Rope Access

What is Rope Access

Rope access is a method of working at height that uses 2 ropes and associated equipment to gain access to and support workers in challenging or difficult locations. It offers significant advantages in safety and efficiency by enabling quick access with minimal impact on surrounding operations and the environment. This system involves careful planning, documented risk assessments, and adherence to stringent procedures to ensure safe and effective work practices.

Rope Access Organizations

Industrial Rope Access Technicians Association (IRATA)

The Industrial Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA) was formed in the late 1980s in the UK to address safety concerns in the offshore oil and gas industry. IRATA developed a rope access method known for its safety record, efficiency, and minimal environmental impact. Now a global leader, IRATA has over 700 member companies and has trained more than 130,000 technicians worldwide. It continues to regulate training and operations through its member companies, ensuring safe work practices across industries.

Legislation

British Columbia OHS

In British Columbia (BC), WorkSafeBC’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Regulation, Part 34, outlines strict standards to ensure the safety of rope access workers. This method is widely used across industries like construction, maintenance, and wind turbine services, where traditional access solutions may be impractical or costly.

Key Regulations Under Part 34

Training and Certification: The regulation mandates that all workers performing rope access must be adequately trained and certified. This ensures they have the skills and knowledge to use the equipment safely and respond to emergencies. Certification usually involves theoretical and practical assessments that include advanced rescue techniques and hazard identification. Workers are expected to maintain their certification by completing refresher courses and adhering to the latest industry best practices.

Supervision: The regulation requires that all rope access work be conducted under the direct supervision of a competent person. Supervisors must have a thorough understanding of rope access techniques and safety protocols. Their role is to ensure that workers follow all safety procedures, monitor the site for potential hazards, and be prepared to initiate rescue operations if necessary. Effective supervision is critical in preventing accidents and ensuring that safety measures are in place at all times.

Equipment Standards: Workers are required to use equipment that meets established safety standards, including ropes, harnesses, carabiners, and other devices. The regulation also mandates that all equipment be regularly inspected and maintained. Any equipment that shows signs of wear, damage, or failure must be taken out of service immediately. This prevents accidents caused by equipment malfunction.

Hazard Assessments: Before starting any project, a thorough hazard assessment must be completed. This involves identifying potential dangers such as falling objects, sharp edges, or hazardous materials. Workers and supervisors must take into account environmental factors like wind, weather, and terrain. Once hazards are identified, appropriate measures—such as securing loose objects, setting up barriers, or using additional personal protective equipment—must be implemented to mitigate risks.

Rescue Plans: An essential part of rope access work is having a clear and effective rescue plan in place. Should a worker become incapacitated or trapped, the rescue plan must be activated immediately to retrieve them safely and quickly. This requires workers to be trained in self-rescue and assisting others in emergencies. Equipment for rescues must be available on-site at all times, and workers must be familiar with its operation.

Emergency Procedures: Part 34 emphasizes the importance of well-established emergency procedures. Workers must be prepared for various emergency situations, such as sudden equipment failure or medical emergencies while suspended. Emergency response must be prompt, and all workers should know the procedures to follow, including communication protocols, rescue equipment use, and first-aid application.

The Importance of Compliance

Compliance with rope access regulations is crucial for protecting the lives of workers. Rope access techniques allow for quick and cost-effective solutions for high-risk jobs, but without proper safety protocols, they can become extremely dangerous. Employers are responsible for ensuring all safety measures are in place, including providing appropriate training, conducting hazard assessments, and maintaining equipment.

By following these regulations, BC’s rope access industry remains safe and efficient, allowing for high-quality work to be performed without compromising worker safety. As industries evolve and incorporate new technologies, ongoing adherence to these safety standards ensures that rope access continues to be a trusted method for working at heights.

Alberta OHS

The Occupational Health and Safety Code 2018, Part 41, Explanation Guide outlines the framework for rope access work. Here’s a summary:

Rope Access Work Overview:

Definition: Rope access involves using rope-based techniques to reach or work at locations that are hard to access by other means.

Categories:

Industrial Rope Access:

• Used as an alternative to scaffolds and other elevated platforms.
• Suitable for light to medium tasks like inspection, maintenance, cleaning, and geotechnical work.
• Advantages include quick setup, minimal manpower, and reduced “man-risk” hours.
• Despite growth, traditional fall protection rules have limited its use in Alberta, prompting the need for specific regulations in Part 41.

Occupational Rope Access:

Industrial Rope Access:

• Generally involves working at height.
• Utilizes a working line and safety line with a full-body harness.
• Employs mountaineering-type devices for movement.
• Appropriate for tall structures, bridges, cliffs, and complex shapes.

Non-Industrial Rope Access:

• Generally involves recreational or specialized activities.
• Uses a working line and sit or full-body harness, with mountaineering devices.
• Includes activities like mountaineering, caving, canyoning, and climbing on artificial structures.

