Ensuring compliance and enhancing the climbing experience with EP

Climbing walls are a central part of campus recreation, offering students a place to challenge themselves, connect with peers, and stay active. As climbing continues to grow in popularity, campus recreation professionals must keep their facilities in top shape—not just for longevity but also to meet industry standards and maintain an engaging experience for climbers.

At EP Climbing, we view climbing wall inspections as a proactive way to assess the condition of your wall, ensure compliance with climbing industry standards, and identify opportunities for low-cost refreshes that can enhance your facility.

Staying compliant with industry standards

Routine inspections help recreation centers stay up to date with the latest climbing industry regulations. The Climbing Wall Association, (CWA), recommends professional inspections every 2–3 years, but many insurance companies and risk management programs require annual assessments. Holding to these guidelines not only helps recreation professionals meet industry best practices but also extends the lifespan of their climbing facilities.

EP Climbing’s inspection team consists of experts in climbing wall design, engineering, and installation, all of whom have undergone rigorous training. We conduct thorough evaluations that assess holds, wall surfaces, structural components, and hardware to ensure your facility remains in optimal condition.

In addition to professional inspections, regular in-house maintenance checks are crucial. Our team provides training to help gym staff conduct daily, weekly, and monthly inspections, allowing for early identification of wear and tear. This training covers essential maintenance tasks such as:

• Checking and tightening holds
• Inspecting auto-belays lanyards and clip in points, and anchor points
• Identifying surface wear or minor damage
• Monitoring t-nuts and backer plates
• Assessing corrosion or structural stress

By empowering staff with the knowledge to perform routine maintenance, recreation centers can take a proactive approach to facility upkeep between professional inspections.

An opportunity to refresh and modernize your wall

Inspections are not just about maintenance. They also present opportunities to refresh and enhance your climbing wall. At EP Climbing, we specialize in budget-friendly upgrades that can make a major impact. These include:

• Replacing worn-out or outdated holds – Swapping out old holds for new designs can revitalize routes and improve the climbing experience.
• Retexturing wall surfaces – Over time, climbing walls can lose their grip. A retextured surface can enhance performance and bring new life to a facility.
• Updating aesthetics – A fresh coat of paint or new volumes can transform a space, making it more visually engaging and exciting for climbers.
• Upgrade flooring and mats – New flooring or mats can enhance safety and comfort and can be inviting to new climbers and appreciated by regular users.

During a recent inspection at a university recreation center, we identified aging holds and faded wall textures that had gone unnoticed. By replacing the holds and retexturing key areas, the climbing space immediately became more dynamic and inviting for students, without the need for a costly renovation.

Expert training for climbing gym staff

A well-maintained climbing facility starts with a well-trained team. In addition to inspections, EP Climbing offers specialized training programs for route setters, facility managers, and gym staff. Our Work at Heights, Climbing Wall Instructor, and Advanced Route Setting Training provides essential skills in equipment management, industry best practices, and expert route-setting techniques. This hands-on training ensures that staff members have the knowledge and confidence to keep their climbing wall operating at its best.

Keep your climbing wall compliant, engaging, and built to last

Climbing walls are a key feature of campus recreation, drawing students who seek adventure, fitness, and community. By prioritizing regular inspections, staying compliant with industry standards, and exploring opportunities for modernization, you can maintain a strong climbing program that continues to engage and inspire.

Partner with EP Climbing for professional inspections, maintenance solutions, and expert training tailored to your facility’s needs. Contact us today to learn more about our inspection services and how we can help your wall continue to inspire climbers for years to come!

Connect with EP Climbing at NIRSA 2025 in Orlando

A NIRSA associate member since 2002, EP Climbing is a global leader in climbing wall design, manufacturing, and inspection services. Since 1988, we have been dedicated to building innovative climbing spaces that inspire climbers of all levels.

Beyond building new walls, EP Climbing specializes in inspections, maintenance, and facility upgrades—helping climbing facilities keep their walls compliant and engaging. From refreshing holds and retexturing surfaces to expert training programs, we provide the tools and expertise to ensure every climbing space meets the highest industry standards.

You can meet with reps from EP Climbing April 24 and April 25 in Booth #917 at the 2025 NIRSA Campus Rec Expo in Orlando, Florida.