Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 9:03 AM AWST

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Establish ropes for single pitch abseiling on natural surfaces

Establish ropes for single pitch abseiling on natural surfaces

Unit of competency
National Code
SISOABS006
State Code
OBG00
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
092101 - Sport And Recreation Activities
Original Release Date
13/12/2019
Nominal Hours
40
Description
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to select and set up belay systems and ropes suitable for single pitch recreational abseils on natural surfaces, such as cliff faces, and according to current conditions. It requires the ability to select the abseil route and to select and utilise fixed artificial, naturally occurring or artificial removable anchors.It applies to rigging staff and activity leaders who work independently or with limited guidance from others.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. Select route and equipment suitable for the abseil.
  • 1.1. Identify safe access to and egress from the pitch.
  • 1.2. Determine descent and ascent route appropriate for conditions.
  • 1.3. Select an abseiling and belay system suitable for the abseil, environmental conditions and participant.
  • 1.4. Choose a belay device suitable for the natural surface conditions and belayer.
  • 1.5. Select other equipment to suit abseil requirements and participants.
  • 1.6. Complete safety and serviceability checks on equipment and tag faulty equipment according to organisational procedures.
2. Set up belay system for natural surface abseils.
  • 2.1. Select anchors and assess condition, including performance under likely load and stability of surroundings.
  • 2.2. Rig or establish multiple anchors, ensuring equalisation and minimise potential for shock loading.
  • 2.3. Select and tie appropriate knots, and rig ropes suitable for load and function within the belay system.
  • 2.4. Establish a belay from which belayer is independent of the system.
  • 2.5. Establish a belay that maintains safety of belayer and abseiler.
  • 2.6. Position top rope or bottom brake belay away from hazards, or remove as able.
  • 2.7. Determine need for, and establish, back up belay systems.
  • 2.8. Complete safety checks according to organisational procedures.
3. Rig rope pitches for natural surface abseils.
  • 3.1. Rig ropes to minimise effects of rope stretch and rub points and to allow efficient descent and ascent.
  • 3.2. Set up anchors and ropes to allow for a rescue.
  • 3.3. Select and tie knots suitable for system type established.
  • 3.4. Minimise risk of cross loading and mis-alignment of carabiners.
  • 3.5. Verify manufacturers' recommendations, equipment limitations and safety margins, and rig equipment accordingly.
  • 3.6. Rig to minimise impact on the natural environment.
  • 3.7. Complete safety checks according to organisational procedures.
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
D6263 SISOABN304A Establish ropes for single pitch abseiling on natural surfaces Unit of competency