To put it simply, rope access technicians work with ropes. Rope access technicians can do a wide range of jobs, but they all have two things in common: they are usually performed high in the air and are often difficult to access in any other way. Because these jobs can be extremely dangerous, the key word for rope access technicians is safety. If you’re afraid of heights, this is not the job for you.
Many rope access technicians work in the construction industry or the offshore oil industry, but they can also specialize in other areas. Rope access technicians work on a variety of projects, including painting and cleaning very tall buildings, maintaining and repairing structures, and conducting inspections. Wind turbines have become another area where an increased number of rope access technicians will be required as alternative energy options have been explored. Rope access technicians frequently develop areas of expertise as they gain experience and will work almost exclusively in that area.
The use of ropes to gain access to difficult locations is derived from caving and climbing techniques. A rope access technician typically uses two ropes: one working rope and one backup rope for safety. For safety reasons, the tools are always attached to the rope access technician. Depending on the type of work being done, the equipment is frequently customized.
If you want to work as a rope access technician, you have several options for training. There are three levels of training available. The first level is usually a 40-hour course that takes five days to complete. After completing this first level, the student will be certified as a rope access technician and will be able to work in a variety of rope access jobs.
The second level of training is also a 40-hour course, but the student must have 500 hours of training experience before enrolling. The technician must have 1,000-2,000 hours of training experience to advance to the third and final level of training. After passing the third level, a rope access technician is qualified to supervise others.
Rope access technicians are represented two major organizations, both of which offer training and certification programs. The Society of Professional Rope Access Technicians (SPRAT) is the first, and it focuses primarily on North America. This organization welcomes individuals and businesses to join. The Industrial Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA), a global organization, is the second. IRATA is aimed primarily at businesses, but it also establishes standards and safety procedures for those working in the field.