ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers
Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related institutions.
*****************************************************************************

Jeff-

I'm a big fan of rock walls. You learn so much without resorting to text or lectures. The physics and problem solving inherent in climbing provide great learning.

Years ago when we installed a wall nervous board members demanded we call in the insurance company. They called in their risk expert. His comment was he would be back with his kids as soon as we opened the wall.

Miami Children's Museum did have a problem with their tall wall. They installed a self-arresting belay system and, like all idiot proof systems, it had one near fatal problem. If you haven't brought in local climbers, I'd suggest having them look at your design and proposed operation.

Best wishes,

Ed Sobey
Northwest Invention Center



>From: Jeff Rosenblatt <[log in to unmask]>
>Date: 2007/01/29 Mon AM 10:50:04 CST
>To: [log in to unmask]
>Subject: Rock Wall

>ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers
>Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related institutions.
>*****************************************************************************
>
>We are currently throwing around, if not hefting around, an idea to
>install and operate a rock climbing wall for our science center.  I have
>seen a few other science centers with rocks walls, and I am looking for
>advice.
>
> 
>
>Are there any additional insurance requirements for operating a rock
>wall?  Who staffs the wall?  Do waivers need to be signed by visitors
>who want to climb?  Has it become one of your most popular activities?
>
> 
>
>Any and all practical advice or information would be appreciated.
>
> 
>
>Thanks.
>
> 
>
>--Jeff-
>
> 
>
>Jeff Rosenblatt
>
>Education Manager for Physical Sciences
>
>Science City at Union Station
>
>phone:  816-460-2218
>
>email:  [log in to unmask] <mailto:[log in to unmask]> 
>
> 
>
> 
>
>
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Global Evangalist for Creative Learning

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More information about the Informal Science Education Network and the
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message  SIGNOFF ISEN-ASTC-L in the BODY of a message to
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