Abseiling skills (single pitch)

Transcription

1 LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT STRATEGY Abseiling skills (single pitch) Copyright PACI Pty Ltd Address: PO Box 362 Hyde Park Townsville QLD Tel: Fax: Name of RTO Professional Association of Climbing Instructors Pty Ltd ABN Delivery period 08 Nov Nov 2010 Code and title of Partial completion: qualification SRO30206 Certificate III in Outdoor Recreation Qualification Statement of Attainment: [Abseiling single pitch] issued Endorsement (context): Natural surfaces Entry [ ] minimum age = 15 requirements [ ] fit and healthy for outdoor activities at height [ ] completed pre-course self-study materials to [ ] 8:1 (maximum) instructor ratio [ ] 8 active ropes (maximum) Nominal One (1) day 9 hours instruction duration Training site Natural cliff providing adequate opportunities to develop required knowledge and skill for independent participation as a recreational abseiler. UNITS OF COMPETENCY: Visit the NTIS website at for specific details of each unit. Code Title Pre-requisite Assessment instances units SROODR001A Apply basic outdoor recreational logistics Nil 2 different locations SROODR002A Plan outdoor recreation activities Nil 3 different locations SROOPS001B Implement minimal environmental impact Nil 2 different locations practices SROOPS002B Plan for minimal environmental impact Nil 3 different locations SROABN001A SROABN003A SROABN004A Demonstrate simple abseiling skills on natural surfaces Apply single pitch abseiling skills on natural surfaces Establish ropes for single pitch abseiling on natural surfaces [ ] SROODR001A [ ] SROOPS001B [ ] SROABN001A [ ] SROODR002A [ ] SROOPS002B [ ] SROODR002A [ ] SROOPS002B 3 abseil descents 3 abseil descents + 3 belays 3 anchor system setups Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd Page 1 of 16

2 Client(s) Delivery and assessment arrangements Delivery and assessment arrangements (continued) The key clients for this statement of attainment are potential new entrants into the outdoor recreation industry. This group includes: [ ] School leavers [ ] School groups (ages 15-17) [ ] TAFE students [ ] Sporting clubs [ ] People seeking new sporting/adventure interests [ ] School teachers [ ] Travellers / tourists [ ] National parks rangers [ ] Recreational abseilers seeking to expand their current knowledge and skills [ ] Recreational climbers seeking to expand their current knowledge and skills Duration: One (1) day 9 hours instruction Organisation: The seven (7) units of competency in this statement of attainment are grouped together holistically and learning progression builds from simple to more complex skills. All units are delivered on a natural cliff within an outdoor environment. The program is organised so that trainees are provided with self-study learning materials and study guide questions which must be completed prior to course commencement. There is an emphasis on development of practical skills with a final assessment to determine if competency has been achieved. Alignment with units of competency: Industry context Program Area Units of Competency SROODR001A Logistics and SROODR002A environment SROOPS001B SROOPS002B Outdoor recreation [Recreational abseiling] Knot tying SROABN001A (pc 1.3) SROABN003A (pc 2.3) SROABN004A (pc 2.9 and 3.3) Rope management SROABN003A (pc 7.4) Anchor systems SROABN004A Abseiling skills SROABN001A SROABN003A SROABN004A Self-belay skills SROABN001A (pc 4.1) SROABN003A (pc 6.6 and 7.6) Page 2 of 16 Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd

