Ropes Policy and Procedures Manual

 

I.                   Description

The Ropes Course is a series of problem-solving events that must be negotiated in order to physically move from one spot to the next.  The events are largely constructed of telephone poles, cables, ladders and ropes and vary in height from one foot to forty feet off the ground. 

 

II.                Purpose of manual

Much has been written about the clinical application of ropes and initiative programs.  The purpose of this manual is to provide a reference for the technical, mechanical, and task aspects of the Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center Ropes Course.  For hints on leadership, soft skills and debriefing refer to our Low Ropes Course Handbook.

 

Our instructors must speak a common language in respect to set-up, take-down, spotting, belay, safety practices, and methodology so that these processes remain consistent in approach.

 

Only through this common language will safe use of the course result, so that full attention can be devoted to the educational application.  This is the purpose of our Ropes Course Policy and Procedures Manual.

 

While variations of tasks are possible, and language used to frame the tasks may change, success is always measured by individual and group experience.  The technical and mechanical aspects described here represent Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center policy and may only be altered by the Ropes Course Director.  As changes in these policies occur, they will be officially endorsed and the existing manuals will be corrected to reflect them.

 

III.             History

Outward Bound, Inc. pioneered the use of the Ropes Course as an educational therapeutic tool in the United States.  Outward Bound originated in 1962 and has since gained worldwide recognition for its well-developed philosophy of education.  This philosophy articulates four assumptions that become the basis for challenge education.

       

1)       Persons have more resources and are more capable than they think they are.

 

2)       A small heterogeneous group has the resources within it to successfully cope with significant physical and mental challenges.

 

3)       One learns more when presented with problems rather than solutions.

 

4)       Significant, long-lasting learning can be achieved through an intensive short-term experience.

 

(Source:  North Carolina Outward Bound School Instructor’s Handbook, Copyright, 1973)

 

IV.              Rationale, Experience, and Philosophy

The idea of using adventure as a means toward human growth and development has become an accepted methodology in education, counseling, leadership training, corrections, and many other human service fields.  The philosophy behind Ropes Course usage contends that:  An environment conducive to the “learning experience” must incorporate both practice and theory.  The development of this environment is the basis behind all individual and group work done on the course.

 

The purpose of the course has nothing to do with stunts or a dare-devilish mentality.  Rather, the Ropes Course is a tool which impels its participants into challenging, high-stress situations in order that they may confront aspects of themselves that they may not have cared to deal with or possibly known before (i.e., fear, trust, confusion, anger, etc.).  Consequently, there is great potential for feelings of accomplishment and improved confidence in one’s God-given abilities.  The method is cooperation rather than competition.  Success comes from the simple act of trying rather than beating an opponent.  Our course benefits may include:  higher confidence, improved group cohesion, better communication skills, higher levels of interpersonal trust and trust in God, and a greater willingness to take calculated risks.

 

V.                 Construction

The construction of the Ropes and Challenge Course meets and/or exceeds all minimum standards in the industry as set by the Association of Experiential Education, Safety Practices in Adventure Programming, published 1990, Chapter 10; and the International Association of Challenge Course Technology.

 

All equipment used in the construction of the course bears a safe working load and tensile strength sufficient for operating procedures.

 

All belay line cable systems have an independent back-up system equal to the strength of the primary system.

 

Unauthorized access to the course is controlled by course design, education, scheduling, dismantling of belay equipment, locked storage, and posted regulations.  (Ladder required to access).

 

VI.              Goals

We will work to tailor our activities and debriefings to the specific goals of each group within the guidelines of our camp philosophy.  Some of our goals are listed below:

 

A.      To increase mutual support within a group;

1.        By offering respect for effort, not “success”.

2.        By enhancing group communication skills.

3.        By developing trusting relationships and attitudes among group members.

 

B.       To increase confidence in each individual’s God-given abilities;

1.        By encouraging risk-taking and reducing the fear of failure.

2.        By enhancing leadership skills.

3.        By basing acceptance on empathy and love, not on competence.

 

C.       To increase problem-solving abilities;

1.        By encouraging creative thinking and decision-making.

2.        By developing decision-making abilities that take into account the needs and goals of the group rather than just the individual.

