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BRITISH STANDARD
BS 7985:2002
Code of practice for the use of rope access methods for industrial purposes

ICS 59.080.50

NO COPYING WITHOUT BSI PERMISSION EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW

BS 7985:2002

This British Standard, having been prepared under the direction of the Health and Environment Sector Policy and Strategy Committee, was published under the authority of the Standards Policy and Strategy Committee on 28 February 2002

© BSI 28 February 2002

The following BSI references relate to the work on this British Standard:Committee reference PH/5Draft for comment 00/561420 DC

ISBN 0 580 38790 9

Committees responsible for this British Standard

The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted to Technical Committee PH/5, Industrial safety belts and harnesses, upon which the following bodies were represented:

Association of Consulting Scientists

BSIF Test and Certification Association

British Telecommunications plc

Confederation of British Metalforming

Construction Fixings Association

Electricity Association

Health and Safety Executive

Industrial Rope Access Trade Association

Institution of Mechanical Engineers

Made-up Textiles Association

National Engineering Laboratory

National Federation of Master Steeplejacks and Lightning Conductor Engineers

North West Construction Safety Group

Personal Safety Manufacturers’ Association

SATRA Technology Centre

Amendments issued since publication

Amd. No. Date Comments

BS 7985:2002


Contents

Page

Committees responsible Inside front coverForeword ii

1 Scope 12 Normative references 13 Terms and definitions 24 Legislation 65 Principles for a safe and effective system of work using rope access

methods 86 Selection of operatives 107 Training, welfare and supervision of operatives 118 Selection of equipment 129 Certification, marking and traceability of equipment 2410 Procedures for inspection of equipment 2411 Inspection, care and maintenance of equipment 2512 Methods of work 27

Annex A (informative) How the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) apply to rope access 39Annex B (informative) Typical method of descending and ascending using rope access techniques 46Annex C (informative) Equipment inspection checklist 50Annex D (informative) Suspension trauma 56Annex E (informative) The effect of wind speed and working height on available working times 57Annex F (informative) Useful addresses 58

Bibliography 59

Index 61

Figure 1 — Illustration of work restraint, work positioning and fall arrest situations 16Figure 2 — Loading of a connector during static testing 19Figure 3 — Illustration of how fall factors are calculated 22Figure 4 — Example of the increase in loading on a working line, safety line or anchor sling caused by an increase in the angle at the anchor point 23Figure 5 — Example of a stopper knot (in this example, a figure of eight knot) for use at the end of the working line and safety line 30Figure 6 — Example of two equally loaded anchors, linked by means of a figure of eight knot on the bight 33Figure 7 — Diagram of a lark’s footed sling (generally not recommended) 34Figure 8 — Example of how the angle at an intermediate deviation anchor affects the loading 35Figure B.1 — Example of working in the descent mode (with descender locked off) in a rope access system 48Figure B.2 — Example of a typical method of ascending in a rope access system 49

Table C.1 — Equipment inspection checklist 50Table E.1 — Available working time in an 8 h shift at different wind speeds 57

i

BS 7985:2002

ii

Foreword

This British Standard has been prepared by Technical Committee PH/5.

This standard gives practical advice on the duties placed on employers, employees and self-employed people who use specialist rope access methods for work at a height, and gives recommendations for good practice. It is based on the Industrial Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA) Guidelines on the use of rope access methods for industrial purposes [1], which represent a number of years of close co-operation with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). It includes contributions from the Federation of Master Steeplejacks and Lightning Conductor Engineers. The recommendations include the type of equipment that should be used, the level of competence of the operatives, and the setting of overall objectives for the work.

The standard applies to industrial rope access work only, where the prime activity is the work itself. It is not intended to cover, for example, leisure activities or emergency evacuation systems and their procedures. Nevertheless, those engaged in other similar activities would probably benefit from the advice given in this standard, as many of the principles do apply and offer good practice.

In addition to onshore work, the advice in this document is relevant to work carried out on all offshore installations where that installation is subject to the relevant sections of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) commends the use of this British Standard to those who have duties under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. This standard was drawn up with the participation of HSE representatives and it will be referred to in the relevant HSE publications.

As a code of practice, this British Standard takes the form of guidance and recommendations. It should not be quoted as if it were a specification and particular care should be taken to ensure that claims of compliance are not misleading.

It has been assumed in the preparation of this standard that the execution of its provisions will be entrusted to appropriately qualified and experienced people for whose use it has been produced.

A British Standard does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a contract. Users of British Standards are responsible for their correct application.

Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity from legal obligations.

In particular, attention is drawn to the statutory regulations listed in clause 4.

Summary of pages

This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii, pages 1 to 62, an inside back cover and a back cover.

The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the document was last issued.


BS 7985:2002

1 Scope

This British Standard gives recommendations and guidance on the use of rope access methods for work at a height. It is intended for use by employers, employees and self-employed persons who use rope access methods, and those who commission rope access work, e.g. building owners and contractors. This British Standard is applicable to the use of rope access methods for access to buildings, other structures (on or offshore) or natural features (such as cliff faces), in which the ropes are suspended from or connected to the structure or natural feature. It is applicable to situations where ropes are used as the primary means of access, egress or support and as the primary means of protection against a fall.

This standard is not intended to apply to the use of rope access methods for leisure activities, arboriculture, general steeplejack methods or emergency personal evacuation systems, or to the use of rope access (line rescue) techniques by the fire brigade and other emergency services for rescue work or for training.NOTE For building owners and contractors, the information and guidance given in clause 4 and clause 5 and in 7.4 and 12.1 is of particular relevance.

2 Normative referencesThe following normative documents contain provisions, which, through reference in this text, constitute provisions of this British Standard. For dated references, subsequent amendments to or revisions of, any of these publications do not apply. For undated references, the latest edition of the publication referred to applies.

BS 2830, Specification for suspended access equipment (suspended chairs, traditional steeplejack’s seats, work cages, cradles and platforms) for use in the building, engineering construction, steeplejack and cleaning industries.

BS 5974, Code of practice for temporarily installed suspended scaffolds and access equipment.

BS 6037, Code of practice for permanently installed suspended access equipment.

BS 7883, Code of practice for application and use of anchor devices conforming to BS EN 795.

BS EN 136, Respiratory protective devices — Full face masks — Requirements, testing, marking.

BS EN 140, Respiratory protective devices — Half masks and quarter masks — Requirements, testing, marking.

BS EN 141, Respiratory protective devices — Gas filters and combined filters — Requirements, testing, marking.

BS EN 143, Respiratory protective devices —Particle filters — Requirements, testing, marking.

BS EN 149, Respiratory protective devices — Filtering half masks to protect against particles — Requirements, testing, marking.

BS EN 166, Personal eye protection — Specifications.

BS EN 352 (all parts), Hearing protectors — Safety requirements and testing.

BS EN 355, Personal protective equipment against falls from a height — Energy absorbers.

BS EN 361, Personal protective equipment against falls from a height — Full body harnesses.

BS EN 362, Personal protective equipment against falls from a height — Connectors.

BS EN 374-1, Protective gloves against chemicals and micro-organisms — Part 1: Terminology and performance requirements.

BS EN 388, Protective gloves against mechanical risks.

BS EN 407, Protective gloves against thermal risks (heat and/or fire).

BS EN 420, General requirements for gloves.

BS EN 567, Mountaineering equipment — Rope clamps — Safety requirements and test methods.

BS EN 795, Protection against falls from a height — Anchor devices — Requirements and testing.

BS EN 813, Personal protective equipment for the prevention of falls from a height — Sit harnesses.

BS EN 892, Mountaineering equipment — Dynamic mountaineering ropes — Safety requirements and test methods.

© BSI 28 February 2002 1

BS 7985:2002

BS EN 1263-1, Safety nets — Part 1: Safety requirements, test methods.

BS EN 1263-2, Safety nets — Part 2: Safety requirements for the erection of safety nets.

BS EN 1808, Safety requirements on suspended access equipment — Design calculations, stability criteria, construction — Tests.

BS EN 1891:1998, Personal protective equipment for the prevention of falls from a height — Low stretch kernmantel ropes.

BS EN 12275, Mountaineering equipment — Connectors — Safety requirements and test methods.

BS EN 12277, Mountaineering equipment — Harnesses — Safety requirements and test methods.

BS EN 12492, Mountaineering equipment — Helmets for mountaineers — Safety requirements and test methods.

3 Terms and definitionsFor the purposes of this British Standard, the following terms and definitions apply.

3.1 work types

3.1.1 rope accesstechnique using ropes, normally incorporating two separately secured systems, one as a means of access and the other as back-up security, used with a harness in combination with other devices, for getting to and from the place of work and for work positioning

3.1.2 work positioningtechnique that enables a person to work supported in tension or suspension by personal protective equipment in such a way that a fall from a height is prevented or restricted

3.1.3 work restrainttechnique whereby a person is prevented by means of personal protective equipment from reaching zones where the risk of a fall from a height exists

3.1.4 aid climbingmethod of progression in suspension, either by moving from one fixed anchor to another or by the use of moveable anchors or anchor points

3.1.5 lead climbingmethod of progression, not in suspension, in which the operative is supported by the structure and is protected by a safety line, which is passed through intermediate anchorsNOTE The safety line is passed through an independently anchored fall protection device, which is operated by another person, and by which a fall can be arrested with a limited force.

3.1.6 traversingbroadly horizontal progression, generally using lead climbing or aid climbing techniques or transverse ropes or pulley systems

3.1.7 workmate rescuecare and removal by one or more operatives of an incapacitated member of their rope access work team from a place of danger to a place of safety

2 © BSI 28 February 2002

BS 7985:2002

3.2 equipment

3.2.1 lifting equipmentwork equipment that lifts or lowers loads and includes its attachments used for anchoring, fixing or supporting itNOTE 1 Examples are chains, slings, eye-bolts, and anchorage equipment which includes rigging and associated items used in rope access methods, including ropes, karabiners, harnesses and strops.

NOTE 2 The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) state that a load includes a person.

3.2.2 fall arrest systempersonal fall protection system for work at a height by which a fall is intended to be arrested to prevent the collision of the user with the ground or structure

3.2.3 anchorages

3.2.3.1 anchorfixing or fixture for the secure attachment of anchor lines or personsNOTE Also known as a “belay”.

3.2.3.2 anchor pointattachment point at an anchor for anchor lines or persons

3.2.4 lines and ropes

3.2.4.1 anchor line flexible line connected at least at one end to a reliable anchor to provide a means of support, restraint or other safeguard for a person wearing a harness in combination with other devices NOTE An anchor line may be a working line or a safety line.

3.2.4.2 working lineanchor line used primarily for suspension, work positioning and restraint including descending and ascending

3.2.4.3 safety lineanchor line provided as a safeguard to protect against falls if the user slips or if the primary support (e.g. the working line), anchor or positioning mechanism failsNOTE Also known as a “back-up rope”.

3.2.4.4 dynamic roperope specifically designed to absorb energy in a fall by stretching, thereby minimizing the impact force

3.2.4.5 low-stretch ropetextile rope with lower stretch and, therefore, less energy absorption than dynamic ropeNOTE 1 Also known as a “semi-static rope”.

NOTE 2 This used to be termed “static rope”. However, the term “static rope” is now only applied to ropes with negligible stretch, e.g. wire or aramid, which show little extension at failure and hence have little ability to absorb shock loads.

3.2.4.6 kernmantel ropetextile rope consisting of a core enclosed by a sheathNOTE The core is usually the main load-bearing element and typically consists of parallel elements which have been drawn and turned together in single or multiple layers, or of braided elements. The sheath is generally braided or woven and protects the core from, for example, external abrasion and ultraviolet degradation.


BS 7985:2002

3.2.5 rope adjustment devices

3.2.5.1 ascenderrope adjustment device which, when attached to an anchor line of appropriate type and diameter, locks under load in one direction and slides freely in the opposite directionNOTE Normally used as a device for ascending the working line or positioning the operative on it.

3.2.5.2 descendermanually operated, friction inducing, rope adjustment device, which when attached to an anchor line of appropriate type and diameter, allows the user to achieve a controlled descent and to stop with hands off anywhere on the anchor lineNOTE Normally used as a device for descending the working line or positioning the operative on it.

3.2.5.3 back-up devicerope adjustment device for a safety line of appropriate type and diameter, which accompanies the user during changes of position or allows adjustment of the length of the safety line, and which locks automatically to the safety line, or only allows gradual movement along it, when a sudden load is applied

3.2.6 connectors

3.2.6.1 connectoropenable device used to connect components, which enables the user to link himself/herself directly or indirectly to an anchor

3.2.6.2 karabinerconnector, formed as a complete loop, with a spring loaded entry gate often safeguarded in the closed position by a screwed sleeve or automatic locking deviceNOTE A karabiner in which the entry gate is safeguarded in the closed position by a screwed sleeve is known as a “screwgate karabiner”.

3.2.6.3 screwlink connectorconnector that is closed by a threaded sleeve which is a load-bearing part of the connector when fully screwed up NOTE Also known as a “maillon rapide” (pronounced my-yon rapeed) or a “quicklink”.

3.2.7 anchor slingsling, strop or lanyard made from textiles, wire rope or chain, which is used to provide an anchor point for anchor lines, cow’s tails etc. to anchors to which it is not possible to connect directly

3.2.8 cow’s tailshort strop, lanyard or sling connected to the main attachment point of a harness

3.2.9 energy absorbercomponent or components in a fall arrest system, designed to minimize the impact force generated in a fallNOTE Also known as a “shock absorber”.

3.2.10 workseatsuspended seat, not forming part of the fall protection system, provided for the comfort of a rope access operative


BS 7985:2002

3.3 loads

3.3.1 working load limit (WLL)maximum load that can be lifted by an item of equipment under conditions specified by the manufacturer

3.3.2 safe working load (SWL)designated maximum working load of an item of equipment under specified conditionsNOTE See also 3.3.1 working load limit (WLL).

3.3.3 breaking loadminimum load at which an item of equipment breaks when it is tested, new, under specific conditions

3.3.4 proof loadtest load applied to verify that an item of equipment does not exhibit permanent deformation under that load, at that particular timeNOTE This result can then be theoretically related to the performance of the equipment in its particular application.

3.4 persons

3.4.1 competent persondesignated person suitably trained or qualified by knowledge and practical experience to enable the required task or tasks to be carried out properly

3.4.2 sentryperson responsible for keeping watch to safeguard the anchorage areas and/or the area of ground below the operatives

3.4.3 supervisorperson responsible for all aspects of the rope access site

3.5 fall factorlength of a potential fall divided by the length of rope or lanyard available to arrest it

3.6 exclusion zonezone designated to exclude the public from a hazardous area and from the rope access equipment, or to exclude the operatives from a hazardous area, unless suitably protected

3.7 safety method statementdocument prepared by an employer describing how a particular job (or type of job where several jobs are essentially identical) should be undertaken to ensure that any risks to the health and safety of the operatives, or others who might be affected, are minimized

3.8 certificate of conformitydocumentation provided by a supplier of equipment at the time of purchase, stating performance specifications of the equipment or indicating conformity to known standards or compliance with relevant legislationNOTE An example of relevant legislation is the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 and amendments.

3.9 zero targetingestablishment of a system of working which aims to achieve no accidents, no waste and no defects


BS 7985:2002

4 Legislation

4.1 Attention is drawn to the following acts and regulations, and HSE approved codes of practice (ACoP) and guidance.

Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 SI 1997/1713 and ACoP Safe Work in Confined Spaces (HSE L101)

Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 (CDM Regulations) SI 1994/3140 as amended by SI 2000/2380 and ACoP Managing construction for health and safety (HSE L54)

Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996 (CHSW Regulations) SI 1996/1592

Construction (Head Protection) Regulations 1989 SI 1989/2209

Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 1987 SI 1987/2115 as amended by SIs 1988/712, 1992/2966, 1992/3068, 1993/1746, 1994/669, 1994/3247 and 1996/2092, and ACoP The control of asbestos at work (Third edition) (HSE L27)

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999 (COSHH) SI 1999/437

Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 SI 1989/635

Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 and ACoP and Guidance First aid at work 1997 (HSE L74)

Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996

Highways Act 1980

Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) SI 1998/2307 and ACoP and Guidance Safe use of lifting equipment 1998 (HSE L113)

Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (MHSW Regulations) SI 1999/3242 and ACoP Management of health and safety at work (HSE L21)

Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 SI 1992/2793

Mineral Working (Offshore Installations) Act 1971

Noise at Work Regulations 1989 SI 1989/1790

Offshore Installations and Pipeline Works (Management and Administration) Regulations 1995 (MAR) SI 1995/738

Offshore Installations and Wells (Design and Construction) Regulations 1996 (DCR) SI 1996/913

Offshore Installations (Prevention of Fire and Explosion and Emergency Response) Regulations 1995 (PFEER) SI 1995/743

Offshore Installations (Safety Case) Regulations 1992 (SCR) SI 1992/2885

Personal Protective Equipment (EC Directive) Regulations 1992 SI 1992/3139

Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 (PPE) SI 1992/2966 and amendments, and guidance document Personal protective equipment at work 1992 (HSE L25)

Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR) SI 1995/3163 and Guidance (HSE L73)

Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) SI 1998/2306 and ACoP Safe use of work equipment (HSE L22)

Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 SI 1992/3004 (as amended by the Quarries Miscellaneous Health and Safety Provisions Regulations 1995 SI 1999/2024) and ACoP Workplace health, safety and welfare (HSE L24)


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4.2 The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Mineral Workings (Offshore Installations) Act 1971 place general duties on employers, clients, contractors, owners, the self-employed and employees. Many regulations have been made under these acts, which expand on these duties, some dealing specifically with particular issues such as first aid and protection of eyes. Other regulations have been made under the acts, which bring into force the requirements of EC directives. These regulations, for example the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, require a risk assessment (see HSE document Five steps to risk assessment [2]). They highlight the duties of clients, owners and designers of structures to ensure that, so far as is reasonably practicable, any work to be carried out in the workplace can be performed safely. It is the duty of every employer to ensure that they comply with all legal safety requirements relating to the type of work being undertaken and to work in the particular location concerned.