3 Delivery modes This program is delivered entirely at a natural cliff site representative of typical local climbing conditions. There is a combination of face-to-face trainer led theory sessions and practical sessions involving small-group and individual activities. Trainees are provided with learning materials which cover each of the program areas. Evidence gathering techniques PROGRAM AREA TYPE OF EVIDENCE A B C D E spare spare Logistics and environment Knot tying Rope management Anchor systems Access skills (abseiling) Self belay skills KEY A Written test D Scenario problem solving G spare B Demonstration E Observation of performance C Oral questioning F spare LEARNING OUTCOMES 1 Fit and adjust personal roping equipment (eg harness, helmet) 2 Build an anchor system suited for abseil descent 3 Tie and use a range of knots in life support role 4 Use a fall protection system when working near the edge of the cliff CONDITIONS OF ASSESSMENT [ ] Without assistance or advice [ ] Manufacturers instructions complied with [ ] With no single point of failure [ ] Solid and reliable [ ] Using agreed parameters of equipment resources [ ] Within 20 minutes [ ] Without assistance or advice [ ] Range of allowable knots selected from PACI study guide [ ] Without assistance or advice [ ] Total restraint achieved fall is prevented [ ] Fall protection system can sustain anticipated forces [ ] Fall protection system allows mobility 5 Deploy a rope [ ] With total restraint achieved during rope deployment fall is prevented [ ] With rope free of tangles and fully extended to the ground [ ] With audible safety warning call given prior to deployment 6 Perform a single-pitch abseil descent [ ] Using a certified (eg EN/AS) descending/belay device [ ] Using a self-belay system [ ] Descent speed not exceeding 1.0m/sec [ ] Maintain balance and brake hand control 7 Perform an abseil descent using an improvised descending system 8 Demonstrate rope management skills [ ] While coiling a rope [ ] While uncoiling a rope [ ] While preparing to deploy rope [ ] During transport 9 Tie-off a descending device to hold position [ ] Scenario profile: No manufactured device available [ ] Using a munter hitch [ ] With self-belay rigged above device [ ] While fully suspended (no ledges used for support) [ ] Hands-free demonstrated after tie-off completed 10 Demonstrate a leg wrap to hold position [ ] While fully suspended and device under load [ ] Hands-free demonstrated after completion of wraps [ ] With no creep/slippage [ ] With at least 3 wraps around upper thigh 11 Configure and use a self-belay system [ ] Self-belay system rigged below belay device [ ] Self-belay system rigged above belay device Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd Page 3 of 16

4 Delivery and assessment staff Assessment validation process Infrastructure requirements Program area Staff Delivery of program Instructor competence Train Assess Technical Assessment skill Logistics and [ ] Instructor 1 environment [ ] Instructor 2 [ ] Instructor 3 Knot tying [ ] Instructor 1 [ ] Instructor 2 [ ] Instructor 3 Rope management [ ] Instructor 1 [ ] Instructor 2 [ ] Instructor 3 Anchor systems [ ] Instructor 1 [ ] Instructor 2 [ ] Instructor 3 Abseiling skills [ ] Instructor 1 [ ] Instructor 2 [ ] Instructor 3 Self belay skills [ ] Instructor 1 [ ] Instructor 2 [ ] Instructor 3 [ ] PACI training manager sets up advisory committee on annual basis which comprises subject specialists to review evidence gathering tools [ ] Field testing of training and assessment materials is undertaken All staff involved in the delivery and assessment of this statement of attainment have: [ ] Access to the current version of the relevant training package, including the appropriate units of competency, assessment guidelines and qualification structure. [ ] Access to learning support materials relevant to their areas of delivery and assessment. [ ] Access to print and electronic copies of the assessment tools and learning support materials that are used in this program [ ] The RTO guarantees that it has access to the human and physical resources needed to implement this program. Key: [ ] Instructor 1 = Mark Gommers [ ] Instructor 2 = Spare (name) [ ] Instructor 3 = Spare (name) Delivery of Program: (train only / assess only / or both) indicates the staff member carries out the particular role Instructor Competence: indicates competency Page 4 of 16 Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd

5 Flow-charts (Illustrating importance of context) Assessment activities carried out within an appropriate scenario context outcomes are the same just in a different activity context. Pitch all abseil training & assessment solely within the context of abseiling Pitch all abseil training & assessment within the context of top rope climbing Pitch all abseil training & assessment within the context of lead climbing Recreational abseiling (ie no climbing the student only wishes to abseil) Top rope climbing (some climbs require abseil access to reach start of route) Lead climbing (descending from a completed route) What is the context in which abseiling skills will be applied? Canyoning (wet) Canyoning (dry) Caving Aid / Big wall climbing 3 days Lead climbing (multi-pitch) 3 days Multi-pitch abseiling (2 days) Lead climbing (singlepitch) 3 days Single-pitch abseiling (1-2 days) Credit transfer is available between most courses Top rope climbing (2 days) Note: Includes abseiling Abseiling Path Rock Climbing Path Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd Page 5 of 16

