[Ansteorra] Marshalling pole challenge

[Michael Silverhands]

On Jan 31, 2007, at 11:30 AM, Jean Paul de Sens wrote:

> ...  If there are no real safety reasons we
> should discuss the need for this rule.
>
> JP
>

If I may suggest, you might consider revising it into an "ok" and  
"not ok" materials list, as well as a simple, verifiable and  
repeatable test that can be easily done in the field.

For example (just suggestions):
"ok" = taped rattan, pultruded fiberglass, "oak or other hardwood  
that passes a safety test" (or similar wording)

"not ok" = pine dowel rods (i.e. closet rods)

The safety test could be something as simple as supporting the staff  
at both ends (e.g. resting on benches) and placing a calibrated  
stress on the middle (such as a specific weight, or the inspecting  
marshal sitting on it, or something like that). If the staff can take  
that stress, it's probably safe no matter what material it's made of.  
If it can't take that stress, then it isn't safe -- again, no matter  
what it's made of.

Just a thought. That would largely take "religion" out of the debate  
over staff materials, and replace it with something akin to science.

I'll bow out now and leave it to you who are more learned and wise in  
the way of marshalling requirements. :-)

Michael