Elements and Performance Criteria
- Select route and equipment suitable for the canyon abseil.
- Identify safe access to and egress from the pitch.
- Determine descent and ascent route appropriate for conditions.
- Select an abseiling and belay system suitable for the abseil, environmental conditions and participant.
- Choose a belay device suitable for the canyon conditions and belayer.
- Select other equipment to suit abseil requirements participants.
- Complete safety and serviceability checks on equipment and tag faulty equipment according to organisational procedures.
- Set up belay system for abseils in intermediate to advanced canyons.
- Select anchors and assess condition, including performance under likely load and stability of surroundings.
- Rig or establish multiple anchors, ensuring equalisation and minimise potential for shock loading.
- Select and tie appropriate knots, and rig ropes suitable for load and function within the belay system.
- Establish a belay from which belayer is independent of the system.
- Establish a belay that maintains safety of belayer and abseiler.
- Position top rope or bottom brake belay away from hazards, or remove as able.
- Determine need for, and establish, back up belay systems.
- Complete safety checks according to organisational procedures.
- Rig rope pitches for canyon abseils.
- Rig ropes to minimise effects of rope stretch and rub points and to allow efficient descent and ascent.
- Rig retrievable abseil systems suitable for the top rope or bottom brake belay requirements.
- Set up anchors and ropes to allow for a rescue.
- Select and tie knots suitable for system type established.
- Minimise the risk of cross loading and mis-alignment of carabiners.
- Verify manufacturers' recommendations, equipment limitations and safety margins, and rig equipment accordingly.
- Rig to minimise impact on the natural environment.
- Complete safety checks according to organisational procedures.