Here’s something interesting I hope none of you ever see in real life: the UIAA (International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation) testing mountaineering equipment to the point of failure.

If the above video didn't turn your stomach, you also can check out parts 2 and 3 on YouTube. It would be nice if the videos also included the forces at which equipment broke, but maybe that would be a liability. 

The UIAA tests climbing and mountaineering equipment in test laboratories for its safety label. For more information on UIAA Safety Standards, advice on climbing techniques and equipment, and equipment advisories, visit www.theuiaa.org/act_safety.html.

This 2007 video’s been around: via The Goat, Backpacker, Outside