Recap of Petzl Rope Trip 2026
March 31, 2026
Oftentimes we are asked about what’s “legal” in rope access. It seems that there may be a misunderstanding about what a technician can and cannot do at the worksite. A Candidate may see something in our training class that differs from what he is doing in the field. This leads to a bit of confusion. An example may be the way she rigs a tape sling. Is it legal to choke it?
We can begin to understand what’s “legal” by considering the difference between training in preparation for certification and the procedures we adopt while we are at work.
Certification is defined and controlled by the body issuing the certification. IRATA and SPRAT each have their own requirements for certification. To receive certification through these organizations, a Candidate must demonstrate specific skills relative to the level sought. If the knowledge is adequate, the Candidate will be granted a certification. It is important to point out that neither SPRAT nor IRATA tell you how to perform a skill, only that the skill must be demonstrated.
SPRAT and IRATA also provide guidance on rope access operations. Each level of certification also requires an understanding of this guidance, becoming more specific as the level of competency increases. Herein lies the misunderstanding. This guidance is just that – guidance. Both organizations issue this guidance as a sort of industry best practice, for the technician and the employers, end users, jurisdictional bodies, and anybody else who may be interested in rope access.
Here in the United States, the employer is mandated by OSHA to provide a safe place to work. The employer is free to develop any procedure they feel is necessary to keep their employees safe. This is certainly reasonable since the liability of the worksite generally lies with the employer. Oftentimes employers will consult guidance from many sources when developing their procedures. These sources include IRATA and SPRAT as well as ANSI, OSHA, NFPA and other industry “best practices”. Of this list, only OSHA has the authority to enforce mandatory requirements on employers.
OSHA currently mentions rope access only enough to make a distinction between RDS and rope access, stating these two are not the same. So, the simple answer to the question “Is this legal?”, is probably “Yes”. That is not to say that we should be so irresponsible when performing our work.
Procedures are in place for a reason. They are designed with the intention that, when followed, workers can return home safe at the end of the day. OSHA states that employees must follow their employer’s procedures. Therefore, if you’re not applying the procedure correctly, then you may not be legal. You may be transferring liability from the employer onto our shoulders.
The information provided by IRATA and SPRAT is extremely valuable. They are making our worksites safer by issuing this guidance. Differences do occur between the two, but that’s a topic for another blog. You should apply this guidance while you’re at work if it is not in conflict with your employer’s procedures. If you believe this to be the case, then you should talk to your supervisor or manager. There may be a legitimate reason why this could happen. A few things are likely to happen by bringing this type of issue to your employer. You will have the opportunity to improve the safety of the worksite, you may have an important learning lesson, or you may have an opportunity to impact the guidance SPRAT and IRATA provide. It’s a win – win situation in any case.
In all fairness, most of the “is this legal?” questions arise from equipment use. Every manufacturer that I know of issues a simple statement within their product instructions: Only use this equipment for the purpose for which it was designed. You can use your equipment however you’d like, but it’s always best to use it the way it is intended to be used. In fact, if you go outside the lines, you’re accepting the risk. Always talk to the manufacturer before you try a new use for equipment. Get their approval first. Who knows, you may help them develop new technology that elevates the safety of the industry!
Also, read the instructions before you use any equipment. I know, this industry is male dominated, and many men only read instructions when all else fails. Well, this is not a case where you want any type of failure. Your employer should provide you with a copy of the user instructions for the equipment they ask you to use, but it’s easy enough to get a copy. Most manufacturers have this information online. Go visit their website. You might see some cool stuff and learn more about the options available to you.
We are professionals who care about the industry and the safety of the people conducting rope access activities in industry. We want you to return home to your loved ones. The next time you want to ask, “Is this legal?”, don’t. A better question to ask is, “Am I working within my employer’s procedures, and am I using my resources to keep myself and others safe?”
AccessRULES has some of the industry’s greatest trainers. Our expertise is relied upon by technicians, managers, and leaders throughout the industry. We welcome your questions and will usually provide an answer to your questions without sending an invoice. Call us. We’re here to help.
Peace.