6 TRAINING PLAN Typical sequence of training: ONE DAY FORMAT: Note: Some situations require additional time eg where significant travelling time is involved. 07:30 Start 07:30 Welcome and into [ ] explain course learning outcomes and schedule [ ] collect liability / waiver forms [ ] check student payments (all paid in full?) Review study guide questions [ ] Note: s should have completed their papers and practiced tying knots prior to course commencement 09:30 09:45 Morning tea break Knot tying (refer to PACI knot study guide) Rope coiling/uncoiling [ ] avoid circular coils use alternating butterfly coils Fit & adjust harnesses [ ] check fit (ensure manufacturers instructions are followed) 09:45 Setup abseiling anchor systems (working as individuals no group anchor systems permitted) [ ] use equipment that is relevant to the trainee [ ] select appropriate descent routes [ ] build anchor systems provide close supervision and tuition demo key skills -no single point of failure -solid and reliable -focal point back from edge -type of anchors and rigging to be relevant to the client group (eg some will use natural anchors only while others may use a combination of artificial and natural anchors) Rope deployment [ ] techniques to counter effects of wind [ ] deployed to base of cliff tangle free [ ] must use personal safety line when deploying ropes (use prusik hitch) [ ] safety warning calls (shout warning prior to deployment) 10:45 First abseil session (single pitch) demo basic abseil techniques then let students practice and gain confidence. Note: Safeguard students with a separate top belay system on first abseil descent [ ] use self belay system - rigged below device (eg French prusik attached to leg loop) - rigged above device (eg traditional prusik knot) [ ] personal safety checks (ABCDE method) [ ] single rope descents only [ ] descend with self belay rigged above descending device - release self belay and deliberately allow to grip and halt descent - resume descent by unlocking self belay use foot wrap to release tension [ ] cycle through a series of stop start stop start during descent to enable skill repetition - tie off descending device (bight passed through carabiner + 2 half hitches) - leg wrap (minimum of 3 wraps on upper thigh) - demonstrate hands-free mode 12:00 12:30 Lunch break 12:35 Second anchor system setup session (in different location on cliff) [ ] allow students to solve problems coach as required -identifying individual anchor points -equipment used to build the anchor system -geometry/configuration -trajectory of forces -angles -solid and reliable [ ] distance of focal point from cliff edge (need space to attach and prepare to descend) Page 6 of 16 Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd

7 13:30 Second abseil session (within single pitch context) [ ] deploy ropes [ ] use self belay system [ ] practice enabling hands-free mode during descent - using self belay to grip and lock - using leg wrap technique - using tie-off technique Improvised descending device (munter hitch) [ ] practice descending with a munter hitch (aka Italian hitch) [ ] care needed to avoid excessive line twists and rope abrasion 15:00 Third abseil session (within single pitch context) [ ] review and further practice of skills [ ] reinforce ABCDE checks Formative assessment: 1. s must have reached a level of proficiency/confidence when tying and applying knots within an anchor system. 2. s must be able to build an anchor system suitable for abseiling within a 20 minute time frame [ ] no bolts or pitons [ ] using natural anchors and/or a combination of artificial and natural anchors as relevant [ ] with obvious anchor points identified before commencing practice session 3. s must be able to perform an abseil descent using a device of choice with a self-belay system [ ] able to descend without external assistance or the use of an additional safety belay rope [ ] able to work without instructor advice or intervention unless immanent danger [ ] using a single rope only 4. s must be able to conduct self checks using the ABCDE method [ ] ability to make a decision with regard to risk factors and system reliability Notes: 1. Although climbers would normally abseil with a single dynamic rope, for the purposes of training, a low stretch (static) rope should be used to avoid causing damage to delicate climbing ropes. 2. Lead climbers would normally descend on a dynamic rope that has been doubled (ie in order to make the rope retrievable from below). For example: A 50m rope would allow a 25m descent. 3. All training is to be delivered and assessed in a single pitch environment with bottom access. Techniques for contextualising training: [ ] Abseilers / canyoners / cavers / should use in-situ natural anchor points for building anchor systems although in some cases, permanent artificial anchors (eg bolts and chains) may be installed to facilitate access. [ ] Top rope climbers should practice setting up and descending within a scenario profile where there is no foot access to the bottom of the cliff (eg a sea cliff with a ledge above the water line or where a route exists on the upper section a multi pitch cliff ie last pitch) [ ] use a tubular or planular type belay device (eg ATC and Sticht plate) [ ] anchor system would be built from resources that are typical and relevant for top rope climbers [ ] Lead climbers should practice descending on a doubled rope (ie a 50m rope would allow a 25m descent) [ ] may thread a 50m dynamic rope through installed chains if present at the cliff [ ] practice descending on a single static rope useful where abseil inspections of a route are undertaken prior to attempting a ascent or for equipping new routes [ ] removable protection devices (eg wired nuts and cams) would be used to build anchor systems 16:00 Final assessment activity Method of assessment: (holistic within a scenario profile) 1. Build solid and reliable anchor system 2. Deploy an abseil rope 3. Carry out ABCDE checks prior to attempting a descent 4. Perform an abseil descent with a certified (eg CE / AS / NFPA / ISO) descending device and self belay system (may be rigged above or below depending on preference) Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd Page 7 of 16