3.        By debriefing and offering life applications to the activities.

 

D.      To develop an increased joy in cooperative group activities;

1.        By emphasizing learning through active, playful participation.

2.        By adding adventure and excitement to participation.

3.        By utilizing teamwork and cooperation rather than competition.

 

The high ropes course exists primarily to reach these specific goals:

A.      To provide a safe, adventurous program area.

B.       To teach participants Christian encouragement skills.

C.       To increase each group members confidence in their own God-given abilities.

D.      To increase each group members trust in God and each other.

 

VII.           Use

A.  Resources

        1.Financial

A yearly budget will be provided for replacement of equipment when needed, general maintenance, training, and yearly professional inspection.

 

        Any equipment purchased for the Ropes Course will be done via the Ropes Course Director.

 

        Any community group using the Ropes Course will be charged per person as cited by fee.

 

Ropes Course Programs are included in attendance of Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center.

 

Professionally recognized Ropes Course Builders will construct all course additions.  A request will be submitted at a time of the yearly budget for course additions.

 

2.  Equipment Inventory

All standard and necessary equipment used in operation of the Ropes Course is closely monitored.  An inventory will be taken, updated, and filed every six months.  The following is 7/2/03 inventory:

        Seat Harnesses

        1 L

        10 M

        1 S

 

        Chest Harnesses

        1 L     2 M

 

        Hardware/Equipment

        50 steel locking D carabiners

        1 steel twisted carabiner

        5 H.B. Sheriffs

        3 cable pulleys

        1 Zip pulley

        3 adjustable lobster claws with Zorbers

        1 adjustable lobster claw without Zorber

        1 shear reduction device

        1 blue Zip line static belay tether rope

        1 blue Zip line return rope

        2 blue ropes for tying ladders

                7 green ropes in current use (2 ropes for Pamper Pole; 1 rope for catwalk log; 1 rope for

                Multi-vine; 1 rope for Ship’s crossing; 2 ropes for tower)

                10 helmets

                10 extra padding for helmets

                3 ladders (2 extension, 1 step)

               

                Low ropes equipment

                2 thick ropes for Nitro crossing and Triangle traverse

                1 cargo net

                1 spider’s web

                3 platforms

                1 set trolleys

                2 2x6 boards

 

B. Target Populations

Since Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center provides relaxation in creation and renewal in and education of Christ to youth, adults, families, churches, and schools throughout the year, the target populations are:

1.        Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center guests

2.        School and church groups

3.        College programs

4.        Community organizations

5.        Professional/Corporate teams

6.        Anyone with interest and motivation

 

VIII.        Safety and course management

A ropes course is designed to be challenging and risk provoking in a safe and well-monitored environment.  The safety systems and procedures we use have been developed in accordance with industry standards.  In respect to these numerous safety precautions and procedures, which are necessary in running a ropes course, the management issue needs to be clearly channeled and defined.

 

In regards to policy and procedure, all course management is done by the Ropes Course Director to insure consistency in provision and subsequent safety to participants.  (The Ropes Course Director, who is supervised by the Director of the camp, is also responsible for budgeting, hiring Ropes Course Instructors and overseeing the camp’s Instructor Training Course.)

 

The Ropes Course follows ACA guidelines D-12 – D-27.

 

A.      Requirements of the Participant

1.  Eligibility requirements

Only people 6th grade level and above may participate on High Ropes Course.  Expectant mothers or people with a history of heart disease will not be allowed on the High Ropes Course.  Anyone with a history of suicidal tendencies will only be allowed on the High Ropes Course with a physician’s written permission.  Participants weighing over 325 lbs will not be allowed on the high ropes course and there is a 270 lb weight limit on the Pamper Pole.  People with other conditions or disabilities will be able to partake in certain adventure experiences depending on the condition of the disability, the experience and training of the staff, and the nature of the adventure experience.

 

2.        Completion of proper forms  (See XX. Forms)

This must be done prior to participation in the course (a guardian will sign for an applicant under 18 years old).

