Auto-belays

Auto-belays are mechanical devices designed to replace traditional toprope systems and belayers. In the event of a fall, the auto-belays engage to slow down the climber's descent and safely lower them to the ground.

At The Foundry, we prioritise safety for all members, including unsupervised climbers and those participating in internally instructed sessions. Here's how we manage the risk associated with auto-belays:

For Foundry Members (Unsupervised Climbers):

  • Membership Registration: Our membership registration process ensures that climbers are familiar with how to properly use auto-belays.

  • Regular Maintenance: We conduct regular checks to ensure that all auto-belays are functioning correctly and safely.

  • Floor Markings: We mark off landing zones on the floor to alert other centre users of where climbers will descend, enhancing overall safety awareness.

  • Regular floor walks are conducted at The Foundry Climbing Centre to ensure the safety and adherence to best practices among all climbers. These observations involve monitoring climbers throughout the centre at regular intervals to ensure they are following established safety protocols, identifying any potential safety hazards or risky behaviours, providing assistance to climbers in need, enforcing rules and regulations, and ultimately enhancing the overall safety of the climbing environment.

For Internal Instructed Sessions (Delivered by Foundry Climbing Coaching Ltd):

  • Qualified Instructors: Our instructors hold National Governing Body qualifications and undergo regular in-house reviews to ensure competency and adherence to safety protocols.

  • Equipment Check: Instructors verify that climbers' harnesses are properly secured and that auto-belays are correctly attached before the session begins.

  • Briefing Compliance: Climbers are expected to follow the instructor's briefing and safety guidelines throughout the session to minimise risks and ensure a safe climbing experience.

By implementing these measures, we strive to create a safe climbing environment for all members and participants at The Foundry.

Updated March 2024