Rope Access System
Rope Access System
is an internationally recognized profession that involves the use of ropework to reach hard-to-access places without the implementation of additional scaffolding or aerial work platforms. The advantage of this system lies in the safety and speed at which workers can get to or from isolated locations to carry out their work. Furthermore, it has minimal impact on the surrounding areas and operations, making it an efficient system.
FAQs
What is industrial rope access?
Industrial rope access is a method of working at height using ropes and harnesses to reach building exteriors, facades, or industrial structures without scaffolding or aerial work platforms. The technique uses two independently anchored ropes (one for work, one for safety backup), dual-attachment harnesses, and progress capture devices. It is internationally regulated under the IRATA International Code of Practice (ICOP).
When is rope access used instead of scaffolding?
Rope access is used instead of scaffolding when work is short-duration, located on tall buildings where scaffold setup is uneconomical, in confined or hard-to-reach areas like atrium walls, or where minimising disruption to building occupants is critical. Typical Singapore use cases include high-rise external wall repairs, signage installation, window cleaning, and inspections above 4 storeys.
Are rope access technicians certified in Singapore?
Yes. Rope access technicians in Singapore must complete the Work-at-Height Course mandated by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) under the Workplace Safety and Health (Work at Heights) Regulations 2013. Industry-standard rope access certification is also required by most employers, typically through IRATA (Industrial Rope Access Trade Association) at Levels 1, 2, or 3, or the local IATRAS equivalent.
What kinds of building work can be done with rope access?
Rope access in Singapore is used for external wall waterproofing repair, facade painting and re-coating, leak diagnosis on high-rise external walls, window cleaning, signage installation, gutter cleaning, building inspections, and concrete spalling repairs on tall buildings. Anything that can be done from a scaffold within 2 to 5 metres of an anchor point can usually be done by rope access.
What is IRATA certification?
IRATA (Industrial Rope Access Trade Association) is the international certification body for industrial rope access, headquartered in the UK and recognised as the global standard. It issues three certification levels: Level 1 (entry technician under supervision), Level 2 (experienced technician with rigging and rescue skills), and Level 3 (supervisor with full team management authority). Each level requires assessment by an IRATA-approved assessor.
Can rope access be used for HDB and condo external work?
Yes, rope access is commonly used for HDB and condo external work in Singapore, including facade waterproofing, external wall leak repair, painting, and signage. For HDB blocks, the Town Council must approve and engage the contractor since external walls are common property. For condos, the MCST must approve under the BMSMA and verify the contractor’s insurance and rope access certifications.