(_)(_

)/(_,

cos

124

sin2

0

0

2

0

ftlengthcableLftlengthspanL

ftlbweightcablewwhere

LL

wL

FT

===

Θ

−

+Θ

=

Now it can be put together in the form of an example as follows: Given: Want to design a horizontal belay with the following configuration: Span L = 100 ft, Cable Length L0=100.5 ft for 5% and 102.0 ft for 10 % sag. Cable Material = 3/8 in. – 7x19 GAC @ 14,400 lb, ~0.15lb/ft Person Weight = 250 lb,



51

First determine the Tension in the cable: Presuming a 250 pound person on a dynamic belay loads at the center of a belay cable, an equal or proportional load of 250 pounds would be generated by the belayer when arresting the fall. Therefore the force used in the equation should be doubled (F = 500 lbs). First let’s calculate tension using 5% sag:

lbT 565,2)71.5cos(

5.1000.100124

)5.10015.0(

)71.5sin(2500

2

=

−

∗

+=

Now let’s calculate tension using 10% sag:

lbT 298,1)31.11cos(0.1020.100124

)0.102*15.0(

)31.11sin(2500

2

=

−

+=

Next, determine the Working Load Limit: Working Load Limit is 20% of the cable capacity,

WLLcable = (0.2)*14,400 lb = 2,880 lb However, it is attached with forged U-Clip clamps which results in a cable strength reduction of 20%. Therefore the system WLL is as follows:

WLLsystem = (0.8)*2,880 lb = 2,304 lb Finally check to see if the applied tension (T) is below the WLL: For 5%

T = 2,565 lb > 2,304 lb – Not Safe exceeds WLL For 10%

T = 1,298 lb < 2,304 lb – OK



52

In this application is would be ok to design the horizontal belay using 10% sag, but not using 5% sag. This example is intended to be used as a tool for starting a design; however, the actual tension should always be measured and recorded (using a calibrated instrument) with a test load before putting a ropes course element into use. Once the applied tension has been determined as above the following formula may be utilized to establish torque values for erection tensioning of the horizontal belay (lifeline): Where: T = torque te = tension F = friction factor (see Annex table 1) de = nominal diameter of eyebolt Example: The installer is rigging a belay line with an initial (erection) tension (te) of 1,298 lbs., using a ¾ inch hot dipped galvanized steel eyebolt. Apply the equation: To find that Torque = 10.55 foot pounds Following the initial erection the installer would torque the eyebolts / turnbuckle or other tensioning method to the calculated value of 10.55ftlb. This would set the 1298 lb initial tension on the cable (wire rope).

Oval Eyebolt Anchor (treatment) Friction Factor Plain bolt with factory lube only 0.20 Lightly oiled 0.15 Smooth chrome plated 0.15 Hot dipped (galvanized) 0.13 Graphite / mineral oil 0.10

Annex Table 1 Oval eyebolt Friction Factors References: 1) M. Irvine, “Cable Structures,” MIT Press, Cambridge, Mass., 1981. 2) J. Nigel Ellis, “Introduction to Fall Protection, Third Edition”, American Society of Safety Engineers, Des Plaines, IL., 2001

12ee dFtT ⋅⋅

=

1275.013.01298 ⋅⋅

=T



53

ANNEX Working Load Limit (WLL)

Informative

Metal Products The WLL for cables (wire rope) cables (wire rope), bolts and other metal product hardware is typically 20% of the material’s total breaking strength; also know as the tensile strength. 20% or .20 converts to 1/5 of a product’s tensile strength, also referred to as a factor of five. Thus by utilizing a factor of five with the product’s tensile strength one can determine a product’s designed safe working load. By operating and maintaining loads within the WLL of a given product, the material can be theoretically used a regular basis without causing fatigue of the material. Other factors should be considered when designing a ropes challenge course such as wind loading or tree / pole movement. Formula: Breaking strength in pounds multiplied by 20% or (.20) = WLL in pounds When calculating the WLL of a system all components must be considered. As an example the below information illustrates the method of determining the WLL for 3/8 inch 7x19 GAC with various cables (wire rope) fasteners, at the point of attachment. The WLL of a belay (life safety) cable (wire rope): 3/8 inch - 7x19 GAC with a breaking strength rated at 14,400 pounds (6540kg). 14,400 X .20 = 2,880 pounds (1308kg) WLL U style cables (wire rope) clips have a rated reduction of 20% on cables (wire rope) due to deformation of the cables (wire rope) according to the manufacturer. Formula: WLL of cable multiplied by .80 (80% of strength after cables (wire rope) clip reduction of 20%) = WLL of cable (wire rope) with cable (wire rope) clip attachment. E.g. 3/8 inch 7x19 GAC WLL 2,880 pounds X .80 = 2,304 lb WLL J-style cables (wire rope) clips have a rated reduction of 20% on cables (wire rope) due to deformation of the wire rope according to the manufacturer. J style cables (wire rope) clips do not distort the cable as much as U-style clips and do allow for some readjustment. Formula: WLL of cable multiplied by .80 (80% of strength after cables (wire rope) clip reduction of 20%) = WLL of cable (wire rope) with cable (wire rope) clip attachment. E.g. 3/8 inch 7x19 GAC WLL 2,880 pounds X .80 = 2,304 lb WLL Double Copper Ferrules have a rated reduction of 5% on cables (wire rope) due to deformation of the cables (wire rope) according to the manufacturer. Formula: WLL of cable (wire rope) multiplied by .95 (95% of strength after ferrules reduction of 5%) = WLL of cable (wire rope) with ferrules attachment. E.g. 3/8 inch 7x19 GAC WLL 2,880 pounds X .95 = 2,736 lb WLL Note: The use of u-clips and copper ferrules does not allow for cable (wire rope) adjustments after installation.



