What is Industrial Rope Access?

Industrial Rope Access is a proven method of achieving a safe work position at height or in areas of difficult access. It was initially developed from techniques used in caving to answer the need for a simple, safe and adaptable means of access with its first large scale use being for inspections on the oil and gas platforms of the North Sea. As its value as a work solution grew rope access has also developed onshore where it is to be seen undertaking all manner of work from Petrochemical inspections, Industrial cleaning and general maintenance to repair, geotechnical and inspection work on some of the world's most iconic structures.

One of the prime motivations for the formation of Irata in 1987 was the recognition by leading practitioners that the existing legislation did not cover rope access techniques. In the intervening years Irata has worked closely with the HSE to formulate working philosophies for regulated rope access.

Irata members provide clients with detailed method statements for any operation involving rope access. By identifying potential hazards and through effective risk management irata companies can produce a safe system of work. This progressive and proactive stance has led to documented accident rates being low in comparison to other access industries.

Irata is committed to the production of annual statistics as they clearly demonstrates the excellent safe working record of irata members and the effective controls irata has in place through its Training and Registration Scheme for Operatives, its "General Requirements for Safe Working" and "Guidelines" and, not least, the stringent vetting procedure all companies undergo before becoming irata members to ensure a safe working environment within the industry.

 

***IRATA member audit is due for completion on 1st October 2008***