Simple Tricks for When You’re Going Aloft

Early summer is about the time we notice that something needs our attention at the top of the mast—an antennae connection, faulty mast light, lost halyard, etc. This is not the sort of job for a novice. Before going aloft for the first time, I recommend you take class on climbing with a rigger knowledgeable in the method you will using.

Harness Fit

There must be no possibility of falling out, even combined with the impact of an upside down fall. It is always possible to lean too far to one side, become inverted, and fall head first.

A UIAA- or OSHA- approved a harness is required, and few bosun’s chairs fully meet these requirements. Thus the climber must either wear a full body harness or a tightly fitted UIAA approved seat harness that cannot, under any imaginable circumstances, be pushed or pulled down over your hips. The waistband must be tight over your natural waist. If not, don’t climb. While a boson’s chair is more comfortable than most climbing harnesses, in most cases you need to wear a harness as well.

OSHA requires two attachment points. There are three common mast climbing methods: hoisted by halyard alone or with a tackle, climbing a halyard using ascenders (ATN Top Climber or similar), and climbing some manner of ladder (mast steps or MastMate). While you might know someone who  goes up on a single line all the time, occasionally that line fails. I know of two tragic accidents personally. It is not worth the risk.

If you must be hoisted on a single line, you need to be 100 percent certain that the rope, pulley, and all hardware are in pristine condition. If not, have a crew member belay you with a second halyard wrapped around a winch, or use a rope grabber on a second halyard.

Tool Bag

While there are traditional, purpose-built rigging bags, I like a small electrician’s bag. These have been perfected for hanging off ladders. Dump it out and fill with only what you need for the job at hand, do not use the outside pockets (something will fall out) and pick a simple design. Remember some rags to wipe grease off your hands.

I dislike boson’s chairs with tool pockets, as stuff tends to fall out of these pockets. This puts your helper below at risk. Use a separate halyard to raise it, attaching it to the bosun’s chair risks a spill. It can be lowered and a helper can send up what you need. For more details on ascending the mast, see the PS Online blog post “Going Aloft Safely.”