The British Association of International Mountain Leaders
What is an IML
To be an IML you must have completed the training and assessment for the International Mountain Leader qualification as set down by UIMLA and a be member of BAIML or the appropriate national organisation of another UIMLA member country.
The IML qualification covers the competence, knowledge, skills and abilities needed for leading groups on any mountaineering activities where the techniques of alpinism are not required.
Broadly this excludes excursions on glaciers or on any other route where the planned use of a rope is required. This is exclusively the province of the Mountain Guide. The distinguishing qualification is that IMLs may only lead excursions on routes where it would not normally be expected to proceed roped together for safety, and carry a rope only for use in an emergency.
The aim of the qualification is to provide qualified professionals to lead walking parties on high altitude treks and mountain expeditions. Whilst the qualification is specifically focused on mountaineering, it is equally appropriate for people who lead expeditions to any remote area. IMLs can be found leading groups on the major walking paths and expedition routes throughout the world. Nor is the IML confined just to walking, see the pages about "What we do" for more information about the wide range of interests and specialist skills offered by BAIML members.