54

Nylon Products (life-line, and non life-lines) The WLL for nylon products such as rope and webbing is typically 15% of life-lines, and 10% of non life-lines material’s total breaking strength; also known as the tensile strength. 15% for life-lines or 10% for non life-lines converts to 1/15 or 1/10 of a product’s tensile strength respectively, also referred to as a factor of fifteen or ten respectively. Thus by dividing the product’s tensile strength by the appropriate factor one can determine a product’s designed working load for life-line or non life-line applications. By operating and maintaining loads within the WLL of a given product, the material can be theoretically used a regular basis without causing excessive wear of the material. Other factors should be considered when utilizing ropes or webbing for life-line or non life-lines such as age, soiled product, storage practices, rope logs, etc. Additionally, any knots tied in ropes or webbings reduce the overall breaking strength of the material by known ratios, refer to “Mountaineering, Freedom of the Hills” for more information. The examples below are based on Life-line applications with safety factors of 15. Formula: Breaking strength in pounds divided by15 = WLL in pounds Lobster Claw made with multiline rope: ½ inch (12.8mm) - 3 strand multiline rated at 5,800 pounds (2634kg). 5,800 pounds (2634kg) ÷15 = 386 pounds (175kg) WLL (rounded down for safety) 5/8 inch (16mm) - 3 strand multiline rated at 8,200 pounds (3724kg). 8,200 pounds (3724kg)÷15 = 546 pounds (248kg) WLL (rounded down for safety) Note: These figures are theoretical in nature and have not been tested on live subjects in a ropes challenge course environment. Variance to the aforementioned figures is accuracy based on manufacturers’ rated breaking strengths, manufacturers’ recommendations, and independent break tests conducted on certain test products. Note: Other materials such as commercial pre-sewn webbing lanyards may also be used. Use the manufacturers’ product ratings when calculating WLL. The Cordage Institute specifies that the Working Load Limit of a rope shall be determined by dividing the minimum Tensile Strength by the Safety Factor. Safety factors range from 5 to 12 for non-critical uses, 15 for life lines or 1/15 or 6.66% of the tensile strength. Therefore, the WLL of a 5,000 lb rope will become 5,000 lb times .0666 equaling 333 lb. (1.48kN)



55

ANNEX Fall Protection System Anchor Requirements

(Normative)

Fall protection systems are classified as Fall Arrest, Work Positioning, Restraint & Travel Restriction and Rescue systems. The anchors associated with these systems categorized as Certified or Non-certified.

1. Certified Anchor: Certified anchors shall be tested or analyzed utilizing a nationally accepted engineering

method under the supervision of a Qualified Person. 2. Non-Certified Anchor: Non-certified anchors shall be skillfully judged by an authorized Competent

Person to meet the strength requirement for the application, and shall limit any potential free fall to 6 feet and shall have an attached energy absorber / decelerator / approved engineered deceleration system, in the system.

• Horizontal Lifelines (belay lines): Certified Only. Horizontal Lifelines shall sustain at least two times

the maximum tension developed in the lifeline during fall arrest in the direction applied by lifeline forces.

• Personal Fall Arrest System Anchors: shall have strength capable of sustaining static loads of at least

two times the maximum arrest force permitted on the system when certified or 5,000 lbs. (22.2kN) in the absence of certification. When more than one personal fall arrest system is attached to an anchorage, the above anchorage strengths must be multiplied by the number of personal fall arrest systems attached to the anchorage.

• Work Positioning System Anchors: shall have strength capable of sustaining at least two times the

foreseeable force permitted on the system when certified, or shall withstand a static load of 3,000 lbs. (13.3kN) for a non-certified anchorage.

• Restraint & Travel Restriction Anchors: shall have strength capable of sustaining at least two times the

foreseeable force permitted on the system when certified, or shall withstand a static load of 1,000 lbs. (4.5kN) for a non-certified anchorage.

• Rescue Systems: Anchorages selected for use with rescue systems shall have strength based on the

static load placed on the system with a safety factor of 5:1 for certified anchorages, or shall have a strength capable of sustaining static loads of at least 3,000 lbs. (13.3kN) for non-certified anchorages, for connection of the rescue system only.

Anchorage connectors shall not be attached to anchorages where such attachment would reduce the anchorage strength below the applicable levels set forth above. Anchorage connections shall be stabilized to prevent unwanted movement or disengagement of the system from the anchorage. Anchorage connectors shall be attached to no more than one PFAS or rescue system unless certified for such purpose.



56

TABLE 1: Summary of Anchor Requirements System Certified Non-Certified Fall Arrest 2 X maximum arresting force 5,000 lbs. (22.2 kN) Work Positioning 2 X foreseeable force 3,000 lbs. (13.3 kN) Restraint & Travel 2 X foreseeable force 1,000 lbs. (4.5 kN) Rescue 5 X applied load 3,000 lbs. (13.3 kN) Horizontal Belay 2 X max. tension of fall arrest in direction of applied forces Not Permitted



57

Low Ropes & High Ropes Basic Operational Guidelines & Program

Concerns



58

Low Ropes Basic Operational and Safety Concerns: When operating a low ropes course, certain variables should be considered. They may include but not limited to the following and when applicable:

Program Approved:

PURPOSE - The purpose of the program and the value the low ropes course curriculum provides for the group during participation.

HEALTH AND WAIVER FORMS - Some level of risk management and group preparation for participation. Helps document participants and contact information. THE EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING CYCLE – A foundation model of experiential education by David Kolb. Or, the use of other appropriate education / learning models. ADVENTURE BY CHOICE - Participants choose their level of participation. GOALS & EXPECTATIONS - Address and identify the individual, group, and facility goals and expectations for the program. WEATHER - Current environmental conditions and the impact certain conditions may have on the groups experience, such as heat, cold, sun, wind, rain, water, snow, ice or other environmental conditions. SEQUENCING - The choice and sequence of program exercises appropriate to the groups goals, educational expectations, and/or learning abilities. WARM UP'S AND STRETCHES - Introductory exercises to help prepare a group for more mental, emotional, and / or physical activities. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES - A written plan for how to handle emergency procedures to include, but not limited to, injury on course, fires, inclement weather, water activities, first aid procedures, notification of chain of command, first aid procedures, etc. TRAINING AND OBSERVATION - Documented training procedures for group leaders and any appropriate observation periods and/or internships. A measurable set of skills and competencies for effective low ropes course operation. This may include, but be limited to spotting, basic group facilitation models and techniques, maturity, etc. TEAMS COURSE FORMAT AND RULES - Operational rules and guideline appropriate for site specific exercises. ACTIVITIES - Exercises which are appropriate for a groups purpose, staff ability, program preparedness, and /or program operation.



59

Some Basic and Common Guidelines for Low Ropes Course Operation:

1. Adventure By Choice - Participants choose their level of participation.

2. Spotting commands - Verbal commands to prepare and implement spotting or protection during a participant lift, pass, off the ground, or in a tenuous situation. (e.g. Stepping up onto an element)

3. No outside props, where applicable - The minimized use of possibly unreliable outside props such as tree branches, fences, posts, or other non inspected equipment by appropriate staff.