4.3 Where work is classed as construction work, for example under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 (CDM Regulations), or as part of such works, then other construction regulations also apply, such as the Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996 (CHSW Regulations) and the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) (see Annex A). Even where these regulations do not apply, it is possible that their requirements could be regarded as “being a reasonably practicable safe system of work” under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. Employers and those commissioning rope access work are therefore advised to consider the requirements of these regulations.

4.4 The CDM Regulations impose some legal responsibility on the client to ensure that those they employ have an appropriate level of experience in the work being undertaken and are able to meet the requirements to work safely.

4.5 Under the CHSW Regulations, “suitable and sufficient steps shall be taken to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, any person falling” (regulation 6). These regulations give specific requirements for certain safety provisions, for example minimum widths for working platforms and the minimum heights of guard-rails. They also require the regular inspection of working platforms, e.g. temporary scaffolds, and the recording of such inspections (regulation 29 and schedule 7). Where a person is likely to fall more than 2 m, a working platform with a guard-rail or other similar means of protection is required. However, where it is not physically practicable to construct and use a safe working platform, or where the nature of the site or the duration of the work means that it is not reasonably practicable to provide and use such equipment, then the use of rope access equipment and techniques is permitted, provided that they conform to the provisions of schedule 3 of the regulations.

4.6 Where the work is offshore, several additional regulations apply. In general, the principles are similar to those of the construction regulations but there are certain conditions that have to be followed by those working or intending to work offshore. Attention is drawn to the Offshore Installations and Wells (Design and Construction) Regulations 1996 (DCR), the Offshore Installations and Pipeline Works (Management and Administration) Regulations 1995 (MAR) and the Offshore Installations (Prevention of Fire and Explosion and Emergency Response) Regulations 1995 (PFEER). These regulations apply both generally to work offshore (survival certificates, proper work clothes, etc.) and specifically to worksites and the management of work.

4.7 Some regulations deal with specific types of hazard such as the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999 and the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 1987 (as amended). Also see the HSE approved code of practice (ACoP) The control of asbestos at work (Third edition). It is essential that employers fully understand the requirements of such regulations when they propose to undertake work that might involve their operatives coming into contact with hazardous materials. This applies equally to on and offshore working.

4.8 Two parts of the HSE’s revised series of health and safety guidance for the construction industry, Health and Safety in Construction [3] and Health and Safety in Roof Work [4], provide valuable information in a simple but comprehensive form. The guidance covers such topics as organizing the site, the essentials of health and safety, and health and safety management and the law. Following the guidance is not a statutory requirement. However, the guidance provides sufficient information to enable the user to ensure that they comply with the law.


BS 7985:2002

4.9 Where the CDM Regulations apply, there is a requirement for a health and safety file. This is required to contain information concerning the safety aspects of the construction work, and some or all of the file should be made available to those planning rope access work. When construction work has been completed, there could be a need to update the health and safety file. Similar requirements apply offshore, under the Offshore Installations (Safety Case) Regulations 1992 (SCR).

4.10 Reporting accidents and ill health at work is a legal requirement under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations, 1995 (RIDDOR). The regulations require any accident where the time lost by the injured person is over three days, or where a serious incident (dangerous occurrence) has occurred, to be recorded and information included on the time lost by the injured person and others in the work team. Free leaflets, RIDDOR 95 — Offshore (HSE33) [5] and Everyone’s guide to RIDDOR 95 (HSE31) [6], explain what incidents are reportable, and by whom and to whom they have to be reported.

5 Principles for a safe and effective system of work using rope access methods

5.1 General and legal

5.1.1 The primary objective is to so organize, plan and manage the work that there will be an adequate margin of safety to minimize risk, with a goal of no accidents (zero targeting). See clause 12 for further advice.

5.1.2 The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations require that, before rope access techniques are adopted for a particular job, employers carry out a risk assessment (see 5.2.1 and 12.1) and set out clear requirements for all aspects of the work. In addition, the work should be carefully assessed to ensure that the method of access is appropriate to the quality of the work required.

In planning the work, the following statutory requirements apply.

a) The Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996 require a safe place of work.

b) The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1999 require that rope access be properly planned, appropriately supervised and carried out in a safe manner (see clauses 7 and 12).

c) The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 require employers to provide suitable personal protective equipment, which includes some protective clothing (see clause 8).

d) The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 require operatives to have suitable personal protective equipment (see clause 8).

e) The Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996 require personal suspension equipment to be suitable and of sufficient strength (see clause 8).

f) The Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996 require operatives to have training, knowledge or experience in safe rope access methods (see clauses 7 and 12).

g) The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 require employers, in entrusting tasks to employees, to take into account their capabilities as regards health and safety (see clauses 7 and 12).

In addition, is necessary to ensure that:

1) the operatives chosen to carry out the work have a suitable attitude for working at a height (see clause 6);

2) any tools and equipment used in the work do not endanger the operatives’ health and safety (see 12.4).

5.2 Summary of principles for a safe and effective systemNOTE 1 The principles listed should not be taken to be exhaustive.

NOTE 2 For details of a typical method of descending and ascending using rope access techniques, see Annex B.

5.2.1 Before rope access work commences, a hazard identification and risk assessment has to be carried out to establish the appropriateness of using rope access techniques and to address any hazard issues. See 5.1.2 and 12.1.


BS 7985:2002

5.2.2 Of primary importance is the principle of double protection. It is essential to include the provision of at least one alternative means of support to prevent an operative falling, for example, a working line plus a safety line. This means that, should any one item fail within the suspension system, there is an adequate back-up to prevent an accident. When an operative is to be in tension or suspension, there should be at least two independent anchor lines, one primarily as a means of access, egress and support (the working line) and the other as additional back-up security (the safety line). See 12.3.1.

5.2.3 Connection of an operative to the rope access system should be made in an area where there is no risk of a fall from a height, unless there is protection by other means. See 12.3.4.1 and 12.3.4.2.

5.2.4 Exclusion zones should be established as appropriate. This might necessitate establishing exclusion zones at locations other than the top and bottom of the rope access work site. See 12.3.4.1, 12.3.4.2, 12.6 and also 12.3.2.3.

5.2.5 The operative should be connected to both the working line and the safety line via an appropriate harness. The two lines may be connected to the same harness. See also 5.2.25 and 5.2.26.

5.2.6 The harness should be an appropriate sit harness or an appropriate full body harness. See 8.3.6.

5.2.7 The primary connection to the operative of both the working line and the safety line should always be via the harness, even if a work seat is being used. See 8.3.7.

5.2.8 The back-up device (on the safety line) should be capable of withstanding any foreseeable forces resulting from the rope access activity, without catastrophic damage to the safety line or the device. See 8.3.10.NOTE These forces can be minimized by keeping the back-up device high to prevent or limit a fall.

5.2.9 Descender devices or systems (on the working line) should be of a type such that if the operative loses control they will stop or only allow a slow automatically controlled descent in the hands-off position. See 8.3.9.

5.2.10 Measures should be taken to avoid the operative being able to inadvertently descend off the end of the working line or safety line. See 12.3.1.4.

5.2.11 All equipment should be appropriate to its application. It should be inspected before each use (pre-use inspection) and more thoroughly at regular intervals. Details of all thorough inspections should be recorded. See clause 10, clause 11, 12.3.3, Annex A and Annex C.

5.2.12 Equipment should be properly maintained and stored, and should be traceable back to the manufacturer or supplier. See clause 9 and clause 11.

5.2.13 Operatives should be sufficiently physically capable and free from any impairment that might prevent them from working safely. See 6.1.

5.2.14 Operatives should work in teams of not less than two, one of whom is competent to supervise. See 12.3.2.

5.2.15 Operatives should be trained and competent to carry out any rope access tasks that they are to undertake, including workmate rescue. Operatives should only be allocated tasks appropriate to their level of training. See 7.1, 7.2, 12.3.7 and 12.4.1.1.

5.2.16 Operatives should be competent in the pre-use inspection of their equipment, including an understanding of when equipment should be withdrawn from service. See clause 10 and 12.3.3.4.

5.2.17 Operatives should have clothing and equipment appropriate to the work situation and conditions. See 8.2.

5.2.18 There should be a specific workmate rescue plan in place for each worksite. See 12.3.7.

5.2.19 An operative should always be in a position to recover him/herself, or to be recovered quickly and efficiently as part of the normal work technique by the immediate work team or by a dedicated on-site rescue team. See 7.2.4, 12.3.2.1, 12.3.2.2 and 12.3.7.


BS 7985:2002

5.2.20 An efficient team communication system should be established. See 12.5.

5.2.21 There should be proper supervision of the workplace. See 7.4.1, 7.4.2 and 12.3.2.1.

5.2.22 Supervisors should be competent in all rope access techniques appropriate to the workplace and should know and understand the limitations of those techniques. They should be competent in advanced workmate rescue techniques and to organize or effect a workmate rescue appropriate to the worksite. See 7.2, 7.4.1, and 7.4.2.

5.2.23 The impact force on an operative in any potential fall should never be greater than 6 kN. See 8.3.3 and 8.3.10.

5.2.24 No potential fall should cause the operative to impact with the ground. All practicable measures should be taken to avoid injurious impact with the structure or obstructions. See note to 8.3.12.6.

5.2.25 Rope access techniques can be extended from activities in tension or suspension to include traversing, aid climbing and lead climbing. As some of these techniques could result in a fall, they should be used only after a specific hazard identification and risk assessment, and the appropriate choice of fall protection/access equipment. Only specifically trained and qualified operatives should engage in these types of rope access work. See 12.3.1.5.

5.2.26 There should always be at least two attachments to the structure when aid climbing.

5.3 Continuous improvement of working methods

In addition to the legal requirements outlined in 4.10, it is recommended that a record of all accidents, incidents or near-misses is kept, in order to provide accurate statistics and to assist in achieving the aim of continuous improvement of working methods. To ensure accuracy, the details should be recorded immediately after the accident, incident or near-miss.

6 Selection of operatives

6.1 General

6.1.1 The modern industrial environment requires that, to work at a height safely, competently and productively, those engaged in such work have an appropriate attitude, aptitude, physical capability and training.

6.1.2 These operatives frequently work in remote places or are out of sight of their supervisors. It is, therefore, especially important that the operatives can be always relied upon to behave in a sensible and responsible manner.

6.1.3 Candidates should be physically fit and free from any disability that might prevent them from working safely at height. Contra-indications include:

— heart disease/chest pain;— high blood pressure;— epilepsy, fits, blackouts;— fear of heights/vertigo;— giddiness/difficulty with balance;— impaired limb function;— alcohol or drug dependence;— psychiatric illness/counselling;— diabetes.

Employers should ensure that employees are in possession of an appropriate medical certificate before starting this kind of work.

6.2 Aptitude and experience

6.2.1 Assessing a person’s suitability for rope access work requires detailed consideration of their previous experience. Where candidates claim to have experience in rope access work, prospective employers should check their personal records and other references (see 7.2.5 and 7.2.6). Employers should also consider relevant trade experience and skills to ensure safe use of tools and equipment.


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6.2.2 Other suitable experience could include caving, mountaineering and working at a height using other means of access. Service with the fire brigade and possibly the armed forces may also be relevant, if a person has been regularly engaged in the use of methods that involve being exposed at a height.

6.2.3 An assessment of the candidate’s aptitude should be carried out before they are given training or offered rope access work. Unless the employer has the relevant expertise to do this, assistance from a competent outside organization should be sought (e.g. a recognized provider of training in rope access work).

7 Training, welfare and supervision of operatives

7.1 General

Rope access work can only be carried out in a reliably safe manner when operatives are competent. Different organizations and countries have their own requirements for the assessment of competence. In order to be considered competent, an operative needs to have sufficient professional or technical training, knowledge and actual experience to enable them to:

— carry out their assigned duties at the level of responsibility allocated to them, including inspection of their own equipment;— understand potential hazards related to the work under consideration, and be able to carry out appropriate workmate rescue procedures;— detect technical defects or omissions in their work, recognize implications for health and safety caused by such defects or omissions, and be able to specify a remedial action.

The person responsible for the site should ensure appropriate levels of supervision and only allow rope access work to be carried out by competent operatives. Exceptions may be made in the case of inspection of the work, in which case additional precautions are essential. (See 7.5.)

7.2 Training

7.2.1 Training should be provided or monitored by a competent outside organization or person, to ensure that the standard is to an externally certificated level. All candidates should be trained to a formal programme, formalized in both time and performance, and be assessed independently. Training routes should be clearly defined.

7.2.2 In addition to rope access techniques, training should include general and job-specific health and safety issues, the safe use of tools and other work equipment during rope access activities, and the handling of materials.

7.2.3 All operatives are in the learning process for some time after completing their basic training. The newly qualified operative should at first be under the direct supervision of the supervisor and then gradually be allowed to progress to working under the close supervision of an experienced operative, at the supervisor’s discretion. At this stage, the experienced operative should be required to check that all items of the inexperienced operative’s suspension equipment are correctly secured before they are allowed to start work. They should, thus, be continuously monitored and not allowed to work without close supervision until the supervisor is satisfied that the operative has achieved a suitable level of competence. This should be when they have demonstrated suitable knowledge and experience to carry out the full range of jobs that they are likely to encounter, in a safe and effective manner, and are capable of acting properly within the limits of their level of competence and in any emergency that might conceivably arise.

7.2.4 It is essential that operatives are skilled in workmate rescue techniques and emergency procedures, and these should form part of their basic and ongoing training. In addition to this, workmate rescue techniques should be practised at regular intervals and before the start of any work in a situation that is unfamiliar to any of the work team (see 12.3.7).

7.2.5 Operatives should have a personal record showing the training received and describing their work experience. This is to assist employers in the verification and monitoring of an operative’s experience. Employers taking on new operatives should assess these records. (See 6.2.)


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7.2.6 It is essential that employers maintain their employees’ level of ability. This requires a re-assessment at regular defined intervals and further training where necessary. Retraining is appropriate for operatives who have had a significant break from rope access work (e.g. 6 months or more). This could be either a refresher course or a full course at the appropriate level. All refresher courses should include all the techniques covered at the basic level. For experienced operatives and supervisors, the refresher course should concentrate on rigging and workmate rescue procedures.

7.3 Welfare

Periodic health checks or medical examinations are recommended for all operatives (see 6.1.3).

7.4 Supervision

7.4.1 The level of supervision should be appropriate to the work situation and the number and skills of the operatives in the work team (see 12.3.2). The supervisor’s role is to ensure that all work is carried out safely in accordance with the aim of no accidents, no waste and no defects.

7.4.2 Before an experienced operative can become a supervisor, a period of further varied work using rope access techniques should be undertaken, preferably with some further training and assessment. This is particularly to ensure that the person has the wider experience and necessary skills to be competent to supervise others and assess their abilities to work safely. Supervisors should be familiar with their work environment, the working conditions and practices, and particularly the liaison required with other workplace personnel.

7.4.3 As part of their duties to maintain a safe place of work, employers should monitor any tendency of employees to work in an undisciplined manner. If this occurs, employers should be prepared to take appropriate disciplinary action.

7.5 Access by non-rope access personnel

Occasions can arise where non-rope access personnel need to inspect the work (e.g. a client’s representative). A system should be arranged to ensure that such persons are able to do this safely. This could be done, for example, by providing additional top-rope protection. In addition, it would be necessary for the supervisor to check personally that all items of such a person’s suspension equipment were correctly secured and of a suitable standard and condition. They should then supervise them throughout the ascent or descent as though they were new trainees.

8 Selection of equipment

8.1 General

8.1.1 Risk assessment

Regulation 3 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 requires that before equipment is selected or used a risk assessment is carried out for each job for which that equipment is to be used.

8.1.2 CE marking

8.1.2.1 Under the Personal Protective Equipment (EC Directive) Regulations 1992, which are based on the Personal Protective Equipment Directive (89/686/EEC) [7], equipment used in rope access work that is classified under the Directive as PPE is required to carry CE marking. This applies to most equipment used in rope access work.

8.1.2.2 If it is planned to use CE marking as a criterion for purchasing, it is essential to ensure that the marking is for goods appropriate to the intended use. CE marking is mandatory on many different types of product, not just personal protective equipment (PPE). For PPE, there are three different categories, ranging from simple items like protective work gloves (category I) to category III equipment for protection against mortal danger (e.g. harnesses). Most rope access equipment is category III.

8.1.2.3 For PPE category III, CE marking indicates that the product has been independently type tested and meets the basic health and safety requirements of the Personal Protective Equipment Directive (89/686/EEC) [7] and the Personal Protective Equipment (EC Directive) Regulations 1992. A booklet entitled Personal Protective Equipment: Guidance notes on UK Regulations [8], published by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), provides all the details.


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8.1.2.4 The prime function of CE marking is to protect against barriers to trade within the European Union. It is not meant to be taken as a mark of quality, although PPE category III is subject to such rigorous controls that this point could be argued otherwise.

8.1.3 Standards

8.1.3.1 Equipment should be selected that conforms to standards relevant to the intended use. Wherever possible, these should be appropriate BS EN standards. In the absence of these, equipment conforming to other standards, e.g. international (ISO), national or International Federation of Climbing and Mountaineering Associations (UIAA), may be chosen.

8.1.3.2 Some European Standards are still only at a draft stage (prENs). Theoretically, manufacturers should not claim product conformity to draft standards, but in cases where there is no appropriate standard of any kind, this is sometimes the only feasible option. Purchasers should be aware that a draft standard could change.

8.1.3.3 If there is doubt about whether or not a particular standard is relevant to the intended use, it is advisable to discuss it with the manufacturer of the equipment.

8.1.4 Compatibility

When selecting equipment, purchasers should ensure that components in any system are compatible and that the safe function of any one component is not adversely affected by, and does not interfere with, the safe function of another. Sometimes this is not obvious so it is important to check with the supplier or the manufacturer.