8 5. Maintain balance and speed control throughout the descent 6. Perform an abseil descent with an improvised system [ ] Munter/Italian hitch to simulate loss of primary abseil device - must use a backup self-belay system Conditions of assessment: [ ] without the assistance or advice from the assessor [ ] anchor system completed within 20 minutes [ ] working alone (no group assessments permitted) Assessment decision: [ ] The results of the assessment will be competent or not yet competent (no in-between) 17:30 Finish Page 8 of 16 Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd

9 Note to assessor: A tick placed in each box indicates that competency has been achieved. SKILL PRE-REQUISITE UNITS The following units must be assessed prior to any abseiling and rescue activities: SROODR001A Apply basic outdoor recreational logistics SROODR002A Plan outdoor recreation activities SROOPS001B Implement minimal environmental impact practices SROOPS002B Plan for minimal environmental impact 1.0 Planning and logistics associated with outdoor activities These criteria cover the following units: SROODR001A Apply basic outdoor recreational logistics SROODR002A Plan outdoor recreation activities 1.1 Collect liability disclaimers (contracts) [ ] signed and in ink 1.2 Collect and check logistics exam [ ] 100% correct [ ] incorrect answers are clarified 1.3 Oral questioning (ask each student 1 question from this selection) 1. what time period will the cliff be in shade each day? 2. is a permit required for the local cliff? 3. indicate part of cliff that is suitable for low complexity single-pitch abseil activities. 4. indicate part of cliff that is suitable for more complex abseiling on higher cliffs. 5. what is a good source of information about the local cliff and abseiling/climbing routes? 6. what is the maximum height of the cliffs? 7. where are the walking tracks for top & bottom access? Spare: [ ] where are the permanent (ie artificial) anchors installed? 1.4 Check clothing as currently worn by students [ ] confirm footwear is appropriate [ ] confirm clothing is appropriate [ ] confirm sun protection is appropriate 1.5 Personal nutrition/food confirm each of the following: [ ] food provisions are adequate for day? [ ] food will not spoil rapidly under the local climatic conditions? [ ] food is appropriate? 1.6 Water supply: [ ] confirm each students has sufficient water for the day [ ] confirm each student has suitable container/storage to transport water [ ] procurement purity of source? 1.7 Backpack / carry bag [ ] confirm each students has adequate means to transport/carry personal and group equipment [ ] pack/bag is appropriate for distance to walk and weight to carry 1.8 Equipment: [ ] checked and fit for intended use? Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd Page 9 of 16

10 SKILL Minimal environmental impact These criteria cover the following units: SROOPS001B Implement minimal environmental impact practices SROOPS002B Plan for minimal environmental impact 2.1 Vehicle use check/confirm [ ] parking orientation & position is in accordance with local rules [ ] parking positions do not obstruct road access to others [ ] vehicle use is confined to existing tracks/roads [ ] no attempt is made to extend road access beyond existing limits to gain closer proximity to cliff [ ] new vehicles tracks are not made [ ] existing tracks are not widened 2.2 Collect liability disclaimers (contracts) [ ] signed and in ink 2.3 Route taken by students to reach cliff from carpark [ ] actual route follows existing track [ ] track is not widened [ ] vegetation adjacent to track is not damaged 2.4 Establish temporary staging area/campsite for the course: [ ] chosen location for temporary site is appropriate [ ] establishment of campsite does not cause destruction to environment [ ] chosen location will not result in distractions from passers by or other cliff users 2.5 Collect and check minimal impact exam [ ] 100% correct [ ] clarify incorrect answers 2.6 Oral questioning (ask each student 1 question from this selection) 1. define ecologically sustainable use 2. track policy can new tracks be cut? 3. local rules on dislodging loose rock? 4. toilet (when no toilet is installed)? 5. open fire/naked flame rules for cliff? 6. ID sensitive /no go areas at the cliff 7. ID unique / threatened plant species? 8. ID unique / threatened animal species? Spare: State local rules/ethics on marking new climbing routes to aid others in locating them. Abseiling training and assessment may now begin. Page 10 of 16 Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd

11 SKILL Risk assessment Units achieved: [ ] SROABN001A (partial element 03) [ ] SROABN003A (partial element 04) [ ] SROABN004A (partial performance criteria 2.12) Assessed through observation of trainees actions and by oral questioning. 1.1 Assess potential hazards and risks associated with attempting the route (not necessary to document in written form) 1.2 Make decision if intended route is within personal limitations proceed or not proceed? 4.0 Knots each knot must be assessed three (3) times [refer to knot self study guide] Units achieved: [ ] SROABN001A (partial performance criteria 1.3) [ ] SROABN003A (partial performance criteria 2.3) [ ] SROABN004A (partial performance criteria 2.9 & 3.3) Knots are best assessed while used within a wider practical application they are not assessed piece-meal PACI philosophy is to limit the amount of knots to learn to need to know. End-line knots 4.1 Figure 8 loop (bight) ABoK # Rethreaded figure 8 ABoK # Adjustable double figure 8 loop ABoK #1085 Joining knots (bends) 4.4 Double fishermans bend ABoK # Tape knot ABoK # spare ABoK # Mid-line knots 4.7 Butterfly knot ABoK # Clove hitch ABoK #1178 Slide and grip hitches (friction hitches) 4.9 French prusik (using cord) ABoK # Prusik hitch (using cord) ABoK # spare ABoK # Load control hitches 4.12 Italian/Munter hitch ABoK #1195 Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd Page 11 of 16

12 SKILL Rope management and handling Note: Ropes are the lifeline for all abseiling and climbing activities. Safe practices begins with effective rope handling skills Units achieved: [ ] SROABN003A (partial performance criteria 7.4) 5.1 Check rope condition to ensure fitness for use [ ] checks during coiling and uncoiling - use tactile (feel) & observation 5.2 Ropes are transported and/or stored in a way that promotes longevity and ease of use 5.3 Manage ropes to avoid entanglements /snags during abseiling activities [ ] avoid cracks where ropes can become stuck [ ] avoid trees/vegetation where ropes can become entangled [ ] avoid line twists when descending with double ropes Note: Double ropes are relevant for canyoners and for setting up retrievable abseils 5.4 Coil a rope: [ ] using alternating coiling method [ ] using circular coiling method Note: Circular method is relevant for mountaineering / glacier travel 5.5 Uncoil a rope: [ ] stacked/arranged to ensure rope will feed tangle-free for particular purpose (eg for belaying or in preparation for deployment) 5.6 Announce intention to deploy rope [ ] shout appropriate audible warning call 5.7 Deploy a rope: [ ] for abseiling [ ] for top rope climbing (bottom belay)* [ ] stopper knot tied in end of abseil rope [ ] rope must deploy tangle free and fully extended to ground [ ] deployment technique must be suited to wind strength and direction * where relevant 5.8 Housekeeping: [ ] avoid contamination with dirt/mud/sand & fine grit [ ] use ground sheet where necessary [ ] avoid contact with chemicals/acids [ ] avoid standing on ropes 5.9 Steps are taken to protect rope from damage where ever contact with sharp edges or abrasive surfaces exists [ ] rope protectors are used effectively Page 12 of 16 Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd

13 SKILL Anchor systems Units achieved: [ ] SROABN004A 6.1 Assessed over at least 3 occasions within a wider scenario context [ ] using trees only (some areas do not have trees!) [ ] using boulders only (some arid areas are devoid of trees!) [ ] using combination of trees and boulders [ ] using bolts/pitons (where they exist and only when appropriate to the intended learning outcomes) 6.2 Single point of failure must be avoided in outdoor recreation anchor systems 6.3 In some cases, a single absolute anchor point can be identified and used provided it is obvious that the anchor point is stronger than the abseil rope (ie stronger than 30kN or 3000kg). Note: Assessment is contextualised to suit the trainees workplace and/or recreational needs. Assessment will generally be abseiling or climbing oriented for example not all trainees will use or have need of removable protection devices. 6.1 Selected knots used within the anchor system are suitable for the type of application intended 6.2 Identify, select and use natural anchor points [ ] trees [ ] boulders [ ] rock features eg chock stones, threads 6.3 Identify, select and use artificial bolt/piton anchor points where they exist* 6.4 Select & use a range of carabiners [ ] use non-locking carabiners [ ] use locking carabiners 6.5 Accurately position and align anchor system to optimise for intended trajectory of forces [ ] rope perpendicular with respect to edge 6.6 Link individual anchor points to equalise and distribute forces within the anchor system 6.7 Install an anchor system suited to an abseiling application [ ] focal point accurately positioned back from edge 6.8 Completed anchor system is capable of sustaining the anticipated loading 6.9 OPTIONAL - Insert removable protection devices to create a solid & reliable anchor system [ ] cams [ ] wired nuts [ ] hexes climbing contexts only if relevant 6.10 OPTIONAL - Use a cordalette to configure and equalise a 3 point anchor system [ ] 7m x 6-7mm accessory cord tied into a loop climbing contexts only, some students may be progressing on to climbing Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd Page 13 of 16

