[SEDXC] Tower tragedy

[Bill Coleman]

On Jul 18, 2009, at 6:16 PM, John Harden, D.M.D. wrote:

> The correct name for the "gorilla clip" is carabiner as in mountain  
> climbing
>
> http://www.acmeclimbing.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATS&Category=95

All of the carabiners on this page are the single-gate variety which I  
would deem as unsafe for tower work. You want double-gated clips that  
are far more substantial.

I purchased my tower climbing gear from Champion Radio Products. Each  
clip is double-gated and work-rated for 5000 lbs. I climb with a fall- 
arrest lanyard, a short 3 foot lanyard, and an adjustable positioning  
belt.
http://www.championradio.com/safety.html

Carabiners may be fine for mountain-climbing, where weight is a  
factor, but safety should come first in tower climbing.


Bill Coleman, AA4LR, PP-ASEL        Mail: aa4lr at arrl.net
Web: http://boringhamradiopart.blogspot.com
Quote: "Not within a thousand years will man ever fly!"
             -- Wilbur Wright, 1901