What is rope access?

Rope access is a flexible form of work positioning, which allows workers to access difficult-to-reach locations without the use of scaffolding, cradles, or an aerial work platform. Generally, a two-rope system is employed: the working rope supports the worker and the safety rope provides back-up fall protection.

Why use rope access?

Modern rope access equipment, techniques, and training can be combined to produce an exceptionally safe, versatile, efficient, and cost-effective way to solve vertical access problems.

  • Rope access is safe. Independently-certified rope-access technicians uphold an enviable safety record and few lost time incidents while working on rope.
  • Rope access is versatile. Technicians can apply the techniques in a wide variety of environments, from confined-space penstocks to massive concrete structures to complicated steel installations. Unlike traditional access methods, custom rope-access solutions can be designed to fit various applications quickly and inexpensively.
  • Rope access is efficient. Systems are installed and dismantled quickly and often require fewer personnel than traditional access methods. Rapid deployment limits disruption to facility operations by minimizing downtime.
  • Rope access is economical. Fewer personnel, faster completion, less equipment, and minimal downtime mean lower costs.

Who uses rope access?

  • Civil, structural, and geo-technical engineers
  • Operations and maintenance workers
  • Construction workers and painters
  • High-rise window cleaners
  • Motion picture and theatrical set personnel
  • Tower and antenna installers
  • Offshore Platforms

What are some examples of common rope access applications?

  • Structural inspections and non-destructive examination (NDE)
  • Rigging Installations
  • Welding
  • Sealant installation and surface preparation
  • Sand blasting and pressure washing
  • Concrete repair
  • Instrument installation
  • Painting
  • Rock scaling and anchoring
  • Photography and cinematography
  • Set installation
  • Geological surveys

Why choose an IRATA member company?

IRATA companies complete their work with confidence and assurance, the certainty of expertise and the value of a service that has proved itself around the world. The training given to IRATA technicians follows a strict work based syllabus that delivers highly committed personnel who are determined to deliver on safety, quality, and efficiency. Those conducting the training are rope access experts, not general work-at-height instructors, and have many years of experience.

The IRATA assurance of safe and responsible working is based on:

  • Audited and regularly re-audited member companies;
  • Robust membership entry criteria;
  • Many thousands of rope access technicians who have been thoroughly trained and are required to re-train every three years;
  • The independent assessment of every IRATA trainee technician wherever in the world he or she is trained;
  • An unrivalled level of site supervision;
  • Mandatory work procedures that are consistent wherever IRATA teams operate.