Inspections | List of Services


Do we really need an annual inspection of our Challenge Courses, Towers and Climbing Walls?

Absolutely. Challenge Courses, Towers and Climbing Walls are potentially high-risk activities if not properly cared for. So the key to prevention is inspection. This is why Starlight's Reminder Policy is so important. We don't want you to forget, so we remind you to schedule your annual inspection. If you are an American Camping Association- accredited camp, remember that ACA strongly recommends adventure/challenge-type activities be inspected prior to the first use of the season. (ACA Standard D-27)


What does Starlight do during an inspection?

Basically, we:

  1. Loosen every nut on every clamp and re-torque it to the manufacturer's specification.
  2. Check all cables for signs of wear or rust, and make any necessary adjustments.
  3. Loosen nuts on every through bolt at least a half turn to allow for tree growth.
  4. Tidy entire course installation as needed.
  5. Meet with the staff responsible for maintaining the course throughout the season, and explain how they should perform daily maintenance of the course.
  6. Review your safety procedures and any other records that pertain to your course.
  7. Inspect all safety gear and ropes, marking any failed item(s) clearly to prevent further use. Estimate the cost to replace failed gear and, if desired, remove it from the site.
  8. Provide a written report, in laymen's terms, on the overall condition of your course and status of each element of your course.
  9. Make necessary repairs to any portion of your course, if you request it.