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NICAS and NIBAS Newsletter #3 of 2018

Dear All

This latest newsletter for centres includes changes for NICAS and NIBAS centres, and changes to the climbing industry as a whole:

our new database launch is scheduled for March - we need centres to take some initial steps in preparation for this;
the General Data Protection Regulations comes into force on 25th May 2018, affecting every business which holds sensitive data (that includes the ABCTT and climbing walls!);
a review of AALA which needs your input;
Mountain Training's Climbing Pathway review has been completed;
snippets from NICAS and NIBAS.

We'll keep bringing you updates of our news and other information from the climbing world, but for now

All the best,

Executive Officer, ABCTT

Candidate Database
Our new database is due to roll out within the coming weeks. Read more about it here. A communication will be sent in the coming days to our listed Course Directors and Course Administrators detailing the rollout plan.

Please be aware that the current candidate database will be archived within a few weeks. This may mean downtime for some centres while we transition to the new system.

What can you do now?
If you can, please log in to the current database system by 9th March and check that all your current records are up to date and all candidates with logbooks are registered. This is also a great opportunity to correct those anomalous dates of birth of 1900, or registration dates which are in the future.

GDPR: Getting ready
Are you getting ready for the new General Data Protection Regulations which come into force on 25th May 2018? If you hold any records for climbers, employees or other staff then you are affected. In a nutshell GDPR means "ask permission, respect the privacy of the subject, value and protect their data."

We're working with our partners and other organisations in the climbing world to get geared up and ready for the new regulations. Expect to hear from us over the next few weeks with new privacy notices and information, which ties in with the roll out of our new database.

Find out how more about GDPR at the Information Commissioner's Office.

Level 3: Free PDF
A reminder that for NICAS centres with candidates using the previous Level 1&2 logbooks, and who now wish to move to Level 3, there is an option to use a free PDF of L3 assessment pages, rather than requiring the purchase of a new logbook.

Contact us to obtain a copy of the PDF (NB you must deliver Level 3 NICAS at your climbing wall to be eligible) or find it on Teamwork. If your wall isn't yet Level 3, do check the Centre Handbook changes we introduced in early 2017 which made Level 3 accessible to many more Level 2 centres without needing a dedicated bouldering area.

Have you commented on the AALA review?
The HSE are seeking submissions about three proposed changes to the Adventurous Activities Licensing Authority, intended to make it long-term sustainable. Option 1 is to increase fees over 10 years to £1500pa; Option 2 requires indoor climbing walls to fall under the AALA remit and increases fees to £1500pa; Option 3 is to set up a new regulatory body.

These changes may affect indoor climbing walls so whether you are a current AALA provider, or a dedicated climbing wall who doesn't currently require an AALA licence, please read their consultation and make your feelings known. The deadline for comments is 9th March 2018.

Mountain Training Climbing Pathway updated

Mountain Training have announced the changes to their Climbing Awards following the recent extensive review. Read about the changes and see this infographic explaining the new awards and re-naming of existing awards on their website.

We will be updating our Centre Handbook and qualifications tables for NICAS and NIBAS to reflect these changes over the coming months, and will be including the new Indoor Climbing Assistant and how it fits into NICAS and NIBAS delivery.

Reminder of registration fee increases
Our annual registration and renewal fees for centres are increasing from 1st April 2018: full details can be found on our website.

Head Rush announce ISC carabiner recall

Head Rush issued an urgent recall notice regarding some ISC carabiners recently, some of which may be used in TruBlue autobelay devices. You can read the full announcement via the ABC News here.

Minimum age for candidates
We've always had a minimum age of 7 for both NICAS and NIBAS, but are aware that some 6 year olds have been registered in the past. This won't be possible with the new database so to avoid embarrassment please make sure your climbers have reached their 7th birthday before they start. Thanks.

Technical Top Tips
In our regular slot from our Technical Officer they consider the responsibilities of coaching. Have a read and send us your thoughts too.

Our next Board meeting...
...is taking place in late April at Westway Climbing Centre in London. If you'd like to get involved with the ABCTT in any capacity then please get in touch. We have vacancies for the Screening Committee and exciting opportunities for sub-committees to drive new projects over the coming months. Contact anne@nicas.co.uk for details.