Ring injuries

August 2003

Issue

An adult was accompanying a school group on a high ropes course (assault course), and opted to participate.  The group were told to remove rings and other jewellery, and the instructors checked that the children had done this.  For whatever reason, the accompanying adult did not remove her rings and was not checked.  During the session, whilst climbing back down from a platform, she caught her ring, and stripped the flesh from her finger.  The finger was subsequently amputated.

Outcome

This, sadly, is a familiar story from rock climbing, and most climbing instructors know to be vigilant.  This sad accident is a reminder to be vigilant on all activities.  A similar warning, and perhaps policy, could also apply to body piercings.