What is Accreditation

ABC Accreditation is a mark of excellence awarded by the Association of British Climbing Walls to indoor climbing walls that meet high standards for safety and professionalism. It is our goal that all climbers, from beginners to advanced, can access well-managed and well-maintained facilities where they can climb with confidence.

ABC Accreditation is based on eight key principles:

• Climbing structures are fit for purpose
• PPE is regularly maintained and inspected
• A safety management plan is in place
• Instructors, coaches, duty managers and other professional supervisors are competent
• Children and adults at risk are appropriately safeguarded
• All work at height follows safe working practices and is undertaken by a competent person
• Users are appropriately inducted into the centre, and understand and accept the risks
• The organisation follows reflective practices for learning and improvement

Why become Accredited

With ABC Accredited status, you’ll be demonstrating your commitment to maintaining high standards in the indoor climbing industry, benefiting both your business and the climbing community.

Accredited walls will receive an accreditation branding pack including plaques, stickers and digital assets to promote your achievement, as well as inclusion on the ABC website.

What’s more, the programme is recognised by major insurers for the climbing industry as an excellent risk mitigator, meaning you may be able to access policy discounts for securing accredited status.

What we accredit

Climbing facilities and associated policies and procedures for forms of climbing commonly found in climbing gyms: bouldering, top roping, lead climbing, autobelays and training boards

What’s not covered

Non-climbing operational areas in the business, such as gyms, cafes, shops and other facilities.

How we accredit climbing walls

The application process is clear and simple, with step-by-step support provided by the ABC. Accredited status is conferred for a three-year period. Learn more about the process on the ‘Becoming Accredited’ page.

The application process involves:

• Self-assessment – Operators complete a self-assessment to evaluate their current practices against the programme requirements.
• Third-party review – A detailed review of core documentation is conducted by an ABC approved independent assessor.
• Site visit – A physical inspection of the facility is carried out to confirm that operational practices meet the required standards.profess