Part 41 addresses the specific needs of the rope access industry, differentiating it from traditional fall protection methods and enabling safer and more efficient work practices.

Rope Access Equipment

Harness

A full body harness designed for rope access and meeting CSA Standard Z259.10 provides comprehensive safety and support for working at height. It features adjustable, padded shoulder straps and leg loops for comfort, along with multiple attachment points, including front and back D-rings, for secure connections. Constructed from high-strength materials, the harness ensures durability and compliance with safety standards, allowing for efficient and safe operations.

Descender

A rope access descender meeting EN 341 Class A standard is a device designed for controlled descent on a rope, featuring a robust construction capable of handling high loads and prolonged use. It includes a self-braking mechanism that automatically engages to slow and stop descent, ensuring safety during operation. The descender is engineered for ease of use and reliability, with smooth handling and compatibility with 10.5-11mm rope diameters, making it suitable for demanding rope access applications.

Back up device & shock absorber

It is common to see the Petzl ASAP as the main backup device. The Petzl ASAP is an autolocking backup device that automatically arrests falls by locking onto the rope during sudden loads, providing reliable fall protection. The Petzl Absorbica shock pack is a shock-absorbing lanyard designed to reduce fall impact forces with an integrated energy absorber with test results showing an average of 4kn of force. Together, they ensure enhanced safety and controlled descent in rope access systems.

Ropes

Rope access uses rope with a diameter of 11mm. The high-strength  low stretch is rope designed for demanding tasks. Its diameter provides a balance between light weight and flexibility, offering reliable performance and ease of handling. This thickness ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices while maintaining the necessary strength and safety standards for secure work at height.

Hand Ascender

A rope access ascender is a mechanical device designed to grip and move up a rope, allowing for efficient climbing and ascent. It features a cam mechanism that securely locks onto the rope while allowing smooth upward movement, providing reliable support and control.

Helmet

A rope access helmet meeting CSA Z94.1-05 standard is designed for high-impact protection with a strong, durable outer shell and a cushioned interior liner for shock absorption. It features an adjustable suspension system for a secure and comfortable fit. The helmet also includes provisions for attaching additional safety accessories such as face shields and hearing protectors, ensuring comprehensive protection and functionality for rope access work.

Carabiner

A rope access carabiner with a minimum breaking strength of 22 kN on the major axis and 7 kN on the minor axis is designed for high load-bearing and safety. It typically includes a dual-lock or screwgate mechanism for secure attachment and ease of use.

Rope Access Training

Eligibility

IRATA

Level I: Requires being at least 18 years old, no prior experience, completion of a four-day training course from an IRATA Training Member Company managed by an IRATA Level III, passing a written test, and an assessment by an independent IRATA Assessor.

Level II: Requires 1000 hours and 12 months as a Level I technician, a four-day training course from an IRATA Training Member Company, passing a Level II written test, and an assessment by an independent IRATA Assessor.

Level III: Requires a valid First Aid certification, 1000 hours and 12 months as a Level II technician, a four-day training course, passing a Level III written test, and an assessment by an independent IRATA Assessor.

Renewal: Certificates are valid for three years. A minimum of four days of training is required before re-assessment, with possible extension if re-training is completed within six months of certification expiry.

Unsuccessful Assessment: Candidates must return for reassessment within 60 days or retake the training course if more time is needed.

Refresher Training: Required for technicians off rope for more than six months, conducted by an IRATA Level III, and logged in the technician’s logbook.

Rope Access Techniques and Maneuvers:

Rope Transfer

This maneuver involves moving from one rope system to another while suspended. The technician transfers their weight from one rope to a new one, usually positioned a safe distance away, while ensuring both ropes are properly secured and adjusted.

Aid Climb

This technique is used to climb a vertical or near-vertical surface with the assistance of equipment. The technician uses aid climbing gear, such as ascenders and aid ladders, to progress up a rope or structure that cannot be climbed with standard techniques.

Re-anchor

In this maneuver, a technician adjusts the position of their anchorage point. It involves moving or installing new anchors to redirect the fall line of the rope system, often required when obstacles or changes in the work environment necessitate new anchorage points.

Passing Mid-Rope Knots

This technique involves navigating past knots tied in the middle of a rope. Technicians need to carefully manage the rope to ensure safe and smooth passage over these knots without compromising the system’s integrity.

Intervention Rescue

A technician intervenes directly to assist an individual in distress using the rescuers rope system. This and provides immediate support to the person in need if the rescuer is also in suspension.

Rig for Rescue

This technique involves setting up a dedicated rescue system to assist an individual who is in distress. The rigging is designed to enable safe lowering or raising of the individual using the ropes the casualty is on.

Self-Rescue

A technician performs a rescue on themselves using their rope access equipment to safely return to a secure position.

Rope Access Industries

• Window Cleaning
• Commercial
• Oil & Gas
• GEO technical
• Hydro
• Bridges
• Wind
• Offshore