Ensuring Safety for the Climbing Community

August 6, 2024 By Alpine Solutions

Anchors Inspection at Fleming Beach

Esquimalt Fleming Beach Climbing Wall

Macaulay Point Park is located in  Esquimalt, just a short distance from downtown Victoria, BC. Flemming Beach is a popular rock climbing area within the park that is easily accessible via a paved walkway along the seaside.

Alpine Solutions has conducted inspections and anchor replacements at Fleming Beach since 2008.

Applying an Engineering Approach

Alpine Solutions Rope Access Esquimalt

Brian Gould, Principal Engineer at Alpine Solutions and IFMGA guide led this project. His extensive expertise in rock guiding, combined with his engineering approach, ensures that the Fleming Beach climbing wall remains a safe site for the local climbing community.

For the most recent inspection in August 2024, we incorporated our Rope Access Division to provide support with testing, assessment, and documentation.

Inspecting and Testing the Climbing Wall

Anchor Testing

Fleming Beach Esquimalt Climbing Wall

  • Inspection of Anchor Points: Our team inspected approximately 15 climbs at Fisherman’s Wall, Main Wall, and The Overhang. This included checking bolts and hangers for visible corrosion or localized fracturing of the surrounding rock.
  • Anchor Testing: Where necessary, we performed load cell pull tests on individual anchor points to ensure their integrity.
  • Anchor Replacement: Any anchors showing noticeable corrosion or weakening, or those that failed the pull tests, were replaced.

Hazard Assessment and Recommendations

Rope Access Fleming Beach Esquimalt Climbing Wall

Our hazard assessment at Fleming Beach ensures a thorough evaluation of potential risks to keep the climbing area safe and enjoyable for all users.

We focus on several key areas to address any safety concerns:

  • Identifying Areas with Loose Rocks: Identify and mitigate potential rockfall hazards.
  • Corrosion Check: Inspect bolts, maillons, and hangers for corrosion caused by the ocean environment.
  • Wear and Tear: Evaluate damage from frequent use by climbers.
  • Safety Testing: Conduct and record pull tests on anchor points to confirm their integrity.

Our Commitment to Ensuring Safety for the Climbing Community

Fleming Beach Climbing Wall

We look forward to contributing to the Township of Esquimalt’s initiative to promote safety at the Fleming Beach climbing wall. We hope this encourages more use of the wall by providing a safe area and minimizing risk for kids and beginners.

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