4. Body alignment and care - The careful consideration of the proximity of a person’s head or other body parts in relation to the ground or spotters abilities. (e.g. A person’s head should not be lower than the level of their feet, lifting and bending with the legs, etc.)

5. Jewelry, watches, pens, and other sharp objects should be removed from participant’s body or secured to help prevent injury.

6. Participants should have proper foot wear to protect their feet.

7. The Low Ropes Course is closed if severe weather is present.

(e.g. Lightening, high winds, floods, or other hazardous conditions which may not be compensated for with program design or appropriate safety protocols.

8. Prudent judgment by facilitator must be exercised at all times!

9. Safety briefing - Ask the group about element specific concerns which may cause injury and provide additional information if required. (e.g. height of element, close trees, etc.)



60

High Ropes Basic Operational and Safety Concerns:

OPERATIONS The high ropes challenge course shall be operated in a safe and controlled fashion. The operation, inspection, set up, take down, and facilitation should be carried out in a safe and prudent fashion.

All attempts should be taken to promote "Adventure By Choice" and no one will be coerced into participation, against their will.

LEADERSHIP A trained and program approved leader must be on-site whenever the ropes course is being used. The on-site supervisor will be approved by the program director.

INSPECTIONS 1. All elements to be used for programs will be visually inspected for damage or other defects prior to the groups arrival, conduct quarterly or other appropriate in-house inspections, and receive a third party inspection from a commercial or other properly insured ropes course professional.

2. All safety gear will be properly stored and inspected for damage and defects prior to the groups use.

TRAINING'S 1. All actions of staff will be consistent with the methods and common practices provided during staff training. This suggests that staff should not operate outside of there training and comfort level in the areas of course operation, set-up, take down, maintenance, facilitation, or any other course work.

2. Staff will receive training's and refresher courses on an on-going basis. Topics of training's may include, but not be limited to:

Belaying, Rescues, Gear Inspections, Element Inspections

Operating Procedures, Updates of Procedures, Facilitation methods

Staff Review and Skills Documentation

"KNOW WHAT YOU KNOW AND KNOW WHAT YOU DO NOT KNOW!"

~ Paul Petzoldt, Co-Founder NOLS & WEA ~



61

STAFF QUALIFICATIONS Minimum age, physical abilities, mental maturity, education, or other relevant training should be considered and documented.

STAFF RESPONSIBILITIES Staff are informed about their area of responsibility and have received proper training to conduct and perform skills required to meet these expectations.

DOCUMENTATION All staff will have a completed assessment sheet on file. This assessment is to evaluate staff levels of competency and areas for further professional development.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES - A written plan for how to handle emergency procedures to include, but not limited to, injury on course, fires, inclement weather, water activities, first aid procedures, notification of chain of command, first aid procedures, etc.



62

CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS



63

Ropes Course Instructor Minimum National Requirements

ROPES/CHALLENGE COURSE TRAINING QUALIFICATIONS FOR HIGH & LOW COMBONATION CERTIFCIATIONS Theoretical Basis of Adventure-Based Activities

A component of the training will consist of review and historical understanding of the development of the ropes challenge courses and adventure-based activities. Enough information shall be provided to inform new instructors and professionals of the rich history of the industry and establish links for future networking, professional development, and research. Possible subject categories may be:

History of Adventure-Based Activities

The development and historical application of adventure-based activities and the evolution from the military, the efforts of Kurt Hahn, Outward Bound, National Outdoor Leadership School, Wilderness Education Association, and current ropes challenge course industry.

Philosophy of Experiential Education The underlining principles of participant focused learning. The involvement in the learning and awareness process that comes from participants learning first hand and by their own experiences. A possible learning model to reference may include David Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle.

Ethics of Adventure-Based Programming The principles of “do no harm’ as relative to the adventure-based activities and the use of ropes challenge course industry exercises and facilitation. The review of physical, psychological, and emotional well being of clients, program preparations, and professional follow-up or referrals post experiences.

Additional Resource reading:

Ethical Issues in Experiential Education, Jasper S, Hunt, Jr.,

Published by AEE <www.aee.org>



64

PROGRAM SPECIFIC POLICIES & PROCEDURES

The development and review of program specific policies and operational procedures which will be included in ropes course instructor training, to contain but not be limited to:

1. Liability Releases 2. Participant Medical Information Forms 3. Development of Written Policies and Procedures for Program 4. Management of Program Goals 5. Safety and Risk Management 6. Legal Liabilities of Adventure-Based Programming

GROUP FACILITATION SKILLS

A training component on acceptable behaviors of instructors and interactions with participants will be included. Possible subject matter may include, but not be limited to:

1. Contracting for Behavior and Goals 2. Experiential Learning Cycle 3. Responsibility and Roles of Facilitators and Groups 4. Use of Metaphors in Programs 5. Group Leadership Skills 6. Group Stages of Development

TAILORED TRAININGS

Trainings should be tailored for specific program vision and mission statements that take into account unique situations or deliverables. Such tailored content may apply in the following settings:

• Education • Therapy • Training and Development • Corrections • Universal/Adaptive Programming • Special Needs Populations



65

INSTRUCTOR COMPETENCIES &

ONGOING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT It is important for ropes course instructors to remember that:

• Adventure based program skills need to be reviewed and practiced regularly to be maintained and improved.

• Instructor feedback from peers, clients, and self reviews will help polish and improve on ones professional skills and effectiveness.

• It is reasonable to expect that instructors can maintain and improve skill levels demonstrated at initial certification training with appropriate practice and refresher training.

• It is strongly recommended that instructors who are going to be persons principally responsible for a program take more workshops in advanced skills on a regular basis.

INSTRUCTOR KNOWLEDGE BASE

Games / Energizers Possess the knowledge of and purpose for, the use of introductory group games, energizers, and de-inhibitor exercises during a groups’ experience

Stretch Exercises Possess the ability to lead a group in proper stretching exercises which assist the group participants with physical and emotional preparation for activity participation.

Initiative Activities Instructors will possess the knowledge of and purpose for each low ropes course initiative present at program specific facility. An understanding of exercise story lines, front loading or staging learning themes, and application of exercises measured against programs vision / mission statements and group specific goals and desired outcomes.