8.1.5 Knowledge of equipment

Under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992, the manufacturer of the equipment is required to supply product information. This information should be read and understood by the user before using the equipment. This also applies to replacement equipment, because changes might have been made to the original specification or advice given. Knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of equipment can help to avoid misuse. This knowledge can be enhanced by studying the information provided with the product and other technical brochures and catalogues.

8.2 Clothing and protective equipment

8.2.1 Operatives need to be appropriately dressed and equipped for the work situation and conditions. Attention is drawn to the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 and other regulations covering equipment and health and safety of operatives as listed in 4.1.

8.2.2 Working at a height can make it difficult for the operative to avoid exposure to harmful substances or climatic conditions. The employer needs to assess carefully what would be the most appropriate clothing to guard against such hazards. This protective clothing should be provided and appropriate measures taken to ensure that it is worn.

8.2.3 A useful guidance document on the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992, which includes the regulations themselves, is the HSE guidance document Personal protective equipment at work (HSE L25), published by the HSE. It should be noted that some equipment (e.g. ladders, lifting slings, drills, scaffolding, hoists) is subject to other regulations, such as the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER).

8.2.4 The Construction (Head Protection) Regulations 1989 require operatives to wear protective helmets. It is advisable to follow these regulations even if the workplace is not a “site of construction” as defined in the regulations. Operatives should wear protective helmets that are suitable for the type of work being undertaken. Helmets that conform to standards for either mountaineering (BS EN 12492) or industrial use might be suitable. Some industrial helmets might not be suitable because some of the performance requirements considered necessary for the safety of rope access operatives are not specified in the standard for these helmets, BS EN 397, (i.e. they are optional) and in earlier standards were not given at all (e.g. side impact resistance). Chinstraps on helmets used in rope access work should be of a design such that when the strap is properly fastened, it prevents the helmet from coming off the head. This is typically achieved by the use of “Y” shaped straps where the two top points of the “Y” are attached to the shell of the helmet. Helmets should always be used with the chinstrap fastened. In some work situations, it might be desirable for helmets to be compatible with complementary personal protective equipment such as visors or ear defenders.


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8.2.5 Operatives should wear the following:

a) protective clothing (e.g. overalls) that have no loose flaps or attachments which might be caught in any moving equipment. Pockets should be fitted with zip or touch-and-close type fastenings rather than buttons. Waterproof and/or windproof clothing should be provided for work in wet and/or windy conditions;

b) suitable footwear, which fits well, provides a good grip and gives an adequate level of protection for the task being undertaken.

8.2.6 If equipment is to be fitted to the user (e.g. a harness), it is important that it is comfortable to wear and fits the wearer properly when correctly adjusted. This should be ascertained in a safe place, before work commences. It is also important that such equipment does not significantly hinder the wearer from carrying out their duties or from properly manipulating the rope adjustment devices.

8.2.7 The following protective items might also be required. The HSE guidance document referred to in 8.2.3 gives advice on the selection, use and maintenance of most of these.

a) Gloves, to protect against cold weather or where the equipment or materials used might cause injury to, or have harmful effects on, the skin. Gloves conforming to BS EN 420 and to BS EN 374-1, BS EN 388 or BS EN 407 should be used as appropriate.

b) Eye protection, where debris is being cleared or material is being chipped away, or where drilling, blasting or percussion operations are being undertaken. Eye protection is usually also required if chemicals are being sprayed or painted which could cause irritation or damage to the eyes. Eye protection conforming to BS EN 166 should be used.

c) Respiratory protective equipment, where there is a risk of inhalation of harmful chemicals or dusts. Many building chemicals are liable to be harmful, particularly in a situation where an operative is unable to get quickly to a source of fresh water to dilute or wash the chemical away. Respiratory protective equipment conforming to BS EN 136, BS EN 140, BS EN 141, BS EN 143 or BS EN 149 should be used as appropriate. Guidance on use of respiratory protective equipment is given in BS 4275.

d) Hearing protectors, when the noise levels in the vicinity could cause a risk of hearing loss to operatives. The Noise at Work Regulations 1989 require employers to provide operatives with hearing protectors. Hearing protectors conforming to BS EN 352 should be used.

e) Buoyancy or life jackets, when working over water. These should be of a type capable of being secured to the wearer so that they cannot accidentally come loose in the event of a fall. In addition, they should not obstruct the wearer or prevent the efficient operation of the rope ascent/descent devices.

f) Protection against sunburn, for example, by the use of a sunscreen.

8.2.8 Any intention to depart from the worksite “standard” PPE (e.g. lifejackets, eye protection, rig boots, helmet), for whatever reason, should first be cleared with the site management.

8.3 Equipment used in the rope access system and for personal protection against falls from aheight

8.3.1 General

8.3.1.1 All equipment used in the access system requires adequate static and dynamic strength to withstand any loads or forces that might be imposed on it, with an adequate safety margin in addition. Such equipment should only be loaded in accordance with the manufacturer’s user instructions. Most personal protective equipment used in rope access work, such as low-stretch ropes, harnesses and ascenders, is tested using the minimum breaking loads specified in the relevant standards. Some equipment is supplied with a safe working load (SWL) or working load limit (WLL). Dynamic rope is supplied with a statement of the number of dynamic falls held during type testing.

8.3.1.2 The behaviour under load of components in the system, such as dynamic cow’s tails, load-limiting back-up devices and the extension of the low-stretch rope, can help to absorb any forces generated, should there be a limited fall. However, the system generally should be designed to avoid this; i.e. it should be a work positioning system. Normally, low-stretch equipment is used because it is the most effective in use. Where rope access is extended to climbing and traversing, limited falls can be possible and appropriate equipment should be chosen and precautions taken (see 12.3.1.5). When choosing equipment for a particular application, account should be taken of weakening factors, such as the loss of strength at knots.


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8.3.1.3 Any equipment chosen to support a person at a height should be such that it cannot be accidentally removed, dislodged or become unfastened from the rope while a person is suspended from it. This applies particularly to connectors, rope adjustment devices and harnesses.

8.3.1.4 All equipment should carry marking to allow traceability to, for example, a test, inspection, thorough examination or certificate of conformity. If the manufacturer or supplier has not already provided such marking, care should be taken not to mark the equipment in a manner that impairs its integrity (see 9.4).

8.3.2 Work positioning equipment

If the planned method of work is for the operative to be in a partly or entirely supported position, as is the normal case for rope access work, then work positioning equipment may be chosen (see Figure 1c). In addition to its primary function of providing support, this equipment is designed to be strong enough to arrest a free fall of limited distance and force, but does not conform to the other essential requirements for a fall arrest system, unless combined with appropriate additional components. Work positioning body supports for rope access work may be a sit harness or full body harness, depending upon the precise nature of the work to be carried out. A sit harness is normally used, which may be coupled with a chest harness.

8.3.3 Fall arrest system

If the planned method of work is such that if the user loses controlled physical contact with the working surface there will be a free fall, it is necessary to choose a fall arrest system (see Figure 1d). This should include a full body harness conforming to BS EN 361, an energy absorber or a system that limits the impact force in the event of a fall to a maximum of 6 kN (e.g. a dynamic rope conforming to BS EN 892, together with an appropriate belaying device) and other equipment selected for its suitability for the type of work intended (see 12.3.1.5).

8.3.4 Travel restriction using work restraint equipment

If the objective is to restrict the operative’s travel so that access is not possible to zones where the risk of a fall from a height exists, work restraint equipment may be used (see Figure 1a and Figure 1b). This may be fall arrest equipment, work positioning equipment, or a simple belt coupled with a lanyard of limited length.

8.3.5 Limits of equipment use

Equipment designed specifically for work restraint should not be used for work positioning or as fall arrest equipment. Equipment designed specifically for work positioning should not be used as fall arrest equipment. Some equipment is designed to allow the attachment or connection of other components in order to meet the requirements for a category of work other than the one for which it was primarily designed. An example is a sit harness (for work positioning) which is designed to accept the connection of a chest harness (see 8.3.6.1).

8.3.6 Harnesses

8.3.6.1 All harnesses used should be designed to support the wearer in a comfortable working position while allowing unhindered operation of other devices in the system. Harnesses should be appropriate for the application and should conform to relevant standards, for example, sit harnesses should conform to BS EN 813, and full body harnesses should conform to BS EN 361. Sit harnesses should only be used on their own for work positioning (which includes descending and ascending), and work restraint (i.e. travel restriction). In a fall arrest situation, a full body harness should be worn. Some sit harnesses can be converted to a full body harness conforming to BS EN 361 by the addition of a chest harness, where the manufacturer has verified that this is acceptable. An appropriate chest harness is one that conforms to BS EN 12277.

8.3.6.2 Many types of harnesses are available. Before using a harness for the first time, the operative should carry out a suspension test in a safe place to ensure that the harness is the correct size, has sufficient adjustment and is of an acceptable comfort level for the intended use.


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a) Work restraint

b) Work restraint, top view

Figure 1 — Illustration of work restraint, work positioning and fall arrest situations

Edge of building

Restricted movement ofperson (cannot reachzones where risk of a fallexists)

Key Anchor

Anchor line


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c) Work positioning (back-up not shown for clarity)

d) Fall arrest

Figure 1 — Illustration of work restraint, work positioning and fall arrest situations (concluded)

Key Anchor

Anchor line

Potential fall


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8.3.7 Workseats

When there is a need for operatives to remain suspended in one place for more than a few minutes, support additional to that provided by the harness is recommended. The use of a simple workseat can enhance the comfort, and health and safety of a rope access operative, possibly including a reduction in the risk of suspension trauma (see Annex D). If the support takes the form of a workseat incorporated into a harness system, the workseat should be fitted in such a way that the harness remains the primary means of attachment to the anchor lines. When the support is not incorporated into the harness system, it should conform to the requirements for traditional steeplejack’s seats specified in BS 2830.

8.3.8 Connectors (karabiners, safety hooks, screwlink connectors, etc.)

8.3.8.1 Connectors with a closure that provides protection against inadvertent opening of the gate, for example, by a screwed sleeve or an automatic locking device, are the only types that can provide the required level of security for rope access work. Connectors made of steel should be used if connecting to steel cables, shackles or eyebolts. Connectors that are to be used to attach to an anchor (e.g. a hanger, eyebolt or shackle) should be of such a design and size that they are able to rotate freely in the anchor without hindrance and without loosening the anchor. Connectors conforming to BS EN 362 should be used. In addition, connectors conforming to certain classes of connector in BS EN 12275 also meet the requirements of BS EN 362, and these connectors are also suitable. In the case of such connectors, conformity to BS EN 362 should be confirmed before use. Both standards include screwlink connectors, which might be more appropriate than karabiners for infrequently operated connections or where there might be a loading against the gate. The gate on most connectors is usually the weakest part and loading against it should be avoided. In use, unintentional loading against the gate of many connectors is not uncommon and is usually caused by the migration of straps or other connecting components from their intended position during an unloaded period. Where appropriate, connectors with a captive eye, where a lanyard or other component is maintained in the intended position, are recommended.

8.3.8.2 When selecting a connector, users should take note of the type of gate locking system employed and should consider how and where the connector will be used in the rope access system. This is with a view to protecting against the possibility of roll-out. Roll-out is the result of pressure on the gate by a connecting component, such as an anchor, a harness attachment point (especially if made from metal), webbing, rope or another connector. If the safety catch mechanism on the locking gate is tripped during the time that this pressure is applied, it can cause the accidental opening of the gate and the release (roll-out) of the connecting component from the connector.

The safety catch mechanism can be accidentally tripped typically in one of two ways, depending upon the type of locking gate. These are as follows:

a) the action of rope or webbing running over the top of some types of gate which incorporate a twist-action safety catch;

b) the unintentional pressing of a safety catch on so-called double-action safety hooks against the operative’s body or the structure.

The potential problems of loading against the gate and roll-out can be largely avoided by consideration of how loads could be inadvertently applied to the connector during use, and then choosing the correct connector for the particular application.

8.3.8.3 The strength of a connector specified in BS EN 362 is determined by pulling between 12 mm bars. If the connector is an asymmetrical shape, the test load is normally applied parallel to and close to the spine. If the load in use is not so positioned, for example because of the use of wide tape slings or double ropes, the weaker, gated, side of the connector will take more of the load and its breaking load might be less than specified. Therefore, care should be taken when using asymmetrical connectors to ensure that they are loaded as in the standard test, or that they have a suitable factor of safety by using connectors with a higher breaking load than the minimum of 15 kN specified in BS EN 362. A minimum gate-closed breaking load of 20 kN, as specified in BS EN 12275 for Type B connectors, is recommended for karabiners and safety hooks, and 25 kN for screwlink connectors, as specified in BS EN 12275 for Type Q connectors (quicklinks). See Figure 2. It should also be noted that high side-loadings on connectors can lead to cross-gate failure and should be avoided.


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Figure 2 — Loading of a connector during static testing

Force

Force

12 mm diameterpin

12 mmdiameter pin


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8.3.9 Descenders

8.3.9.1 Descenders are used to attach the operative to the working line and to control the descent. They should be chosen bearing in mind their suitability for use in the prevailing environmental conditions, for example wet, muddy, icy, abrasive or corrosive conditions.

8.3.9.2 Descenders should give the operative suitable control over the speed of descent, should not cause undue shock loads to the working line when braking and be such that, if the operative loses control, they will stop, or allow only a slow, automatically controlled descent in the hands-off position. In addition, they should not cause significant abrasion, plucking or stripping of the sheath when suddenly clamped onto the working line. They should be of a type that cannot be accidentally detached from the working line or become detached under any circumstances while carrying a person’s weight. If a connector is used to attach the descender to the operative, only an appropriate locking connector should be used. For long descents, preferred descenders are those with good heat dissipating properties to prevent burning of the hands and melting of the working line, and those that minimize twisting of the rope. NOTE There is currently no standard for descending devices for rope access work, although there is a draft European standard, prEN 12841. Until a standard exists, the latest draft of prEN 12841 may be used as a guide to what is required in a suitable descender. BS EN 341 specifies descenders for use in rescue systems. It is not intended to cover descenders for work positioning. Descenders conforming to BS EN 341, therefore, might not be suitable for work positioning.

8.3.10 Back-up devices

8.3.10.1 Back-up devices are used to attach the operative to the safety line. Back-up devices should be used which are capable of withstanding any foreseeable forces resulting from the rope access activity that could be placed on them, without catastrophic damage to the safety line or to the device itself. They should be chosen bearing in mind their suitability for use in the prevailing environmental conditions, for example wet, muddy, icy, abrasive or corrosive conditions.

8.3.10.2 In the event of a failure of the working line or loss of control by the operative, back-up devices are intended to lock on to the safety line without causing catastrophic damage to the line and also to absorb the limited shock load that might occur. Back-up devices should always be positioned on the safety line so that, in the event of a failure in the working line system, the load will be taken on the back-up device in such a way that a fall is prevented or minimized. There is an advantage in using back-up devices that can be released by the operative without de-weighting first. However, correct functioning of this type of back-up device critically relies on the loading being applied via the cam and not the body (i.e. grabbing the body of the device could cause it to slide down the rope and prevent it from functioning properly). It is recommended that back-up devices used are of a type that will slip at a static load of between 2.5 kN and 6.0 kN. Devices requiring minimal operator manipulation should be used.NOTE There is currently no standard for back-up devices for rope access work, although there is a draft European standard, prEN 12841. Until a standard exists, the latest draft of prEN 12841 may be used as a guide to what is required in a suitable back-up device. Some types of fall arrest device which conform to BS EN 353-2 might also be appropriate, provided that they can be positioned on the safety line by the user.

8.3.11 Ascenders

8.3.11.1 Ascenders are attached to the working line and are used when the operative wishes to climb up it. They should be chosen bearing in mind their suitability for use in the prevailing environmental conditions, for example wet, muddy, icy, abrasive or corrosive conditions. Typically, there are two types of ascender used in a rope access system. The first type is used to connect the operative directly to the working line; the other type is attached to a foot loop to aid climbing, and is also connected back to the harness to provide additional security.

8.3.11.2 Ascenders should be of a type that cannot be accidentally detached from the line and should be chosen so that the risk of damage to the line is minimized when in use. Any dynamic loading should be avoided, as damage could result to either the ascender or the line.NOTE There is currently no standard for ascenders for rope access work, although there is a standard for ascenders for use in mountaineering, BS EN 567, and there is a draft European standard, prEN 12841. Until a standard exists for ascenders for rope access, ascenders conforming to either BS EN 567 or the latest draft of prEN 12841 should be used.


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8.3.12 Ropes

8.3.12.1 In the present state of materials science, only ropes made from polyamide or polyester are normally suitable as working lines or safety lines. Ropes of other man-made materials might be useful in specific situations. Before such ropes are used, care should be taken to verify their suitability for the work intended.

8.3.12.2 Ropes made from high modulus polyethylene, high tenacity polypropylene and aramid may be considered for use in exceptional circumstances, and if appropriate rope adjustment devices (e.g. descenders) are available. Ropes made from these materials might be useful where there is severe chemical pollution. However, polyethylene and polypropylene have much lower melting temperatures than polyamide or polyester and are more easily affected by frictional heat, for example from descenders. Dangerous softening of polypropylene occurs at temperatures as low as 80 �C. Aramid has a very high melting point but poor resistance to abrasion, ultraviolet light (including sunlight) and repeated bending.

8.3.12.3 Wire rope might be a suitable material for use in particular situations, providing that other appropriate components needed for the system are available and that any other system requirements are met.

8.3.12.4 Textile ropes should be constructed with a load-bearing core and an outer protective sheath (kernmantel ropes, see 3.2.4.6). The sheath should be resistant to wear from the descent/ascent devices and tight enough to resist the ingress of dirt and grit. However, ropes with other types of construction may be used if the contractor has thoroughly verified that these will give a similar level of safety.

