Which of the following is NOT listed as part of the belaying 5 H's?

• A. Tension
• B. Space is clear
• C. Commands
• D. Anchor

Answer: (A)

The belaying 5 H’s are the safety checks you run before starting to belay to make sure the setup is safe and communication is solid. Space is clear ensures no one is in the fall path or under the climber. Anchor confirms there is a secure point to take the load. Commands establish clear, agreed signals so both climber and belayer know when to move or stop. Hazards covers nearby risks like loose rock, gear in the way, or environmental factors that could cause trouble. Tension, on the other hand, is about how the rope is managed during the belay, not a pre-belay safety check. It’s the controlled force you apply with the brake hand, a result of technique, rather than one of the pre-check items. That’s why tension isn’t listed among the belaying 5 H’s.