 

A Registration form must be signed for every participant on the Ropes Course.    The form declares intent, agreement to follow rules and regulations, assumption of risk, medical emergency release and the general health history of the participant.  This registration form will be kept on file at the camp office.

 

B.       Administrative Policy and Safety Standards

 

*All references to qualified staff or personnel mean that staff training has been accomplished according to the Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center Ropes Course Instructor Training Program.  Ropes Course Aids, Assistant Instructors and Instructors are qualified to lead the Low Ropes Course.

 

1.        Safety standards will be maintained regarding safety of guests and staff.

 

2.        On an annual basis, inspection of the entire course will be performed by a third party professional ropes and initiative course builder.  The Ropes Course Director will retain a report of this inspection.

 

3.        Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center staff will maintain documentation of involvement in Ropes Course activities as per the Documentation/records (XIX) section of the Manual.

 

4.        All outside groups will have individuals sign registration/health forms prior to participation.  (See XX. Forms)

 

5.        A combination of environmental factors can affect the safety and risk factors of the course.  Instructor’s judgment will determine if the course should or should not be conducted.  No Ropes Course activities will be conducted during extremely inclement weather, including, but not limited to, electrical storms, severe storms, ice storms, extreme cold or heat.

 

6.        Any broken or critically damaged equipment must be replaced immediately, before use of element can occur.  DO NOT PROCEED with damaged equipment even if you think your back-up system is adequate.  Ropes with frayed ends must be properly cut, taped and burned before use.

 

7.        Participants by any party in any event on the Ropes Course will occur under the direction and supervision of qualified staff.  The number of participants simultaneously on the Low Ropes course must be at least 7, not to exceed 12 per qualified staff.  The number of participants simultaneously on the High Ropes Course must be at least 5, not to exceed 12 per Instructor. 

 

8.        A Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center Ropes Course Instructor will visually inspect all equipment and systems on the course on a weekly basis when in use.  The Ropes Course Director will retain reports of changes or concerns.

 

9.        All ropes will be retired after a maximum of 750 uses, except the primary belay rope for the Pamper Pole, which will be retired after 350 uses.  The rope ends should be flipped after half of this limit is reached (375/175).

 

10.     An emergency kit containing first aid supplies will be present on the course site.

 

11.     A rescue kit will contain 4 steel carabiners, an extra H.B. Sheriff, hand pliers and rope knife; an extra rope will be on hand.  The rescue kit must be present and available at the High Ropes Course should an emergency occur warranting its use.

 

12.     All carabiners used will have locking gates.

 

13.     When not in use, all equipment will be stored and inaccessible to campers

 

14.     Before use of any element, the permanent and removable equipment included in the system will be visually inspected by qualified* staff for evidence of wear, breakage, or damage.  Damaged or broken equipment will be repaired or replaced.  Record of Possible Concern Form (XX. Forms) available if necessary.

 

15.     Set up and take down of all removable equipment will be accomplished by a qualified person.

 

16.     When setting up or taking down any high element, the qualified staff will be belayed by static system.

 

17.     Sufficient support staff to monitor the participants on the grounds will be provided.

 

18.     Before presenting the task, areas surrounding all elements will be inspected for obstructions or dangerous objects.  These objects will be removed.

 

19.     A Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center staff member will carefully review the registration and health forms of each Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center Ropes Course participant.  During this process, each participant will be screened for physical appropriateness to participate in the medium, and such appropriateness will be documented by the registration and health forms, which remain on file at Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center.

 

20.     Proper safety briefing/orientation will precede each ropes course session.

 

21.     Facilitators will conduct warm-up and stretching exercises before participation.  Spotting techniques will be reviewed.

 

22.     Before participating, qualified staff will visually inspect each participant for appropriateness of attire for safety concerns or potential risk factors.

 

23.     Participants in all high elements will utilize an appropriate climbing harness system—a commercially manufactured harness for belay or rappel.  In addition to the appropriate seat harness, an additional chest harness will be applied to climbers on the Pamper Pole.