8.3.12.5 Efficiency in descending, ascending and, to some extent, working in one place for any length of time, depends on the elongation characteristics of the working line. Therefore, in most cases, the working line (and normally also the safety line) should be a low-stretch kernmantel rope conforming to BS EN 1891:1998, type A.

8.3.12.6 When new type A rope is dynamically tested in accordance with BS EN 1891:1998 using a 100 kg mass, in order to be deemed to conform to the standard it is required to not exceed an impact force of 6 kN at fall factor 0.3 and is then required to hold a minimum of five falls at fall factor 1. An illustration of how fall factors are calculated is given in Figure 3. While appropriate for normal rope access techniques, i.e. descending, ascending and working from ropes, such ropes are not designed to sustain major dynamic loads, particularly because of the undesirable impact forces that could be generated. Therefore, in situations where the possibility of a substantial dynamic load exists, for example, when using lead-climbing techniques, a dynamic rope conforming to BS EN 892 should be used. BS EN 892 specifies three categories of rope: single, half and twin. For rope access, the use of “single” rope with a nominal diameter of 11 mm is recommended.NOTE In choosing the type of rope to be used, it is important to balance the needs of energy absorption with the need to avoid excessive elongation or rebound which could result in the operative striking the ground or structure, or ending up fully immersed in water or other liquid.

8.3.13 Webbing

Webbing used in personal protective equipment, which includes slings, lanyards and harnesses, should be chosen so that any mechanical damage (e.g. abrasion) will become readily visible well before any loss of strength becomes significant. Stitching should be in a contrasting shade or colour to that of the webbing to facilitate its inspection.

8.3.14 Anchor slings

Anchor slings may be used where there are no suitable anchors to which the anchor lines can be attached directly. They should be made from textiles, wire rope or chain. If made from textiles, they should have sewn joints and have a minimum rated static strength of 22 kN. In use, great care should be taken to protect the sling from abrasion, or cutting by sharp edges, for example by the use of suitable padding. Where the included angle at the anchor point is high and produces a multiplier effect (i.e. it increases the loading on the anchor sling), such as when an anchor sling is wrapped around a lift-shaft housing, the extra forces that are produced need to be taken into account. See Figure 4.


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Figure 3 — Illustration of how fall factors are calculated

Fall = 0Rope length = 10 mFall factor = 0/10 = 0

Fall = 10 mRope length = 10 mFall factor = 10/10 = 1

Fall = 20 mRope length = 10 mFall factor = 20/10 = 2

a) b) c)

Key

Anchor

Anchor line

Potential fall

- 10 m

0 m

10 m


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Figure 4 — Example of the increase in loading on a working line, safety line or anchor sling caused by an increase in the angle at the anchor point

0.7 kN

1 kN

2 kN 2 kN

0.7 kN

1 kN

90º

120º

150º

Anchor point

Anchor sling

Anchor line

( )

1 kN

1 kN

1 kN

1 kN

Preferred maximum angle(the smaller the angle thebetter)

Recommended absolutemaximum angle

To be avoided


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8.3.15 Cow’s tails

Cow’s tails (see 3.2.8) may be used to connect the operative’s harness to the safety line via a back-up device and to the working line via an ascender. Cow’s tails should be able to withstand any dynamic forces that might be imposed upon them in times of emergency. They should be of a quality and performance at least equal to that of a “single” dynamic rope conforming to BS EN 892. If an energy absorber is incorporated into the system (other than that provided by the energy absorbing qualities of the material used in the construction of the cow’s tail), it should conform to BS EN 355. In normal use, the length of the cow’s tail should be as short as possible and limited to the operative’s reach, which will vary from operative to operative.

9 Certification, marking and traceability of equipment

9.1 CE marking of PPE category III requires independent type testing of the product to a standard and either the implementation by the manufacturer of a quality management and quality assurance standard such as BS EN ISO 9001:2000, which is monitored by an “approved body” (i.e. an independent auditor), or by regular batch testing by an approved test house. In both circumstances, a certificate of conformity, which states that the product meets the requirements of the Personal Protective Equipment Directive (89/686/EEC) [7] and conforms to any standard it claims to meet, should be obtained by the purchaser from the manufacturer or supplier.

9.2 If the product is not classified as PPE and, therefore, is not required to be CE marked as such, yet is considered to be within the realms of safety equipment, suitable certificates of conformity, which give confidence in its quality and suitability, should be obtained.

9.3 Where the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) or the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) apply, lifting equipment is required to be clearly marked to indicate the safe working load (SWL). See A.3.7. All components of a rope access system should be identifiable in such a way that they can be easily associated with their respective documentation (see A.3.7), for example, by the tagging of ropes by the user. PPE should not be proof loaded by the user to determine a safe working load.

9.4 Equipment should be traceable to the relevant test certificates or certificates of conformity, and matched to the record of its use in order to facilitate its proper care. Karabiners and other metal items should be indelibly marked in a manner that does not affect their integrity. Metal items should not be marked by stamping, unless by agreement with the manufacturer. Ropes and harnesses etc. can be indelibly marked by various methods, for example, by marking their identification on a tape, which is then fixed in place by a heat-shrunk, clear plastics cover. Lengths cut off a main rope should have the identification transferred to them sequentially, for example, lengths cut off a main rope with the number A1 should be numbered A1/1, A1/2 etc.

10 Procedures for inspection of equipment

10.1 It is essential that all load-bearing equipment is given a visual and tactile inspection before each use to ensure that it is in a safe condition and operates correctly. Advice should be obtained from the manufacturer on how to do this, and this advice should be strictly followed. Any item showing any defect should be withdrawn from service, immediately if possible. For an equipment inspection checklist see Annex C.

10.2 The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) require lifting equipment to be “thoroughly examined” by a competent person before first use and at intervals not exceeding six months, or in accordance with a written “examination scheme”. In addition to these examinations, LOLER require additional thorough examinations to be carried out where circumstances liable to jeopardize safety have occurred. Thorough examinations are required to be recorded in a report. Unless this has been done, it is not legal for the lifting equipment to be used. Detailed information regarding LOLER is given in Annex A. It is recommended that PPE is not subjected to proof load testing by the user (see 9.3).

10.3 It is recommended that inspections of lifting equipment are carried out over and above the pre-use checks and the thorough examinations required under LOLER. These should be at intervals determined by the risk assessment carried out under the MHSW Regulations. In determining what is a suitable interval, factors such as whether items are subject to high levels of wear and tear or contamination should be considered. Under the CHSW Regulations, personal suspension equipment in use for seven days or more has to be inspected weekly.


BS 7985:2002

10.4 Procedures should be established for the inspection and maintenance of equipment and how this is to be recorded. Records listing all the items of equipment issued should be kept. These should refer to the safe working load, working load limit, declaration of conformity (see Annex A), etc. and should be kept up to date. It could be helpful to include relevant comments noting where the equipment was used, its storage conditions, and any incidents that could affect its life (e.g. unusual loadings, use in chemical or gritty atmospheres). Such information could help to determine when to take an item out of service.

11 Inspection, care and maintenance of equipment

11.1 General

Information on inspection, care and maintenance of equipment should be obtained from the manufacturer and this should be strictly followed. The additional general advice given in 11.2 to 11.10 should also be followed. For an equipment inspection checklist see Annex C.

11.2 Lifespan

Some equipment is given a lifespan or obsolescence date by the manufacturer. Equipment that has reached such a limit, which has not already been rejected for other reasons, should be withdrawn from service and not used again, unless or until confirmed by a competent person, in writing, that it is acceptable to do so.

11.3 Textile equipment (ropes, webbing, harnesses etc.)

11.3.1 It is important that ropes and webbing are carefully checked, both before being stored and before being taken back into use, by being run through the hands to combine a visual and tactile examination. Kernmantel ropes should be examined visually to check that the sheath has not been cut and by feeling the rope for any damage to the core. Cable-laid ropes should be carefully twisted open at intervals along their length to inspect for internal damage. Harnesses and webbing should be checked for cuts, abrasions, broken stitches and undue stretching.

11.3.2 Textiles deteriorate slowly with age regardless of use and this ageing is accelerated by heavy and dynamic loadings. However, the most common cause of strength loss in textile equipment is through abrasion (either by grit working into the strands or by chafing against sharp or rough edges) or by other damage such as cuts. In order to minimize grit content, or simply to keep the product clean, soiled textile items should be washed in clean water (maximum temperature 40 �C) with pure soap or a mild detergent, (within a pH range of 5.5 to 8.5) after which they should be thoroughly rinsed in cold, clean water. The use of a washing machine is permissible but it is recommended that the equipment be placed in a suitable bag to protect against mechanical damage. Wet equipment should be dried naturally in a warm room away from direct heat.

11.3.3 Textiles that have been in contact with rust should be washed. Textiles with permanent rust marks should be regarded as suspect and scrapped. Tests have indicated that rust has a weakening effect on polyamides.

11.3.4 It is essential to avoid contact with any chemical that could affect the performance of the equipment. These include all acids and strong caustic substances (e.g. vehicle battery acid, bleach, drilling chemicals and products of combustion). The equipment should be withdrawn from service if contact does occur or is even suspected.

11.3.5 Deterioration in ropes from contact with chemicals, or from mechanical damage, is often localized and not obvious, and can be missed during inspection. Chemical deterioration is often not detectable visually until the rope starts to fall apart. The safest course of action is to scrap any rope about which there is any doubt. Testing of samples from the scrapped rope may then be undertaken for information purposes only. Proof load testing should not be carried out.

11.3.6 Ropes, webbing or harnesses which have glazed or fused areas could have suffered excessively high temperatures and are suspect. If the fibres appear powdery or if there are changes in colour in a dyed rope, this can indicate severe internal wear or contact with acids or other damaging chemicals. Swellings or distortion in a rope can be a sign of damage to the core fibres or of movement of the core relative to the sheath. Cuts, chafes, plucking and other mechanical damage weaken ropes and webbing, the degree of weakening being directly related to the severity of the damage. Loosening or excessive breaks in the yarns could indicate internal wear or cuts. Advice should be sought from the supplier or manufacturer, but if there is any doubt as to the condition of the rope it should be scrapped.


BS 7985:2002

11.3.7 Most man-made textiles are affected by high temperatures and begin to change their character, and thus their performance, at temperatures exceeding 50 �C. Therefore, care should be taken to protect against this. (The rear parcel shelf of a car in hot weather, for example, can exceed this temperature.)

11.3.8 Textile equipment that has suffered a high shock load (impact force), or has had a load dropped on to it, should be scrapped.

11.3.9 Textile equipment should not normally be dyed, except by the manufacturer. Many dyes contain acids, or require the use of acids to fix the colour permanently to the textile, which could cause strength losses of up to 15 %.

11.3.10 Since textile equipment can deteriorate with age, e.g. by ultra-violet degradation, employers are advised to set a period after which such equipment should no longer be used. Employers should refer to the information supplied by the manufacturer for the product when deciding on the length of this period. Additional information on the effects of physical, external and chemical causes of damage to man-made textiles is given in BS EN 1891:1998, Annex A.

11.4 Metal equipment (connectors, descenders, ascenders, etc.)

11.4.1 Metal items such as rings, buckles on harnesses, karabiners and descenders require checking to ensure that hinges etc. work smoothly, bolts and rivets are tight and to look for signs of wear, cracks, deformation or other damage. They should be kept clean and, when dry, moving parts should be lubricated using a light oil or silicone grease. Lubrication should be avoided in areas that might come into contact with webbing fastening straps (for example the slide bar of a harness buckle), ropes, slings, etc. because it could affect the proper functioning of any fastening arrangement. Any item showing any defect should be taken out of service.

11.4.2 Equipment made totally from metal can be cleaned by submerging in clean, hot water containing detergent or soap, for a few minutes. High-pressure steam cleaners should not be used because the temperature could exceed the recommended maximum of 100 �C. Seawater should not be used for cleaning. After cleaning, the equipment should be thoroughly rinsed in clean, cold water and then dried naturally away from direct heat.

11.4.3 Some chemical products used in building work can cause excessive corrosion to items made of aluminium alloys. Advice on dealing with this should be obtained from the product manufacturer.

11.5 Protective helmets

The shells of protective helmets should be checked for cracks, deformation, heavy abrasion, scoring or other damage. The chinstraps and cradles should be checked for wear, as should the security of any attachment points between different elements, such as sewn or riveted areas. Any helmet showing any defect should be taken out of service.

11.6 Disinfection of equipment

It may be considered necessary to disinfect equipment, for example after working in a sewer, although normally cleaning as described in 11.3 or 11.4 is sufficient. There are two things to consider when choosing a disinfectant: its effectiveness in combating disease and whether or not there will be any adverse effect on the equipment after one or several disinfections. Advice should be sought on these two points from the manufacturer or supplier of the equipment before carrying out any disinfection. After disinfection, the equipment should be rinsed thoroughly in clean, cold water and then dried naturally in a warm room away from direct heat.

11.7 Equipment exposed to a marine environment

Equipment that has been used in a marine environment should be cleaned by prolonged immersion in clean, cold freshwater, then dried naturally in a warm room away from direct heat and inspected before storage.

11.8 Storage

After any necessary cleaning and drying, equipment should be stored unpacked in a cool, dry, dark place in a chemically neutral environment away from excessive heat or heat sources, high humidity, sharp edges, corrosives or other possible causes of damage. Equipment should not be stored wet.


BS 7985:2002

11.9 Equipment withdrawn from service

It is important that there is a quarantine procedure for ensuring that defective or suspect equipment that has been withdrawn from service does not get back into service without the inspection and approval of a competent person. Any equipment considered to be defective should be cut up or broken before being disposed of, to ensure that it cannot be retrieved by pilferers and used again.

11.10 Alterations to equipment

Equipment should not be altered without the prior approval of the manufacturer or supplier because its performance might be affected.

12 Methods of work

12.1 Suitability of rope access versus other means of access

12.1.1 The advantage of rope access work lies chiefly in the speed at which operatives can get to or from difficult locations. In some cases, the cost or difficulty of using other means of access can be prohibitive. While methods have been developed to deploy heavy drilling equipment while using rope access techniques, rope access tends to be at its most efficient when used for inspection and similar light to medium duty purposes. In most cases, the economic advantage offered by rapid access will be lost where the job involves prolonged and repeated working in one place, where heavy or complicated tools have to be handled or where large quantities of material are to be used.

12.1.2 Before adopting rope access techniques for a particular job, the owners of buildings, the main contractors and others responsible for commissioning the work are required to carry out a risk assessment, in accordance with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and Approved Code of Practice (ACoP). The risk assessment has to include consideration of whether or not the use of rope access techniques would be appropriate, in view of the hierarchy of protective measures laid down in the Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996 (see 4.5).

12.1.3 The following aspects also require particular attention when planning rope access work:

a) how easily and safely a suspended operative will be able to use any materials, equipment or tools necessary for the work and, in particular, whether the reaction from any tool could place the operative at risk;

b) whether the work might loosen material which could fall on to people or equipment below;

c) whether the work at any one location will be so slow that the operatives could be at risk of unacceptable levels of exposure;

d) whether it would be possible to rescue the operatives quickly, using rope access techniques, from any potential position in which they might find themselves.

12.2 Safe working methods

12.2.1 General

Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers are required to review carefully the procedures to be followed in carrying out rope access work, examining how they can reduce the risks involved to an acceptable level. They are then required to set down suitable working procedures in a safety policy, written in the clearest manner possible, which will control these risks. The policy has to identify all the foreseeable risks that might arise from the work, including those to people other than their employees, and set out the steps to be taken to minimize these. It may also include reference to the standards of training, competence of the operatives, organization of work teams and rescue procedures.

12.2.2 Site survey

A site survey may be required to determine the means of access and egress, risks to people other than the employees and the nature of the working environment. Consideration should be given to how any workmate rescue could be safely and efficiently carried out.

12.2.3 Safety method statement

From the risk assessment (see 12.1.2), and based on the safety policy (see 12.2.1), employers should then prepare a suitable work plan or “safety method statement”. Where necessary, separate safety method


BS 7985:2002

statements should be prepared for each particular aspect of the job. In the safety method statement, the employer should set out the general principles and working procedures for the particular situation that are to be followed by their employees and by self-employed people contracted to work for them. In many cases, where types of jobs are similar, the safety method statements may be identical and may, therefore, be in the form of a general document. Where the work includes the use of tools such as welding torches, flame cutters and abrasive wheels which can constitute a potential hazard to the operative and his/her access equipment, a more detailed safety method statement needs to be prepared prior to the commencement of work.

12.2.4 Permits to work

In addition to the documents referred to in 12.2.1, 12.2.2 and 12.2.3, permits to work might be necessary, (for example, from the client or contractor) particularly where hazards such as live electrical conductors, hot metal ducts or vents for steam or gases are present. The objective of such a permit to work system is to confirm that any hazard has been isolated before work starts and to ensure that it remains isolated while work is in progress. Almost all rope access work offshore is controlled by permits to work.

12.2.5 Documentation to be kept on site

It is recommended that the following documentation should be kept on site:

a) a copy of the employer’s employment liability insurance;

b) a copy of a letter from the insurance company acknowledging that they will give third party cover for the method of work (i.e. rope access);

c) an equipment log (or other suitable record) which lists all the equipment on site and which gives equipment identification numbers with cross reference to batch or individual test certificates, or certificates of conformity, and safe working load, where appropriate;

d) information about the use and care of any chemicals that may be used on site;

e) a safety method statement including typical work details and standard practices (see 12.2.3);

f) personal records (see 7.2.5), or similar evidence of competence, to be carried by all persons who are working using rope access techniques.

Where the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 as amended apply, these regulations require the following to be kept on site:

1) a construction phase health and safety plan;

2) notification of the work, displayed on site (on Form F10).

12.2.6 Emergency situations

In working environments where site emergencies could occur at any time (nuclear, offshore, refineries, etc.), clear instructions should be given to the operatives by the employer or site manager for dealing with emergency situations, should they occur while operatives are on ropes.

