Via ferrata safety
Proper equipment, knowing the rules and knowing how to react in an emergency - safety underpins every outing.
Mandatory equipment
A non-negotiable point
Helmet, harness, Y-shaped lanyard certified to EN 958, gloves and stiff-soled footwear: every via ferrata requires its own technical gear, with no exceptions. Our guide covers what each piece actually does, common myths about zip lines, and how to choose between buying and renting.
See the full equipment guideRating - via ferrata and hiking
Check this before you go
A via ferrata is rated from K1 to K6 based on technical difficulty, a system quite distinct from the hiking rating (T1 to T6), which assesses the approach trail. Our guide explains how to read these scales, why a route's length says nothing about its difficulty, and how to match your choice to how you're actually feeling that day.
See the full rating guideEssential rules on the route
These safety rules must be followed without exception.
Never remove both carabiners from the cable at the same time - always stay clipped in.
Maintain a safe distance from the climber ahead to avoid being struck by rockfall.
Never climb during a thunderstorm or when storm clouds are approaching - lightning risk on metal cables.
Follow the indicated direction of travel - some routes are one-way for safety reasons.
Do not overcrowd a single cable section. In case of a fall, the jolt can destabilise other climbers.
Never climb alone - always be accompanied or inform someone of your route and expected return time.
Check the condition of fixed equipment (cables, bolts, steps) before using it. Report any issues to the relevant authorities.
Children must be individually clipped in and supervised at all times by an experienced adult.
Weather and hazardous conditions
Weather conditions and the state of the rock are critical to your safety.
Thunderstorm / lightning
Lethal danger. Metal cables are excellent conductors. Descend immediately and move away from the cable if a storm approaches. Do not wait for rain to start.
Rain
Wet rock drastically reduces grip. Holds and steps become slippery. Strongly inadvisable except on routes equipped for wet conditions.
Snow and ice
Makes progress extremely dangerous or impossible. Cables and holds may be covered with invisible ice. Absolutely avoid.
Intense heat
Risk of heat stroke and dehydration. Carry enough water. Avoid the hottest hours (11am-3pm) in summer.
Rockfall
Wind, other climbers or thawing can trigger rockfall. Always wear a helmet and maintain a safe distance.
Before you go - checklist
Taking a few minutes to check these points could save your life.
Check the local weather forecast for the next 24 hours.
Verify that the via ferrata is open (opening period and current conditions).
Inspect all equipment: harness, lanyard, helmet, footwear.
Ensure you have enough water and food for the planned duration.
Inform someone of your destination, chosen route and expected return time.
Honestly assess your ability level against the route's rating.
Download the map or route card for offline use.
Charge your phone and note down emergency numbers.
Emergency numbers
Depending on the situation
Fall with serious injury
- Person hanging on the lanyard
- Fracture
- Head trauma
- Loss of consciousness
- Heavy bleeding
Person stuck / exhausted / panicking
Even without injury, mountain rescue can intervene if someone can no longer move forward or descend.
When calling emergency services: give your exact location (name of the via ferrata, canton, GPS coordinates if possible), the number of casualties, the nature of injuries and your phone number.
You now know the equipment, the grades, the essential rules and the numbers to call if something goes wrong. All that's left is to choose your next via ferrata.
Catalogue of Switzerland's via ferrata