Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 10:17 PM AWST

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Lead climb single pitches, natural surfaces

Lead climb single pitches, natural surfaces

Unit of competency
National Code
SISOCLM003
State Code
OBF74
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
11/09/2019
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
13/12/2019
Field of Education
092103 - Sports Coaching, Officiating And Instruction
Original Release Date
13/12/2019
Nominal Hours
40
Description
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to climb single pitches on natural surfaces using lead climbing techniques. It also requires the ability to belay climbers and to ascend single pitch routes as a second climber.It applies to leaders, guides or and instructors who use these skills when leading participants during climbing activities. Leadership skills are provided in complementary units.This unit applies to any type of organisation that delivers outdoor recreation activities including commercial, not-for-profit and government organisations.No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare for the climb.
  • 1.1. Select clothing, footwear and personal protective equipment suitable for the climb and conditions.
  • 1.2. Confirm activity safety and emergency response procedures to ensure compliance during activities.
  • 1.3. Confirm protocols for communications between climber and belayer.
  • 1.4. Interpret route description; identify position of natural features, the climb route and contingencies.
  • 1.5. Determine need for artificial protection during ascent; select and rack for accessibility during climb.
  • 1.6. Attach and adjust belay equipment to self and tie knots suitable for the established belay system.
  • 1.7. Complete equipment safety checks prior to climbing or belaying.
2. Climb single pitch routes.
  • 2.1. Use safety procedures at bottom, top of and throughout climbs to minimise risk to self and others present.
  • 2.2. Use appropriate posture and climbing techniques suitable to natural features.
  • 2.3. Locate and utilise rest positions to reduce fatigue.
  • 2.4. Safely approach, avoid or negotiate hazards to ascend in a controlled manner.
  • 2.5. Maintain effective communication with belayer throughout climb.
  • 2.6. Use techniques that minimise damage to equipment and the surface during climb.
3. Ascend single pitch routes as a lead climber.
  • 3.1. Evaluate potential direction of falls, magnitude of force and second climber’s ability.
  • 3.2. Select suitable type, and set anchors and belay system safely and efficiently throughout climb.
  • 3.3. Place protection periodically during climb to reduce fall distance.
  • 3.4. Use techniques to minimise rope drag, displacement of artificial protection and injury in the event of a fall.
  • 3.5. Monitor and maintain the safeguard system continuously.
  • 3.6. Retreat from pitches when climber safety is compromised.
  • 3.7. Select solid and secure anchors at top of pitch, or place artificial protection.
  • 3.8. Establish belay system at top of pitch to maximise climber and belayer safety.
4. Ascend single pitch routes as a second climber.
  • 4.1. Utilise belaying system to maximise climber safety.
  • 4.2. Remove artificial protection with and without a nut tool and minimise damage to equipment and natural surface.
5. Belay climbers.
  • 5.1. Avoid or negotiate hazards and use safety procedures to minimise risk to self and others present.
  • 5.2. Establish belaying position and attach self to anchor, as required, to allow effective and safe use of belay system.
  • 5.3. Maintain rope tension to minimise fall distance and ensure climber movement is not unduly restricted.
  • 5.4. Monitor climber progress constantly, and maintain clear communication with climber.
  • 5.5. Arrest falls promptly using technique suitable to belaying device and situation.
  • 5.6. Safely and efficiently secure climber using tie off techniques; release tie off and allow climber to continue.
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
D6303 SISOCLN405A Apply single pitch lead climbing skills on natural surfaces Unit of competency