12.2.7 Health risks from gases

Attention is drawn to the National Federation of Master Steeplejacks and Lightning Conductor Engineers’ code of practice: Working on Tall Structures — Health Risks [9], which provides information on the health risks from gases, and protective measures that can be taken.

12.2.8 Working in confined spaces

Working in confined spaces is subject to the requirements of the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997. These are contained in the HSE ACoP, Safe Work in Confined Spaces. The National Federation of Master Steeplejacks and Lightning Conductor Engineers’ code of practice Working on Tall Structures — Health Risks [9] also provides information on the health risks when working in confined spaces.

12.3 Working practices

12.3.1 Work principles

12.3.1.1 All operatives using full rope access methods (i.e. where an anchor line is used as a primary support or for positioning) should use two completely independent anchor lines arranged so that, in the event of a failure of one, the operative cannot suffer a fall. This is the principle of double protection (see 5.2).


BS 7985:2002

12.3.1.2 The principle of double protection also applies to the attachment of operatives to the working line and safety line, for example, descenders and back-up devices should be fixed separately to the operative’s harness. Operatives normally descend down the working line by means of the descender with the back-up device trailing closely by, along the safety line. However, this can be modified to become a top rope protection, where particular supervision or care of the operative is required.NOTE Sometimes, rope access methods are used in conjunction with conventional suspended access equipment. In such cases, the principle of double protection still applies to the rope access work. The anchors for rope access should be independent of the anchors for the conventional suspended access equipment. For the safety requirements for work on conventional suspended access equipment, reference should be made to the appropriate standards, such as BS 6037, BS 5974, BS 2830 and BS EN 1808.

12.3.1.3 To meet the recommendations given in 12.3.1.1 and 12.3.1.2, operatives need a separate working line and safety line. Each line should be anchored separately. However, the two anchors may be connected to each other for added security. Supervisors are responsible for checking that the lines are correctly rigged so that if one should fail, a shock load would not be passed on through the system.

12.3.1.4 Appropriate measures should be taken to avoid the possibility of the operative being able to inadvertently descend off the end of the working line or safety line. This can be achieved, for example, by the use of a suitable stopper knot (e.g. a figure of eight knot) tied at an appropriate point in each of the lines. See Figure 5.

12.3.1.5 Rope access is primarily concerned with movement up or down, and work from, suspended ropes and is considered to be primarily a technique for work positioning. However, the techniques and equipment used for this purpose may be extended to encompass traversing, aid climbing, and lead climbing. The system used can range from a work positioning system to a fall arrest system, with hybrid systems somewhere in between. The fall arrest systems (i.e. those used for lead climbing and some traversing techniques) are different from those used for traditional fall-arrest work techniques, which, for example, may allow factor 2 falls of up to 4 m before the arrest of the fall commences. Techniques that could result in a fall should be used only after a specific assessment of the risk and the appropriate choice of equipment (see 4.5, 8.1.1 and 12.1.2). The choice of techniques and equipment may vary, according to the job, but the principles for a safe and effective system of work summarized in 5.2, particularly those given in 5.2.19 and 5.2.23, 5.2.24, 5.2.25 and 5.2.26, should always be considered as part of the risk assessment.

12.3.2 Work teams

12.3.2.1 Because of the locations and the specialized nature of rope access work, all work teams should be properly supervised and be self-supporting. A work team should, therefore, consist of at least two members. One member of the work team should be a supervisor (see clause 7). The supervisor, together with their employer, should ensure before work commences that workmate rescue procedures have been agreed upon that are adequate for the particular situation, and that sufficient resources are readily available to enable those procedures to be carried out should the necessity arise. When operating on a worksite with more than one discrete working area, adequate supervision should be provided for each of those discrete areas.

12.3.2.2 Where the work is to take place in a particularly hazardous or restricted area, such as one that could give rise to poisoning or asphyxiation, the training, abilities, experience, competence and size of the work team should be of a level that is suitable to deal with any emergency arising out of undertaking the work.

12.3.2.3 In some circumstances, the work team may require additional support members for safety reasons, for example, where there is a need to prevent the public entering an area that could be threatened by falling objects, or to guard against vandals tampering with suspension equipment (see 12.3.3.5 and 12.6). The additional persons required to act as sentries need not be trained in rope access work, provided that they are not counted as being members of the rope access team. They should, nevertheless, be regarded as full members of the work team.

12.3.2.4 Where work is carried out offshore, regulations such as the Offshore Installations (Prevention of Fire and Explosion and Emergency Response) Regulations 1995 (PFEER) apply. Under PFEER, suitable rescue equipment has to be provided and measures adopted to arrange for prompt rescue of anyone entering the water (Regulations 4 and 17).


BS 7985:2002

Figure 5 — Example of a stopper knot (in this example, a figure of eight knot) for use at the end of the working line and safety line


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12.3.3 Pre-work checking and checks at the start of each day

12.3.3.1 If a permit to work is required (see 12.2.4), this should already have been obtained and checked. Any special precautions required should be put into effect (e.g. standby boat alerted, radio check, gas checks). At the start of each day, the work team should review the risks that could affect the safe, efficient and effective outcome of the job. This review should include referring to the safety method statement and risk assessment already prepared (see 12.1.2 and 12.2.3).

12.3.3.2 Suspension equipment needs to be carefully checked before starting work and during the course of the job. At the beginning of each working day and at other times as appropriate (e.g. when the suspension equipment is relocated during the day), the supervisor should visually check that all the anchors and ropes (wire and textile), and structures and packings used to support them, are satisfactory.

12.3.3.3 It is possible, in some unusual circumstances, that wet ropes can become a tracking path for electrical discharges. If rope access is used in such circumstances, suitable precautions, such as earthing, should be taken.

12.3.3.4 The supervisor should ensure that operatives follow suitable pre-descent/ascent procedures. Operatives should carefully examine their own harness, descent and ascent devices and ropes to check that they are in good condition. Before each descent/ascent, visual checks should be made of the anchors and any points on the rope where chafing could occur.

12.3.3.5 Sentries should be appointed to guard the anchorage area if there is any risk of interference by vandals or other unauthorized people. Alternatively, the area should be made safe by locking it off or by erecting suitable barricades capable of preventing unauthorized access to the work area.

12.3.3.6 Sometimes, an announcement that the work is commencing will have to be made to warn other operatives. This is common practice offshore and is often a requirement of the permit to work.

12.3.4 Work procedure

12.3.4.1 The CHSW Regulations, Regulation 5, requires a safe place of work. Therefore, work should start from properly protected safe areas or areas made safe by the installation of temporary guarding or scaffolding. Such areas are also required to have a safe means of access.

12.3.4.2 The supervisor should designate a danger zone at anchor level that is large enough to ensure that operatives outside it are not at risk of falling over any working edge. Anchors and anchor points should normally be outside the danger zone (in the safe area) so that the operatives can put on their harnesses and helmets and attach themselves to the descent lines before entering the danger zone. No one should be allowed to enter the danger zone for any purpose unless they are wearing a harness and are attached to an anchored safety line.

12.3.4.3 Appropriate precautions need to be taken to prevent damage to the suspension equipment, when in use. Wherever possible, ropes should be rigged so as to avoid running over sharp edges, particularly of steelwork, stone, concrete or masonry, or over hot surfaces. Where this cannot be done, it is essential that the rope is suitably protected, for example, by the use of rollers or other types of rope protector. Tests have shown that rollers offer the best protection. However, if these are not used, rope protectors made from heavy canvas can offer excellent protection. Rope protectors made from PVC-coated textiles should be avoided. The rope protection used should ensure that the radius of any bend is at least twice the diameter of the rope.

12.3.4.4 Operatives should normally descend vertically with the minimum amount of penduluming to minimize the risk of chafing the rope or overloading the rope or anchors. On long drops, running belays or intermediate deviation anchors (deviations) should be fitted on the ropes to enable the operatives to maintain their position without being buffeted too much by the wind. The effects of wind on the free end of ropes should be taken into account. Also, care should be taken to ensure that the tail end of ropes cannot snag on dangerous objects, for example, a moving vehicle. Running belays or deviations can also prevent ropes from becoming entangled, as can the placing of any excess rope (in the drop) in a bag and suspending it beneath the operative.


BS 7985:2002

12.3.5 Anchors

12.3.5.1 Anchors should be unquestionably reliable. Examples of anchors are eye bolts, lift-shaft housings on tower blocks, large beams or sound concrete and natural geological features. Where rope access techniques are carried out from suspended platforms, anchors for the operatives’ anchor lines should be totally separate from those used for the platform.

12.3.5.2 The strength of all anchors (except intermediate deviation anchors, which may be weaker) should be at least as great as that of the terminated ropes attached to them. This strength should be not less than 15 kN. In the case of eye bolts or other types of temporary anchors, this minimum strength may be obtained by linking and equally loading two anchors, for example by the use of a bowline knot on the bight, a figure of eight knot on the bight or an alpine butterfly knot. See Figure 6. Anchors of the type that are fixed in masonry should only be installed by competent persons, who are aware of the minimum distance required between the two fixed anchors. The angle formed by the ropes between the bight and the two anchors should be as low as possible and should generally not be more than 90�. The greater the angle beyond this, the weaker the connection will be. See Figure 4. If circumstances dictate the need for an angle greater than 90�, account should be taken of the increased forces at the anchors, at the anchor line terminations and on other components in the system. The angle should never exceed 120�. See Figure 4.

12.3.5.3 Where there are no suitable anchors to which the ropes can be attached directly, anchor slings should be used (see 8.3.14). The advice regarding angles given in 12.3.5.2 also applies to anchor slings, i.e. the included angle formed between the two ends of the anchor sling and the point at which it is connected to the working line or safety line should be as low as possible, should generally not be more than 90� and should never exceed 120�. See Figure 4.

12.3.5.4 Anchor slings made from textiles should have a minimum breaking strength of 22 kN. Because of the weakening effect, the looping of anchor slings or other slings, strops or lanyards through themselves (known as lark’s footing or choking) should be avoided, unless they are specifically designed to allow this. See Figure 7.

12.3.5.5 When anchor lines are tensioned, for example in the establishment of a cableway system or horizontal anchor line, the increase in the forces at the anchor, anchor line terminations and other components in the system should be taken into account. The potential forces in an incorrectly tensioned system can be catastrophic. The forces should be calculated by a competent person and steps taken to ensure that the system is safe before it is used.

12.3.5.6 Anchor devices such as eye bolts should conform to BS EN 795 and should be used in accordance with BS 7883. BS EN 795 requires anchor devices to have a static strength of 10 kN, therefore, to achieve the 15 kN minimum strength of an anchor as recommended in 12.3.5.2, it may be necessary to use such anchor devices in pairs. Information on stability calculations for davits, parapet clamps etc. is given in BS EN 1808.

12.3.5.7 Where dead-weight anchor systems are used, particular account should be taken of cantilever or frictional effects. It is especially important to be aware that wet or icy conditions can significantly affect the frictional performance of anchor-weight systems. The frictional resistance of any anchor weight should be assured by checking that it does not move when subjected to a load of four times that which will be applied in a work positioning situation. A higher factor is required if a fall arrest situation is envisaged. Users should also consider the possibility of rescue, which might involve the weight of two persons.

12.3.5.8 Where ropes are redirected, the angle and loading at any intermediate deviation anchor used, and the strength of other equipment in the system, for example, connectors and lanyards, should be taken into account before use, along with the consequences of failure. An example of the effect of the angle on the loading is given in Figure 8, based on a mass of 100 kg (which equates to a load of approximately 1 kN). Masses smaller or larger than this would give different loadings to those shown in the example.


BS 7985:2002

Figure 6 — Example of two equally loaded anchors, linked by means of a figure of eight knot on the bight


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Figure 7 — Diagram of a lark’s footed sling (generally not recommended)

Anchor point

Anchor sling

Lark's foot


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12.3.6 Rest periods

In calculating rest periods for operatives, consideration should be given to the effects of adverse climatic conditions and/or difficult or very exposed worksites, because these can affect efficiency and tiredness levels. Working in high and exposed places is likely to subject the operative to factors such as wind chill or buffeting by the wind, which can have a significant effect on output, at even quite moderate wind speeds. Information regarding the effect of wind speed on available work time is given in Annex E.

12.3.7 Workmate rescue

Even though great care and attention has been given to safe working, incidents can still happen. The survival of an injured or otherwise immobile person often depends on the speed of rescue and the care given to the casualty during and after rescue. Consequently, great importance should be attached to examining the worksite at appropriate times, for example, each day or at each change of job, to assess all possible emergency scenarios, and to plan how any resulting rescues would be carried out. Provisions should be made to ensure that help is provided promptly to any operative who needs it or who is unable to communicate and might be in danger, for example, from suspension trauma. Information on suspension trauma is given in Annex D. Operatives should be skilled in appropriate rescue techniques. Specific rescue equipment should always be present at the worksite. This equipment should be sufficient to carry out a workmate rescue from any situation on the site. There should be a first aid kit at each worksite and, at all times, a person with specific responsibilities for administering first aid. NOTE Attention is drawn to the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981.

Figure 8 — Example of how the angle at an intermediate deviation anchor affects the loading

10º

0.17 kN

1 kN

30º

0.52 kN

45º

0.78 kN

60º

1 kN

75º1.22 kN

90º

1.41 kN


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12.4 Use of tools and other work equipment

12.4.1 General

12.4.1.1 Operatives should be appropriately trained in the correct use of tools and other work equipment (see 7.2.2).

12.4.1.2 It is important that all tools and equipment are suitable for the work intended and compatible with rope access work. In particular, they should not present a danger to the safe operation or integrity of the suspension system. Guards provided to moving parts, electrical conductors etc. should not be removed.

12.4.1.3 Where tools and equipment are carried by the operatives, appropriate steps should be taken to prevent them being dropped or falling on to people below (see 12.6).

12.4.1.4 All electrical equipment, plugs, sockets, couplers, leads, etc. should be suitable for the environment in which they are to be used.NOTE Attention is drawn to the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.

12.4.1.5 Special rules could apply to the use of power tools in offshore working and clearance should be obtained from the platform manager prior to such equipment being used.

12.4.2 Small tools

12.4.2.1 Work using rope access techniques is generally more exposed than most other work methods and requires the operative to be in close proximity to the work itself and to any power source being used. As a result, certain tools, which can be used quite safely with conventional access systems, could cause risks to the operative or to their suspension equipment, unless great care is taken.

12.4.2.2 In many cases, the greatest danger is of dropping the tools on to people below. Therefore, to guard against this, small tools such as hammers, trowels and drills, weighing up to approximately 8 kg, should be securely attached to the operative’s harness by lanyards. Alternatively, small items should be carried in a bucket or bag securely attached to the operative’s harness. Tools should only be carried like this if they are not of such a weight that they could cause a significant reduction in the factor of safety of either the suspension system as a whole or any part of it. Where a tool needs to be pressed hard against the work face, or where the reaction from the tool could unbalance the operative, a light anchor should be pre-drilled or clamped on to the work face and the tool attached to it.

12.4.2.3 Moving parts of tools should be kept clear of the operative, and clear of power leads and the suspension equipment.

12.4.3 Power leads and power supply

12.4.3.1 Power leads (e.g. electric cables or pneumatic hoses) could become entangled with the suspension system or be cut or fractured through abrasion or by any tools being used. Therefore, they should be kept clear of the operative and of moving parts of tools.

12.4.3.2 The connections between the various lengths of a power lead should be constructed or assembled to be self-supporting for the length of their drops. In some cases, they might need to be supported or secured at their upper suspension point, to enable them to carry their own weight. For instance, they may be secured to and supported by a suitable suspension rope. Particular care should be taken to avoid placing tensile or dynamic loads on plugs, terminals etc.

12.4.3.3 Cordless power tools avoid the difficulties associated with leads and are recommended where they are suitable for the work to be carried out.

12.4.3.4 Conventional double-insulated hand-held electrically powered tools are not suitable for use in a wet environment or where conductive dust could be drawn through the ventilation slots into the tool itself.

12.4.3.5 All electrically operated hand tools, other than cordless ones, should be supplied from a 110 V centre-tapped-to-earth system. See the HSE publication Electrical safety on construction sites [10].

12.4.3.6 Where, owing to the tool design, a supply voltage of 240 V a.c. is needed, the supply to each tool should be controlled at source by a residual current device with a rated tripping current not exceeding 30 mA. Where such devices are used, they should be tested for electro-mechanical operation, by means of the test button, each day before use.


BS 7985:2002

12.4.4 Large power tools

12.4.4.1 Equipment weighing more than 8 kg should be fitted with a separate suspension system secured to an independent anchor. Anchors and suspension ropes used for equipment should be clearly identified to avoid confusion with those used to support operatives.

12.4.4.2 Equipment should be suspended correctly balanced so that it can be positioned and moved easily to its various work locations. It should be properly supported against the work face so that it is stable while in use. Several suspension lines may have to be fitted to the tool, to enable it to be moved easily about the work face. Light anchors to support such tools should be drilled around the work face.

12.4.4.3 Operatives using this equipment should be able to position themselves and their suspension equipment well away from any moving parts. If this is not possible, then extra guards or shields should be fitted. Effective communication between those working the tools and those manipulating the suspension ropes is essential.

12.4.4.4 Where the equipment to be used is operated by air or water, consideration should be given to supporting or guarding the hoses etc., where appropriate, to ensure that they will not be damaged or become uncoupled through carrying their own weight.

12.4.4.5 Tools that could cause injury to the user should be fitted with a “dead man’s handle”, so that the power will be cut off in the event of a mistake, accident or emergency.

12.5 Communications systems

12.5.1 An efficient communications system should be established between all operatives and, where necessary, between the operatives and third parties (e.g. the control room staff, if offshore). It is essential that this is agreed and set up before work starts and that it remains in effect for the entire time that operatives are at work.

