Let’s be humble here. Although rope access is an innovative and low-cost access method, it’s not always the best option for a task and/or location. There are a variety of methods for work-at-height to choose from, and a pre-work analysis will help you to choose the safest and most efficient option. Other options might include a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP), or work restraint or fall arrest systems where techs are able to keep both feet on a solid surface while they work.

During your IRATA Assessment, all levels will be asked to demonstrate awareness of IRATA’s requirement that rope access be confirmed as a suitable method for a task before work begins (remember that it is always your right to voice any concerns you may have).

L3 certifying techs will be asked to demonstrate their competence by assessing a variety of scenarios, and identifying when to use rope access and when another access method would be more appropriate.

This portion of the assessment may be practical or desk-based. As your TMC (training member company), we’ll make sure that you’re ready for both.

Additional resources to check out:

TACS 6.2.4 for the source material for this blog.

ICOP Part 2, 2.2.3 for information on the pre-work analysis, and how you can ensure rope-access is the most appropriate/safest method of access for a job.

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This is part of an ongoing series, where we’re breaking down IRATA’s syllabus and clarifying exactly what ‘demonstrating competence’ and ‘demonstrating awareness’ means, and what will be expected of you on assessment day. To access the IRATA Study Guides, click below: