Being a rope access technician can be a fulfilling career profession when taking into account the need for such people to maintain the rarely maintained tall structures. However, it needs an extensive and comprehensive training for one to achieve that. Imagine a 30 stories building that needs to be cared for. Amateurs will surely to even attempt the quarter of that.
The first step to perform your duties as the rope access technician is to train extensively and intensively with the IRATA organization. The IRATA (International Rope Access Training Association) was formed in the UK over 2 decades ago in response to the challenges faced with and by rope access workers. The sole purpose is to oversee the technique, set guidelines, administer training and offer certificates and accreditations.
At least you know part of the process that you have to train with IRATA organizations. Other countries have different national-level organizations that seek to pursue and promote the same safety and skill set guidelines as the international body does. To train for this profession, expect to have about 30 to 40 hours of training before being evaluated. There will be written exams and practical experience exposure during the evaluation stage. Keep in mind that there are basically three phases to go through before you can be a renowned rope access supervisor.
Phases of rope access Singapore training
There are three levels that one must complete to become a qualified professional. They are broken down as follows:
- Level 1 → level one rope access personnel should be competent enough to be able to check and inspect working equipment and safety systems. Such personnel should work under the supervision. Usually, they are the ones delegated to execute the tasks under a constant watchful eye. Furthermore, they are not endorsed to carry tasks alone.
- Level 2 → these are lead technicians and are superior to level 1 candidates. They are well-trained and equipped with an extensive knowledge and documented experience. Advanced rescue techniques or complex rope access systems can be carried out by these individuals still under minimal supervision of the program manager.
- Level 3 → Now this is strategically the last tier in this program. They can easily take control of management roles wherein they manage the job site, other technicians, rescue others or train other aspiring technicians. This stage is more complex, but worth pursuing because then you will have vast opportunities after completion. Generally called the safety supervisors.
Normally, rope access activity is likened to an abseiling sport activity. But being an expert in abseiling does not automatically endorse you as the rope access technician without training. In fact that is encouraged to possess such skills. The training institute will have to evaluate you and take it from there. If you have been involved in abseiling for many years, then your rope access training will be an absolute breeze because you are familiar with most of the techniques.
In addition to this training, one needs to be multi-talented in a range of construction skills. You need to understand what you are expected to achieve. Others are painters, brick layers or cleaners. Such additional knowledge is paramount in rope access training. The training program predominantly equips you with knowledge on how to access those tight spots, not how to be a brick layer.
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