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pure tech

  • Posts: 229
Using climbing gear
« on: October 08, 2010, 11:58:49 pm »
I have some hard to reach windows on a 40 degree pitch roof to clean (2 storey).
They can't be accessed from inside or by wfp.
Am thinking of using a climbing rope & harness etc for safety. The rope would  pass over the ridge and be securely anchored at ground level each side.
I would use a prusik knot /sling to connect to the rope.
Just wondering if anyone uses a similar method to access windows.
I have done a bit of indoor climbing and would be comfortable using this method.



the bfg

Re: Using climbing gear
« Reply #1 on: October 09, 2010, 06:50:14 am »
then don't do them,   simple as

Re: Using climbing gear
« Reply #2 on: October 09, 2010, 08:49:05 am »
dont do them,   unless u r getting paid a stupid amount

martinj

  • Posts: 86
Re: Using climbing gear
« Reply #3 on: October 09, 2010, 12:08:03 pm »
Sounds like a lot of hassle, you need to be careful wherethe rope comes up off the anchor point and hits the roof / gutter / edge of a tile, you could easily get the rope rolling around and severed. Also you will get upto 10% stretch with a climbing rope. I also wouldnt use a prussik they lock up get a self belaying device, petzl make a good one called the grigri but its around £60. All in all I wouldnt advise it unless youve done a bit of outdoor climbing and set your own belays and gear.

pure tech

  • Posts: 229
Re: Using climbing gear
« Reply #4 on: October 09, 2010, 08:36:21 pm »
Thanks for those suggestions, I will look into a grigri.
It was an experienced climber who suggested and tied  the prussik for me and it seems to work well.
I would enjoy doing this particular job and the owner is quite happy to pay for the time involved.
I wouldn't take any risks and would just say no if I wasn't completely happy.



Bryan_Dolby

  • Posts: 330
Re: Using climbing gear
« Reply #5 on: October 10, 2010, 03:13:03 pm »
Dont forget emergency rescue procedure needs to be thought about

Unless trained to do rope acsess would not do it
plus insurance company needs talking to

very good risk assesment method statement

Bolts need to be put in by trained person
Tested yearly



Bryan
Bryan Dolby
( Member F.W.C.)
My opinons are my own and nothing to do with the federation of window cleaners

pure tech

  • Posts: 229
Re: Using climbing gear
« Reply #6 on: October 10, 2010, 09:52:10 pm »
I have probably overestimated the roof pitch, it is likely only about 35degrees.
I am sure some people would walk on it with no safety precautions.
I have discussed the method I would use with a certified arborist and he says it would be fine for this particular job.
As I would be climbing upwards he says the prusik is the correct way and is what he uses.
No bolts involved, I will just tie to structures or several 20kg water containers if necessary.
I would feel much safer doing this than being 16' up a ladder.

Richy L

  • Posts: 2257
Re: Using climbing gear
« Reply #7 on: October 11, 2010, 03:32:33 pm »
If the roof is walkable, you will go through all this trouble and a trad cleaner will be able to do it for a fraction of the price and you'll lose the job.
Seems like you're over thinking it