12.5.2 It is recommended that a radio system, or suitable alternative, is used for communication purposes, unless the area of work is such that all those involved (including any sentries) are always visible to each other and within audible range.

12.5.3 Hand or voice signals are liable to be misunderstood. Therefore, any special signals should be agreed and well rehearsed before work begins. These should include a signal that would enable the operative to communicate the need for help, should any other adopted method of communication fail.

12.6 Protection of other people

12.6.1 Precautions should be taken to prevent equipment or materials falling in such a way that they could be a danger to other people. These should be appropriate to the particular situation. Advice is given in HSE guidance document Protecting the public — Your next move [11].

12.6.2 Precautions include securing all tools to either the operative or to separate lines (see 12.4.2, 12.4.3 and 12.4.4) or establishing an exclusion zone at ground level. Alternatively, scaffold fans, temporary roof structures or containment nets or sheets should be provided to contain falling materials etc. in safe and confined areas. These should be strong enough to retain any equipment or debris that might fall. Safety nets should conform to BS EN 1263-1 and should be erected in accordance with BS EN 1263-2.

12.6.3 When work is carried out over or near public places, the provisions of the Highways Act 1980 could apply, and advice should be obtained from the appropriate local authority.

12.6.4 Usually, it is necessary to establish an exclusion zone at the base of the rope access work area. An exclusion zone should be big enough to keep people clear of any risk from falling objects. In ideal circumstances, the width of the exclusion zone should be at least equal to the height of the work position. However, this is often impossible to achieve owing to the proximity of other buildings, so the width of the zone should be the maximum appropriate to the work situation. Account should be taken of the possibility of material deviating from a straight fall as a result of wind or after bouncing off the structure or the ground. People should be discouraged or prevented from entering the exclusion zone by posting notices, providing warning signs (see note), erecting barriers, installing alarms or posting sentries (see 12.3.2.3). Access ways, passageways or doors leading into the zone should be locked or closed off by a barrier.NOTE Attention is drawn to the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996.


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12.7 Provision of facilities for operatives

Operatives require adequate facilities where they can rest in the dry, protected from the cold, and where they can obtain fresh water, store any additional clothing and be able to wash. They should also be provided with, or have access to, adequate toilet facilities. Under the Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996, the contractor is responsible for providing the level of accommodation and facilities appropriate to the number of operatives employed on site.

12.8 Completion of work

12.8.1 Ending of a shift

At the end of each shift, equipment such as ropes, tools and components should be secured or stored safely. A formal hand-over to the next shift should take place according to local procedures and rules, at which time any relevant information should be passed on.

12.8.2 Termination of a job

At the termination of a job, care should be taken to clear the site properly, with a final inspection of the area before any permit to work is handed back. Where the CDM Regulations apply, contractors are required to pass the appropriate information to the planning supervisor for inclusion in the health and safety file.


BS 7985:2002

Annex A (informative)How the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER)apply to rope access

A.1 General

This annex contains notes on good practice, which in law are not compulsory but which may be helpful in considering what to do.

This annex gives advice to employers, the self-employed and contractors [38] (see note) using rope access methods, to help them understand the requirements of the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER). These regulations came into force on 5 December 1998 and apply to employers, the self-employed and people in control of, or managing, lifting equipment or lifting operations. LOLER applies wherever the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974 applies.

This annex does not include all of the detail of the regulations. It aims to provide guidance on interpretation and application in relation to industrial rope access methods. Details of the complete regulations, approved code of practice (ACoP) and guidance are given in the HSE document Safe Use of Lifting Equipment.NOTE Paragraph numbers from the LOLER ACoP and Guidance are given in bold type in square brackets.

LOLER is aimed at ensuring that:

— all lifting operations are properly planned and managed;— lifting equipment is used in a safe manner;— lifting equipment is thoroughly examined at suitable intervals by a competent person.

A.2 Other key legislation

A.2.1 General

LOLER has links with other health and safety legislation as detailed in A.2.2 and A.2.3, which need to be considered when applying the regulations.

A.2.2 Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (MHSW)

The MHSW Regulations require a risk assessment to be carried out to identify the nature and level of the risks associated with a lifting operation. Factors to be considered include [15]:

— the load being lifted, e.g. weight, centre of gravity;— the risk of the load falling and striking a person or object and the consequences;— the risk of the lifting equipment striking a person or some other object and the consequences;— the risk of the lifting equipment failing in use and the consequences.

Where it is reasonably practicable to obtain and use purpose-built equipment for lifting people, particularly for regular and/or routine operations, then such equipment should be used, e.g. suspended platforms, mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs), [130].

It should be ensured (Regulation 8) that work is properly planned by a competent person, appropriately supervised; and carried out in a safe manner.

The risks for each type of lifting equipment and the way it is used should be assessed and action taken to control the risks. Risks from lifting operations identified by the risk assessment should be eliminated, or reduced to an acceptable level, by applying LOLER.

Guidance on risk assessment is given in the HSE guidance document Five Steps to Risk Assessment [2]. Where PPE is required, there will be a need to consider the requirements of the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992, e.g. the provision of harnesses and life jackets [17].

A proportionate response according to the risk is required [14].


BS 7985:2002

A.2.3 Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

PUWER applies to all work equipment including lifting equipment. Under PUWER it is required that suitable work equipment is selected in terms of:

— its construction and design;— where it is to be used; — the purpose for which it is to be used.

A.3 Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998

A.3.1 Interpretation — Meaning of “lifting equipment” in rope access work (Regulation 2)

Lifting equipment means work equipment that lifts or lowers loads and includes its attachments used for anchoring, fixing or supporting it [10], for example:

— strops, chains, slings, eye-bolts (see A.4.1);— anchorage equipment, e.g. rigging, and associated items used in rope access methods, including ropes, karabiners, harnesses and lanyards;— counterbalanced roof rigs.

A.3.2 Application (Regulation 3)

It is important to note that the term “load” includes a person.

LOLER applies to a wide range of lifting equipment and lifting operations and now includes [29], for example:

— ropes and equipment used for work positioning (personal suspension equipment) during rope access work;— structural examination of a rock face or external structure of a building.

The regulations apply to “employers”, a term which includes the self-employed (in relation to lifting equipment they use themselves) and any other person who has control to any extent of lifting equipment, its use or those who use it. For example, employers have a duty to ensure that lifting equipment provided for their employees, and the self-employed working for them, conforms to the regulations [39(a)]. The regulations also apply to employers who allow their employees to provide their own lifting equipment [39(c)].

When selecting suitable lifting equipment account should be taken of the:

— ergonomic risks [49];— material of manufacture [58].

When planning and undertaking rope access work consideration should be given to:

— the means of access and egress [62];— protection against slips, trips and falls [68];— protection of the operative(s), against, for example, weather, contaminants and noise [83];— the effects of high wind, perhaps ceasing work when necessary [89].

A.3.3 Strength (Regulation 4)

Under LOLER it is required to ensure that lifting equipment has adequate strength for its proposed use [98]. Equipment should be selected which meets standards relevant to the intended use.

Anchorage equipment for rope access work, e.g. strops, slings, ropes, karabiners are part of lifting equipment. Supervisors should be assessed for competence in the selection of suitable anchor and belay points and particular attention should be paid to “mounting or fixing points”, i.e. rigging, deviations. [101].

A.3.4 Stability (Regulation 4)

In the same way as described in A.3.3, LOLER requires that it is ensured that lifting equipment has adequate stability and will not collapse or overturn when working, e.g. counterbalanced roof rigs [104].

Where lifting equipment is anchored to other work equipment or structures [109] it should be ensured that the latter can withstand the forces the equipment (and its use) will impose on them.


BS 7985:2002

A.3.5 Lifting equipment used for lifting people (Regulation 5)

As a general principle, the risk of a person falling should be eliminated or, if this is not possible, it should be reduced (see A.2.2).

Assessment should be made of the risk of a person being crushed, trapped or struck or falling from the “carrier” (a term that describes the means of holding the person, i.e. for rope access, the harness [136]) [147].

Where rope access techniques are necessary, LOLER requires the use of suitable devices, or other effective measures, to prevent the “carrier” from falling in the event of failure of the primary means of support [152], for example:

— by the use of a safety (back-up) rope with a separate anchorage;— by the use of rope that conforms to BS EN 1891:1998, type A or, where appropriate, BS EN 892;— by daily inspections of the equipment by a competent person [153] and adequate instruction and training for all persons involved (see also Regulation 8).

In the event of an emergency a reliable means of rescue should be available [156]. Risk assessment should consider the options and method(s) for workmate rescue. Those working should be trained in emergency lowering and the use of self-rescue equipment and other relevant rescue procedures [158].

A.3.6 Positioning and installation (Regulation 6)

Rope access equipment is not “installed” within the meaning of LOLER. Nevertheless, it should be positioned and rigged to reduce to as low as reasonably practicable the risk of the equipment (or a load) striking people, or the risk of the load:

— drifting;— falling freely; — being released unintentionally.

Lifting equipment should be positioned to minimize the need to lift loads over people [162] and consideration given to whether:

— unauthorized access below the work area should be prevented;— there is a need to cover any passageways below to help protect persons should a load drop unexpectedly [169];— rope access operatives in close vicinity might endanger each other.

Loads should not be allowed to:

— drift, e.g. in a wind;— snag, e.g. on sharp edges.

This can be prevented by the use of deviations or belays. In addition, loads should not be allowed to:

— pendulum, e.g. on long drops; — become entangled, e.g. by unnecessarily suspending excess rope beneath the operative.

Lifting equipment should be fitted with suitable devices, e.g. back-up devices, to minimize the risk of the load (including persons) falling out of control [174]. It should be ensured that, where practicable, operatives do not climb above anchor points when using work-positioning techniques. They should use safety lines with a back-up device or other suitable system and ensure that ropes are descended in a controlled manner using a mechanical descender device.

Loads should be prevented from being released unintentionally by, for example:

— adequately training people;— always using connectors with a safety locking action and by ensuring that they are only loaded in their designed direction.


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A.3.7 Marking of lifting equipment (Regulation 7)

A.3.7.1 General

A declaration (or certificate) of conformity indicating the standard to which the equipment conforms, and information on any strength requirements, should be available to the user.

All components of a rope access system should be identifiable in such a way that they can be easily associated with their respective documentation e.g. declarations of conformity, test certificates and examination reports. This may be by the manufacturer’s batch marking or other forms of identification [188], for example, ropes could be tagged using a coding system to provide the user with a cross-reference to any appropriate records. Marking of metal components should not be by stamping, unless by agreement with the manufacturer.

A.3.7.2 PPE

The regulations require lifting equipment to be marked to indicate its safe working load (SWL). Rope access equipment is specifically designed to support a person (in a rescue scenario there may be two people). Therefore, implicit in the use of the equipment, and the standards relating to its use, is the concept of an SWL (as required by LOLER) in terms of body weight, (see, for example, BS EN 813).

All items of PPE and similar equipment are, therefore, automatically rated for a safe working load of one person in normal deployment [187]. However, because of the factor of safety built into the equipment (which varies from four to 22, for single person use), in a rescue scenario the equipment may be used by two persons. This is provided that the rescuers are fully trained and on the strict understanding that there should be no dynamic forces.

A.3.7.3 Low stretch rope

The Machinery Directive (98/37/EC) [12] states that textile ropes or slings should have a working coefficient which is, as a general rule, equal to seven. In addition, for the lifting of persons, the working coefficient has, as a general rule, to be doubled, i.e. a total factor of safety equal to fourteen. These are only general rules and, for rope access work, industry has typically adopted a figure of ten. Accordingly, low stretch rope should have a safe working load of one-tenth of the minimum breaking load. For specific details reference should be made to the manufacturer’s information.

A.3.7.4 Dynamic rope

For dynamic rope conforming to BS EN 892, which is tested dynamically only, the concept of an SWL (as required by LOLER) is introduced by considering that it is usually suitable for use by one person only.

A.3.7.5 Roof rigs, etc.

Counterbalanced roof rigs, etc. used in rope access work (i.e. more traditional lifting equipment) should be designed and used in accordance with the appropriate standard(s), e.g. BS 5974, and be marked accordingly with a safe working load.

A.3.8 Organization of lifting operations (Regulation 8)

Rope access work for industrial purposes is considered a lifting operation and should be properly planned by a competent person, be appropriately supervised and carried out in a safe manner. It is important to ensure that:

— people planning rope access work have adequate practical and theoretical knowledge and experience of planning lifting operations [210];— the work is organized so that, where practicable, loads are not carried or suspended over people [230];— there is a danger zone (exclusion zone) at anchor level and, where possible, people are not present in the area below any rope access work, i.e. access is prevented [232] or a sentry posted.


BS 7985:2002

When planning and organizing work account should be taken of:

— visibility [237], e.g. communication and whether operatives can see and hear each other;— attaching, detaching and securing of loads [244], e.g. have the appropriate pulleys, screwlink connectors, karabiners, etc. been used;— environment [253 and 254], e.g. excessive wind speed, heavy rain, icing, nearby chimneys and emissions;— overturning [258 and 259], e.g. slip of dead weight anchors, or stability of tripods;— proximity hazards [265], e.g. power lines, sharp edges, crane operations.

Lifting equipment in rope access work is exposed to conditions that could cause deterioration and result in dangerous situations. These conditions could (for example) include abrasion, possible exposure to chemicals, or a severe shock load.

Therefore, pre-use checks of rope access equipment are essential before any work is carried out. All operatives should be trained and capable of inspecting the items of PPE that they are using, and the supervisor should be capable of inspecting and monitoring ropes, rigging gear and anchors. All work should be supervised by a competent person.

It is essential that people who use lifting equipment have received appropriate training, information and instruction so that they can carry out pre-use checks and ensure safe rope access work [285]. The user or operator is best placed to identify faults or damage to equipment [286] and operatives should be authorized to withdraw from use any component of their working system that they consider necessary.

The following are of particular importance.

— There should always be a visual and tactile pre-use check [287] to identify obvious faults due to day-to-day wear and tear and failure or damage of all equipment, i.e. to check that the equipment will function correctly and is safe to use. Suspect items should be taken out of service and checked by a competent person to determine the appropriate action to be taken. Irreparable items should be rendered unusable and then disposed of. Repairs should only be carried out by a competent person or organization; this is usually the manufacturer. — Ropes should be rigged so as to reflect the way in which they are being used [274], i.e. avoiding sharp bends, taking account of deviations, considering carefully the sling configurations and taking account of the effect of knots and possible contamination of the rope.

A.3.9 Thorough examination and inspection (Regulation 9)

A.3.9.1 Thorough examination

LOLER requires lifting equipment to be “thoroughly examined”. All equipment that requires a thorough examination should be identified [296].

Thorough examination should be undertaken by a competent person, who has appropriate practical and theoretical knowledge and experience of rope access equipment to enable them to detect defects or weaknesses and assess their importance in relation to the safety and continued use of the lifting equipment [294]. The competent person should decide upon the nature and extent of the examination and carry out tests when necessary [301]. Any thorough examination of personal protective equipment should not include proof loading but should normally rely on pre-use checks and inspection by competent persons.

It is essential that the person carrying out a thorough examination is sufficiently independent and impartial to allow objective decisions to be made, i.e. they have appropriate and genuine authority to discard equipment. This does not mean that competent persons necessarily have to be employed from an external company [295].

Ideally, companies should be competent to conduct their own examinations. The company’s insurer can normally be expected to accept this, but the company should check that this is the case. If required, the supplier or the manufacturer might be able to suggest suitable people or organizations.

Lifting equipment should be thoroughly examined before use for the first time and the manufacturer’s declaration of conformity normally can be taken as proof that this has been done. Thereafter, where it is being used for rope access work, it should be thoroughly examined either:

— every six months; or— in accordance with time intervals specified in an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person.


BS 7985:2002

In drawing up an examination scheme, a competent person should take into account the recommendations of the manufacturer/supplier [336]. Lifting equipment should also be thoroughly examined each time exceptional circumstances occur [397] which could jeopardize the safety of the equipment.

Lifting equipment should be thoroughly examined after installation, but the term “installation” does not apply to the positioning or repositioning of rope access equipment [308]. “Installation” is taken to apply to longer-term, normally fixed, equipment items, e.g. site cranes and hoists, [307].

If lifting equipment (or kit) is taken for use in another business, then a copy of the equipment’s current thorough examination report should be made available [343] to that employer.

A.3.9.2 Inspection

Inspections of lifting equipment should be carried out over and above the pre-use check, at suitable intervals between thorough examinations, where the risk assessment carried out under the MHSW Regulations has identified risks that could be addressed by inspection [335], e.g. in the case of items subject to high levels of wear and tear, such as textiles.

A.3.10 Reports and defects (Regulation 10)

A.3.10.1 Thorough examination

The competent person should make a report of the state of the equipment at the time of the thorough examination [348], and any identified defect(s) should be included. (A list of information required is given in LOLER, Schedule 1.) The competent person should notify the employer immediately of any defect [345], which in their opinion is, or could become, a danger to people. They should also send a copy of the report to the HSE within 28 days of the thorough examination if they consider there is an imminent risk of serious personal injury [351] arising from failure of the equipment should anyone attempt to use it.NOTE With a regime of regular inspection and pre-use checks it is not anticipated that a thorough examination will normally identify equipment that is, or could become, a danger to people.

If a defect is notified, it should be ensured that the lifting equipment is not used before the defect is rectified or that it is rectified within the time specified in the report [350].

A.3.10.2 Inspection

A person making an inspection should make a record of the inspection in writing. If, during an inspection, a defect is discovered which could become a danger to people, the employer should be informed and the lifting equipment not used before the defect is rectified.

A.3.11 Records (Regulation 11)

Copies of any EC Declarations of Conformity for any lifting equipment should be kept for as long as the equipment remains in use [356].

Information contained in any thorough examination report for the previous two years should be readily available to inspectors from the relevant enforcing authority, should they request to see them [356]. Inspection records should be kept until the subsequent inspection.

