OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 1 of 52

EM&I

OPERATING PROCEDURE

GENERAL ACCESS PROCEDURE

MARINE

Prepared by DMM Date 08/03/2016

Approved by DAC Date 08/03/2016

Confidentiality Statement

This document is commercially confidential and should not be

used, copied or distributed by unauthorised persons without the
prior permission of a Director of an EM&I Group company.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 2 of 52

Review / REVISION History

Review / Reviewed
Revision
Revision Comments / Revised
No
Date By

29/11/95 0 Amendment To Attachment VII DMM

15/10/96 1 Amendment To Attachment IV DMM

NOV 98 1 Reviewed For Relevance, No Changes Made JW

Sept 04 1 Reviewed for content and format – No significant changes made DMM

Reviewed For Format And Content – Addition Of References IX

Sept 05 2 DMM
And X

Oct 06 2 Reviewed for content and format – No significant changes made DMM

June 07 2 Reviewed for content and format – No significant changes made DMM

June 08 2 Reviewed for content and format – No significant changes made DMM

February Reference to ERA-001 amended to ERA-002 following revision

2 DMM
09

28/07/2009 3 Reference to Form IRATA 020 amended to read IRATA form No. JRG
15/2 – Access Log form changed to IRATA form No. 15/2 –
Equipment checklist amended to include Bag and Hours Used.

22/09/2009 3 Reviewed for content and format – No significant changes made DMM

02/02/2010 4 Addition of OCM responsibility for equipment in Section 4.0 DMM

14/09/2010 4 Reviewed for content and format – No significant changes made DMM

11/09/2011 4 Reviewed for content and format – No significant changes made DMM

05/02/2012 5 Reviewed for compliance following Petzl statement on use of Shunt

DMM
back-up device without towing cord – no changes made

10/09/2012 5 Reviewed for content and format – No significant changes made DMM

21/01/2013 6 Amended based on IRATA audit recommendations P Gautier

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 3 of 52

14/09/2013 6 Reviewed for content and format – No significant changes made DMM

27/11/2013 7 Change from P Gautier to G Bissett as IRATA Representative PGr

17/11/2014 7 Reviewed for content and format – No significant changes made PGr

18/11/2015 7 Reviewed for content and format – No significant changes made PGr

08/03/2016 8 General Requirements replaced by Training, Assessment and

PGr
Certification Scheme (TACS)

18/09/2016 8 Reviewed for content and format – No significant changes made DMM

21/03/2017 8 Reviewed for content and format – No significant changes made PGr

29/03/2018 8 Reviewed for content and format – No significant changes made PGr

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 4 of 52

Contents
1.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................. 6

2.0 SCOPE 7

3.0 PERSONNEL ........................................................................................................................................................ 8

4.0 EQUIPMENT / CONSUMABLES.................................................................................................................... 12

4.1 CATEGORIES .......................................................................................................................................................... 12
4.2 SPECIFICATION OF EQUIPMENT ............................................................................................................................. 12
4.3 EQUIPMENT STORAGE / ISSUE / RETURN ............................................................................................................... 13
4.4 EQUIPMENT INSPECTION & DISPOSAL................................................................................................................... 14
5.0 COMMUNICATIONS........................................................................................................................................ 15

6.0 PREPARATION ................................................................................................................................................. 16

6.1 T ASK ASSESSMENT ............................................................................................................................................... 16
6.2 BRIEFING ............................................................................................................................................................... 17
6.3 AMBIENT CONDITIONS .......................................................................................................................................... 18
6.4 WORK-SITE ............................................................................................................................................................ 18
7.0 AMBIENT CONDITIONS ................................................................................................................................. 27
7.1 WIND SPEED .......................................................................................................................................................... 27
7.2 PRECIPITATION ...................................................................................................................................................... 27
7.3 TEMPERATURE ....................................................................................................................................................... 27
7.4 SHIP MOTION ......................................................................................................................................................... 27
7.5 VISIBILITY AND DAYLIGHT WORKING .................................................................................................................. 27
7.6 ENCLOSED SPACES ................................................................................................................................................ 27
8.0 METHODS OF ACCESS ................................................................................................................................... 29
8.1 STATIC ROPE TECHNIQUES / DOUBLE ROPE TECHNIQUE (DRT) .......................................................................... 29
8.2 CLIMBING .............................................................................................................................................................. 29
9.0 SAFETY WATCH .............................................................................................................................................. 30

10.0 RETREAT AND RESCUE ................................................................................................................................ 31

11.0 IRATA REPORTING......................................................................................................................................... 32

12.0 TERMS & DEFINITIONS................................................................................................................................. 33

ATTACHMENT I PERSONAL EQUIPMENT (TYPICAL LIST) ........................................................................ 35

ATTACHMENT II WORK TEAM EQUIPMENT (TYPICAL LIST) ................................................................... 36

ATTACHMENT III EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT (TYPICAL LIST) ................................................................... 38

ATTACHMENT IV ROPES AND OTHER CONSUMABLES ................................................................................. 39

ATTACHMENT V ROPE ACCESS EQUIPMENT .................................................................................................. 40

ATTACHMENT VI COMMON EQUIPMENT STANDARDS................................................................................. 43

ATTACHMENT VII OUTLINE OF TYPICAL ACCESS TECHNIQUES .............................................................. 44

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 5 of 52

ATTACHMENT VIII IRATA ACCIDENT RETURN FORMS ................................................................................... 47

ATTACHMENT IX EXAMPLE OF TECHNICIAN ACCESS WORK LOG ........................................................ 49

ATTACHMENT X EXAMPLE OF SPECIFIC ACCESS PROCEDURE FORM ................................................ 50

ATTACHMENT XI BRANCH RESPONSIBILITY FLOW CHART (ROPE ACCESS ACTIVITIES) ............. 52

REFERENCES

I Offshore Construction (Health & Safety Executive)

II Code for Lifting Appliances in a Marine Environment (Lloyd's)

III Single Rope Technique - A Training Manual - D. Elliot

IV Guidance Manual for the Inspection and Condition Assessment of Tanker Structures

V International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers & Terminals

V1 MASS Operations and Training Manuals

VII IRATA Guidelines

VIII IRATA Training, Assessment and Certification Scheme (TACS)

IX EM&I’s General Procedures & Guidelines for Retreat & Rescue in Industrial Rope
Access Activities (Doc. Ref: GARR 001)

X EM&I’s Examination of Industrial Rope Access Equipment (Doc. Ref: ERA-002)

XI HSE Contact Research Report Ref 451/2002 Harness Suspension: Review and
Evaluation of Existing Information - P Seddon

XII Statutory Instrument No 735 - The Work at Height Regulations 2005

XIII BS 7985:2002 – Code of practice for the use of rope access methods for industrial
purposes

XIII IRATA International Code Of Practice

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 6 of 52

1.0 INTRODUCTION

This procedure governs the method of working of EM&I when applying Industrial Rope
Access Techniques.

