nobrotson
Active member
Ever since Mark Sims' report on Marble Sink, where there was some discussion on the subject of ladders, I've been thinking. If I am using an electron ladder, which is a few years old, what are the most likely failure points assuming that on visual inspection there is no obvious corrosion or rust?
I will openly admit that if I am using ladders, I tend to adopt the attitude of Simon Wilson and dispense with lifelines, because in my view the best reason for using ladders (aside from it being a non technical beginner technique) is that they allow you not to carry rope or srt gear. However, if a ladder were to fail on a trip where this kind of approach is going to be taken (marble sink and hammer pot are those that spring to my mind) then the consequence of such a failure without a lifeline could be irresponsibly serious...
So, how to reconcile light weight and no faff with safety using ladders? Any ideas/advice?
I will openly admit that if I am using ladders, I tend to adopt the attitude of Simon Wilson and dispense with lifelines, because in my view the best reason for using ladders (aside from it being a non technical beginner technique) is that they allow you not to carry rope or srt gear. However, if a ladder were to fail on a trip where this kind of approach is going to be taken (marble sink and hammer pot are those that spring to my mind) then the consequence of such a failure without a lifeline could be irresponsibly serious...
So, how to reconcile light weight and no faff with safety using ladders? Any ideas/advice?