Rope access technicians use ropes to perform tasks in difficult-to-reach areas, such as cleaning tall buildings and maintaining structures. Safety is crucial, and training is required. Two main associations offer certification programs: SPRAT in North America and IRATA globally.
Rope access technicians, to put it simply, do their work on ropes. There are a variety of tasks that rope access technicians can perform, but two things that all tasks have in common is that they are usually performed in the air and are often difficult to access otherwise. The keyword for rope access technicians is safety, because these jobs can be very dangerous. This would not be a good job for someone who is afraid of heights.
Many rope access technicians work in both the construction industry and the offshore oil industry, although there are other areas in which they can specialize. The different types of work that rope access technicians perform can include painting and cleaning very tall buildings, maintaining and repairing structures, and performing inspections. As alternative energy options have been explored, wind turbines have become another area where more cable access technicians will be needed. Often, as rope access technicians gain experience, they will develop areas of expertise and will work almost exclusively in that area.
The technique of using ropes to access difficult places derived from caving and climbing techniques. In general, a rope access technician uses two ropes – a working rope and a safety rope for safety purposes. The tools used are always connected to the rope access technician, also for safety. Equipment is often customized depending on the type of work being performed.
There are several training options for someone who would like to become a rope access technician. There are three different levels of training. The first level is usually a 40-hour course that is completed in five days. Upon completion of this first level, the student is certified as a rope access technician and can work on any number of rope access jobs.
The second level of training also consists of a 40 hour course, but the student also needs 500 hours of training experience before being eligible to enroll in the second level. The third and final level of training requires the technician to have 1,000 to 2,000 hours of training experience. Once someone passes the third level, he or she is qualified to supervise other rope access technicians.
There are two main associations for rope access technicians and they offer training and certification programs. The first is the Society of Professional Rope Access Technicians (SPRAT), which focuses primarily on North America. Individuals or companies can become members of this organization. The second is the Industrial Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA), which is a global organization. IRATA is more business-oriented, but also sets safety standards and procedures for people in the field.
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