Handling Post-Climb Issues

Leader responsibilities for problem activity participants

When a problem develops on a climb, and a leader discovers that a person is uncooperative and/or unable to participate physically, mentally, or emotionally, the leader must report this to the Climbing Committee (CC) and Mazama staff.

Procedures for dealing with climber and climb leader complaints

The Climbing Committee  recognizes that during Mazama climbs, differences in opinions, goals, technical backgrounds, leadership styles, etc. may cause hard feelings and/or dissatisfaction among team members.  It is essential that the Climbing Committee thoroughly and objectively investigate any written complaints against leaders or climbers.  If necessary, appropriate action is taken to protect the safety of climbers, promote their satisfaction and educate climbers in Climbing Committee policies.  Equally important, any action taken by the committee in response to a complaint must be fair and impartial to all parties involved.

Subsequently that individual has the right to appear before the Climbing Committee to explain his/her behavior.  After consideration and evaluation by the Climbing Committee, the person may be denied further participation on climbs.  The Mazamas board of Directors may also consider additional action.

Procedure:  Climber or climb leader complaints should be addressed to the Climbing Committee (CC) chairperson.

1. All complaints must be submitted in writing and must be signed by the complainant.

2. The identity of the complainant must be kept confidential – remaining
   within the confines of the committee and the accused individual.

3. CC chairperson will discuss the complaint with the Climbing Committee at
   the next scheduled meeting.

4. CC chairperson will make initial decision on the merit of complaint and conduct further investigation if necessary. The chairperson may engage additional CC members and Mazama staff to assist in the investigation and potential resolutions.

5. CC chairperson will make a report on findings to the CC and make a recommendation for action.

6. CC will determine the action to be taken. Possible options if a complaint is upheld are listed below:

a. Letter to climber or leader reinforcing policy.

b. Request leader to write apology to complainant with copy to CC.

c. Require the leader to seek additional training.

d. Suspend leadership status until leader completes additional training.

e. Suspend leadership status until leader completes additional probationary climbs.

f. Revocation of leadership status.

7. CC chairperson will notify the leader and the complainant of the action.

8. Appeal of the CC decision can be made to the CC chairperson within 60 days.

9. If any appeal is made, the CC will review and make a final decision.

10. CC chairperson will notify complainant and leader of the appeal decision and advise of the option to appeal to the Board.

11. If at any time in the process the CC deems it necessary, CC chairperson may report the complaint or action to be taken to the Board. Actions requiring the council’s engagement may include:

a. Resignation from the Mazamas.

b. Submitting a recommendation to terminate Mazamas membership to the Board.

c,. Referral to legal counsel or a public safety agency.

12. If a complaint or action is referred to the Board, the CC is removed from the complaint or action unless the council refers the complaint or action back to the CC for resolution.