66

Spotting Techniques Have a working knowledge on proper and current spotting techniques for each exercise used, to include but not be limited to:

• Element specific operation • Platforms and/or Ladders • Moving cables, ropes, or other hardware • Other group members • Jewelry, clothing, or other worn objects • Proper stance and body posture to minimize spotter injury • Specific target zones to protect such as head, neck, and spine • The principles of assisting a participant off an exercise rather than ‘catching’ them. • Awareness of surrounding hazards such as broken glass, tree roots, branches, or

element guy wires.

Knots and their Application Be able to perform the proper and repeated tying of industry approved knots such as a water knot, bowline on a bight, figure eight on a bight, figure eight follow through, and/or a back up knot. This skill ability will be documented in writing.

Use of Low Elements Be able to determine and lead appropriate low ropes course exercises in accordance with group goals, expectations, course condition, facility policies and procedures, and other relevant information.

Use of High Elements Be able to determine and lead appropriate high ropes course exercises in accordance with group goals, expectations, course condition, facility policies and procedures, and other relevant information.

Set-up / Take-down Techniques Be able to properly and safely set-up the required equipment for correct operation of the ropes course (High or Low) and do so in a manner consistent with safe practices for self and as outlined by program policies and procedures. This may include, but not be limited to:

• Working in pairs while on the course • Establishing a notification schedule with office staff or other responsible person if

working on the course independently • Carry a two-way radio (with fresh batteries) while on course • Establish a “check-in” time throughout the day during course operation



67

Belaying

Be able to properly belay and/or arrest the fall of a participant in a fashion consistent with common practices and to maintain the well being of the participant. This may include, but not be limited to:

• Knowledge of harness clip-in points • Knowledge of overhead anchor placement • Awareness of participant swing or pendulum during a fall • Awareness of balance and counter-acting forces when arresting a fall • Awareness of belay anchors and/or use of shear reduction blocks (SRB) • Awareness of appropriate rescues techniques such as a belay escape • Knowledge of problem areas which may cause interference with proper belay

procedures such as stitch plate entanglements

Special Operating Procedures

When operating special exercises which include high dynamic loads or increased speeds, instructor will be aware and trained in the exercises proper operation. Examples may include a Pamper Pole, Zip Line, or Giant Swing. Policies and Procedures should be in accordance with your manufactures recommendations per installation method and participant load points.

Rescue Techniques Where appropriate, instructors will need to be trained and demonstrate competence with rescue procedures. This may include, but not be limited to coaching a participant for self rescue / assist, instructor assist, dynamic belay lowers, or cut-a-way rescues. Additional and appropriate equipment should be onsite and reserved for such a situation.

DOCUMENTED TECHNICAL SKILLS / PROFICIENCY AREAS

(Where applicable based on job responsibilities)

When documenting training and instructor abilities, multiple teaching techniques will be used to ensure proper information retention and perform competencies in a correct and proper fashion. This will be done by at least a three (3) step approach; showing proper examples of information being taught, testing to document instructor skills, and written testing to document knowledge understanding and critical thought. Additional steps may be employed such as peer observers sheets, video taping, training DVD’s, and random skills testing.

Content of training workshop may vary from location to location due to type and size of a particular facilities ropes course program and elements. In order to fulfill the Training National Requirements however, a complete training must be administered on a full ropes course allowing for all skills to be taught and proficiency documented. Typically this will consist of a forty (40) hour training, follow-up with a skills assessment, written exam, and an apprentice period at instructors facility to allow for content implementation. (See Appendix N)



68

ABILITIES

Documented Skills — Low Elements

Be able to lead and facilitate group in warm-up, stretching, and new games Be able to lead and facilitate group in initiatives activities Be able to lead and facilitate Low Ropes Course Initiatives Be able to place themselves and move properly to be an effective spotter Be able to demonstrate and enforce proper spotting commands Be able to demonstrate and enforce proper spotting techniques Documented Skills — High Elements (where applicable) 1. Demonstrate and use proper climbing commands 2. Belay someone as a belay back-up 3. Belay using a belay device (stitch plate, figure 8, ATC, other device or method 4. Belay someone weighing more than you with appropriate back-up 5. Demonstrate proper belay technique 6. Tie an overhand knot 7. Tie a water knot 8. Tie a bowline knot 9. Tie a bowline on a bight knot 10. Tie a figure eight knot 11. Tie a figure eight follow-through 12. Tie a square knot 13. Demonstrate proper ladder set-up 14. Supervise belay and tie-in procedures 15. Perform and demonstrate use of crab claws for climbing 16. Perform and demonstrate high element belay set-up 17. Perform and demonstrate high element belay take-down 18. Perform and demonstrate equipment inspection and storage 19. Proper harness fitting and operation 20. Proper helmet fitting and operation 21. Set-up a proper dynamic belay system 22. Be able to perform proper static belay with crab claws on belay cables 23. Be able to identify proper materials and components of a ropes course element 24. Demonstrate high element rescue techniques 25. Belay someone in a rescue situation 26. Demonstrate Zip Line set-up and participant procedures 27. Demonstrate taking participant off the Zip Line 28. Demonstrate Zip Line rescue 29. Demonstrate set-up on climbing tower 30. Demonstrate belay technique on Just Rite Descender (pamper pole, if required) 31. Demonstrate pamper pole set-up and participant procedures 32. Demonstrate proper procedures for any exercise not listed in this list as the PRCA cannot foresee all

possible course configurations, applications, and/or element designs.



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Safety and Environmental Skills

1. Be able to perform CPR and basic first aid 2. Perform accident response procedures 3. Perform a rescue for injured participant from high or low elements 4. Evaluate threatening weather patterns 5. Identify facility dangers (sharp objects, equipment damage) 6. Secure facility during unsupervised hours 7. Use safety commands when appropriate (On belay? Belay on!) 8. Encourage minimum impact practices 9. Orient participants to safety issues (i.e. direction of fall, emotional rescue, etc.)

