Climbing Wall Policies

General Policies

  • Rock Climbing is inherently Dangerous!  It is every climber’s responsibility to be aware of their surroundings and to look out for others in the climbing community.
  • An orientation is required prior to climbing at the wall.  Orientations, assessments, and technical skills can only be taught by authorized/qualified MWC climbing wall staff.
  • Assessment Belts must be checked out and worn in a visible location at all times when utilizing the climbing wall.  Belts are colored coordinated and associated with a climber's assessment level at the MWC climbing wall.  Belts must be returned at the end of each climbing session.
  • Personal UIAA or CE certified equipment may be used after a successful inspection by qualified attendants.  All harnesses and equipment must be made specifically for climbing.
  • Climbers should properly secure jewelry, clothing & hair to avoid entanglement in climbing equipment.
  • Climbers should remove belongings (i.e., phones, knives, wallets, etc.) from their pockets prior to climbing and store appropriately.
  • Shirts and closed toes shoes must be worn at all times.  Climbing shoes must be worn while climbing.
  • No food or open containers are allowed in the Climbing Wall area.  Water with a lid that closes is acceptable.
  • Climbers must stand clear of climbers fall/swing zones.
  • Climbers should never grab or hold onto the perma-draws.
  • Keep walkways & exits clear.
  • Campus Recreation staff and Climbing Wall staff are not responsible for damaged or stolen items.
  • Any accident or incident must be reported to climbing wall staff immediately.
  • Additional policies and procedures may become applicable at any time.  Please ensure to check in with staff prior to climbing.

Bouldering

  • Climbers may not climb above the “do not climb above” discs.
  • Bouldering mats are not intended to protect climbers from all injuries from falls and are designed for feet first landing.  Climbers should down climb as far as possible before leaving the wall. "Every Fall is a Ground Fall! "
  • Allow right away to climbers above.   

Top Rope Climbing

  • All climbers, including the belayer must be top rope assessed prior to top roping at the MWC unless assisted by a staff member.
  • Climbers are not allowed to climb past the top-rope anchors.

Lead Climbing

  • Lead climbers and lead belayers must be lead assessed at the MWC.
  • Personal ropes/ quick draws are not permitted, please see staff to rent equipment.