IRATA - Safety standards for work at height 

Safety at heights 

IRATA, the International Industry Rope Access Association, created safety standards for working at height and a comprehensive training and certification system for rope access specialists. Today, this system is considered one of the best in the world and is widely accepted in the industry. Improving safety in industries using rope access work has become a priority for organisations such as IRATA, which strive to minimise risk when performing tasks at height. 

In response to these needs, a detailed set of norms, standards and guidelines have been developed that define how to carry out industrial mountaineering work safely. The focus has been on creating training requirements for technicians, covering both theory and practice. In addition, a system of precise skills assessment and registration of qualified professionals has been introduced, allowing their competence to be tracked and confirmed at every stage of their career. 

Working principles, supervision and rescue procedures 

The double rope system for working at height requires that each activity is carried out using two separate ropes - a work rope and a belay rope. The belay rope is placed high to ensure maximum safety. Supervision of the work is adapted to the workers' level of experience, the type of task being carried out and the weather conditions. Workers maintain constant visual and voice contact with each other, which increases safety while working. Each worker is required to carry out a risk assessment and be familiar with rescue procedures, which are thoroughly discussed and communicated before tasks begin. 

Before each shift, a job training session is organised and recorded to remind people of safety rules. The work area is prepared in advance and the action plan includes knowledge of rescue methods and, if necessary, rehearsal drills. Rescue equipment must be readily available and ready for use at all times. All employees are properly trained and have first aid knowledge. In addition, the equipment is thoroughly checked every day before use, so that any damage can be dealt with quickly. 

Levels of training 

To ensure the highest level of safety and efficiency, IRATA has developed a training system to systematically upgrade the skills of rope access technicians. It has introduced a three-tier division of workers, which depends on their experience and skills: 

Technician level	Description of skills and responsibilities	Responsibilities
1	Beginner, performs limited rope work under the supervision of a Level 3 technician.	Control of own personal protective equipment. Rope work under the supervision of a Level 3 qualified technician.
2	Has a broader knowledge of rope techniques, takes part in rescue and transport tasks.	It operates under more advanced rope work, still under the supervision of a Level 3 technician.
3	Supervisor with full responsibility for projects and technician team. He has advanced knowledge and qualifications in rescue techniques, legislation and IRATA certification.	Leading a team of level 1 and 2 technicians, with responsibility for the overall project, including oversight of safety and compliance.

IRATA's training level system provides a clear career path for rope access technicians, allowing gradual development of skills in working at height. This enables employees to be fully prepared for complex and responsible tasks, ensuring safety and efficiency in all situations. 

Professional documentation for IRATA technicians 

Every technician who completes training at a given IRATA level receives a corresponding certificate and a work logbook, or so-called Logbook. This records the technician's career progression, including any additional qualifications gained, certificates. IRATA certificates are valid for three years. Before they expire, a rope access technician must renew their certification in order to continue working in the profession. This process involves a four-day renewal training course at the appropriate level and a one-day independent assessment by an IRATA accredited assessor. 

Additional training for rope access technicians may also be available to remind and refresh the skills of technicians at any level. The duration of such training and the range of exercises are determined on a case-by-case basis, and in some cases it may be necessary to repeat the entire course and pass an examination with an independent assessor. This training is mandatory for technicians who have not worked at height for at least six months or who have an irregular working pattern. From the first of January 2020, IRATA has abolished the option to take Direct Entry training. 

Eligibility criteria for applicants 

In order to become a rope access technician candidate, one must be at least eighteen years old. It is important that the persons concerned are in good physical condition and do not have medical conditions that could compromise their safety while working. In addition, they must be able to cope with various weather conditions such as cold, heat or wind. They must not have contraindications to working at height - candidates may be excluded due to heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, fear of heights, dizziness, balance disorders, limb injuries, addiction to alcohol or other substances, as well as mental disorders or diabetes. 

IRATA examination process and subsidy 

Training at each level lasts four days, with the exception of additional training, the duration of which is determined on an individual basis. During these four days, theoretical lectures are given to introduce technicians to equipment, rope access methods and legislation. The most important part of the training, however, is the practice, through which the trainees can learn the appropriate techniques. At the end of the training, the trainees take an exam, which consists of a theoretical and a practical part. This exam is conducted by an independent IRATA-accredited assessor and lasts a full day. In order to obtain international qualifications to work at height, it is worth considering attending training courses co-funded by the European Union. Through these programmes you can gain access to high quality rope access training that meets international safety standards. 

IRATA training and certification system 

IRATA, the International Rope Access Industry Association, has introduced a comprehensive training and certification system for rope access technicians that includes three levels of training. The training is designed to ensure safety when working at height by introducing strict norms and standards that are widely accepted in the industry. Upon completion of training, technicians receive certificates and work logs to document their careers. Certificates must be renewed after three years, and technicians who have not worked at height for at least six months are required to take additional training. 

1. who created the safety standards?

Safety standards for working at height have been created by the International Industrial Rope Access Association (IRATA). These guidelines enable rope access technicians to be properly trained, helping to minimise risks in difficult working environments. 

2. how many levels of IRATA training are there?

IRATA offers three levels of training that are tailored to the experience and skills of rope access technicians. They allow for progressive development and the acquisition of specialised competence in the safe performance of work at height. 

3. How long are IRATA certificates valid?

Certificates are valid for a period of three years. In addition, after training, technicians must undergo a one-day assessment by an IRATA-accredited assessor who evaluates their skills. 

4 How often do you need to renew your entitlements?

IRATA credentials must be renewed every three years. The process requires completion of a four-day renewal training course and a one-day assessment by an accredited IRATA assessor.