Programming and Administration Skills

1. Establish and maintain safety/risk management procedures 2. Correct care and maintenance of facility resources (equipment, etc.) 3. Knowledge of experiential education theory 4. Knowledge of experiential education ethics 5. Knowledge of experiential learning cycle 6. Knowledge of group development stages 7. Supervise, train, and assess staff 8. Writing facility-specific ropes course policy/procedure manual 9. Assessing client needs in advance of course 10. Directing site logistics (meals, transportation, accommodation) 11. Operate and instruct in the safe maintenance of course equipment

Facilitation Skills (subjective)

General Experiential Education Foundations

1. Sequence and modify activities appropriately 2. Lead an effective debrief of a group activity session 3. Instruct participants in hard skills 4. Monitor participant behavior and development 5. Redirect, encourage, or correct uncooperative participant behavior 6. Personal experience with course for empathetic response 7. Briefing course activities as appropriate for group 8. Debriefing for a range of participant groups 9. Encourage or enhance transfer of learning 10. Setting and monitoring participant goals 11. Frontloading (emphasizing learning before activity) 12. Ensuring for the emotional safety of course participants



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ROPES/CHALLENGE COURSE TRAINING QUALIFICATIONS FOR LOW ROPES CERTIFCIATIONS

16 HOURS MINIMUM w/ WRITTEN EXAM

General Experiential Education Foundations

1. Sequence and modify activities appropriately 2. Lead an effective debrief of a group activity session 3. Instruct participants in hard skills 4. Monitor participant behavior and development 5. Redirect, encourage, or correct uncooperative participant behavior 6. Personal experience with course for empathetic response 7. Briefing course activities as appropriate for group 8. Debriefing for a range of participant groups 9. Encourage or enhance transfer of learning 10. Setting and monitoring participant goals 11. Frontloading (emphasizing learning before activity) 12. Ensuring for the emotional safety of course participants

Programming and Administration Skills

1. Establish and maintain safety/risk management procedures 2. Correct care and maintenance of facility resources (equipment, etc.) 3. Knowledge of experiential education theory 4. Knowledge of experiential education ethics 5. Knowledge of experiential learning cycle 6. Knowledge of group development stages 7. Supervise, train, and assess staff 8. Writing facility-specific ropes course policy/procedure manual 9. Assessing client needs in advance of course 10. Directing site logistics (meals, transportation, accommodation) 11. Operate and instruct in the safe maintenance of course equipment



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ABILITIES

Documented Skills — Low Elements

Be able to lead and facilitate group in warm-up, stretching, and new games Be able to lead and facilitate group in initiatives activities Be able to lead and facilitate Low Ropes Course Initiatives Be able to place themselves and move properly to be an effective spotter Be able to demonstrate and enforce proper spotting commands Be able to demonstrate and enforce proper spotting techniques

Sample Low Ropes Course Exam Questions:

1. Please explain three reasons why a Policy and Procedure Manual is important.

2. What functions do "Warm Up Exercises" play with a group?

3. Please define what "Spotting" is and describe how it is done with two example exercises.

4. What are the two fundamental types of activities on a low ropes course and define their difference and purpose of use.

5. Pick four different low ropes activities and describe 3 special safety concerns for each activity.

6. Opposite of "Adventure by Choice", when does a participant give up their right to do an activity?



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Ethical Guidelines



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Ethical Guidelines

Ethical guidelines are a critical step in the professional development of the PRCA. The guidelines are meant to provide a benchmark for behavior among professionals, and to assist constructive dialogue in the development of the PRCA.

With these ethical guidelines, the PRCA aspires to raise the level of professionalism in the ropes challenge course industry. The PRCA leadership and membership are committed to supporting and following these ethical guidelines.

A. The Individual

1. Act with personal integrity.

2. Strive to increase knowledge base and seek personal growth opportunities.

3. Recognize individual needs and desires; and, when they conflict with professional responsibilities, seek win-win solutions.

4. Practice my own economic and financial interests in ways that are fair and equitable.

B. Responsibility for Professional Development and Conduct

1. Define, seek to understand, and pursue a set of core values aligned with my professional practice.

2. Make reasonable efforts to assure that your services are properly used.

3. Strive to achieve and maintain a professional level of competence and establish collegial relations with other professionals.

4. Practice within the limits of individual competence, culture and experiences when providing services and consultation.

“Know what you know and know what you don’t know” Paul Petzoldt, WEA Founder

5. Honor your commitments and agreements.

6. Cite sources for research and gain appropriate permission for the use of other's original materials.



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C. Responsibility to Clients

1. Serve the long-term interests of clients, even during short term focused services.

2. Conduct any professional services and relationships honestly and responsibly.

3. Maintain professional business operations, to include contract for services, insurance, clear expectations, remuneration and referrals where appropriate. Invoice fees and expenses honestly.

4. Deal with conflicts constructively and be solution focused.

5. Identify and minimize conflicts of interest.

6. Protect the confidentiality of clients and professional relationships, including medical information and business practices.

7. Be truthful and honest when representing services to clients.

8. Provide information on potential physical and emotional risks, which allows for informed consent by individuals.

D. Responsibility to Industry

1. Contribute to the professional development of yourself, other practitioners, and the profession.

2. Promote the sharing of knowledge and skills.

3. Work with other professionals in ways that promote exemplary professional practices.

4. Actively promote ethical practices with individuals and organizations engaged in the ropes challenge course services and, in a case of questionable practices, use appropriate channels for resolution.

5. Act in ways that bring credit and goodwill to the ropes challenge course profession.

6. Give due respect to colleagues in the ropes challenge course and other professions.

E. Global Responsibility

Act with sensitivity to the facts that my actions and recommendations may affect the lives and well being of others.

Model sound environmental and ecological practices.



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Appendix



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Appendix A Oval Eye Bolts (OEB) Oval Eye Bolts (OEB) for in-line belay cable terminations should be avoided. Generally, OEB bolts have a rated breaking strength far below that of the belay cable itself; 11,500 lb and 14,400 lb respectively. When ascertaining the maximum breaking strength of an entire system, the weakest denomination factor should be used to error on the side of safety. Oval Eye Bolts (OEB) may be appropriate for the use of element termination assemblies.

An OEB breaking strength rated at 11,500 lb would have a Safe Working Load (SWL) of 20%, which is calculated by 11,500 lb times 20% equals 2,300 lb.

The Safe Working Load (SWL) of 3/8’ 7x19 Galvanized Aircraft Cable (GAC) [flexible wire rope] would be calculated by taking 14,400 lb times 20% equals 2,880 lb.

In this example, all other factors being equal, the combined SWL of the entire system would be the lesser of the two values, or 2,300 lb.

Additional Note: OEB typically do not carry load rated values when used by loads not in-line with the OEB installation. Therefore, any downward load on the bolt would result in use and operation outside it’s design factors. Nut Eye Bolts (NEB) do carry a rated value up to a 90 degree angle from in-line pull, though this is a reduced amount.

Threaded Oval Eye / Threaded Thimble Eye Nuts

Thread on Oval Eye and Thimble Eye Nuts are prohibited for any application on a ropes challenge course. The product is designed for in-line pulls only and it is extremely difficult to achieve this installation preference. Therefore, the use of Oval Eye and Thimble Eye Nuts is not recommended. Numerous inspections of these applications in the field validate this recommendation by showing signs of permanent bending or flexion when loaded, also called cyclical bending.



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Appendix B Safe Working Load (SWL) / Working Load Limit (WLL)

Metal Products

The SWL or WLL for metal cables and bolts is typically 20% of the material total breaking strength, also know as “tensile strength.” This is achieved by utilizing a design factor of 5 to a products tensile strength to determine its designed working load. A working load needs to be multiplied by a factor of 5 to attain its tensile strength. Therefore, a factor of 5 results in 1/5 of a products tensile strength and this is converted into a decimal amount of .20 or 20%. By operating and maintaining loads within the SWL or WLL of a given product, you should be able to utilize the material on a regular basis without causing ‘fatigue’ of the material. Other factors should be considered when designing a ropes course such as wind loading or tree / pole movement.

Nylon Products (non life lines) The SWL or WLL for nylon products such as rope and webbing is typically 10% of the material total breaking strength, also know as “tensile strength.” This is achieved by utilizing a design factor of 10 to a products tensile strength to determine its designed working load. A working load needs to be multiplied by a factor of 10 to attain its tensile strength. Therefore, a factor of 10 results in 1/10 of a products tensile strength and this is converted into a decimal amount of .10 or 10%. By operating and maintaining loads within the SWL or WLL of a given product, you should be able to utilize the material on a regular basis without causing ‘fatigue’ of the material. Other factors should be considered when utilizing ropes for life lines such as age, soiled product, storage practices, rope logs, etc.

The Cordage Institute specifies that the Safe Working Load of a rope shall be determined by dividing the Minimum Tensile Strength by the Safety Factor. Safety factors range from 5 to 12 for non-critical uses, 15 for life lines or 1/15 or 6.66% of the tensile strength. Therefore, the SWL of a 5,000 lb rope will become 5,000 lb times .0666 equaling 333 lb.

For more information:

http://www.ropecord.com

http;//www.nfpa.org



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Appendix C: Catenary (Horizontal) Tensioning; Loaded Sag The geometry of a horizontal cable, such as a belay cable, results in loads on the span line and its anchors well in excess of the load being supported. This multiplying effect makes it vitally important that the geometry and construction of the horizontal cable is such that these loads can be withstood and not exceed the SWL of the systems weakest connection.

Load x Span Span Line Tension = ------------------------------------ 4 x Sag (10% of Span) Therefore, if the configuration for a belay cable was:

3/8 in. – 7x19 GAC @ 14,400 lb / 5 = 2,880 SWL, attached with forged U-Clip clamps with a cable strength reduction of 20% (2,880 x .80), the overall system SWL would be 2,304 lb.

Presuming a 250 lb person were to load at the center of a 40 foot wide belay cable on a dynamic belay rope, a equal or proportional load of another 250 lb would be generated by the belayer to arrest the fall. This would have a combined load on cable of 500lb.

500 lb x 40 feet 500 lb x 40 feet 1,250 lb = ----------------------------- 2,500 lb = ----------------------------- 4 x 4 feet (10% of Span) 4 x 2 feet (5% of Span)

Double Person Loads:

A double person load on a 10% sag of span belay cable could result in vector forces upwards of 2,500 lb. This would be beyond the SWL for this particular ‘system.’ Additionally, other construction materials such as bolts or turnbuckles may have a lesser SWL. Note: Know the SWL of all materials used in a belay cable system, and design to the weakest material. Illustration F – Load Sag

A MINIMUM OF 10% LOAD SAG SHOULD BE MAINTAINED FOR ANY DYNAMIC BELAY APPLICATION. A MINIMUM OF 5% LOAD SAG SHOULD BE MAINTAINED FOR ANY STATIC BELAY APPLICATION OR A LOAD SAG THAT DOES NOT EXCEED THE SYSTEMS SAFE WORKING LOAD.



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Illustration D: Load Sag

For more Information / Sources / Guidelines: Occupational Safety & Health Administration, http://www.osha.gov/ OSHA, 1910.66 App C III(h)(6) State Emergency Service, Oberon State Emergency Service, Alan Sheehan, B.E., Australia: http://oberon.ses.nsw.gov.au



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Appendix E: Bolt Placement Distances When belay cables or down guy wires are used, placement will be at least 12 inches from the top of a pole. When multiple termination points are required, attachments will be within 12 inches of another primary bolt attachment configured for that same load line or system.

Each critical cable, such as a belay cable, will have a guy wire installed within 12 inches of each termination point of the critical application. In tandem courses, element belay cables may additionally serve as a guy wire. For more information on bolt placement, please contact your local utility company or consult with your structural engineer.



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Appendix F: Staple Placement / Installation

The use of properly installed galvanized forged staples for work positioning system anchors for course set up or take down shall be capable of supporting at least 3,000 pounds (13.34kN) for non-certified anchorages or twice the anticipated loads for certified anchorages. Based on industry tests the average pull out strength for staples is approximately 2,500 pounds (11.11kN) (slow static loading at a 90 degree angle, straight down) less than the minimum required strength for work positioning anchorage. Unless a staple placement has been proof tested or otherwise certified for the intended work positioning anchorage use by a professional engineer, Qualified Ropes Challenge Course Professional or Commercial Ropes Course Vendor with experience in fall protection anchorage design and installation, the staple shall not be utilized as a work positioning anchor. A Nut Eye Bolt (NEB), Pole Wrap, other leading edge protection or Cable Grab system would be a better application than a staple. Staples for climbing access shall be 6 to 8 inches in length and installed starting between 10 feet (3.04m) to 12 feet (3.65m) above the ground surface to restrict unauthorized access. Subsequent steps should be installed parallel to each other or staggered but shall be no less than 10 inches (25.4cm) or more than 14 inches (35.5cm) apart. To maximize staple pull strength the staples shall be installed at a minimum 5 to 10 degree positive angle and imbedded a minimum of 50% but not exceeding 60% of their length for hand and/or foot holds. Staples shall not be used to terminate belay cables (wire rope), elements, or other in-line pull termination applications or for fall arrest anchors.



