TS 13064

TS 13064 is a professional standard for the guide and instructor role in ice climbing. It brings together two closely related duties: leading climbing activity in the field and teaching participants how to move and operate safely in a highly technical mountain environment. Ice climbing is a specialised discipline that involves frozen terrain, protection systems and careful judgment, so the role is not only about route-finding but also about managing risk and supporting skill development.

Technical context of the occupation

In general technical terms, work on glaciers and ice features depends on assessing surface conditions, choosing suitable equipment, setting up safety systems and instructing climbers in movement and rope-handling techniques. The guide function is usually associated with route supervision, group management and safe progression, while the instructor function focuses on transferring core skills and correct practice. Combining both roles in one title highlights that the occupation has both operational and educational dimensions.

What this standard covers

Based on the provided scope statement, this standard covers the guide and instructor side of ice climbing. It is therefore useful for understanding the occupational definition and general responsibility profile for this specialist area, but the summary does not by itself establish detailed methods, performance thresholds or training steps. As a professional standard, it supports a common interpretation of the role across organisations and helps define the knowledge, skills and behaviours expected in the occupation.