A.4 Additional information

A.4.1 Eye bolts

A.4.1.1 General

There is some confusion over the application of LOLER to safety equipment anchorage eye bolts. In earlier sector-specific lifting legislation [such as the Construction (Lifting Operations) Regulations], which LOLER has replaced, eye bolts were classed as “lifting gear” and were required to be thoroughly examined every 6 months. British Standards have recommended different periods for anchorage eye bolts, but only in standards that refer to eye bolts used as anchor devices for protection against falls from a height. In such circumstances, they are not being used for lifting or lowering and do not, therefore, come within the scope of LOLER. However, where the same eye bolts are being used for lifting or lowering, e.g. as anchors for rope access work, then they are covered by the requirements of LOLER, which take precedence, as compliance with standards is voluntary and not a legal requirement (except in the case of standards that are cited in legislation).


BS 7985:2002

A.4.1.2 Eye bolts for lifting

A removable threaded eye bolt, screwed into a load as an attachment for lifting slings, etc., is an “accessory for lifting” and needs to be thoroughly examined (Regulation 9).

A pad eye or link permanently fastened to a load to connect lifting slings is deemed to be part of the load. They are required to be maintained (PUWER, Regulation 5), are required to be of adequate strength (LOLER, Regulation 4) and require a pre-use check (LOLER, Regulation 8).

An eye bolt or pad eye used as an anchor for supporting lifting equipment, such as a winch or rope access equipment, is lifting equipment and subject to LOLER.

In all the above cases there is an absolute duty under PUWER to maintain the eye bolts in a safe condition.

Under LOLER such eye bolts are required to be thoroughly examined by a competent person every 6 months (or at frequencies given in a written examination scheme drawn up by a competent person). The competent person has the responsibility to determine whether the thorough examination should include testing. In addition, eye bolts should be inspected before use and not used if there is any doubt about their safe condition.

A.4.1.3 Eye bolts for fall arrest

An eye bolt which acts as an anchor for a fall arrest lanyard is not a lifting accessory and does not require examination under LOLER. Instead, it is considered part of the fabric of the building, structure, etc. and comes under the provisions of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.

BS EN 795 recommends examination at least every 12 months by a competent person. Examination after installation and at regular intervals subsequently is also likely to be necessary to comply with the general requirements of the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974 (i.e. the duty of an employer to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of employees). The competent person should carry out the examination in accordance with the guidance and recommendations given in the relevant standards.

A.4.2 Marking of lifting equipment

A.4.2.1 General

Equipment used in rope access is primarily governed by the EC Directive on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), 89/686/EEC [7] (and its amending Directives, 93/68/EEC, 93/95/EEC and 96/58/EEC). Therefore, the marking of a safe working load (SWL), as required by LOLER, is not straightforward. Generally, the BS EN standards, to which most rope access equipment should conform, do not specify an SWL, either in the performance requirements or in the marking requirements. Even though rope access equipment is not expected in normal use to withstand falls, BS EN standards covering rope access equipment specify a minimum breaking load (static strength) and/or a maximum impact force. Where a maximum impact force is specified, the test mass employed is 100 kg (except for mountaineering equipment, for which it is 80 kg). These masses are taken to be the equivalent of the weight of a person.

A.4.2.2 PPE

Unlike most lifting equipment, PPE or similar equipment used in rope access may be designed to withstand the impact of dynamic falls, with static loading as a secondary consideration, for example connectors specified in BS EN 362. Most lifting equipment, such as cranes and other installed lifting equipment, is generally rated for static loading only (with no requirement to withstand a dynamic force).


BS 7985:2002

Annex B (informative)Typical method of descending and ascending using rope access techniques

B.1 Pre-use equipment check

All equipment should be submitted to a pre-use check to ensure that it is in good condition and functions correctly. Suspect items should not be used and should be taken out of service. In addition, before approaching the point of descent or ascent or commencing the ascent or descent, checks should be made to ensure that:

— harness(es) are fastened properly;— lanyards and connectors are fastened properly;— anchors are secure;— ropes (working lines and safety lines) are anchored properly and free from damage;— stopper knots are tied at the lower end of both the anchor line and the safety line at an appropriate position, with an allowance for stretch;— tools or other objects are secured so they cannot fall.

When the point of ascent/descent is reached, further checks should be made to ensure that:

— ropes are rigged so as to avoid damage during the work operation;— rope adjustment devices are attached properly and securely (e.g. descenders, ascenders, back-up device).

B.2 Use of the back-up device

The back-up device should be used to protect against falls before, during and after attachment to the suspension rope. It should be the first item to be attached, before ascenders/descender, and the last item to be removed at the point of egress, after removing the descender or ascenders. In order to keep potential falls to a minimum, the back-up device should be operated so that slack does not develop in the connecting lanyard. It is essential that the back-up device is never positioned below the level of the operative.

B.3 Ascending and descendingNOTE When an operative is preparing to load the suspension rope, either for descent or ascent, care should be taken to eliminate slack rope. Slack can occur if the anchor is positioned some distance from the point of loading, or when an operative unloads the rope halfway down a descent.

B.3.1 Method for descending (see Figure B.1)

Approach the area of descent safely, using an additional fall protection system if necessary. Place the back-up device on the chosen safety line and position it to minimize any potential fall. Disconnect from the additional safety system (if appropriate) and move to a position adjacent to the point of descent. Thread the descender onto the working line, check security and operation and lock the descender. Position for descent and move the back-up device to a position where it can be operated conveniently. Control the “tail” rope leaving the descender and remove the lock on the descender. Descend carefully and slowly, controlling the speed of descent by means of the descender, the precise method depending on the type of descender used. Never lose control of the “tail” rope leaving the descender. Always lock off the descender during stops in the descent. Ensure the back-up device is operated with minimum slack in the connecting lanyard.

When the working position is reached, lock off the descender and position the back-up device as high as possible.

B.3.2 Method for ascending (see Figure B.2)

Approach the point of ascent safely, using an additional fall protection system if necessary, taking the precautions detailed in B.1, B.2 and the note to B.3. Check all rope adjustment devices and connectors for security. Place the back-up device on the selected rope (the safety line) at shoulder height. Fit the other rope (the working line) to the chest ascender, and take the initial stretch out of it by pulling it down through the chest ascender. Fit the foot ascender above the chest ascender (also on the working line) and, by standing in the foot loop, pull through any further slack, passing the slack also through the chest ascender until the line is as taut as possible.

To begin the ascent, sit down on the chest ascender and lift the foot ascender to approximately helmet height. Stand up in the footloop and pull the resulting slack through the chest ascender as before. Sit down, so the load is again taken on the chest ascender, and repeat this process until the ascent is completed.


BS 7985:2002

Move the back-up device up the safety line during the ascent, taking care to avoid slack in the connecting lanyard. On reaching the top of the climb, attach to a secure anchor or safety system. Remove the chest ascender from the rope first, then the foot ascender. When a position of safety has been reached, remove the back-up device.NOTE It is essential that ascenders are only used in tension on the rope and that they are never used in such a way that they could be subjected to a dynamic load (the force of a fall).


BS 7985:2002

Figure B.1 — Example of working in the descent mode (with descender locked off) in a rope access system

Safety line

Back-up device

Descender

Work seat

Work positioningharness

Chest harness

Helmet

Working line


BS 7985:2002

Figure B.2 — Example of a typical method of ascending in a rope access system

Chest ascender

Working line

Ascender

Helmet

Chest harness

Work positioningharness

Descender

Safety line

Back-up device


BS 7985:2002

Annex C (informative) Equipment inspection checklist

An equipment inspection checklist is given in Table C.1.

Table C.1 — Equipment inspection checklist

Component Inspection procedure

All textile equipment: General checking procedure for all textile equipment

� Have you read the information supplied by the manufacturer?

� Is the product within the manufacturer’s recommended lifespan?

Visual — Check for:

� Excessive wear to any part

� Abrasion, particularly to load-bearing parts

� Furry webbing or rope (this indicates abrasion)

� Stitching cut, broken or abraded

� Cuts, particularly to load-bearing parts

� Dirty webbing or rope (dirt accelerates abrasion, both externally and internally)

Visual and tactile — Check for:

� Damage by chemicals. Powdery surface ��

and/or discolouration � and/or hardened areas � (these often signify chemical contamination)

� Damage by heat, e.g. glazed areas

Action:

� Product beyond recommended lifespan: remove from service

� Excessive wear to any part: remove from service

� Abrasion: a small amount is permissible. Remove from service if excessive

� Cuts: remove from service

� Dirty: clean according to manufacturer’s instructions

� Chemical contamination: remove from service

� Heat damage: remove from service

� Stitching cut, broken or abraded: remove from service

If in doubt on any point, remove from service


BS 7985:2002

Table C.1 — Equipment inspection checklist (continued)


Working lines and safety lines

Checks in addition to the general checking procedure for all textile equipment

Visual — Check:

� Ends of rope for excessive wear

Visual and tactile — Check for:

� Internal damage. On cable-laid ropes, open up the lay and inspect as above. On kernmantel ropes, feel for unusually soft or hard areas, on sheath and core. (This signifies damage.) Particularly check ends of ropes

Action:

� Excessive internal grit: Clean according to manufacturer’s instructions. If it is not possible to remove the grit, inspect the rope for damage by abrasion more frequently than normal

� Unusually soft or hard areas: remove from service. (Sometimes, the damage is only local, so damaged areas can be cut out.)


Harnesses Checks in addition to the general checking procedure for all textile equipment

Visual and tactile — Check:

� Inside and outside any textile attachment point loops for all the features listed under the general checking procedure

� Fastening and adjustment buckles for: � correct assembly, � correct functioning, � excessive wear, � corrosion, � cracks, � other damage

� Other safety critical metal or plastics components for: � correct functioning, � corrosion, � cracks, � other damage

Action:

� Textile attachment point loops: treat in accordance with general checking procedure

� Fastening and adjustment buckles, other safety critical metal or plastics components:

� Excessive wear: remove from service

� Corrosion: remove from service

� Cracks: remove from service

� Other damage: remove from service

� Incorrect functioning: remove from service



BS 7985:2002



Cow’s tails, lanyards, strops, slings

Checks in addition to general checking procedure for all textile equipment

Visual and tactile — Check:

� Inside and outside any attachment point loops for all the features listed under the general checking procedure

� All knots for security

� That knot overlaps are sufficient

� That knots in cow’s tails are not too tight (i.e. that they would still provide some energy absorption)

Action:

� Attachment point loops: treat in accordance with general checking procedure

� Knots: if in doubt, remove from service. Knots may be re-tied by a competent person. Tension knot with body weight and ensure that there is sufficient overlap (minimum 100 mm). If the knots in a cow’s tail appear to be very tight, either re-tie the knots or replace the cow’s tail



BS 7985:2002



Metal components Checking procedures for metal components

Descenders � Have you read the information supplied by the manufacturer?


� Wear, particularly on bobbins

� Deformation

� Cuts

� Cracks

� Heavy marking or scoring

� Burring

� Corrosion

� Contamination by chemicals e.g. pitting, flaking of aluminium products (usually due to salt water)

� Build up of foreign matter, e.g. grit, grease, paint

Visual and tactile — Check that:

� Moving parts function correctly, e.g. handles, locking devices

� Threaded assemblies are fully tightened and correctly secured

� There is no deformation of any parts, e.g. handles

Action:

� Remove any foreign matter

� Some wear is permissible: refer to manufacturer’s information

� Deformation: remove from service

� Cuts, heavy burring, marking or scoring: remove from service


� Contamination by chemicals: remove from service


� Threaded assemblies not properly tightened: remove from service



BS 7985:2002



Ascenders/Back-up devices

� Have you read the information supplied by the manufacturer?


� Wear, particularly on cam teeth or face, rope channel

� Deformation

� Cuts

� Cracks


� Burring

� Corrosion




� Moving parts function correctly, e.g. cam, springs, locking catch

� Hinge pin is in good condition

� Threaded assemblies are fully tightened and correctly secured

� There is no deformation of any parts

Action:


� Wear: some wear is permissible; refer to manufacturer’s information

� Moving parts: if any do not function correctly, remove from service

� Hinge pin not in good condition: remove from service









BS 7985:2002



Connectors � Have you read the information supplied by the manufacturer?


� Wear, particularly where the rope or webbing normally lies

� Deformation

� Cuts

� Cracks


� Burring

� Corrosion




� Moving parts function correctly, e.g. keeper locates in body correctly, spring returns keeper correctly, keeper locking mechanism operates correctly (screw gate, twist-lock), any threaded parts run correctly

� Hinge pin is in good condition

� Catch pin is not bent

� There is no deformation of any parts

Action:


� Wear: some wear is permissible; refer to manufacturer’s information

� Moving parts: if any do not function correctly, remove from service

� Hinge pin not in good condition: remove from service

� Catch pin bent: remove from service









BS 7985:2002

Table C.1 — Equipment inspection checklist (concluded)

Annex D (informative)Suspension trauma

Suspension trauma is a condition in which a person suspended in a harness can experience pallor, cold sweats, nausea, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, dizziness, feeling faint, loss of consciousness and eventually death. The condition appears mainly to affect persons who are suspended in a harness without moving, for example, when unconscious.

Muscular action in moving the limbs normally assists the return against gravity of blood in the veins back to the heart. If the legs are completely immobile, these “muscle pumps” do not operate and an excess of blood accumulates in the veins, which are capable of considerable expansion and, therefore, have considerable capacity. The excess of blood in the veins is known as venous pooling. Pressure from the harness straps on veins and arteries could also be a contributory factor to this retention of blood in the venous system, which reduces the circulating blood volume available to the heart. Thus, the circulatory system is disturbed. This can lead to a critical reduction of blood to the brain and the symptoms described above. Other organs critically dependent on a good blood supply, such as the kidneys, can also suffer serious damage, with fatal consequences.

The movement of a person with venous pooling (e.g. in a rescue) into a horizontal position can cause a massive flow of venous blood to the heart, which cannot cope, and this can cause potentially fatal cardiac abnormalities.

In several clinical trials where the test subjects were told not to move, most experienced many of the symptoms of suspension trauma, some including loss of consciousness, in just a few minutes. Others managed for longer before reporting symptoms.

It seems that steps can be taken to minimize the risk of rope access operatives experiencing the condition. Frequent “pumping” of the legs, preferably against a firm surface, will activate the muscles and should reduce the risk of venous pooling. Harness leg loops should be well-padded and as wide as possible to spread the load and reduce any restrictions. The use of a workseat might be advisable if work in one position is to be sustained for an extended period.


Helmets � Have you read the information supplied by the manufacturer?

� Is the helmet within the manufacturer’s recommended lifespan?

Visual and tactile

Check for:

� Cracks, deformation or other damage to the shell

� Damage to the cradle/chinstrap assembly

� Excessive wear to any part

Check that:

� Chin strap adjusts easily

Action:

� Helmet beyond recommended lifespan: remove from service

� Any cracks, deformation or other damage, including scoring or cuts to the shell: remove from service

� Damage to the cradle/chinstrap assembly: remove from service

� No chin strap, or chin strap does not adjust easily: remove from service



BS 7985:2002

An injured person hanging in a harness awaiting rescue might be better off in a substantially horizontal position or with the knees elevated. During rescue, it could be advisable not to allow the casualty to become totally horizontal, but to be in a sat-up position, with the knees bent, to avoid a rapid return of venous blood to the heart. The eventual movement of the casualty to the horizontal position should perhaps be carried out only very slowly over an extended period of around 30 min to 40 min. It could be necessary to consider dialysis to protect the kidneys. Medical advice should be sought on all these points.

The number of incidents of suspension trauma in a normal rope access working environment appears to be minimal, as there is little evidence of it occurring in such an environment. However, it is clear that an effective rescue plan is essential to ensure that, following an accident, the operative is removed from the suspended position and cared for in a proper manner, and is taken to hospital as quickly as possible.

Annex E (informative)The effect of wind speed and working height on available working times

The information given in Table E.1 is based on work presented in the Toronto University Wind Study Report on the Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank headquarters and in a survey of factors affecting working periods at various heights in windy and inclement conditions.

Table E.1 is intended only to be an example, as the actual height where work is being done and the temperature of the surrounding air have a major effect on available working time.

The values in Table E.1 give an indication of what might be a reasonable length of shift at different wind speeds when the work situation, a platform in this case, is unprotected and an indication of the benefits that might be obtained from the use of containment netting or containment sheeting as a protection.

Table E.1 — Available working time in an 8 h shift at different wind speeds

Others sources of information on recommended working practices in relation to wind speed include the following:

— BS 5975:1996, 6.3.1.3.1, in relation to falsework, refers to a “...maximum wind speed during which working operations can take place...” of Beaufort Scale 6 (or, a design wind speed, v�s, of 18 m/s);— BS 1139-5:1990, 5.3.2.1 (b), in relation to scaffolding, refers to “...working wind conditions...” and a design wind pressure of 220 N/m2 distributed uniformly over the projected area of the scaffold;— Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA) Special Publication 131 Crane Stability on Site [13] Chapter 1.4 gives a “...typical maximum in-service wind speed...” for a tower crane of 20 m/s (45 m.p.h.);— Prefabricated Aluminium Scaffolding Manufacturers Association (PASMA) Operator’s Code of Practice [14] Chapter 5.4 repeats the advice given in BS 1139-3: 1994 and states that “...if the wind speed should exceed 17 m.p.h. you should cease to work upon the tower”.

Wind speed Available working time

Unprotected With containment netting With containment sheeting

m/s h h h

2 8 8 85 5 7 87 4 6 79 3 5 6

11 2 4 514 1.5 3 428 0.5a 0.5a 0.5a,b a Emergency work only.b Sheeting could be in danger of blowing away.