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Appendix G: Staple Placement

Special Concerns – Staples may become unreliable after a very short time frame due to freezing and thawing, pole shrinkage, and other variables. Staples should be visually and tactile inspected at each use to validate current condition before use. Staples can and have been known to ‘walk out’ of a pole and need to be reset with a sledge hammer.

Definition of SAFE: “SAFE” is a relative term and is used in the context of this document as measured against an industrial risk management plan. Therefore no activity is 100% safe, rather, purposeful design and care has been taken to minimize potential risks to an acceptable level.



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General Rules for Inspecting Staples:

General Rules for Inspecting Staples 1. Pull on the staple firmly to check for stability. 2. Look for signs of staple movement such as discoloration

marks away from the point the staple contacts the wood. This may be a sign that the staple has ‘walked’ out of the pole some. This can happen on any course, more so in environments that have frequent freeze and thaw weather patterns.

3. Document how the staples were installed. 4. Document how long the staples were at installation. 5. Tap set each staple from time to time with a hammer to

check and see if the staple needed to be “re-seated.” 6. Look for wood cracking that would compromise the

staples placement and stability.

When in doubt about a certified staple placement, do not use the staple as an attachment point.



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Appendix H: Vertical Belay System (Alternatives to Staples) The use of a cable grab system is considered a more appropriate application for newly constructed ropes challenge courses. Flat Step Staples used for personal fall arrest systems anchors should be discontinued and other staple methods may become outdated in the future. Other acceptable methods may be lanyard wrapping to ascend a pole or tree. Where possible, an overhead belay cable should be utilized.



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Cable Grab Work Positioning System

Optional

Load Limiter

Required 80% Redundancy Back-up

42”

Detail Cable Grab

Auto-lock Steel Carabiner.

Steel to Steel

Optional

Commercial Class II Life Safety Sit Harness with rated waist and positioning D rings

Work Positioning Anchors

Non-Certified: 3,000lbs (13.33kN) static strength.

Certified: Static strength twice foreseeable force.

If Cable Grab is used for Fall Arrest Anchors

Non-Certified: 5,000lbs (22.2kN) static strength.

Certified: Static strength twice Maximum fall arrest force

Cable Grab System

Optional Full Body

Harness Sternum

Attachment

Appendix I: Vertical Belay System (Alternatives w/ Staples)

The wrap method will be used under strict



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Commercial climbing harness

Auto-Lock Snap-hook

Lanyard 5000lb (22.2kN)

Auto-Lock Carabiner

Cable Grab Work Position Protection

for Ascent & Descent

42”

(1.06m)

Travel Restraint / Restriction Fall Protection

Lanyard is not weighted.

Person cannot reach edge to fall.

Non-Certified Anchor: 1,000 lbs. (4.44kN) static strength

Certified: Static strength twice the foreseeable force



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A. Commercial/ Class II harness w/ rated side attachments.

B. Locking carabiners

C. Anchor Strap 5,000 lb (22.2kN)

D. Kernmantle rope lanyard 5,000 lb (22.2kN)

E. Gibbs Ascender model ___ or equivalent approved by Mfg for use.

Allows hand free work. Adjustable working distance from pole / tree. Competent trained climber controls fall distance by lanyard length and height positioning. Not considered Fall Arrest equipment.

A

B

C

D

E



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Appendix J: Medical Screening:

Many programs require a participant to complete some version of a medical form. In the proper situation, medical information may be a critical tool in aiding a person with a medical condition. When gathering information, please keep in mind the many issues and levels of responsibility that go hand in hand with the collection of such information; confidentiality, duration of information storage, who is reviewing the information, how will it be applied, what is the medical training background of who sees the information, and how are decisions carried out based on information collected., to name a few.

Below is an excerpt from an electronic mail received from James Moss, JD. It is re-printed with permission. He provides a clear perspective from an attorneys’ point of view and his words should be carefully considered.

For programs that do not consult medical professionals for a screening process…...

“If you screen you are having a non MD engage in the practice of medicine and making medical decisions for guests. Ignoring any possible criminal issues, what person who is not an MD is able to make a decision as too whether any possible guest can engage in any outdoor activity. That for liability and practical reasons, this is something only the guest and the guest's physician can undertake.

I have not found a single case nor heard of a claim based on failure to medically screen a participant. Other than in challenge/ropes courses there are very few lawsuits based on medical issues. The rope's course issues were all won, based on assumption of risk or release or settled by an insurance company that did not understand the defenses. Do not put yourself in a position where you are liable for the medical conditions of your guests.

What is the bigger liability to you individually and to the outfitter?

A. Guest died on the trip because he was not screened.

B. Guest died on the trip and was screened and told he was medically able to undertake the trip by the outfitter?

Besides the possible criminal activity, impersonating an MD, etc, the second liability is far greater than the first. The first happens every day and there are no lawsuits, the second will never make it to court because the settlement offer will be "all the insurance and anything else you want to take."



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Medical Screening Continued: I know, I'm coming down hard on this, but this is another area that I have spent hundreds of hours studying and discussing with MD's. I'm the attorney for the Wilderness Medical Society and have had conversations with board members and general members about this issue. I have presented papers at WMS conferences on the liability of medical screening and physician advisor relationships. This is not an off the cuff thought process. I have studied this issue from area's outside of the realm of this listserve (EE LISTSERVE) such as the BSA, youth sports, little league, and ski areas. None of which do medical screening.

There are several different ways to accomplish your goals with out you making the decision.

1. Refer them to your physician advisor.

2. REFER THEM TO THEIR OWN PHYSICIAN

3. Provide them with all the information you can about the activity so they and their physician can make an informed consent.”

James H. Moss, JD PO Box 16743 Golden, CO 80402 [email protected] Summary: It is recommended that you know who, what, where, when, why and how medical information collected at your program will be utilized. Adopt the medical oath of “do no harm” when collecting information. Harm may be defined in many different ways and every precaution should be considered when collecting and using confidential information on behalf of a participant.



