Good questions guys,

When I facilitate or help facilitate a group climb I always try to follow each and every one of the "insurance standards" mentioned earlier in this thread. Common sense says, though, that there occasionally will be a situation where one or two of those standards has to be either amended or ignored. I don't think anyone (with the possible exception of the anal-retensive lawyer from the insurance company) will have any problems with that as long as it's done to create a safer climbing environment.

When I climb solo or only with other experienced climbers I am guilty quite often of not following every standard. For example, in my personal climbing I most often use the lightweight sportline rather than the "suggested" heavy, 16-strand rope. There have been a few occasions when, for weight reasons on a long hike to the tree, I have also climbed in a "Swiss Seat" harness made from 1-1/2 or 2 inch tubular webbing. I have also been known to (gasp!) climb without a helmet

So, what part or parts of the above insurance standards are pertinent to recreational treeclimbing?

In my opinion, every bit of it is pertinent to "facilitated" group climbs.

In other climbs, when there are only experienced climbers around, I think it is the responsibility of the individual to decide which standards apply to specific situations. Or, it could be that other standards not listed above should apply to the situation.

I'm personally in favor of having ONLY broadly worded standards for recreational treeclimbers (such as 22 kN for all parts of the life-safety system), without requiring the climber(s) to have to purchase expensive equipment from only one supplier or manufacturer.

Y'all might want to contact some of the other instructors who were at the July 2003 meeting in Atlanta, to find out if they disagree with my asscessment of the above "insurance standards."

Good luck and keep on climbin',
Wild Bill from Dawsonville
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