Quick & Streamlined: Storing Your Work Positioning Lanyard

Climbing harnesses serve as more than just standard equipment; they function as the central hub for all canopy operations. Each carabiner, sling, and accessory is assigned a specific position, and the systematic arrangement of these items reflects a tree climber’s level of efficiency and approach to their work. Among the various components attached to the climbing harness, the work positioning lanyard stands out for its essential role, although it can be particularly challenging to store in an orderly manner.

Whether the lanyard is utilized for secondary attachment, technical positioning, or as a compact climbing system, it must remain readily accessible, simple to stow, and devoid of potential snag points. Achieving the right balance between accessibility and organization distinguishes a cluttered harness from an efficient workspace in the canopy.

This blog will discuss effective strategies arborists employ to store their lanyards, including the use of specialized tools such as the K1 Keeper, ISC Nessie, and Arbpro Buddy. 

The Challenge of the Lanyard

The work positioning lanyard is both essential and occasionally difficult to manage. When fully extended or inadequately stowed, excess rope may remain, creating the risk of snagging, swinging, or becoming a tripping hazard. In this context, specialized storage accessories offer effective solutions.

The K1 Keeper 

The K1 Keeper, now manufactured by Teufelberger, represents a straightforward yet effective innovation. This device attaches securely to the harness using a clamp mechanism fastened with a screw. Attaching a lanyard is efficient when using an open-ended lanyard or one with at least one end open (without a splice or sewn termination). For double-termination lanyards, it is necessary to remove the pulleys from the device to install the lanyard; while this may appear challenging, the process is manageable and should not pose significant difficulty.

The innovation lies in the device's ability to manage lanyard slack efficiently, provided the user's arm length is sufficient. There is no requirement to detach any Daisy Chain loops; by simply depressing the lanyard device and leaning back, the K1 Keeper forms loops of uniform length, which will pay out smoothly as long as the loops do not become entangled with gear or themselves. To remove slack, pull the V-shaped top of the K1 Keeper up and out to create even loops.

ISC Nessie

From the depths of Loch Ness, rose the legend of Nessie and too began the creation of Nessie - “The Lanyard Management Clip”. Just kidding, but it did sound good! The ISC Nessie provides an efficient solution for managing lanyard slack and minimizing clutter. Designed for secure attachment, the Nessie connects to the designated loop on the harness and fastens back to itself. It incorporates four flexible slots that accommodate ropes up to 13mm in diameter. The final slot may present some difficulty due to added rigidity from increased material beneath the tab. To release slack, as with the K1 Keeper, press the lanyard device to extend it. Some interference may occur if the loops overlap.

To restow, users must manually loop the lanyard slack into position because this device does not feature a pull to restow mechanism like the K1. This method is particularly effective for managing excess slack and has proven most suitable for lanyards measuring 10 to 12 feet in length. While longer lanyards may also be used with this device, doing so necessitates increased attention to detail, OR Daisy Chaining in segments, followed by clipping to the slots of the Nessie.

The final detail, the neck of the ISC Nessie, can be used to stow the working end of the lanyard, and because there is no gate on this section, deployment and restow is done within seconds. 

Arbpro Buddy

Both the K1 and the Nessie are sleek and industrial; however, the Arbpro Buddy is the practical option that every harness needs. It is a lightweight, flexible clip system designed for managing excess lanyard slack. Unlike the other lanyard management devices referenced in this blog, the Buddy does not require any tools to attach/detach, just a quick flex, and it’s on! 

The Buddy is an excellent choice for minimalist climbing arborists who prefer efficiency with minimal gear. Its dual slots fit ropes between 11mm and 13mm, and with thinner cords, you can easily double up slack loops for convenient storage. Designed with simplicity in mind, this tool doesn’t protrude as much as the K1 or Nessie, so its slim shape greatly reduces the risk of snagging. Additionally, the small barb on top allows you to quickly secure and release the working end of your lanyard.

Paying out slack is challenging when the work positioning lanyard is doubled in the storage slots, but otherwise, the unit works excellently.

Final Thoughts

A properly maintained tree climbing harness shows professionalism and clear thinking. Organizing your lanyard helps reduce clutter, lowers risks, and keeps you efficient while working in the crown. No matter if you use the K1, ISC Nessie, or Arbpro Buddy, the aim is a tidy workspace and focused attention on the tree.