Recent Changes to Worksafe BC regulations now require annual inspection to all life safety anchorage. This translates to all top rope and lead climbing anchors, but it can also apply to the ground anchor system if it is used for any rigging purpose. Specifically, WSBC part 34:
34.12 Permanent anchors:
(1) A permanent anchor for a rope access system must have an ultimate load capacity, in any direction in which the load may be applied, of at least 22.2 kN (5000 lbf) for each person connected to the permanent anchor.
(2) In addition to the requirement under section 34.10 (b) and in accordance with sections 7.3.2, 7.3.3 and 7.4, as applicable, of CSA Standard Z91-02 (R2013) Health and Safety Code for Suspended Equipment Operations,
(a) a permanent anchor for a rope access system must be inspected, at least once a year, and tested, and
(b) the results of the inspection and testing must be documented.
(3) A permanent anchor for a rope access system, and its installation, must be certified by a professional engineer.
(4) Subsections (2) and (3) do not apply to a permanent anchor for a rope access system used in the course of mountaineering or caving.
[Enacted by B.C. Reg. 199/2014, effective February 1, 2015.]
WorkSafeBC has recently been conducting ‘drop-in inspections’ at various facilities and it appears they are specifically enforcing Section 34.12, which should be no surprise given the adoption of this regulation is now over a year old. Fear not the WorkSafeBC inspection, we can help!. If you do need an inspection, assistance in meeting these changes, or understanding how these changes may affect your facility, give us a call at 778-654-3362, and ask for Andrew or Geoff. Andrew is a Professional Engineer and high angle rope rescue technician and Geoff is a certified ACMG Rock Guide, Climbing Gym Examiner, and route setter. We also love email too – try us at info@climbingwalls.net.
