Stemples are wooden crossbeams used as steps in mining and mountaineering. They provide quick access but can be dangerous due to slipperiness and rotting over time. Regular maintenance and caution are necessary. Permanent access paths may be needed later, such as lifts and anchor points.
A stemple is a wooden crossbeam set into a wall or tree and used as a step. Temples can be seen in mining, mountaineering, and similar environments. They are an important part of access and can be installed very quickly, facilitating rapid progress in building what amounts to an access ladder. This can be useful in environments where the wait for more established access would be too long and staff are eager to get started.
Installing a shank requires cutting notches in the rock to support the wooden bar. These notches should be deep and large enough to comfortably bear the weight. It is important to choose the right location, avoiding weak points in the rock that could crack or crumble with use, as this could create a safety hazard. To cut the notches, you may need to use a harness and rope to dangle along the wall and use hand tools. Personnel above can lower the boom to allow the operator to position it.
Temples create quick access, but can also be dangerous. A concern arises in damp, wet conditions where the stems can become slippery with moisture. They can also attract algae and fungi, even when treated wood is used as a building material. People climbing up or down the ladder can slip and fall, potentially causing serious injury. Regular scrubbing is necessary to keep the stems as safe as possible, and caution is imperative when using them for access.
There is also a risk of rotting over time. In mines, the shade above the ladder can facilitate the growth of mushrooms, while in mountaineering applications the shafts can remain in the shade for a substantial part of the day, allowing mushrooms to grow in some areas of the access ladder. The fungi will gradually eat the wood, softening it and making it attractive to insects. This damage over time can compromise the integrity of the rod and create dangers. Even if the wood appears dry and rough enough to provide traction, a stem can crumble underfoot and cause injury.
Once personnel have established access to the coat of arms, it may be necessary to install a more secure and permanent access path. There are a number of other options available, including the installation of lifts and freight elevators in environments such as mines. Permanent anchor points can also be driven into the rock in close proximity to the stems, allowing for the use of a safety harness to prevent injury from falls.
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