Rope access is one of the most used safety protection methods for overhead structures. In this article, we will learn about rope access protection and the solution that VIVABLAST is providing.
Rope access protection method: Everything you need to know
This article will go through three main parts:1. What is Rope Access? – Explain how it is economical and effective2. How many protective gears are needed to perform rope access and what are those?2.1. Ascenders2.2. Descenders2.3. Harnesses2.4. Helmets2.5. Lanyards and energy absorbers2.6. Ropes3. Standard of rope access services at VIVABLAST
1. What is rope access and what are the benefits it brings to the organization?
Rope access is a fast, safe, and low-impact method of gaining access to hard-to-reach areas, mostly at height. It uses ropes and other access equipment and tools, and it can help minimize human working hours and reduce both the person and the surrounding environment.So why should we choose rope access? This solution’s two most prominent benefits are high efficiency and cost savings.
- More efficient: Equipment can be easily assembled and disassembled. This can help reduce the number of hours at risk for technicians and significantly improve construction efficiency.
- By reducing cumbersome, expensive equipment, rope access reduces costs, and equipment can be easily upgraded and adapted to specific construction situations.
In addition to the two great benefits mentioned above, this method of protection also has many other advantages, such as:
- Eco-friendly: This method has minimal impact on the surrounding environment, requiring no clearance or ground changes on the construction site. This method also helps reduce emissions across the entire chain of heavy equipment and reduces engine emissions.
- Versatile: We can use the rope access when working in areas that other equipment cannot reach, such as confined spaces to tall towers. This technique is also suitable for a variety of environmental conditions.
2. How many protective gears are needed to perform rope access and what are those?
The accompanying equipment is critical to the rope access method. Technicians should have a thorough understanding of these devices and their technical applications. Furthermore, these devices must be checked and maintained regularly.
2.1. Ascenders
Ascenders are devices that help technicians climb ropes. It acts as a friction rod, sliding along the rope under no-load conditions. It will stay in place when there is an impact weight. Ascenders are mechanical devices, easier to use and safer than friction hitch.
2.2. Descenders
Descenders are used to lower workers or loads at a rate that is within control. Like the first device above, the descender also works on the principle of friction. This unit also has a self-braking mechanism, which operates if the operator lets go of the device.
2.3. Harnesses
There are quite a few different seat harnesses, the most common being full-body harnesses. The full-body type offers multiple mounting points and is more commonly used in industrial or rescue applications.
2.4. Helmets
Helmets are mandatory safety devices when using rope access, and it helps protect workers from falling debris or other impacts to the head.
2.5. Lanyards and energy absorbers
Lanyards and energy absorbers are devices that link the harness to the anchor. This is the most used fall protection system and is specifically designed to reduce the force exerted on the body in a fall situation.
2.6. Ropes
Specialized ropes for rope access protection are designed to withstand strong loads while flexible and lightweight.
3. The basic standards of rope access protection solution provided by VIVABLAST
IRATA (Industrial Rope Access Trade Association) is the world’s leading trade association for rope access work. It was established to solve access or maintenance difficulties in hard-to-reach high altitude areas using a rope technique common to the climbing and caving industry.
IRATA requires all association members to have adequate special skills in using cords and other related equipment. They also identify various types of risk, support the development of rope access equipment and processes, and implement continuous improvement in construction.All technicians at VIVABLAST are IRATA Level 1 certified and regularly trained by IRATA Level 3 Supervisor. We strictly meet ISO 9001 and Vietnam’s TCVN 8207-1-2010. The most sophisticated PPE technology is put into use. The inspection and maintenance of all equipment are also performed, following the manufacturer’s instructions.In addition, VIVABLAST’s technicians can also improvise and handle many different construction situations. It is not difficult for us to develop creative solutions, even in challenging projects.By meeting the above standards, VIVABLAST’s rope access solution is of great help to customers who are construction contractors, factory owners, and production workshops. Our solution is highly appreciated for its optimal efficiency, low cost, and reduced implementation time.
If you want to research other Access solutions, VIVABLAST also provides access service with Ringlock scaffolding, considered the best scaffolding system available today. “RINGLOCK SCAFFOLDING OVERVIEW – A SAFE AND COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTION”
We hope this article has helped you better understand rope access and the equipment needed to perform this technique. If you are looking for a reputable and quality rope access solution provider in Vietnam, you can consider the service from VIVABLAST. We are committed to providing tailor-made solutions that best suit all your requirements, from the nature of the project to the set budget. For more specific advice, please get in touch with us directly via:
- Tel: (+ 84-28) 38 965 006/7/8
- Fax: (+ 84-28) 38 965 004
- Email: vivablast@vivablast.com