14 SKILL PPE skills (harness, helmet, safety line) Units achieved: [ ] SROABN001A/01 [ ] SROABN003A/ A comfortable harness is recommended if prolonged suspension will occur. s should be made aware of the risks of suspension trauma (also known as hang syndrome). 7.2 Rock climbing harnesses with gear loops should be used by students who intend to progress to climbing the loops will be essential for carrying gear. 7.1 Harness is selected and inspected for faults [ ] removed from service if damaged [ ] belay loop (if present) is inspected for evidence of wear or structural damage 7.2 Fit & adjust harness in accordance with manufacturers instructions [ ] adjustment provides correct tension [ ] buckles are adjusted according to manufacturers instructions and industry guidelines 7.3 Harness meets relevant standards [ ] AS or [ ] EN Harness system is suitable for abseiling applications 7.5 Precautions are taken to avoid effects of suspension trauma [ ] avoidance of prolonged suspension [ ] movement of legs to avoid blood pooling [ ] adjustment of body posture 7.6 Helmet is fitted and adjusted according to manufacturers recommendations [ ] chin strap is secure [ ] helmet inspected for cracks/excessive wear 7.7 Personal safety line is used to prevent falls over exposed edges: [ ] prusik hitch; or [ ] purcell prusik Length of safety line is adjusted to minimise potential fall distance and to avoid creating a trip hazard near an edge. Page 14 of 16 Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd

15 SKILL Abseiling skills Units achieved: [ ] SROABN001A [ ] SROABN003A 8.1 Contextualise descending skills to suit the learners particular needs (eg abseilers Vs climbers) 8.1 Perform personal safety checks prior to initiating abseil descent [ ] ABCDE check 8.2 Configure and descend with a circular device, eg: [ ] figure 8 [ ] harpoon (optional) relevant for abseilers 8.3 Configure and descend with a planular device, eg: [ ] sticht plate relevant for climbers 8.4 Configure and descend with a tubular device, eg: [ ] ATC [ ] Pyramid [ ] Bug relevant for climbers 8.5 Configure and descend with an in-line adjustable device, eg: [ ] whale tail [ ] goldtail [ ] rack relevant for caving 8.6 Configure and descend with an auto / self locking device, eg: [ ] Petzl Gri Gri [ ] Petzl Stop [ ] Trango Cinch [ ] Edelrid Eddie teach as relevant to learners needs 8.7 Maintain balance, speed control & situational awareness throughout the descent [ ] excessive heat build up is avoided [ ] observe own progress within 3D environment 8.8 Descend in a straight line path relative to anchor system and edge [ ] avoid diagonal descent/pendulum effect [ ] rope abrasion is avoided 8.9 Negotiate obstacles and uneven surfaces [ ] without losing balance and control [ ] without damaging the environment [ ] without damaging equipment 8.10 Descend with an improvised load control hitch [ ] no manufactured descending device [ ] use Munter/Italian hitch 8.11 Descend with doubled rope [ ] rope retrieval is possible [ ] entanglement/line twists are avoided -Relevant for lead climbers and canyoners Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd Page 15 of 16

16 SKILL Self Belay skills Units achieved: [ ] SROABN001A (partial performance criteria 4.1) [ ] SROABN003A (partial performance criteria 6.6 and 7.6) Caution! Some accessory (prusik) cords are stiff and will not grip correctly when used as a self-belay ie they could slip. Always ensure students confirm self-belay system is operative before committing to the descent. Accessory cord should be flexible and supple. PACI recommends the use of 6.0mm diameter cord on 11.0mm diameter parent abseil rope. 9.1 Configure and descend with a self-belay system to safeguard against loss of control during descent [ ] self belay positioned below device [ ] self belay positioned above device 9.2 Allow self-belay system to grip and lock [ ] use foot wrap to release a locked selfbelay that is rigged above descending device 9.3 Repetitively cycle through stop start stop start during a descent [ ] self belay positioned below device [ ] demonstrate hands-free position 9.4 Tie-off descending device [ ] self-belay system rigged above device [ ] demonstrate hands-free position Page 16 of 16 Checklist Abseiling (single-pitch) VER /Aug/2007 Copyright PACI Pty Ltd