 

24.     All climbers on all high elements will wear properly positioned helmets.

 

25.     Facilitators will secure all participants to the belay systems according to the specifics in the manual.

 

26.     Before climbing a high element, facilitators will check all seat harnesses, helmets, knots, and carabiners.

 

27.     In addition to primary belay, a minimum of one person will assume a back-up belay position.

 

28.     All participants will be on belay and spotted when climbing a ladder to access high elements.

 

29.     All participants will have at least one spotter in place when lowered to the ground to make sure climbers can regain standing control.

 

30.     All participants must be spotted on the low elements.  Teach spotting according to the specifics in this manual under XII.A.  Low Ropes Course-spotting.

 

31.     To begin and end spotting and belaying procedures, a pre-defined communication will be used.

 

32.     All participants will be encouraged to participate in all activities, but never forced.

 

33.     Smoking is not allowed on high or low ropes activities or when participants are in the presence of or wearing program equipment.

 

IX.              Ropes course planning checklists & safety briefing

A.      Planning checklist #1 – Before meeting the group

1.        Contact the leader of the group to discuss expectations and necessary preparation:

a.        Group size and age

b.       Proper clothing (loose and comfortable, appropriate for the weather, long pants are recommended.)

c.        Alternate plan for questionable weather.

d.       Determine meeting place and time.

e.        Get a clear idea of group’s goals.

2.        Familiarize yourself with health forms of participants.

3.        Structure activities.

4.        Prepare personal gear (such as):

a.        Extra clothing

b.       Pen, Pencil, notebook and walkie-talkie

c.        Rope log, P&P Manual, and Low Ropes Course Handbook

d.       Water, food (if appropriate)

e.        Special “props” and equipment (i.e. blindfolds, etc)

f.         First Aid kit and rescue kit

g.       Evaluation forms and envelopes (when appropriate)

5.        Set up any activities which need to be set up.

6.        Immediately prior to use, visually inspect the following parts of the elements and/or group initiative equipment you will be using:

a.        Cables and cable clamps:

-          Make sure that all cables are intact with no breaks, cuts, frays or kinks present.

-          Be sure that all of the clamps are present and in the proper place.

-          Make sure that the bolts that hold the cables to the trees are intact with bolts screwed properly in place.

b.       Ropes:

-          Check all ropes for cuts and/or frays.

-          Make sure that all knots are in place, tied properly and intact.

c.        Wooden structures:

-          Be sure that there is no broken or damaged wood and that all boards are in place.

-          Be sure that all bolts are in place and screwed in all the way.

d.       Ladders:  Be sure that all rungs are intact and anchor points secure and set up properly.

7.        Make needed repairs of equipment or drop activity from the day’s schedule.

8.        Record repair or needed repair.  Use Possible Concern Form if necessary.  Fill out Element Inspection Sheet.  (See XX. Forms)

9.        Visually inspect the ground for garbage or objects people could trip over, and inspect the trees about the course for deadfalls.  Report any deadfalls or large dead branches to the Program Director immediately.

B.       Planning checklist #2 – Upon meeting the group

1.        Introduce yourself to the group and meet them.

2.        Distribute name tags (if needed).

3.        Review goals with leaders.  If they are adults with a group of children, say something to the adults like, “If you can figure out the solution to a problem or know how you would do an activity, please do not share that solution or suggestion with the children.  Solving the problems is not as important as learning from them.”

4.        Collect any necessary forms.

5.        Check the clothing of participants.  All participants are encouraged to wear long pants.  They must not be wearing sandals (Teva sandals, etc.) or have bare feet.  If unable to correct inappropriate attire, eliminate those participants.  Are there enough participants to run the course?  If not STOP, reevaluate the activities planned and, if possible, do alternate activities. 

6.        Check the number of participants.  Make sure that there is enough staff to meet participant ratios.  Participation by any party in any event on the Ropes Course will occur under the direction and supervision of qualified staff.

