In recent years, the UIAA has dedicated significant investment, some 200,000 euros and counting, primarily to research related to rock anchors and bolts. Initially, this centred around the subject of corrosion and stress corrosion cracking failure. A significant milestone was reached when the updated UIAA Rock Anchors Standard was released in 2020. However, work in this field remains significant. While new products – certified to Standard 123 – are now available on the Market, the challenge is ensuring both bolters and climbers are aware of the issues related to corrosion and the importance of using certified products. A dedicated website page charts the work achieved so far and the material available.
Where your help is needed
For the UIAA and its Safety Commission to continue to develop new standards and revise existing ones to make sure they are still as comprehensive as possible, significant resources are required – particularly when it comes to laboratory testing and in the research process.
All income received by the Safety Commission (SafeCom), whether from the granting of safety labels to accredited gear manufacturers, from UIAA members or from donations, is directly reinvested into projects which benefit the global climbing and mountaineering community. Ultimately all work conducted by SafeCom contributes to reducing accidents and fatalities in the mountains as well as providing climbers with greater access to knowledge helping them make informed decisions about the equipment they use.
Where money received in 2025 will be spent
Donations received in 2025 will be spent on:
- Studies on ageing and reliability of critical equipment, including harnesses and slings. This may then demand a revision of the existing standards.
- Development of a new standard for helmets.
- Corrosion Research: Continued investigation is required into the effects of corrosion on climbing equipment. Funding would be spent on testing.
- Creation of a Safety symposium held shortly after the UIAA General Assembly in Kosovo in October 2025. The meeting is designed to provide climbers, mountaineers and rescue teams in the Baltic regions with an information exchange, greater access to safety resources and to receive presentations and training sessions from UIAA instructors and experts.
How to donate
Donations can be made quickly and efficiently in various currencies through the UIAA fundraising page.
There are two options:
- Support UIAA Safety research (as per above)
- Support UIAA in general (including projects in climate change, competition sport, medical awareness)
Individuals can also specify where they would like their donation to be spent.
Donate here.
