The history of rope access and how it has evolved over the years to become a safe and reliable method for working at heights

Rope access has come a long way since its inception as a dangerous hobby for thrill-seekers. Over the years, rope access has evolved into a safe and reliable method for working at heights, with strict safety standards and guidelines in place to ensure the safety of rope access technicians.

The origins of rope access can be traced back to the mountaineering and caving communities, where ropes were used to access challenging and remote areas. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s and 1980s that rope access began to be used as a method for industrial work, particularly in the oil and gas industry. During this time, rope access technicians would use ropes and harnesses to access hard-to-reach areas, with little in the way of safety equipment or training.

Over the years, rope access has undergone significant changes, with safety becoming a top priority. The development of specialized equipment, such as harnesses and lanyards, has improved the safety of rope access technicians, while training programs have been established to ensure that technicians are fully trained and equipped to carry out their work safely.

In 1997, the Industrial Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA) was established, providing a global standard for rope access and establishing a set of guidelines and procedures for the safe use of rope access. IRATA sets out guidelines for the selection and use of equipment, the training of rope access technicians, and the assessment of rope access companies. These guidelines have helped to make rope access a safe and reliable method for working at heights.

Today, rope access is used in a range of industries, from construction and engineering to inspection and maintenance, providing a flexible and cost-effective solution for accessing hard-to-reach areas. With IRATA standards in place, rope access technicians are fully trained and equipped to carry out their work safely, ensuring that rope access is a safe and reliable method for working at heights.