From Climbing · Anna Keating · · 1m 50s
Taped Webbing Fails in Moab Fall
A climber survived a 55-foot fall after using bulk webbing with taped splices.
In brief
A climber survived a 55-foot fall after using bulk webbing with taped splices. Kate survived a 55-foot fall in Moab after using 100 feet of 1.5-inch nylon webbing with taped splices that failed during rappel. Originally reported by Climbing.
Accident in Moab
Kate took a 55-foot fall in Moab, Utah, after using 100 feet of 1.5-inch nylon webbing.
Climbers' Background
Kate and Lawrence are experienced climbers in trad, sport, and alpine climbing, both safety oriented.
The Fall
Kate fell 55 feet after a taped splice failed during rappel descent in slot canyon.
Webbing Failure
Taped webbing split during rappel, causing Kate to fall 55 feet into slot canyon.
Taped Splices
Bulk webbing sold in spools often contains taped splices that are not visible to climbers.
Store Knowledge
Gear shops in Moab did not inform Kate and Lawrence about taped splices on webbing.
Past Accidents
A climber died in 2000 after using webbing with taped splices at Happy Hour Crag.
1974 Incident
David Markusen died in 1974 after using webbing with taped splices at Taylors Falls.
Recall in 2016
Black Diamond recalled 209,000 units of webbing with taped splices in 2016.
Current Risks
Sterling and Cypher still sell webbing with taped splices despite warnings from manufacturers.
Kate's Recovery
Kate fractured two bones in her wrist and elbow, broke her foot, and damaged a ligament.
Kate's Plans
Kate and Lawrence plan to return to climbing once she recovers from injuries.
Safety Advice
Inspect webbing for tape or splices before use and ask store employees about taped sections.
What Happens Next
Kate will be back climbing in months after surgery and recovery from injuries.
At a glance
Kate survived a 55-foot fall in Moab after using 100 feet of 1.5-inch nylon webbing with taped splices that failed during rappel.
