COMDTINST M16500.14A governs policies, procedures, criteria, training, and certification for Aids to Navigation Structure Climbers.
View COMDTINST M16500.14A on armypubs.army.mil
The manual covers Basic, Advanced, Advanced Safety Observer, and Rescue climber qualifications, including climbing, fall protection, equipment, and rescue tasks. It requires qualification processes, recertification, risk assessment, and certified climbing equipment.
Applies to: All Coast Guard unit Commanders, Commanding Officers, Officers-in-Charge, Deputy/Assistant Commandants, and Chiefs of Headquarters staff elements must comply with the provisions of this Manual.
Under no circumstance will the CO/OIC waive these requirements and allow unqualified or uncertified climbers to climb ATON structures, unless in a designated training environment. (paragraph 1-1)
The trainee must perform pre-climb checks. (paragraph 5)
Trainee must demonstrate the ability to safely climb aids to navigation structures while maintaining 100% fall protection. (paragraph 8)
Trainee must complete the American Red Cross, National Safety Council, American Heart Association or American Safety and Health Institute First-Aid Course to receive certification. (paragraph 8)