What makes a good Groundie???

[SAW]

Hi,

In your view what makes a good groundie?

Do they need qualifications??

Thanks for your time....

[Paul Barton]

http://gypoclimber.com/view.php?pg=groundman

 

A few pointers on there!

[John Hancock]

Experience, knowledge and the ability to know when to have a laugh and a joke and to know when to be serious (think this comes with age)

[Andy R]

experience..but that is a tough one to expect in new groundies..lol

 

Reliable, hard working, willingness to learn, common sense. A good groundie will know what their colleague is going to do next, already have the required kit out of the van and ready, be aware of their surroundings and risks, be on the lookout for info the climber may or not be aware of and maybe the most important of all have a large flask of perfectly made tea ready.

[Mesterh]

Watching what the climber is doing is high on the list along with common sense and spatial awareness.

[Albedo]

just read the first few points on the 30 odd point list posted above. That'd be enough to scare the **** out of ya . Half of that is the responsibility of the boss, or at least a crew leader:ohmy:, I know treehouse and masterblaster are a hugely respected site/person, but lets give the kid a break.

 

From your post in jobs wanted (SAW)I can see that you are new to arb and your question is a genuine one, wanting advice on groundie work, skills etc.

 

Your'e half way there in my opinion in that:

 

a) You want to get into treework = 1st box ticked

b) Your'e doing some NPTC's so you'll be able to use a chainsaw

 

Groundies are underated IMO and the list does demonstrate why, as there is actually quite a bit to learn.

 

Climbers, it is often said, make the best groundies as they really know the needs of the climber, especially during lowering operations. But you should be able to get a start on the strength of a) and b) above and learn the mighty list on the job.

 

Good luck with getting a start

 

Just noticed, in defence of the mighty list, it is headed - 'How to become an excellent groundsman' so there is hope for the sanity of the 50 quid a day man, maybe a pay rise!!!

Edited November 23, 2008 by Albedo
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[Jamie]

I think that list is pretty good, it takes everything you need to do and compiles it into one list. Safety is everyones concern. It's a list to aspire to and also to work with.

 

Jamie

[MattyF]

An ability to think for themselves, listen to what they have been told and anticipate whats going to happen in situations..

[Andy Collins]

Yes, the list is an excellent guide, try to apply it to the job. As mesterh said spacial awareness is important. Watch the climber, watch the public, expect the unexpected, learn to tie hitches and knots quickly and efficiently, listen, take advic and be able to give it (as your experience grows).

[Khriss]

Yes, the list is an excellent guide, try to apply it to the job. As mesterh said spacial awareness is important. Watch the climber, watch the public, expect the unexpected, learn to tie hitches and knots quickly and efficiently, listen, take advic and be able to give it (as your experience grows).

 

Yus to all this ! Pity we don't get more lads realising this- as groundi's- most just want to shoot up that tree -or hang off the mobilefone most of the day When they realise -they then might make good climbers:closedeyes: