2.2.4 Spur climbing
Spur climbing is a simple and reliable way to ascend trees to perform a rescue . On all but the tallest trees , even moderately skilled spur climbers will usually reach a top anchor point before competent arborists can set lines using throwlines and ascend .
Because spur climbing does not require climbing ropes to be set from the ground , it can be used on very tall trees with no branches in range , very dense trees where it is hard to isolate a target branch , pole-top rescues where no suitable top anchor exists , and many other potential rescue scenarios .
A disproportionate number of tree rescues are pole-top rescues , where the climber has already removed the lower branches and head .
Spur climbing is not difficult but requires a moderate amount of practice to become sufficiently competent to access a large tree using this technique .
Spur climbing is the technique of using climbing spurs ( often called climbing gaffs , spikes or irons ) to walk up and down the trunk , limbs and branches of trees .
Spur climbing does cause a small amount of damage to the tree . In rescue scenarios this is obviously not of concern . Avoid practicing this technique on valued amenity trees .
Equipment requirements
The following equipment may be required for spur climbing .
This equipment should be checked and where possible configured ( installed onto the ropes ) whilst on the ground before beginning ascent . This reduces the possibility of misconfiguration at height , and eliminates risks associated with loose gear .
General equipment :
• PPE
• Harness with front and side D attachments
Spur climbing equipment :
• Climbing spurs
• 2 x adjustable lanyards or fliplines , must be long enough to reach around tree at its widest point
• 1 x complete MRT climbing system , including climbing rope , suitable connectors , and self-belay device such as a Petzl ID or CT Sparrow 200R
Optional : could use 1 x lanyard and 2 x MRT climbing systems . Must configure one of the climbing systems as a lanyard ( Side D to Side D ).
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