Rope access is a specialist method of working at height that uses ropes, harnesses and other safety equipment to help trained technicians reach difficult areas of a building safely. It can be particularly useful for facilities maintenance when traditional access equipment such as scaffolding or powered access platforms is impractical.
Rather than building a temporary structure around a property, rope access allows trained technicians to reach high or awkward areas directly from above. This can make certain maintenance, inspection, cleaning and repair jobs quicker and less disruptive, particularly on busy commercial sites.
How Does Rope Access Work?
Rope access involves a carefully planned system that allows a technician to ascend, descend and work while suspended from ropes. Importantly, it is not simply a case of attaching someone to a rope and lowering them down a building.
A proper rope access system uses a working line alongside a separate safety line. Rope access is often described as a personal fall protection system using two separately secured ropes, with one providing support and the other acting as a safety backup.
Technicians use specialist harnesses, connectors, descenders, ascenders and other equipment to move into position and carry out the required work. The system also needs suitable anchor points, careful planning and appropriate rescue arrangements.
Why Is Rope Access Useful For Facilities Management?
Commercial buildings can have plenty of areas that are difficult to reach using conventional equipment. High level windows, roofs, signage and other external features can all present access challenges.
Rope access provides a way of reaching these areas without necessarily having to erect scaffolding or position large access machinery. This can be particularly helpful where there is limited space around a building, restricted vehicle access or a busy pedestrian area below.
For facilities managers, reducing disruption can be just as important as completing the work itself. Rope access can often be set up with relatively little impact on the day to day operation of a building.
What Work Can Be Carried Out Using Rope Access?
Rope access is not limited to one particular type of job. Depending on the building and the skills of the technicians involved, it can be used for a wide range of facilities maintenance tasks.
This can include high level cleaning, building repairs, painting, maintenance work, signage installation and inspections of difficult to reach areas. It can also be useful when a problem needs to be investigated quickly in an otherwise inaccessible location.
The key is choosing the right access method for the job. Rope access is one option within a wider approach to working at height and should only be used following an appropriate assessment of the task and risks.
Is Rope Access Safe?
Safety is at the heart of professional rope access. The work needs to be properly planned, carried out by competent people and supported by suitable equipment and procedures.
Is Rope Access Better Than Scaffolding?
There is no single access method that is right for every building or maintenance job. Scaffolding can be appropriate for larger projects where workers need a stable platform for an extended period, while powered access equipment can work well where there is sufficient space for machinery.
Rope access can be particularly useful for smaller or more targeted jobs where setting up scaffolding would be unnecessary or disruptive. It can also provide access to awkward sections of a building that conventional equipment cannot easily reach.
The most suitable approach will depend on the height, location, nature and duration of the work, as well as the building itself.
How Can Serna FM Help With Working At Height?
At Serna FM, we understand that facilities maintenance is about much more than keeping a building looking presentable. It is about making sure workplaces remain safe, functional and properly maintained throughout the year.
As a family run facilities management business that has been serving clients for over 20 years, we work across commercial, construction, education, media and entertainment environments. Our wider facilities maintenance approach means that we can help businesses manage the practical challenges that come with looking after their buildings, including specialist work at height where required.
If you have an area that is difficult to reach, the right access solution can make all the difference! Serna FM can help assess the maintenance requirements and find a practical way to keep your building safe, clean and well maintained. Get in touch today to learn more.