What is a Rope Access Technician?
Rope access technicians are responsible for a wide range of tasks, all whilst suspended in the air via rope in places that would be too difficult or unsafe to get to via scaffolding or cradles. The job can vary, working from great heights to deep depths so technicians must be able to safely and confidently operate in these environments. As the name suggests, rope access work mainly consists of using rope as the main tool, therefore, during the training you will learn to master how to manoeuvre using a rope by learning skills based on caving, climbing and abseiling.
If you currently work in the construction industry or are considering starting a career within the sector, why not consider training to become a Rope Access Technician? Here at Complete Training Solutions, we offer the relevant IRATA training courses so that you can become a qualified professional.
What Does a Rope Access Technician Do?
Rope access technicians can be asked to complete a wide range of tasks. Some of the most common are industrial safety, production rigging on film and TV sets and building maintenance. However, essentially industrial rope access work can be anything at height, depth or in confined spaces. It is important to remember, however, that there is no singular role that this training translates to. Rope access training simply provides you with a range of new skills that will help you to succeed in a number of roles. This could include welding, drilling and cabling. Furthermore, rope access technicians can transfer to many sectors such as domestic construction to oil and gas or renewable energy.
How Many Hours Do Rope Access Technicians Work?
Rope access technicians can work a variety of hours. If the job is for an extended period of time, such as maintenance or refurbishment, then standard eight hour days are common. However, if the job needs to be completed quickly, an emergency repair for example, then around the clock shifts can also be expected. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check the work pattern of a job before taking it to ensure it is suitable for you.
How Much Do Rope Access Technicians Earn?
Salaries can vary across the industry depending on your level of training and experience. Other factors that contribute to payment include the location of the job and the level of risk involved. The average UK rope access technician earns around £54,000 a year. If you are entering the industry you can expect to earn £31,000 as an entry-level rope access technician. Furthermore, an experienced and Irata level 3 trained rope access technician can earn up to £78,000 a year. The job role itself not only expands your skillset but increases work opportunities and payment possibilities within a range of sectors.
What Training Do Rope Access Technicians need?
Any prior knowledge of construction would be greatly beneficial before training as a rope access technician, however, it is not essential. Rope Access Technicians are required to complete everyday construction tasks, such as welding, joining and electrical repair, whilst suspended in the air. This makes it much harder, therefore, having practical skills prior to training is strongly advised. As a rope access technician, you will also need to possess several key attributes. Communication skills are key in completing rope access work safely as you will need to talk with other operators and supervisors clearly and efficiently.
IRATA Rope Access Qualifications
The main qualification needed to be a rope access technician is the Industrial Rope Access Trade Association IRATA international course. This certification scheme is rigorous and intense but allows you to master working at height and working safely, with skill. There are three training levels to this qualification all of which require logged work hours to progress.
What is Level 1 IRATA Training?
The Level 1 IRATA course covers basic skills such as learning various manoeuvres, learning rescue procedures, how to inspect equipment and how to adhere to health and safety procedures. During this time you will be monitored by a Level 3 trained rope access technician to keep you safe. The course lasts five days.
What is Level 2 IRATA Training?
Level 2 IRATA qualifications can be achieved after one year’s experience and 1,000 hours logged on the ropes. This is to ensure that you are progressing in skills such as rope management, ascent and descent. Level 2 is for lead technicians and takes 5 days to complete. In this course, you will cover topics such as rescues and rigging. As with level 1, you will be monitored by a Level 3 operator. Additional training on safety is provided throughout and you must be knowledgeable about legislation, safety requirements and quality assurance procedures.
What is Level 3 IRATA Training?
Level 3 IRATA is the most advanced rope access training course and will enable you to become a qualified instructor. Before taking the course you must accrue a further 1,000 hours of experience. From completing this training you will become an expert in the relevant legislation, rescue techniques and health and safety maintenance. You also will supervise and train other lower-level rope access technicians. In addition to this, you must have an adequate level of first aid training to ensure you are compliant with workplace safety regulations.
How to Receive the IRATA Training?
Here at Complete Training Solutions, we offer professional, clear and high-quality training across all three of the IRATA courses. All assessments are led by industry professionals with years of experience and are hosted several times a month at our training centre at Brunswick Dock Liverpool. All courses last five days – we recommend you book in advance as spaces are limited. The courses cost £650 and payment plans are available. Refresher courses are also offered for those who need to renew their certificate.
