1. Climbing holds and walls cannot be cleaned between ascents or daily in a manner that eliminates transmission risk. The impracticability of sanitizing holds between each ascent can be mitigated by climbers rigorously adhering to proper personal hygiene practices (9,(undefined)10, 21)(undefined).
• While the primary mode of transmission of the novel coronavirus is through airborne droplets, there is a possibility, however remote, of transmission from surface contact. (6,(undefined)7,(undefined)8, 21)(undefined).
• Instruct climbers to disinfect their hands prior to climbing.
• Proper climber hygiene should also include frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette, and refraining from touching the face, particularly during and immediately following climbing.
• Educate customers and staff about what hygiene is expected. Staff should monitor climbers throughout opening hours and enforce your policies as necessary.
2. Cleaning when routesetting
• Routesetters can take additional precautions when stripping walls, preparing holds for storage, or washing holds by wearing proper PPE such as masks, gloves, and eye protection—some of which they may already be accustomed to wearing in certain scenarios pre-Covid-19.
• Consider adding a cleaning agent into the hold washing process. Water and soap should be sufficient (16,(undefined)17)(undefined); however, any cleaning agent should be used in accordance with the hold and cleaning product manufacturer’s guidance.
• It may be possible to quarantine holds as well prior to more rigorous cleaning.