IRATA – the Industrial Rope Access Trade Association – has produced a new International Code of Practice (ICoP), which reflects current best working practices on safe rope access.

Replacing the association’s ‘Guidelines on the use of rope access methods for industrial purposes’, the ICoP comprises four elements. Parts 1 and 2 provide guidance on: planning and management; selection of technicians and their training; selection of equipment; supervision; inspection regime; and maintenance of equipment; and primary rope-access work methods.

Part 3 consists of annexes addressing such issues as risk assessments, method statements, inspection checklists, use of tools and work equipment, etc. A fourth part contains local legislation requirements to assist international companies that use the Code.

The ICoP, which IRATA stresses is not meant to be a full interpretation of the law, is free to download from its website at www.irata.org.uk Printed copies of the Code are available at £50 each.