Safety and Precautions : Staircase and Tower

Safety Guidance
Climbing the tower can be easy for the experienced spiral staircase and ladder climber, but could be difficult and dangerous for others. With care and patience a successful visit can be assured. The tower is dusty, so expect clothes to collect some dust. There are 45 stone steps to ascend to the Belfy from the Nave, and 45 down to the North Aisle. Those on the extended visit will be stopping in the Belfry for a demonstration of bellringing. Those who wish can ascend the ladder to view the bells. However, the safety requirements of further ascent is beyond the scope of this visit. You can view the ladder in the Belfry it is 15 metres long (45 feet) that ascends to the parapet below the Octagon. There is also a further 9 metre ascent of a ladder followed by a short crawl through the roof void allows access to the roof.

We need to consider safety on the staircase and ladders
Precaution	Reason
DO NOT TOUCH Bells. Rope or other equipment	Bells may be set for ringing hence dangerous to non-ringers
Cover limbs Long sleeve jumper and trousers	Risk of grazing knees and elbows
Properly fitting footwear	Footwear must be stable on ladders and steps High heels not recommended
Maintain distance between people	Risk of the heels of one person hitting the face on ascent, kicking back of head on descent
Nothing to be carried	Risk of falling items
Check pockets for loose items	Risk of falling items
Use hands on steps to stabilize ascent and descent	More stable than handrails
Look out ahead	There are places where the height is low and obstructions impose on the route
Ladder climbing precautions	Please respect the advice of the Stewards