 

C.       Planning checklist #3 – Introduction and safety briefing

1.        Introduce all leaders.

2.        Explain plan for the day.  Talk about the philosophy and goals of the Ropes Course.

3.        Talk about environmental care.  Mention litter.

4.        Mention restroom locations and appropriate break times.

5.        Explain safety procedures and regulations.

a.        Explain the inherent risk and any potential dangers of the ropes course.  Bruises, scrapes, scratches and turned ankles occur.  Be sure that they understand and consent to accepting those risks.  Be sure they understand that they can say “No” at any time.  Tell them why. 

b.       Ask if there are any medical conditions or limiting injuries the group should be aware of.  Tell them to speak with you privately if they don’t feel comfortable telling the group.  Ask them if there is a way they can tell when their condition is going to act up (strange feeling, etc.)

c.        Explain “Stop play!” rule, “If at any time you become injured or feel unsafe call STOP PLAY and we will all immediately stop what we are doing and offer you assistance.” 

d.       Explain that no one is to climb on or attempt one of the challenges without a qualified Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center staff member and the appropriate spotters.  Mention event capacities.

e.        Have the group store valuables, dangling earrings, necklaces and jewelry, knives, keys, pens, pencils, combs, etc., or other potentially dangerous items in a safe place away from the activity.   No smoking or gum chewing allowed.

f.         Explain roles of leader and participants.

g.       Explain that during these activities you will retain the right to change the rules of the game at any time for safety reasons and to ensure there is adequate challenge or success for the group.

6.        Talk briefly about rope care and equipment care.  Explain proper wear, usage and adjustment of harness and helmets.  Explain terminology and use of equipment.

7.        Tell participants at the end of our activity “It is important to be able to say that you challenged yourself in at least one way.”

8.        Explain “challenge by choice” – Although we will encourage participants to attempt each activity, they will have the final say as to whether they are ready to try it.  Our job is to remind them they can do more than they think they can and outline their choices and the consequences for their choices.  No camper will be forced to do any activity.

9.        Do warm-ups and stretch out.

10.     Teach or review spotting.

11.     Explain verbal contracts and communication signals.

12.     State goals of the group as you understand them.  Explain individual and group responsibilities.  Re-set and clarify goals if necessary.

13.     Once goals are clear, form a Participation Covenant:

a.        I agree to work together as a group and work toward individual and group goals.

b.       I agree to follow safety and group behavior guidelines.

c.        I agree to give and receive feedback, both positive and negative and to work toward changing inappropriate behaviors.

14.     Double-check all elements prior to use to make sure that they are in safe working order.

D.      Planning checklist #4 – As you begin

1.        Make all safety considerations clear to participants before beginning any activity.  Then follow them.

2.        Take appropriate breaks for water.

3.        Under no circumstances are you to leave an activity while the participants are still engaged in it.  Lead activities appropriately.

4.        Do a safety check on each element before use.

5.        Debrief or process when necessary.

6.        When appropriate, hand out evaluation forms and have participants complete and return them or hand out stamped/addressed envelopes.

7.        End session.  Thank participants and staff.

 

E.       Planning checklist #5 – After the group leaves

1.        Disassemble appropriate equipment and store properly.

2.        Check course to be sure everything is in order.

a.        Ropes are coiled,

b.       Litter is disposed of,

c.        Props and gear are properly stored,

d.       Appropriate elements are secured,

e.        Any needed repairs are noted,

f.         Lost and found items are gathered.

 

3.        List activities/problems encountered/potential safety concerns/other comments.       

Properly record all rope and equipment use as required.

4.    Complete Incident Report/Near Miss Forms (if needed and turn in to office.)

                                            5.    Debrief activity with other leaders if necessary.

 

X.                 Attending staff responsibilities

A.      While on the Ropes Course site, attending staff (i.e. non-qualified Mt. Morris Camp and Conference Center staff and group chaperones or leaders) are expected to:

1.        Monitor the behavior and activity of the participants, intervening when necessary.

2.        Aid in the orchestration of participants to meet course Instructor’s specifications.

3.        Follow course instructor’s requests to the best of his/her ability.

4.        Use common sense and sound judgment.

5.        Encourage and recognize the efforts of all involved.

B.