Rope Access System is a safe method of working at difficult-to-reach locations where ropes and associated equipment are used to gain access to and from the work position, and to be supported there. The primary objective when using rope access services is to carry out the work efficiently, with minimal accidents, incidents or dangerous occurrences.
In using this method, workers descend or ascend from fixed anchor points from the top of a building while suspended by their harness to have flexibility in doing rope access window cleaning, external façade cleaning (especially glass façade), resealant works, glazing and maintenance work for high-rise buildings, and so on.
Benefits of Rope Access compared to other cleaning & maintenance methods
There are many benefits in utilising rope access. Unlike other access methods such as scaffolding, scissor lifts, elevated work platforms and so forth, custom rope access solutions can be designed to fit various applications. It offers –
- Safety – The advantage of using rope access methods mainly lies in the safety and speed
- Reduced Man Hour – Another major benefit is the reduction of the combination of the total man-hours and perceived level of risk for a particular task (man-at-risk hours) when compared with other means of access and their associated risks and costs
- Versatility – Our IRATA certified rope access technicians can apply rope access techniques to a wide variety of environments; from confined space scopes, to complicated structural steel or offshore installations
- Environment Friendly – Rope access techniques leave a minimal footprint on the surrounding environment compared to traditional methods. It doesn’t require petrol, oil, or electricity to access even the highest or tightest areas
- Fast & Efficient – Rope access systems are established and dismantled very quickly compared to other access methods. Less interference with other facility operations means less disruptions, minimised downtime, and a safer work environment for all personnel
Get Quote for Rope Access Services
Skills & Equipment needed for Rope Access Methods
Technical Skills
Technicians are required to go undergo training course and certifications in order to perform rope access works. There are 3 levels of skill tiers awarded after assessments from an association such as IRATA International. Rope Access Technician Levels are –
- Level 1: Upon 5-day basic training for those who are physically fit, not afraid of heights but with no experience
- Level 2: Upon 5-day training with minimum of 12 months and 1000 hours of work experience as Level 1 technician
- Level 3 (Supervisor): Upon 5-day advanced training with minimum of 12 months and 1000 hours of work experience as Level 2 technician
In Singapore, there’s the Standard On Rope Access (SS 588) by SRAA that is also observed
Tools & Equipment to carry out the Works
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Safety helmet
- Safety shoe
- Full body rope access harness
Other Requirements
- Ropes & Lifting belt
- Carabiners
- Rope protector
- Walkie talkie
- IRATA Technicians Identification Card/Certificates
Video of Building Facade Cleaning in Singapore using Rope Access
Standards & Safety Guidelines that are followed by us
We observe the following processes –
- A Rope Access manager shall be the main contact point for matters relating to the safety, training and regulatory aspects of rope access. The designated person will be knowledgeable and experienced in rope access techniques
- Rope access work practices include the ability for self-rescue or prompt rescue by other rope access technicians. All work plans shall include the necessary information for contacting the local emergency services
- An access work plan is completed before beginning rope access work
- Before starting a particular job, the Work-At-Height Manager shall carefully assess the work to be undertaken and ensure that all the potential hazards are identified. A site survey is required to determine the means of access, risks to people other than the rope access technicians and the nature of the working environment. A risk assessment is done before work starts.
- Anchor points must have safety factors that meet or exceed those required for the ropes. The Rope Access Supervisor ensures that the anchor points have been evaluated so the that overall system safety is adequate.
In order to ensure a safe system of work is maintained at all times whilst avoiding damage to property or harm to the environment, careful planning and documented risk assessments are undertaken for each operation.
Cost & Time Estimates
Cost & Time for Rope Access Services varies project by project. Pricing for each job scope depends on many factors like
- Type of façade (glass or concrete facade)
- Type of glass for replacement works
- Type of work (inspection, resealant works, cleaning or general maintenance)
- Size of the job or building
- Time allocated to complete the job and so on
Experienced Rope Access Company in Singapore
Our Rope Access Services partners have provided a variety of solutions, services and successfully completing projects for prestigious buildings and organisations in Singapore such as Gardens By the Bay, Singtel Comcentre Tower, Marina By Sands, Vivo City, Changi Airport and many more.
