Training Standards

The UIAA wants to encourage good practice in the training of voluntary mountaineering leaders and instructors. Therefore we have developed the UIAA Training Standards for our member associations. With the UIAA Training Label, the associations can prove that their training and assessment schemes have been independently examined by a UIAA expert. This makes it possible for mountaineers from different countries to recognise each others qualifications. The Training Standards are managed by the Training Standards Working Group, click here to see the list of the members

There are UIAA Training Standards for the following activities: Mountain Walking and Trekking (summer), Winter Mountain Walking and Snowshoeing, Sport Climbing (i.e. single or multi-pitch with fixed equipment), Rock Climbing (with leader placed protection, single or multi-pitch) Ice Climbing, Alpine Climbing and Ski Mountaineering.

If your federation would like to apply for the Training Label please read the requirements for meeting the standards and then contact the Training Standards Working Group. The Working Group will appoint an expert who will work with you to evaluate your training and assessment scheme and if necessary help you improve it. The expert will check that your scheme meets the relevant technical standards. These are not fixed standards, but will take into consideration the needs of your federation as well as the natural environment and available facilities in your country. You must also take into consideration the values of the UIAA, for example with regards to protecting the environment.

Click here for a list of the associations which have been approved for the Training Label.

Leader training