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Appendix K: Zip Lines as Guy Wires: The implementation of a Zip Line on a conventional ropes course, constructed in utility poles, is a common practice. When a Zip Line is installed in-line with other tandem elements, proper guy wires will be installed to adequately support other in-line elements. Since a Zip Line is designed to have excessive loaded drape, it may not provide adequate support for in-line elements. When constructed in trees, this may not be as much of a concern, depending on tree size, specifies, or placement within tree canopy.



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Appendix L: Forestry & Timber Links

A. Managing Michigan Wildlife: A Landowners Guide: Michigan Department of Natural Resources

1. Part I: Introduction - http://www.michigandnr.com/publications/pdfs/huntingwildlifehabitat/Landowners_Guide/Introduction/index.htm

2. Part II: Habitat Planning - http://www.michigandnr.com/publications/pdfs/huntingwildlifehabitat/Landowners_Guide/Habitat_Mgmt/Planning/index.htm

3. Part III: Forest Management - • • Introduction to Forest Management -

http://www.michigandnr.com/publications/pdfs/huntingwildlifehabitat/Landowners_Guide/Habitat_Mgmt/Forest/index.htm

• Dry Conifers • Dry Mesic Conifers • Mesic Conifers • Lowland Conifers • Dry Hardwoods • Mesic Hardwood Forest • Lowland Hardwoods • Aspen • Timber Harvesting - http://www.michigandnr.com/publications/pdfs/huntingwildlifehabitat/Landowners_Guide/Habitat_Mgmt/Forest/Timber_Harvesting.htm

• Forest Openings

B. Champion Tree Project: The Champion Tree Project was founded in 1996 in Michigan to preserve these biggest, best, tallest, strongest, and eldest representatives of Earth's largest living plants.

http://www.championtrees.org/champions/ChampionTreeProject.htm

C. Reforestation, Seed, seedlings, nursery and regeneration of forests: http://forestry.about.com/od/plantingandreforestation/



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Appendix L: Forestry & Timber Links continued

D. Selling Timber:

1. Guide to Selling Timber http://forestry.about.com/od/sellingtimber/ss/sbs_tbrsale.htm

2. Tree Volume Calculators http://forestry.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ&sdn=forestry&zu=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timberbuyer.net%2Fbfc.htm

D.2.1. Tree Value: A Basis for Woodland Management http://www.dnr.cornell.edu/ext/forestrypage/pubs/infobroch/by topic/sawtimber_economics_goff.htm

D.2.2. Summary Table of Tree Value Growth Rates Under Management for Tree Quality http://www.daviesand.com/Papers/Economics/Summary_Table/index.html

3. NC State University - NCCES - Before You Sell Your Timber http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/nreos/forest/woodland/won-19.html

E. Chain Saw Safety:

1. Chain Saw Safety - Advice from an Expert: http://forestry.about.com/cs/chainsaws/a/carl_smith_saw1.htm

http://forestry.about.com/cs/chainsaws/a/carl_smith_saw1_2.htm

http://forestry.about.com/cs/chainsaws/a/carl_smith_saw3.htm

2. Chain Saw Safety - How to Fell a Tree Using a Chainsaw - Step-By-Step: http://forestry.about.com/od/chainsaws/ss/fell_tree.htm

Notes:



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Copyright / Disclaimer: This document is the property of the Professional Ropes Course Association (PRCA) or the respective companies that contributed information. All contents of this document are protected under copyright. The PRCA assumes no liability for any application of the data including any errors and omissions. Improper application of this document may result in serious injury or death. All programs will implement these standards under the direct supervision of a qualified and educated ropes challenge course professional. No unauthorized copy, sharing, electronic distribution or transmittal is allowed of these standards. Permission for distribution in educational use is granted to license educational foundations such as accredited universities under the below mentioned criteria: Criteria for use shall include:

• Each copied content provides specific reference to the PRCA in a fashion that would allow a reader to locate the PRCA and obtain a current and complete copy of these standards for their records. (E.G. including website address and/or mailing information)

• The copy is limited to no more than one page of content.

• No false representations of the standards are made as determined by the PRCA Board

of Directors.

• No alterations to the wording or content representation are made.

• The content which is copied represents the subject matter in its entirety and provides proper context from which it was derived. Please, no partial sentences or paragraphs.

• Any forms or complimentary information present by other sources is properly credited.

The PRCA believes it is important to share information to help elevate the safety of the ropes challenge course industry as a whole. The PRCA logo and all material remain the sole property of the PRCA and the PRCA reserves the right to change, alter, or void permissions as it sees fit, with or without notice.

Any and all documents provided by other agencies are copyright protected. Permission of use should be sought from those agencies specifically.



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A Special Thanks: The PRCA wishes to extend our most heartfelt appreciation and thanks to our fellow industry professionals in North, Central, and South America, Australia, United Kingdom, Europe, Asia and the Pacific Rim and the various island nations.



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MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION

If you would like to become a member of the PRCA, please visit our website and follow the links to join online. Payment may be made by Credit Card (Mastercard / VISA) or by mailing in a check to our office.

Individual Membership: $50 USD annually ($65 USD International) Membership good for one year Membership follows the individual Receive an electronic, non-transferable Adobe PDF format copy of the Standards Receive select discounts from Peer Reviewed Vendors Receive discounts on PRCA sponsored activities Listed in membership directory Electronic updates Be part of a sharing community Network with other professionals in the industry or your area

Organizational Members: $250 USD annually ($280 UDS International) Same benefits as Individual Membership Membership remains with the Organization 3 electronic, non-transferable Adobe PDF format copies of the Standards Receive discounts on PRCA sponsored activities Standards Sales: (coming soon) $65 USD per copy Standards are available for purchase electronically without the requirement of membership. Please visit our website and follow the links to purchase your copy. Bulk Standards Sales: Please contact our office for bulk orders of 5 or more copies of the standard.



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The Professional Ropes Course Association (PRCA) defines ropes course standards for the installation,

operation, and training for ropes challenge courses and zip line canopy tours for use worldwide.

"Created by ropes course professionals for ropes course professionals.”

Professional Ropes Course Association (PRCA) 6260 E. Riverside Blvd., #104

Rockford, IL 61111 - USA 815.986.7776 voice 815.637.2964 fax [email protected] www.prcainfo.org

prca standards september 2008

Documents

industry standards

challenge course technology

international standards

course evaluations

r d s ropes challenge

high ropes challenge

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user friendly standards