BS 7985:2002

Annex F (informative)Useful addresses

For HSE priced and free publications (not national regulations or standards):

HSE BooksPO Box 1999SudburySuffolk CO10 2WATel: 01 787 881 165 Fax: 01 787 313 995

For health and safety enquiries:

HSE Information ServicesCaerphilly Business ParkCaerphilly CF83 3GGHSE Infoline: 08701 545 500 or contact the local area office

For copies of national regulations:

Stationery Office BooksPO Box 276London SW8 5DTTel: 0870 600 5544Fax: 0870 600 5533

For DTI publications on PPE only:

Standards and Technical Regulations Directorate 4Department of Trade and Industry151 Buckingham Palace RoadLondon SW1W 9SSTel: 0207 215 5000

For National Federation of Steeplejacks and Lightning Conductor Engineers information:

The National Federation of Master Steeplejacks and Lightning Conductor Engineers4d St. Mary’s PlaceThe Lace MarketNottinghamNG1 1PHTel: 0115 955 8818 Fax: 0115 941 2238

For Industrial Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA) publications and enquiries:

Industrial Rope Access Trade AssociationAssociation House235 Ash RoadAldershotHampshire GU12 4DDTel: 01252 336 318 Fax: 01252 333 901Email: [email protected] Web: http://www.irata.org


BS 7985:2002

Bibliography

Standards publications

BS 1139-3:1994, Metal scaffolding — Part 3: Specification for prefabricated mobile access and working towers.

BS 1139-5:1990, Metal scaffolding — Part 5: Specification for materials, dimensions, design loads and safety requirements for service and working scaffolds made of prefabricated elements.

BS 4275:1997, Guide to implementing an effective respiratory protective device programme.

BS 5975:1996, Code of practice for falsework.

BS EN 341:1993, Personal protective equipment against falls from a height — Descender devices.

BS EN 353-2:1993, Personal protective equipment against falls from a height: guided type fall arresters — Part 2: Specification for guided type fall arresters on a flexible anchorage line.

BS EN 354:1993, Personal protective equipment against falls from a height — Lanyards.

BS EN 358: 2000, Personal protective equipment for work positioning and prevention of falls from a height — Belts for work positioning and restraint and work positioning lanyards.

BS EN 363:1993, Personal protective equipment against falls from a height — Fall arrest systems.

BS EN 364:1993, Personal protective equipment against falls from a height — Test methods.

BS EN 365:1993, Personal protective equipment against falls from a height — General requirements for instructions for use and for marking.

BS EN 371:1992, Specification for AX gas filters and combined filters against low boiling organic compounds used in respiratory protective equipment.

BS EN 372:1992, Specification for SX gas filters and combined filters against specific named compounds used in respiratory protective equipment.

BS EN 397:1995, Specification for industrial safety helmets.

BS EN 405:1993, Respiratory protective devices: valved filtering half masks to protect against gases or gases and particles.

BS EN 566: 1997, Mountaineering equipment — Slings — Safety requirements and test methods.

BS EN 919:1995, Fibre ropes for general service — Determination of certain physical and mechanical properties.

BS EN ISO 9001:2000, Quality management systems — Requirements.

prEN 12841, Personal protective equipment for the prevention of falls from a height — Work positioning systems — Rope adjustment devices.

Other publications

[1] INDUSTRIAL ROPE ACCESS TRADE ASSOCIATION. Guidelines on the use of rope access methods for industrial purposes. Edition 2.1, 2000.

[2] HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE. Five steps to risk assessment (INDG163) (revision 1) 1998.

[3] HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE. Health and safety in construction (HS(G)150) 1996.

[4] HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE. Health and safety in roof work (HS(G)33) 1998.

[5] HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE. RIDDOR 95 — Offshore (HSE33) 1999.

[6] HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE. Everyone’s guide to RIDDOR 95 (HSE31) 1999.

[7] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES 89/686/EEC Council Directive on the approximation of the laws of the member states relating to personal protective equipment, and amendments. Luxembourg: Office for the Official Publications of the European Communities. 1989.

[8] DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY. Personal Protective Equipment: Guidance notes on UK Regulations, 1996.


BS 7985:2002

[9] NATIONAL FEDERATION OF MASTER STEEPLEJACKS AND LIGHTNING CONDUCTOR ENGINEERS. Code of practice and recommended safe working methods for the steeplejack industry: Working on Tall Structures — Health Risks (revised 1998).

[10] HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE. Electrical safety on construction sites (HS(G)141) 1995.

[11] HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE. Protecting the public – Your next move (HS(G)151) 1997.

[12] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES. 98/37/EC. Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to machinery. Luxembourg: Office for the Official Publications of the European Communities. 1998.

[13] CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY RESEARCH AND INFORMATION ASSOCIATION (CIRIA). Special publication 131 Crane stability on site 19961).

[14] PREFABRICATED ALUMINIUM SCAFFOLDING MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION (PASMA). Operator’s code of practice. 2000 (7th revision)2).

[15] HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE. COSHH. A brief guide to the regulations. (INDG136 rev 1) 1999.

[16] HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE. Guidance on manual handling 1998 (HSE L23).

[17] HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE. Simple Guide to the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (INDG290).

[18] HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE. Simple Guide to the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (INDG291)

[19] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES. 89/391/EEC Council Directive on the introduction of measures to encourage improvements in the safety and health of workers at work. Luxembourg: Office for the Official Publications of the European Communities. 1989.

[20] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES. 89/654/EEC Council Directive concerning the minimum safety and health requirements for the work place. Luxembourg: Office for the Official Publications of the European Communities. 1989.

[21] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES. 89/656/EEC Council Directive on the minimum health and safety requirements for the use by workers of personal protective equipment at the workplace. Luxembourg: Office for the Official Publications of the European Communities. 1989.

[22] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES. 92/57/EEC Council Directive on the implementation of minimum safety and health requirements at temporary or mobile construction sites. Luxembourg: Office for the Official Publications of the European Communities. 1992.

[23] EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES. 95/63/EC: amending 89/655/EEC Council Directive concerning the minimum safety and health requirements for the use of work equipment by workers at work. Luxembourg: Office for the Official Publications of the European Communities. 1995.

1) Available from Construction Industry Research and Information Association, 6 Storey’s Gate, Westminster, London SW1P 3AU. Tel: 0207 222 8891.2) Available from Prefabricated Aluminium Scaffolding Manufacturers Association, PO Box 1828, West Mersea, Essex, CO5 8HY.


BS 7985:2002

Index

aid climbing, 3.1.4, 5.2.25, 5.2.26, 12.3.1.5alterations to equipment, 11.10anchor devices, application and use of, 12.3.5.6, A.4.1.1anchor lines, 3.2.4.1, 5.2.2, 12.3.1.1, 12.3.5.1, 12.3.5.5anchor-weight systems see dead-weight anchorsanchorage danger zone, 12.3.4.2anchorages, 3.2.3anchors, 3.2.3.1, 12.3.5

see also dead-weight anchorsascenders, 3.2.5.1, 8.3.11, 11.4, Annex Bascending, B.3.2

back-up devices, 3.2.5.3, 5.2.8, 8.3.10, B.2back-up rope, see safety linebarriers, 12.6.4belay see anchorsbody supports, 8.3.2

see also harnessesbreaking load, 3.3.3, 8.3.1.1, 8.3.8.3

care and maintenance of equipment, clause 11CE marking, 8.1.2, 9.1certification of equipment, clause 9chemicals, contact with, 11.3.4, 11.3.5clothing and protective equipment, 5.1.2c, 5.2.17, 8.2communications systems, 12.5compatibility of equipment, 8.1.4completion of work, 12.8confined spaces, working in, 12.2.8connectors, 3.2.6, 8.3.1.3, 8.3.8, 11.4, 12.3.5.8

see also screwlink connectorsConstruction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM

Regulations), 4.1, 4.3, 12.2.5Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations (CHSW

Regulations), 4.1, 4.3, 5.1.2, 12.1.2, 12.7Construction (Head Protection) Regulations, 4.1, 8.2.4 Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations, 4.1, 4.7Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations

(COSHH), 4.1, 4.7cordless power tools, 12.4.3.3cow’s tails, 3.2.8, 8.3.1.2, 8.3.15

dead-weight anchors, 12.3.5.7descenders, 3.2.5.2, 5.2.9, 8.3.9, 11.4, Annex Bdescending: 8.3.6, B.3.1disinfection of equipment, 11.6documentation to be kept on site, 12.2.5double protection, principle of, 5.2.2, 12.3.1.1, 12.3.1.2dynamic forces, 8.3.15, A.3.7.2, A.4.2.2dynamic loads, 8.3.11.2, 8.3.12.6, 11.3.2, 12.4.3.2, B.3.2 notedynamic rope, 3.2.4.4, 8.3.1.1, 8.3.3, 8.3.12.6, 8.3.15, A.3.7.4dynamic strength, 8.3.1.1

energy absorbers, 3.2.9, 8.3.3, 8.3.15energy absorption, 3.2.4.5, 8.3.12.6 noteequipment

alterations to, 11.10care and maintenance of, clause 11certification of, clause 9compatibility of, 8.1.4disinfection of, 11.6fall arrest, 8.3.4instructions for use of, 8.1.5knowledge of, 8.1.5limits of use, 8.3.5protective, 8.2selection of, clause 8storage of, 10.4, 11.8suspension, 8.3, 10.3, Annex Btraceability of, 8.3.1.4, clause 9withdrawn from service, 10.1, 11.2, 11.3.4, 11.9work positioning 8.3.2, 8.3.4

European Directive 89/686/EEC Personal protective equipment (PPE), 8.1.2

exclusion zone, 3.6, 5.2.4, 12.6.2, 12.6.4eye protection, 8.2.7b

failure load see breaking load fall arrest, 8.3.1.2, 8.3.2, 8.3.3, 8.3.4, 8.3.5, 8.3.6, 12.3.1.5,

12.3.5.7fall arrest equipment, 8.3.4fall arrest system, 3.2.2, 8.3.3, 12.3.1.5fall factor, 3.5, 8.3.12.6fitness of operatives, clause 6footwear, 8.2.5bfull body harness, 8.3.2, 8.3.3, 8.3.6

gases, health risks from,12.2.7gloves, 8.1.2.2, 8.2.7a

harnesses,5.2.5, 8.3.1.1, 8.3.1.3, 8.3.2, 8.3.3, 8.3.5, 8.3.6, 8.3.13, 9.4, 11.3.1, 11.3.6, 12.3.1.2, 12.3.3.4, 12.3.4.2, 12.4.2.2

Health and Safety at Work etc. Act, foreword, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3health and safety file, 4.9, 12.8.2health and safety plan, 12.2.5 item 1hearing protectors, 8.2.7dhealth risks from gases, 12.2.7height and wind, effect of, 12.3.6, Annex Ehelmets, 8.2.4, 11.5Highways Act, 4.1; 12.6.3

information to be kept on site see documentation to be kept on siteinspection of equipment, 4.5, 5.2.11, 5.2.16, 7.1, 8.3.1.4, 8.3.13,

clause 10, clause 11, A.3.5, A.3.9, A.3.10.2instructions for use of equipment, 8.1.5

karabiners see connectorskernmantel rope, 3.2.4.6, 8.3.12.4, 8.3.12.5

large power tools, 12.4.4lead climbing, 3.1.5, 5.2.25, 12.3.1.5legislation, clause 4life jackets, 8.2.7elifting equipment, 3.2.1, 9.3, 10.2, 10.3, Annex Alifting gear, A.4.1.1limits of equipment use, 8.3.5lines

anchor, 3.2.4.1, 5.2.2, 12.3.1.1, 12.3.5.1, 12.3.5.5safety, 3.2.4.3, 5.2, 8.3.10, 8.3.12, 8.3.15, 12.3.1, 12.3.4, 12.3.5,

A.3.6, B.1, B.3working, 3.2.4.2, 5.2, 8.3.9, 8.3.10.2, 8.3.11.1, 8.3.12, 8.3.15,

12.3.1, 12.3.5.3, B.1, B.3Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER),

4.1, 4.3, 9.3, 10.2, Annex Alow-stretch ropes, 3.2.4.5, 8.3.1.1, 8.3.1.2; 8.3.12.5

maillon rapides see screwlink connectorsManagement of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, 4.1, 4.2,

5.1.2, 8.1.1, 12.1.2, 12.2.1marine environment, equipment exposed to, 11.7marking of equipment, 8.3.1.4, clause 9medical certificates, 6.1.3medical examinations, 7.3metal equipment, care and maintenance of, 11.4methods of work, clause 12Mineral Working (Offshore Installations) Act, 4.1, 4.2

nets, safety, 12.6.2Noise at Work Regulations, 4.1, 8.2.7d

Offshore Installations and Pipeline Works (Management and Administration) Regulations, 4.1, 4.6

Offshore Installations and Wells (Design and Construction) Regulations, 4.1, 4.6

Offshore Installations (Prevention of Fire etc.) Regulations, 4.1, 4.6, 12.3.2.4


BS 7985:2002

Offshore Installations (Safety Case) Regulations, 4.1, 4.9operatives

selection of, clause 6supervision of, clause 7, 12.3.1.2training of, clause 7physical fitness of, 6.1.3provision of facilities for, 12.7welfare of, clause 7

overalls, 8.2.5a

permits to work, 12.2.4personal protective equipment, 4.1, 5.1.2c and d, 8.1.2, 8.2, 9.1,

9.2, 10.2Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations, 4.1,

5.1.2c and d, 8.1.5, 8.2.1, 8.2.3personal suspension equipment, 5.1.2e, 10.3, A.3.2, Annex Bphysical fitness of operatives, 6.1.3power leads, 12.4.3, 12.4.4power tools

cordless, 12.4.3.3large, 12.4.4

PPE see personal protective equipmentpre-work checking, 12.3.3principle of double protection, 5.2.2, 12.3.1.1, 12.3.1.2product knowledge, need for, 8.1.5proof load, 3.3.4, 9.3, 10.2, 11.3.5protection of other people, 12.6protective helmets, 8.2.4, 11.5Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER),

4.1, 8.2.3, 9.3, A.2.3

quicklinks see screwlink connectors

records, 4.5, 4.10, 5.2.11, 5.3, 6.2.1, 7.2.5, 9.4, 10.2, 10.4, 12.2.5, A.3

Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR), 4.1, 4.10

rescue,5.2.19, 12.1.3, 12.2.1, 12.3.2.4, 12.3.5.7, A.3.5, A.3.7.2, Annex D

see also workmate rescuerespiratory protective equipment, 8.2.7crest periods, 12.3.6risk assessment, 4.2, 5.1.2, 5.2.1, 5.2.25, 8.1.1, 10.3, 12.1.2,

12.2.3, 12.3.1.5, 12.3.3.1, A.2.2, A.3.5, A.3.9.2roll-out, 8.3.8.2roof work, 4.8rope adjustment devices, 3.2.5, 8.2.6, 8.3.1.3, Annex Brope clamps see ascenders, back-up devices and descendersrope climbing see ascendingrope protectors, 12.3.4.3ropes, 8.3.12, 11.3

see also linesrust marks, 11.3.3

safe working methods, 12.2safe working load, 3.3.2, 8.3.1.1, 9.3, 10.4, 12.2.5csafety line, 3.2.4.3, 5.2, 8.3.10, 8.3.12, 8.3.15, 12.3.1, 12.3.4,

12.3.5, A.3.6, B.1, B.3safety helmets, 8.2.4, 11.5safety nets, 12.6.2safety rope see safety linesafety method statement, 3.7, 12.2.3, 12.2.5e, 12.3.3.1screwlink connectors, 3.2.6.3, 8.3.8

see also connectors

secondary rope see safety lineselection

of operatives, clause 6of equipment, clause 8

sentries, 3.4.2, 12.3.2.3, 12.3.3.5, 12.5.2, 12.6.4shock absorbers see energy absorbersshock loads see dynamic loads sit harnesses, 5.2.6, 8.3.2, 8.3.5, 8.3.6small tools, 12.4.2static rope see low-stretch ropesstorage of equipment, 10.4, 11.8suitability of rope access versus other means of access,12.1supervision of operatives, clause 7, 12.3.1.2suspended work platforms, temporary, 4.5, 12.3.1.2 notesuspension equipment, 8.3, 12.3.3.2, 12.3.4.3, 12.4.2.1, 12.4.2.3,

12.4.4.3, Annex Bsee also personal suspension equipment

suspension trauma, 12.3.7, Annex D

temporary suspended work platforms, 4.5, 12.3.1.2 notetextile equipment, care and maintenance, 11.3thorough examination of equipment, 10.2, 10.3tools

cordless, 12.4.3.3large power, 12.4.4small, 12.4.2

training of operatives, clause 7see also supervision of operatives

traceability of equipment, 8.3.1.4, clause 9travel restriction using work restraint equipment, 8.3.4, 8.3.5,

8.3.6traversing, 3.1.6, 5.2.25, 8.3.1.2, 12.3.1.5

use of tools and other work equipment, 12.4

webbing, 8.3.13, 11.3, 11.3.6wind and height, effect of, 12.3.6, Annex Ework, methods of, clause 12work platforms see temporary suspended work platformswork positioning, 3.1.2, 8.3, 12.3.1.5work positioning equipment, 8.3.2, 8.3.4work procedure, 12.3.4work teams, 5.2.14, 7.4.1, 12.2.1, 12.3.2working line, 3.2.4.2, 5.2, 8.3.9, 8.3.10.2, 8.3.11.1, 8.3.12, 8.3.15,

12.3.1, 12.3.5.3, B.1, B.3working load limit, 3.3.1, 8.3.1.1, 10.4

see also safe working loadworking practices, 12.3, Annex A, Annex Eworking rope see working lineworking time, effect of wind and height on, 12.3.6, Annex Eworkmate rescue, 3.1.7, 5.2.15, 5.2.18, 5.2.22, 7.1, 7.2.4, 7.2.6,

12.3.2.1, 12.3.7, A.3.5

zero targeting, 3.9, 5.1.1


BS 7985:2002

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