Irata
IRATA – Industrial Rope Access Trade Association
The idea of such an association came about in the UK in the late 1980s, promoted by several individuals and companies involved in the use of rope access techniques for work purposes. IRATA developed safety procedures related to work at height and a system for training and assessing rope access professionals. This system is now recognised as the best in the world and is widely accepted as the professional standard.
In developing this system, IRATA has set some overarching goals such as:
- Improving safety in the rope access industry.
- Creating a set of norms and standards, as well as requirements and guidelines for training in professional rope access.
- Creating a standarized system for the proper assessment and registration of rope access technicians.
Thanks to the strict adherence to all IRATA rules, no fatal accident has been reported to date.
The 10 main principles of safe rope access in the IRATA standard
- Double rope system , all operations must be carried out using a double system: a working and a backup device.
- Belaying device positioned as high as possible.
- Supervision according to the worker’s skill, the task at hand and the weather conditions.
- Constant voice/eye contact between operators.
- Risk assessment and rescue procedures adapted to the circumstances and communicated to all workers.
- Daily job briefing completed and recorded.
- Work site preparation and activity planning in advance, rescue methods known, and, if needed, trained on-site.
- Rescue equipment readily available when needed.
- Appropriately trained and qualified staff, familiar with first aid principles.
- Equipment clearly identifiable and inspected daily before use.
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IRATA Training
IRATA has developed an official training scheme and tier structure, whereby staff are divided into three levels depending on their experience and skills.
- Level 1: Technician – Trainee
- Level 2: Technician
- Level 3: Supervising technician
Skill expected according to qualification level:
Level 1: This is a rope access technician who is able to perform a specified range of rope access tasks under the supervision of a Level 3. They are also responsible for checking their own PPE.
Level 2:This is an experienced rope access technician who has Level 1 skills plus more complex rigging, rescue and rope access skills, under the supervision of a Level 3.
Level 3: This is a rope access technician who is capable of complete responsibility for rope access safety in work projects; is able to demonstrate the skills and knowledge required of Levels 1 and 2; is conversant with relevant work techniques and legislation; has an extensive knowledge of advanced rigging and rescue techniques, and of the IRATA training, assessment and certification scheme.
Certification
Successful completion of each of the IRATA training levels described results in obtaining of the corresponding certificate. Each technician also has a logbook in which all of their work, any additional certifications and upgrading certificates should be recorded.
IRATA certificates are valid for a period of 3 years.
Renewal training
After three years, but before the expiry date of the certification, in order to continue working as a rope access technician, the certification must be renewed. This is done through a 4-day training course at the appropriate level, ending with an independent reassessment by an IRATA-accredited assessor (1 day).
Refresher training
This is an additional training aiming to refresh the skills and knowledge acquired at each level. The duration and contents are determined on a case-by-case basis (a repeat of the full course and examination by an independent assessor may be required).
Such training must be completed by technicians who have not been involved in work at height for 6 months or more and who work irregularly.
As of 01.01.2020, IRATA has withdrawn the possibility of Direct Entry training.
Requirements for candidates
- Candidates must be at least 18 years of age.
- Candidates must be physically fit and free from any conditions that could prevent them from working safely.
- They should be confident that they possess an adequate level of physical fitness and physical and mental stamina for the job. Moreover, a candidate must be able to withstand various weather conditions, such as cold, heat or wind.
- The candidate must be responsible, reliable and trustworthy.
- No contraindications to working at height such as:
- heart disease/chest pains;
- high blood pressure;
- epilepsy, fainting spells;
- fear of heights, dizziness;
- balance disorders;
- impairment of limb function;
- alcohol or drug addiction;
- mental disorders and illnesses;
- diabetes mellitus.
Course duration
Training at each level lasts 4 days (except for additional training, the duration of which is determined on an individual basis). During this time, theoretical lectures take place to familiarise technicians with the equipment and theory of rope access methods, as well as the relevant legislation. The main part, however, is the practical training allowing trainees to become familiar with the techniques. The training ends with a theoretical and practical exam, which is conducted by an independent IRATA-accredited assessor and lasts a full day.
Co-financing
Looking to obtain an international WAH qualification within the IRATA system? Use the option of co-financing by the European Union – check out the relevant offer.
