Chaining on slopes – choice of direction: When measuring with a chain or tape on sloping ground, along which gradient is the work generally easier and more controllable?

Introduction / Context:
On sloping ground, surveyors often use the stepping method to reduce a sloped line into manageable near-horizontal segments. Practical handling of the chain, alignment, tension, and footing differs when working uphill versus downhill, influencing accuracy and speed.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Tape or chain is handled by two persons with pegs/arrows.
• The goal is to keep each segment close to horizontal to minimize slope error.
• Terrain can be uneven, with risk of slipping and loss of tension control.

Concept / Approach:
Working along the falling gradient generally allows the head chainman to sight and place marks where footing is visible ahead, while gravity helps keep the tape taut with less effort. The follower can brace above, improving stability. Shorter steps are still needed as slope increases, but the overall control of tape sag and alignment tends to be easier downhill than forcing the tape uphill against gravity, which can cause greater sag and fatigue.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Field manuals note that while either direction can be used, many crews prefer downhill chaining for control and speed, provided safety is managed and steps are shortened as slopes increase.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Uphill chaining often increases effort and sag control problems.
• “Equally convenient” ignores practical differences in handling and fatigue.
• “All of the above” cannot be true because the options are mutually exclusive.

Common Pitfalls:
Taking overly long steps on steep slopes; neglecting to keep the tape level; ignoring safety when working downhill on loose ground.

Final Answer:
Along the falling (down) gradient