Learning Objectives
Following the successful completion of the course and evaluation the candidate should be able to:

·          inspect his/her own personal rope access equipment and safety system

·          perform a variety of maneuvers on rope comfortably

·          assist in rigging and non-standard operations, under the guidance of a more experienced and trained technician

·          complete a rescue involving descent or lowering and have a basic understanding of hauling systems.

 

Safety Standards and Documentation

·          Overview of Guidelines for Rope Access Work and relevant legislation

·          Qualifications and responsibilities required of each level of Rope Access Technician

·          Overview of various methods of access and hierarchy of risk

·          Documentation including experience logbooks, equipment logs, and job hazard analysis (rope access permit)

·          Standard safety checks

·          Proper and effective communication between team members

·          Understanding of Access, Hazard, and Safe Zones

·          Care, Inspection, Use, and Limitations of Equipment

 

Systems Analysis and Rigging

·          Knots: Figure 8 and 9, Double-figure eight, Butterfly, Prusik, Barrel Knot, Double Fisherman's

·          Overview of basic rigging skills (single-point and simple two-point anchor) taking into account fall line, area of work, and terrain

·          Introduction to analysis of rope access systems, including fall factors, impact forces, and resultant forces

 

Technical Rope Access Skills

·          Ascent/Descent and negotiating edges on rope

·          Changeovers from ascent/descent and vice versa

·          Passing knots, deviations, and intermediate anchors (re-belay)

·          Rope to rope transfer

·          Horizontal aid climbing: point to point and shuffling

·          Structure climbing: Overview of horizontal/vertical lifelines, shock absorbing Y-lanyards, and other standard fall protection systems

 

Rescue 

·          Discuss risk management, rescue protocol, and casualty management

·          Introduction to simple mechanical advantage systems utilizing standard equipment and pulley systems

·          Single person rescue pick-off of a descending casualty

·          Introduction of basic retrieval using hauling and lowering systems

 

Prerequisites

The minimum age requirement is 18 years.  No previous rope access experience is necessary, however an appropriate physical and mental aptitude for technical tasks while working at height is important.  Participants will be asked to perform moderate to strenuous activities.  A physical examination by a doctor is strongly recommended. Candidates will be required to sign a Liability Release Form and a Statement of Medical Condition confirming the absence of known medical conditions that might preclude their ability to safely work at height.  Please see physical requirements for work at height for more details.