ROPE ACCESS IN DEPTH

Anchor points = 12 kN (1200 kg)

Ropes = 30 kN (3000 kg)

Multi anchor point = 30 kN (3000 kg)

Harness = 15 kN (1500 kg)

GLOBAL SAFETY FACTOR 12˂C˂15

As a matter of comparison, elevators ropes for lifting people have a safety factor of about 10 (C).

Rope access is approved worldwide.

For Abseilers and maintenance specialists, it is crucial to comply with safety procedures, otherwise, they could not reach their place of work.

Rescue operations are compulsory in the training of all levels of qualification.

Strong safety culture and high perception of risk are built-in in their mindset with a better appreciation of the hazards while working at height.

The most widespread training standard is regulated by IRATA which defines a training path for operators, identifying for everyone’s needs as to access and permission maneuvers to ensure a high level of safety avoiding uncertainties that can cause accidents.

All devices for abseiling have compulsory standards to comply with. In our design phase, we adapt to the standards of the country in which we work. For example, we cite European standards (EN standards are one of the most severe and complete worldwide):

• EN 1808: 1999 Safety requirement on suspended access equipment – Design calculations, stability criteria, construction – Tests.
• EN341 Personal protective equipment against falls from a height – Descender devices.
• EN 353 – 1: 2002 Personal protective equipment against falls from a height – Part 1: Guided type fall arresters including a rigid anchor line.
• EN 353 – 2: 2002 Personal protective equipment against falls from a height – Part 2: Guided type fall arresters including a flexible anchor line.
• EN 353 – 3: 2003 Personal protective equipment against falls from a height – Part 3: Full body harnesses.
• EN 354: 2002 Personal protective equipment against falls from a height – Lanyards.
• EN 355: 2002 Personal protective equipment against falls from a height – Energy absorbers.
• EN 358 Personal protective equipment for work positioning and prevention of falls from a height.
• EN 360 Personal protective equipment against falls from a height. Retractable type fall arresters.
• EN 361 Personal protective equipment against falls from a height (full body harnesses).
• EN 362: 2005 Personal protective equipment against falls from a height – Connectors.
• EN 363: 2002 Personal protective equipment against falls from a height – Fall arrest systems.
• EN 364 Personal protective equipment against falls from a height. Test methods.
• EN 365: 2004 Personal protective equipment against falls from a height – General requirements for instructions for use, maintenance, periodic examination, repair, marking and packaging.
• EN 795: 1997 AMD 2001 Protection against falls from a height – Anchor devices – Requirements and testing.
• EN 1808:1999 Safety requirements on suspended access equipment – Design calculations, stability criteria, construction – Test

Rope access is diffused in almost any countries with thousands companies and rope access operators. It’s used in several sectors as:

• Offshore oil & gas
• Power and petrochemical
• The natural environment
• The built environment
• Shipping and harbours
• Confined spaces
• Renewable energies