These techniques enable trained personnel to access various locations on a ship structure
using specialised methods based on climbing/caving/lifting equipment, to carry out
inspection, survey, maintenance and repair tasks.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 7 of 52

2.0 SCOPE

2.1 This General Access Procedure shall be used, in conjunction with the EM&I M.A.S.S.
Procedures to perform Rope Access based services on ship structures.

2.2 It shall only be used by competent personnel trained and certificated in Industrial
Rope Access to the appropriate levels (refer Section 2.0, Personnel) in accordance
with the Industrial Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA) guidance and, where
appropriate the Working at Height Regulations 2005 SI 735.

2.3 It shall only be used when the EM&I Safety Supervisor on site deems that the task
can be performed safely, with due regard to all factors including, but not limited to the
following:

2.3.1 Ambient conditions

2.3.2 Equipment suitability and availability

2.3.3 Retreat and rescue viability

2.3.4 Nature of the workscope

The decision of the Safety Supervisor shall be final and he will have a direct
responsibility in this respect, to the Company’s Technical Manager.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 8 of 52

3.0 PERSONNEL

3.1 All personnel used shall be trained and certificated to IRATA Levels I, II or III as
defined in the IRATA Training, Assessment and Certification Scheme (TACS).
Where a prospective employee is not known to the Rope Access Manager rope
access references will be required and checked. In addition to an extensive interview,
prospective new employees may be given a rope access and rescue skills test,
conducted by the Rope Access Manager or his delegate.

All new company personnel undergo a standard EM&I induction process

In addition to any medical certification held by the individual an appraisal will be made
of the applicant’s physical fitness for rope access.
All internal (In house) training to be carried out by a competent person (minimum
qualification – IRATA Level III).

All external training to be carried out by an IRATA approved training organisation,

and IRATA approved trainer

3.2 An Access Team shall comprise as a minimum:

1 Rope Access Safety Supervisor (Level III)

2 Rope Access Lead Technicians (Level II) or 1 (Level I) and 1 (Level II).

or

1 Rope Access Safety Supervisor (Level III)

1 Rope Access Lead Technician (Level II)

(Providing that retreat / rescue can be safely accomplished without placing the
rescuer at risk).

3.3 The Safety Supervisor shall not take responsibility for a team of more than 2
Technicians using Access Equipment, at any one time.

Note: It may be necessary for certain Specific Access Procedures to have one
Technician working on the work-face, and to have the Safety Supervisor with an
assistant, who shall be Level II, available to assist.

Where more than 2 Technicians are required to use Access Equipment, additional
Safety Supervisors will be necessary.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 9 of 52

3.4 Rope Access Safety Supervisor (Level III)

The Safety Supervisor shall be responsible for:-

3.4.1 Defining the method of access, retreat and rescue from the work-face
(Specific Access Procedure)

3.4.2 Engagement in the development of Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and Formal
Risk Assessments (FRA) whenever rope access activities are to take place.
Upon completion of the JSA / FRA the Safety Supervisor shall fully brief /
communicate to all team members the results and any / all mitigation
processes, assigned specific duties etc. The mandatory pre job Toll Box Talks
(TBT) and the mandatory Specific Access Procedure shall also be used to
brief / re-enforce the JSA / FRA results. The TBT and SAP once complete
shall be signed by all participating personnel to state their understanding and
acceptance of the briefing.

3.4.3 The designated Safety Supervisor shall attend / participate in all pre-
mobilisation briefings, in order to ensure that all aspects of the rope access
activities associated with the specific scope of work are fully discussed and
understood by the project team. Particular attention is to be given to rescue
and retreat, emergency response, equipment selection, skill requirements,
potential hazards and communications processes.

3.4.4 Responsibility for checking and issue of equipment to the Technicians on site.

3.4.5 Responsibility for placement and checking of Access Equipment to the belay
points.

3.4.6 Responsibility for thorough briefing of all team members in the techniques to
be deployed for access, retreat and rescue.

3.4.7 Responsibility for assessment of ambient conditions and other platform

activities and taking part in the liaison with Client’s operational and safety
personnel.

3.4.8 Responsibility for maintaining a Safety Watch at all times when any of the
team are using Access Equipment.

3.4.9 Responsibility for supporting the Technicians at the work-face in providing

their equipment, consumables etc. from the work base.

3.4.10 Responsibility for instructing the Technicians to retreat from the work-face, if,
during a work-task, he deems the conditions are likely to become unsuitable
to continue working.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 10 of 52

3.4.11 Responsibility for a retrieval or rescue of Technicians at the work-face, if

necessary.

3.5 Rope Access Lead Technician (Level II)

The Technician shall be responsible for:-

3.5.1 Understanding and enacting his role regarding the methods of access, retreat
and rescue.

3.5.2 Checking his / her own personal access, safety equipment and protective
clothing.

3.5.3 Performing his inspection and maintenance duties at the work-face, and
communicating with the Safety Supervisor on all relevant matters.

3.5.4 Following the instructions of the Safety Supervisor, and in particular in the
case of instructions to retreat from the work-face.

3.5.5 Checking and handing back at the end of each work task, the equipment
issued to him and reporting any suspect equipment to the Safety Supervisor.

3.5.6 Assisting his Supervisor as required when he, the Technician is not on the
work-face.

3.5.7 Where applicable, a Level II shall be capable of taking the role of Level III
under the direction of the qualified Level III.

3.6 Rope Access Technician (Level I)

The Technician shall be responsible for:-

3.6.1 Understanding and enacting his role regarding the methods of access, retreat
and rescue.

3.6.2 Checking his/her own personal access, safety equipment and protective
clothing.

3.6.3 Performing his inspection and maintenance duties at the work-face, and
communicating with the Safety Supervisor on all relevant matters.

3.6.4 Following the instructions of the Safety Supervisor and in particular, in the
case of instructions to retreat from the work-face.

3.6.5 Checking and handing back, at the end of each work-task, the equipment
issued to him and reporting any suspect equipment to the Safety Supervisor.

3.7 Continuous Employment

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 11 of 52

All personnel shall demonstrate continuous employment within rope access industry
by means of logging all rope access hours, e.g. IRATA Log Book. Where there is a
gap of employment of 6 months or more where rope access tasks were not carried
out, further training and/or assessment will be required to prove competency.

3.8 Newly Qualified Technicians

Newly qualified Level I technicians shall only carry out rope access tasks while under
the close supervision of a Level III.

3.9 Medical Fitness

All personnel shall be physically fit and have the necessary aptitude to carry out the
workscope.

Medical fitness shall be evidenced by a current Medical Certificate.

3.10 IRATA Qualifications

IRATA or other equivalent certification at the appropriate levels will be acceptable for
personnel competence.

3.11 First Aid Qualifications

Level III Safety Supervisors shall hold an HSE recognised First Aid Certificate.

3.12 Marine Aptitude

Personnel shall be provided with an induction programme to ensure that they are
fully aware of the conditions and working environment on ships relative to the
workscope.

3.13 Ship Induction

Personnel shall have an understanding of basic ship structures and nomenclature,

and shall be suitably trained and certificated to EM&I’s ship structures appreciation
course.

3.14 Personnel Competency in use of Tools, Equipment, etc.

Personnel shall be suitably trained / certificated in the use of all tools, equipment,
etc., required to carry out the workscope.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 12 of 52

4.0 EQUIPMENT / CONSUMABLES

4.1 Categories

These are the following main categories of equipment and consumables:

 Personal Equipment - These are detailed in Attachment I

 Work Team Equipment - These are detailed in Attachment II

 Emergency Pack - These are detailed in Attachment III

 Ropes - These are considered a consumable item. Details of quantities and

types are detailed in Attachment IV.

4.2 Specification of Equipment

Careful selection of appropriate equipment to match the workscope requirements will

form the basis of supply. Equipment shall only be sourced / procured by competent,
experienced and qualified personnel.

All equipment used will meet the requirements of the relevant EN standard or
recognised equivalent (Refer Attachment VI).

Where equipment is of a type that has not been approved to an EN standard and
where there is NO RECOGNISED EQUIVALENT it shall be:-

Examined by a competent person, who will establish its suitability and gain written
approval from the Technical Manager and then it shall be submitted to type, load
testing and/or other appropriate test and records of such tests will be kept on file.

Note: A typical organisation to provide such testing may be:-

a) The National Engineering Laboratory (East Kilbride)

b) The British Mountaineering Council Technical Equipment Committee

c) Certified Lifting Gear Company

Equipment shall be indelibly marked, showing that it meets the required specification
and such type specifications shall be kept on file.

Notes:

Equipment shall, wherever practicable, be of a type that minimises the risk of causing
an incendive spark.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 13 of 52

All deployed back up devices shall be of a type that does not slip at a static load of
2.5 kN. When selecting a backup device it is essential that the probability of any
misuse is taken into account and the risks formally assessed before deployment.
Control measures such as, increased supervision, alternative equipment choice,
additional training, modified work practices etc. are to be considered before
deployment of such devices.

In general the selection principles for all rope access equipment shall take into
account the probability of failure / misuse, and appropriate mitigation methods
employed before deployment.

4.3 Equipment Storage / Issue / Return

4.3.1 The equipment shall be stored in a secure place when not in use, so as to
prevent unauthorised access to same.

4.3.2 The equipment shall be stored in suitable conditions to prevent deterioration

by moisture, atmospheric, UV degradation, chemical or mechanical damage.

4.3.3 Typically:

4.3.4 Ropes should be stored in a well ventilated, dry environment away from ultra-
violet light.

4.3.5 Karabiners, abseil devices, wire strops, slings, ascenders, jumars, shunts etc.
should be stored in racks or hanging in a dry environment away from
corrosive substances.

4.3.6 Work Team & Emergency Equipment & Ropes

4.3.7 Equipment will be issued to the Safety Supervisor by the Storeman, against a
standard checklist.

4.3.8 Protective Clothing

4.3.9 Equipment will be issued to the Safety Supervisor and Technicians by the
Storeman, against a standard checklist.

4.3.10 Upon job completion, all equipment and unused consumables shall be
returned to the Storeman and checked by him to ensure that the equipment
has been returned in good condition.

4.3.11 Whilst on site, the equipment shall be stored as in 4.3.1 and 4.3.2 above and
shall be checked thoroughly before and after each usage. Personal
equipment shall be primarily the responsibility of the Technician to whom it
was issued. However, the Safety Supervisor should ensure that all
equipment used is in good condition.
TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 14 of 52

4.4 Equipment Inspection & Disposal

4.4.1 Inspection

The guidelines used to inspect equipment and consumable items are covered
by EM&I Operating Procedure Ref: ERA-002, Latest Revision, “Examination
of Industrial Rope Access Equipment”.

All equipment and consumables shall be checked by the Storeman, Safety

Supervisor and Technicians, during issue and return, and during usage on
site.

If at any time the equipment or consumables shall give cause for concern,
from a safety viewpoint, the said equipment shall be withdrawn from use by
the Safety Supervisor.

4.4.2 Disposal

Rejected items shall be immediately quarantined and clearly marked “NOT

TO BE USED” on site and shall be returned to the Storeman and shall be
destroyed by him as soon as practicable thereafter by, typically:-

4.4.2.1Sawing through karabiners, shunts, ascenders, jumars etc.

4.4.2.2Incinerating or cutting tapes, ropes, harnesses etc. so that they can no

longer be used for access activities.

Note 1: Rejected items shall NOT be used as spare parts for other
equipment.

Note 2: Where rejected equipment has been rejected for other than
normal wear and tear or contamination, the Storeman shall
bring such anomalous equipment failure to the attention of his
Supervisor and the Technical Manager, so that equipment
performance is monitored and safety information disseminated.
Note – The Operations Centre Manager (OCM) shall be responsible for managing the
technical equipment assigned to an Operations Centre including its issue, location,
certification, and fitness for purpose, compatibility with other equipment provided to
perform a specific task, instruction/training manuals, storage, packing, site
management, security, quarantine, repair and maintenance. Duties in this regard may
be delegated to others by the OCM provided they have the necessary competencies,
training and experience.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 15 of 52

5.0 COMMUNICATIONS

5.1 Communications between the Technicians and the Safety Supervisors may be
approved by VHF radio, by cable connected headsets, by hand signals, whistles, by
other signalling methods and, whenever possible, by direct voice communication.

5.2 The methods of communication shall be established during team briefings and
toolbox talks and, where appropriate, as part of Specific Access Procedures.

5.3 As far as possible, good interpersonal visibility shall be maintained.

5.4 At all times, at least two separate and independent methods of communication shall
be available between team members to enable safe working, evacuation escape and
rescue.

5.5 Special attention is to be given to “Over The Side Working” on offshore installations.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 16 of 52

6.0 PREPARATION

6.1 T ask Assessment

An assessment is to be conducted prior to deployment of any rope access personnel

and equipment to site, to ensure that the proposed tasks are suitable for rope access
work to be carried out safely. All aspects of the workscope are to be assessed
including, though not limited to the following:
 Personnel, skills and competency
 Rope access equipment
 Environment
 Location
 Task type
 Tools and other required equipment (Special attention to be paid to the use of
reactive and electric tools)
 Rescue & retreat
 Simultaneous operational requirements
 Permits
 Confined space entry
 Over-side working
 Hot work
 Lighting
 Communications

The team will be briefed on the assignment before departure to the job location and
will carry a work pack, including all information relevant to the work. This will include,
method statement, risk assessment, original workscope, drawings and all other
information and administrative material relevant to the efficient execution of the job.

The work pack is designed to be a useful tool when at the worksite. It provides
valuable information to both the work-team and to the client and any safety officers.

Certain elements of the work pack may be carried electronically.

Typical documents contained in the work pack include:

1. Copy of the company Operating Procedure.

2. Specific Access Procedure, to be reviewed daily as a “Toolbox Talk”.
3. “Toolbox Talk” record form
4. Completed Risk Assessment.
5. Technician Rope Hour Log to be completed daily.
6. Copies of IRATA Certification for all workers.
7. Copies of Level 3 First Aid Certificates.
8. Copies of Equipment Certification.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 17 of 52

9. Copy of Company Insurance.

10. Copy of IRATA ICOP & TACS.
11. Any other relevant or useful information.

On completion of the job these files will be archived in the office. The files will likely
be useful during any IRATA or ISO audit.

As an absolute minimum the job pack will include the “Recommended list of
information to be kept on site”, as detailed in Annex N of the IRATA ICOP.

The Safety Supervisor in conjunction with the Team or Project Leader shall assess
the required task and decide on the specific access procedures to be used.

All assessments are to be conducted in accordance with BS 7985 WHA Regulations

in the UK

This will cover access, retreat and rescue scenarios for both personnel and
equipment, relative to the task being undertaken.

Special provisions are to be made for “Overside Working” on offshore installations,

regarding close stand by cover and communication issues. Details are to be included
in the SAP and Tool Box Talk Form, and discussed with all team members before
any overside work is permitted. A minimum of three (3) rope access trained / certified
personnel is mandatory for all overside working. An additional team member may be
required to ensure line of sight communication during overside work activity (Not
necessarily rope access trained / certified).

Where the task is unusual in nature, eg where personnel are unfamiliar with the task,
the potential hazards and/or the work site, a Specific Access Procedure (SAP) shall
be written on site, with sketches whenever possible, and will be signed by the Safety
Supervisor and a copy kept on file. The Specific Access Procedure shall be part of a
documented job risk assessment (SAP Form - see Attachment X).
The Safety Supervisor shall also engage fully in all required Job Safety Analysis
(JSA) / Risk Assessments (RA) conducted by the Clients, as and when required
where rope access activities are to be deployed.

6.2 Briefing
A team of appropriate size, make-up and skills profile will be assembled in good time
prior to the start of the job.

The supervisor will be issued with all specific documentation relating to the
workscope as well as all standard information included within a standard job pack.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 18 of 52

This information may either be issued as a hard-copy folder, or where necessary it

will be issued electronically via email.
The Pre-Mobilisation is to be conducted by the appointed Project Manager.
Attendance of the appointed rope access Safety Supervisor is mandatory. If he
cannot attend in person a suitable rope access qualified team member may deputise
for the Safety Supervisor.

The whole of the Access Team shall be fully briefed on Item 6.1 and the Safety
Supervisor shall be satisfied that all scenarios to be used are fully understood and
that the team are capable of performing same, before work can preceed.

Toolbox talks shall be held at least daily or when the work site, task and/or conditions
change. All attendees shall sign off the Tool Box Talk sheet, agreeing that they have
fully understood all aspects of the briefing and will act accordingly.

6.3 Ambient Conditions

The Safety Supervisor shall assess ambient conditions and deem these as
satisfactory, and likely to stay satisfactory for the work-task duration, before work can
proceed.

6.4 Work-site

6.4.1 Controlled Areas

Work areas / sites should be cordoned off as “Rope Access Controlled Area” with
tape barriers and Warning Signs. Where practicable, the Controlled Area barriers
should be at least 5m from any Rope Access Danger Zone, where this is not possible
alternatives should be sought with in Site Managers, OIM's, Safety Officers, etc. to
ensure adequate awareness and safeguarding of personnel.

Barriers and signs may be required on multiple elevations affected by Rope Access
Operations. Only Rope Access Personnel will routinely be allowed in the “Controlled
Area”. If a visitor is required to enter, they will be closely supervised and
accompanied whilst they are inside the controlled area.
If the visitor needs fall protection equipment then this must be provided by their
employer and they must be competent to use it.

Constant awareness of adjacent operations that may affect, or be affected, by rope

access operations is required by all team personnel.

When working on grated deck areas, measures should be taken to prevent items of
equipment falling through the grating.

Rigging techniques that allow quick and simple rescue should be considered where
appropriate (“rigging for rescue”), e.g. releasable anchor systems allowing immediate
TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 19 of 52

lowering or raising of a casualty with minimal fuss, complexity or specialist training.

This is particularly appropriate where the Level 3 supervisor is on the ropes.
Typically, the signs shall state:-

“DANGER - ACCESS WORK IN PROGRESS”

6.4.2 Main belay points where they are accessible to non-access personnel shall
be clearly labelled:-

“SAFETY ATTACHMENT POINT - DO NOT TOUCH”

Exclusion zones if possible are to be implemented around anchor / belay

points and the work sites if possible. Any exclusion zones erected shall be
clearly sign posted / taped off to prevent entry by non-authorised personnel.

6.4.3 Full anchor / belay procedures shall be adopted in all situations within the
work-site and in every situation before leaving safeguarded ladders,
walkways or decking.

6.4.4 Careful consideration shall be given to the placement of belay / anchor points,
as follows:
Primary Anchor Points are the load bearing structural features to which rope
access equipment is attached. They must be capable of withstanding loads
greater than the combined breaking strains of the Rope Access Equipment
attached to them. The advice of Structural Engineers should be sought if there
is any doubt over the strength of a primary anchor point.

Rope access primary anchor points must be “unquestionably reliable” as

determined by a competent person – normally the Level 3.

In addition rope access anchors must have a minimum breaking strength of

15kN.

The following are examples of suitable Primary Anchor Points:

• Primary structural members and steel beams that are in good condition.
• Specially welded pad eyes and brackets.
• Specially engineered and constructed scaffolding.
• Specially engineered wire ropes.
• Substantial elements that may be found on buildings.
• Mobile Dead Weights.
• Rock bolts
• Any other item or feature whose weight or holding strength is 100%
reliable and unquestionably capable of withstanding loads greater than

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 20 of 52

the breaking strength of the equipment attached to it, as judged by a

competent person.

Scaffold, handrails and process pipework must not routinely be used as

Primary Anchor Points, use of such elements would happen only after careful
consideration by the competent person and discussion with the site engineer.
Rigging to such elements would normally involve the use of complex multi-
point rigging arrangements, in order to distribute loads and mitigate the
consequences of any single point failure within the system.
Main belay points / anchors may be structural members such as tubulars or I
beams or large diameter pipework. They shall not normally include smaller
pipework, handrails or scaffolding. Anchors / main rigging attachment points
for working, safety / back up lines are to be chosen with great care to ensure
that all possible failure modes are eliminated / mitigated to ensure continuous
safe operation. Particular attention is to be paid to the location of the belay /
anchor points and their load bearing capability. An assessment of the potential
maximum loading must be made in determining main belay / anchor points.
The double protection anchor principle is to be adopted at all times (At least
two anchors per rope) All belay / anchor devises / points once installed are to
be inspected and tested before use. Also the location of anchors must take
into account potential rescue and retreat situations; this may require additional
belay / anchor points to be installed to accommodate rescue / retreat
scenarios.

6.4.4.1Belay / anchor points shall be carefully examined by the Safety

Supervisor to assess their strength. He shall consider the
dimensions, geometric configuration and condition of the anchoring
structure and its surroundings.
The Safety Supervisor should consult the Client Representative for
guidance where necessary, on the placement of belay points. In
case of any doubt, it may be necessary, if no alternative belay or
back up belay points exist, to certify by load test a temporary lifting
point.

All rope access equipment is to be carefully examined before use

and every time returning to the work site after any period of
absence. A cross checking (Buddy system) is to be used when
checking equipment and the all clear before personnel are deployed
on rope access systems. Refer to ICOP 2.11.7.3 for further
information.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 21 of 52

6.4.4.2Belay / anchor points and rope runs from belay points shall avoid
damage to the structures fabric, and in particular to lagging,
coatings, valves, instruments, cable trays etc.
All main anchor points consist of primary attachment point and a
completely separate secondary back-up point. All ropes are
independently anchored. However, both anchors may be connected
to each other in such a way that they share load.

A typical anchor system will consist, as a minimum, of 2 slings

attached to the structure, 2 karabiners and 2 individually knotted
ropes, these may be rigged in a variety of configurations to suit
individual site conditions.

Substantial Primary Anchors Points may support more than one pair
of ropes. However, Primary Anchor Points for Rope Access
Personnel must not be used simultaneously as anchor points to lift
heavy objects or to support staging unless no other arrangement is
possible and additional consideration has been given to the ultimate
anchor strength.

Anchor Systems should be fully checked by competent rope access

technicians before each use.

All Team Members must be advised when anchors have been de-
rigged.

The consequence of failure of any part of the anchor system must

be carefully considered.

Rigging angles for “ Y “ anchors, slinging of loads or cross-hauling

should not exceed 90º.

Deviations used to redirect ropes should not exceed 20º from the
vertical, or the deviation should not be more than 2m lateral
displacement from the main anchor.

When working with tramways technicians are advised that the

maximum angle for these is 160° and at that angle the tension at
each anchor point is 3 x the load. In these situations technicians are
advised of suitable back-up methods and load limiting techniques.

When using tramways as a means of access it is recommended

that a wire rope is used as the main line, e.g. a “Tirfor” winch and
that suitable back-ups are provided by independently anchored rope
access ropes.
TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 22 of 52

Abseil ropes should normally be just long enough to adequately

cover the work area. Excess rope may allow wind or wave action to
entangle it in projections, potentially restricting the retrieval of the
rope and complicating emergency procedures. When working
above deck, rope length should allow descent to deck from
worksite.

Excess rope should be coiled and hung up rather than left to lie on
deck.

Working lines and safety lines shall be rigged from separate anchor
/ belay points; they should then be connected to each other for
added security should one of the main anchor belay points fail.
Wherever possible deviation anchors should be full strength slings
anchored to the structure.

In certain cases deviation anchors may be restricted strength

equipment such as 4mm wire slings or small tape slings in various
lengths. Deviation anchors may be used to route the working ropes
from the Primary Anchors to the access area. Deviation anchors
must not be relied upon as the sole means of anchorage or fall
protection.

Deviations used to redirect ropes should not exceed 20° from the
vertical, or the deviation should not be more than 2m lateral
displacement from the main anchor.

6.4.4.3When attachment to I beams, beam clamps or equipment clamps may

be used.

6.4.4.4Care should be taken to avoid point loading of ropes, slings, wire

strops etc.

6.4.4.5Care shall be taken to avoid, as far as practicable, chemical / oil

contamination of ropes, slings, strops etc. In particular, care shall
be taken NOT to allow ropes to come into contact with high
temperature (over 60° C) items.

6.4.4.6 In all instances, a primary and secondary belay / anchor point shall
be used, and interconnected whenever practicable.

Consideration shall be given to minimising shock loading to the

second belay point, should the first fail.
TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 23 of 52

Rigging angles, especially from main anchor / belay points are to be

given special consideration. Reference to ICOP 2.7.8.3 fig 4 should
be taken into account during the initial rigging phase.

6.4.4.7 Assemblies will be constructed to eliminate 3-way loading of

karabiners deployed. (Suitably shaped Maillon Rapides will be used
if any such loading is anticipated).

6.4.4.8Each rope shall be belayed separately on “Closed Belay” systems (eg

screwgate karabiners).

6.4.4.9 The rigging and stripping of anchor / belay systems shall be

completed by rigorous checking, supervised by the Safety
Supervisor, prior to any ropes being brought into use by personnel.
6.4.4.10 Double protection is to be applied to the attachment of technicians
working and safety lines to anchor lanyards. Descenders and back
up devices are to be fixed to the technician’s harnesses with
separate connectors and in accordance with the specific
manufactures instructions / guidance. Refer to ICOP 2.11.1.3 for
guidance.

6.4.5 Edge Protection And Hot Surfaces

A system of edge protection will be introduced to minimise the risk of ropes

being cut or damaged by sharp protrusions of any kind.
Sharp edges and hot surfaces must be avoided at all costs. Bad rigging
resulting in contact with these surfaces is one of the greatest dangers to the
rope access technician. Either can result in sudden and immediate
catastrophic failure of the rope system.

It is an essential part of pre-work planning that any threat to the integrity of the
rope system is identified and dealt with in an unquestionably effective manner.
The intended path of the ropes must be scrutinised in detail from top to
bottom. In addition, the possibility of sideways, or lateral, movement of the
ropes during operations must be carefully considered and the effects of this
movement protected against.

Where possible every effort should be made to use rigging solutions in order
to keep the ropes away from sharp or hot surfaces. Common options include
Y-hangs, Deviations and Re-belays. Additional rope protection may also be
required to protect the ropes against the effects of sideways, or lateral,
movements during operations.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 24 of 52

Where it is not possible to avoid contact with hazardous edges then effective
rope protection must be deployed. Canvas “rope protectors”, despite their
name, are often not sufficient by themselves to offer adequate protection from
aggressively sharp or abrasive surfaces and additional measures must be
deployed to ensure unquestionably reliable protection to the ropes.

Particular care should be taken when passing rope protection, to ensure that
levels of protection are not compromised when opening and closing protection
in the process of passing it.

In order to offer sufficient protection the surface or edge should be covered

with a layer of suitable and sufficient padding, in addition each rope should
have its own rope protector. Canvas rope protectors should be attached to the
ropes with a solid link, i.e. directly connected to an Alpine Butterfly knot
(prussik knots, although commonly used to attach rope protectors are subject
to interference and a non-expert technician is at risk of not re-installing the
protection properly resulting in the protector detaching and falling down the
rope, thus rendering it useless). Wire sling bypass arrangements may also be
considered as a further layer of protection.

Edge rollers and protective edge plates may also be considered as an

alternative to canvas rope protectors. These should also be in addition to
suitable and sufficient edge padding and subject to the measures described
above.

Protection maintenance throughout the work period is an important

consideration and re-rigging may, on occasion, be the preferred option.

Particular attention will be given to minimising situations where static loads on

ropes are present, because of the risk of inadvertently increasing the static
load above safe limits.

Deviation of ropes / rigging systems away from potential hazards is the

preferred method.

6.4.6 Temporary Absence from Work-site

Upon leaving the work-site for meal breaks etc. the site shall be left free from
any dangerous obstructions, ropes across walkways etc.

The Safety Supervisor shall take all reasonable precautions to avoid

unauthorised personnel interfering with the equipment at the work-site, and
will check systematically, the equipment after any such absence.

6.4.7 Safety Requirements Whilst Using Tools

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 25 of 52

No welding, cutting equipment or reactive tools shall be used by Rope Access

personnel when working suspended only by ropes because of the risk of
inadvertently cutting the ropes, or injuring the Technician.

In such instances, secondary staging, working cradles or wire rope

suspension shall be used and these shall be affixed such that the risk from
cutting, welding activities etc. to the rope systems is eliminated.

A detailed specific procedure shall be prepared in each instance which will

take account of the above together with the potential risk of recoil or other
hazards associated with the particular task.

In the case of welding, validated procedures may be necessary to ensure that

the work can be performed to the correct standard.

No welding, cutting equipment or reactive tools shall be used by Rope Access

personnel when working suspended only by ropes because of the risk of
inadvertently cutting the ropes.
Small tools and other items of equipment should be attached to the
technician’s harness using 4mm accessory cord, or similar.

It is impractical to lanyard all small items, particularly nuts, bolts and washers.
These should be carried in a bolt-bag with appropriate closing flap. Particular
care must be taken when working above other personnel and additional
measures may have to be taken if possible, i.e. exclusion zones, catch nets
etc.

All tools and equipment over 8kg in weight should be suspended

independently of any part of the access or fall protection system. Normally this
will involve rigging a separate rope system for the item.

6.4.8 Electrical tools and equipment

The use of electrical tools and equipment are to be given special

consideration.

National and local legislation / rules must be consulted before deploying such
equipment on site. Certification / PAT testing documentation shall accompany
all electrical equipment / tools when mobilised to site.

The use of low voltage / battery powered equipment is preferred. If mains

powered equipment is to be used then careful handling and routing of cables
must be considered at all times.

A qualified electrician shall be consulted in case of doubt.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 26 of 52

Care shall be taken that tools and equipment are not dropped.

Lanyards shall be used wherever possible to affix power tools to the structure
or working platform. It is not good practice to attach tools to the individual,
and where this is necessary, quick release mechanisms should be used.
Note: Special consideration shall also be taken when using high current
electrical equipment to avoid earth loops or other electrical problems.
6.4.9 Requirements for heavy equipment

The lifting, suspension and movement of heavy equipment involving rope

access techniques is to be given special consideration.

Technical expertise shall be sought to determine rigging equipment choice

and methods. Lifting plans are to be prepared, reviewed and approved in
advance of any heavy lifting operation.

Close liaison with the rope access Safety Supervisor shall be maintained at
all times to ensure safe operations.

All equipment used is for heavy lifting, suspension and movement is to be

LOLER certified.

6.4.10 Work Seats

Where work-seats, cradles or staging are to be used it must be clear to all
concerned that these are for comfort and support only and do not form part of
the technician’s fall protection system. That is, the technician must be
anchored independently of these items by maintaining their full rope access
system at all times. These items are for comfort and support only.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 27 of 52

7.0 AMBIENT CONDITIONS

The Safety Supervisor shall take into account ambient and environmental conditions, and in
particular:

7.1 Wind Speed

Where work is carried out on the external parts of a ship, this shall be discontinued in
wind speeds at the work site in excess of 35 mph or at lower speeds if specified by
the Safety Supervisor.

7.2 Precipitation

Work where carried out on the external parts of a ship shall be discontinued if
precipitation interferes with visibility, communications or other activities to the extent.

7.3 Temperature

Extremes of temperature and humidity can exist on ships. Supervisors shall take
account of this when defining rest periods, fluid intake etc.

Also, care shall be taken that ice does not form on ropes or other equipment so as to
impair safe use, when operating in extreme cold conditions.

7.4 Ship Motion

Personnel cannot operate effectively when ship motion is excessive and where this is
the case, work shall be discontinued when the Safety Supervisor decides that
working is impracticable or unsafe.

7.5 Visibility and Daylight Working

Working shall be confined to conditions where adequate natural or artificial lighting

allows clear visibility in the work area.

7.6 Enclosed Spaces

Most of the work is carried out in enclosed spaces with the potential for flammable
and toxic gases and hazards of insufficient breathable air.

IT IS OF PARAMOUNT IMPORTANCE THAT ALL SAFETY PROCEDURES (EM&I

AND CLIENT’S) FOR WORKING IN THE ABOVE CONDITIONS BE MET. IF SAFE
CONDITIONS CANNOT BE MET, WORK SHALL BE DISCONTINUED.

The Safety Supervisor shall assess the above parameters and shall decide if it is
safe to proceed with the workscope.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 28 of 52

His / her decision NOT to proceed shall be final.

His / her decision to proceed may not be over-ridden by the Project Leader or
Installation’s Safety and Operational personnel. Where agreement to proceed cannot
be reached the issue shall be referred to the Technical Manager.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 29 of 52

8.0 METHODS OF ACCESS

Two main methods of access are used. These are:

8.1 Static Rope Techniques / Double Rope Technique (DRT)

Involves abseiling, prussiking (using jammers) and working suspended from ropes,
on belay seats, in chairs or from staging.

8.2 Climbing

Where the Technician or Safety Supervisor gains access by physically climbing on

girders, beams or using specialised access equipment (ladders, stages etc.) and
safeguards his passage and retreat by the application of dynamic climbing rope
techniques.

Running belays are placed for protection and main belays, controlled by the Safety
Supervisor, form the basis of “safe” climbing access.

Combinations of these two access methods are also used. (See Attachment VIII for
further details of access techniques).

Note: Specialised and traversing equipment techniques may also be used, including
the use of flexible poles to secure specialised secondary attachment aid.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 30 of 52

9.0 SAFETY WATCH

9.1 The Safety Supervisor shall ensure that a Safety Watch is maintained at all times
when any personnel are using Access Equipment.

9.2 The Safety Watch shall maintain at least two of the following methods of
communication with the personnel using Access Equipment:

9.2.1 Inter-visual

9.2.2 Unaided audio

9.2.3 Radio link

9.2.4 Hand and rope signals

9.2.5 Air horns

He shall also maintain a communication link, normally by radio, to the ship’s Master
or other designated person in charge.

9.3 When working over the sea, it is ESSENTIAL that all personnel shall wear buoyancy
aids or life-jackets of an EM&I approved type. They shall be of a design that does
not interfere with the safe operation of access or other equipment and methods.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 31 of 52

10.0 RETREAT AND RESCUE

10.1 Team briefings, toolbox talks and, where appropriate, Specific Access Procedures
shall include the topics of Retreat and Rescue methods for the particular
circumstance of the work-task in hand. This shall form part of a documented job risk
assessment.

10.2 The Retreat technique shall be deployed at the completion of each work-task and
whenever the Safety Supervisor deems it is necessary to do so.

Note: There may be more than one method of Retreat built into the Specific Access
Procedure.

In all cases, the application of the Rescue technique shall be the responsibility of the
Safety Supervisor.

He shall inform the appropriate installation personnel in the event that a Rescue
technique is being deployed and in particular, he shall NOT leave the work-place to
start a Rescue operation until a new Safety Watch is in place.

Note: Details of Rescue & Retreat are given in EM&I Document Ref: GARR-001
General Procedure and Guidelines for Retreat & Rescue in Industrial Rope
Access Activities.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 32 of 52

11.0 IRATA REPORTING

On completion of every job, all technicians’ hours and any incidents which have occurred must be
recorded on IRATA form No 020R & 021R (see ATTACHMENT IX) and submitted to EM&I’s office.
IRATA Form 055 to be utilised for the collation of rope hours (This is an electronic submission)

Where applicable, a separate incident report must accompany the IRATA form 020R for each
incident which occurred on the job.

EM&I’s IRATA representative (see ATTACHMENT XII for personnel flowchart) will collate all above
figures on IRATA form No 15/2 (see ATTACHMENT IX) and submit to IRATA on a quarterly basis.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 33 of 52

12.0 TERMS & DEFINITIONS

All equipment used / deployed in rope access activities is selected, after completion of an a specific
assessment intended to ensure that all equipment items are fit for purpose, supplied by an approved
manufacturer, fully certified and traceable and in accordance with any specific legislation in the
location, country, region in which the equipment will be deployed.
In general all equipment shall be selected to conform to the published standards contained within
ICOP Part 3, Annex. Equipment selection, procurement / supply shall be in accordance with ICOP
2.7

AE (Access Engineering)
This is a generic term describing the activity of gaining access to industrial and civil structures by
means of ropes, harnesses, slings and other equipment and techniques, typically used in climbing
and caving.

Abseil / Abseil Devices

These terms describe the techniques and devices used to descend down ropes in a controlled
manner.

Anchor Point / Belay Point

These terms describe the points where ropes, wire strops etc. are attached so that the system used
to ascend / descend is firmly attached.

Ascenders
These are jamming devices used to attach to ropes to enable personnel to climb up the rope
system. Equipment used includes Clog, Jumar and Petzl.

Camming Device
See Ascenders

Cow’s Tail
Safety Attachments used when passing anchors or knots or for protection on a roped traverse.
Usually consists of 1 long (0.75m) and 1 short (0.25m) 10.5 mm Ø rope.

Descenders
Abseil devices. Typical: Petzl RIG Compact self-braking descender, Petzl STOP Self braking
descender.

Edge Rollers
A roller used to deflect and protect ropes from contact with other ropes and / or structures.

Harnesses

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 34 of 52

Harnesses used in rope access activities are usually either sit harness with a separately attached
chest strap or the full body type.

Haltrak Pulley
Propriety brand name of block and tackle equipment

Jammer
Device used for ascending ropes

Karabiner
A spring loaded gated shackle device used to attach ropes, harnesses, slings etc. together.

Kramer Wire Splint

A First Aid Splint

Maillon Rapide
A type of shackle which uses a screw device for closure as opposed to a spring-loaded gate.

Petzl
French company making various items of climbing equipment

Prussiking
The generic term for the technique of climbing up ropes using ascender devices such as Jumars.

Screw-gate
As in screw-gate karabiner - a type of karabiner whose gates are screw closed.

Shunt
A Safety Device that stops descent on the safety rope should the working rope fail.

Sling
Either rope or tape loop used to attach personnel or equipment.

Splash Zone Kit

Dry Suit and lifejacket / buoyancy aid.

Stop
Self-locking abseiling device made by Petzl.

Strop (Wire)
Wire strop used for a variety of purposes such as belaying.

Tirfor Neck Clamp

An adjustable metal clamp for locating on RSG (rolled steel girders)

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 35 of 52

ATTACHMENT I PERSONAL EQUIPMENT (TYPICAL LIST)

Hard hat with chin strap* - may include an I.S. lamp
Sit harness
Chest harness
Self-Locking Abseil device e.g. Petzl Stop
Prussik device e.g. Hand Jammer
Shunt
Chest croll
Foot-loop assembly
5 Screwgate karabiners
2 Maillon Rapides (quick links)
2 semi-circular Maillon Rapides
1 Delta Maillon Rapide
1 eight foot long tape sling
2 four foot long tape slings
2 pair of gloves*
Tackle sack
Small rucksack
Knife
Whistle
Maillon Spanner
Boots*
Overalls*
Goggles* and / or safety glasses*
Buoyancy aid / lifejacket
Wet suit, waterproof overalls for splash zone working

Note: Items marked * will be issued on a personal basis so as to minimise any hygiene problems.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 36 of 52

ATTACHMENT II WORK TEAM EQUIPMENT (TYPICAL LIST)

Team equipment will be kept in identified tackle sacks with checklists attached. Contents will be
divided into two categories; normal use and back-up. This is to reduce the amount of equipment
which will be scattered around a work-site, but still ensure that all necessary equipment is taken on
site to all tasks.

The back-up component allows for work to proceed even if normal equipment is dropped or lost on
site. This equipment is not Emergency Equipment (see below)

NORMAL USE (Typical for 3-man team)

Ropes - See Attachment IV
12 Wire strops - various lengths - swaged - with trapped eyes
40 Tape slings - various lengths
5 Sets edge protectors
60 Screwgate karabiners
20 Maillon rapides - various
1 Set work-site warning signs
1 Roll work-site cordon tape
4 Rope bags
5 Pulleys
1 Poles, certified hooks, etrier etc. for deckhead traverses

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 37 of 52

BACK-UP
2 Abseil devices
2 Ascenders
1 Spare helmet
1 100 metre or 2 x 50 metre 11mm dynamic climbing rope
6 Tape slings - various lengths
10 Screwgate karabiners
4 Maillon rapides
1 Gear rack with knife, whistle and maillon spanner
10 Pairs spare gloves
1 Sit harness
1 Chest harness
6 Pair safety goggles / glasses

SPECIAL

There may be a request for various specialised items of rigging equipment eg beam clamps,
wire strops, ladders etc.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 38 of 52

ATTACHMENT III EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT (TYPICAL LIST)

Qty Item
1 First Aid kit
1 set Kramer Wire Splints
1 50m x 11mm Pro-Static Rope
1 50m x 11mm Dynamic Rope
4 Pulleys
2 Abseil Devices
8 Tape Slings
4 Wire Strops
24 Karabiners
1 Safety Knife
1 Handled Jammer
1 Chest Croll
1 Shunt
1 Stop
2 Rope Protectors

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 39 of 52

ATTACHMENT IV ROPES AND OTHER CONSUMABLES

All ropes are designed as consumable items. Individual logs shall be maintained for each item and
all ropes shall be uniquely identified.

All ropes will be stored under manufacturer’s optimum storage conditions. They will normally be
transported in rope bags, to and from the work-sites, and will be washed and dried after contact with
hydrocarbons, sea water or sea-washed surfaces.

The family of ropes used will focus around the following designations:

PRO-STATIC ROPES

11mm diameter pro-static ropes of kermantle construction. 50m lengths will be normal, but some
tasks may require the use of other lengths. EN 1891.

DYNAMIC ROPES

Kermantle climbing ropes of 11mm diameter. Typically 50m and 100m lengths. EN 892.

CABLEWAYS

Pro-static - identical to that above, but serving a different function.

The quality and type of ropes to be used shall be decided prior to the work commencing, and shall
take into account spare ropes for back-up and rescue.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 40 of 52

ATTACHMENT V ROPE ACCESS EQUIPMENT

All equipment is selected only after careful consideration of the following points:

• If the intended use is outside that covered by the equipment standard or the
manufacturer’s instructions, or the manufacturer’s instructions are inadequate, the
equipment should be assessed to show it is appropriate for intended use. See
foreseeable misuse documents.
• IRATA ICOP Section 2.7
• Track record in use
• Equipment that trainees are likely to use in the field
• Equipment Standards
• Ergonomics and system compatibility
• Unit cost, weight and complexity
• Vulnerability to operational damage
Rope

Two main types of rope are in use, they are:

• 10.5mm or 11.0mm low stretch kernmantel, EN 1891, for rigging and rescue applications.
• 11mm dynamic, EN 892, for cowstails and lead climbing where done.

Normal rope lengths in use are 25m, 50m and 100m.

Ropes are subject to a daily inspection by the Level 3 in charge of operations and are
immediately replaced if showing signs of fatigue.

For further detail see IRATA ICOP 2.7.2

Harnesses

Two types of harness assembly are presently in use:

• Multi-application harness, incorporating EN813 (EN 358) – Sit Harness in combination

with EN 361 fall arrest attachments for fall arrest applications.
• EN813 (EN 358) – Sit Harnesses in combination with EN 12277 type D - Chest harness.
• For further detail see ICOP 2.7.3

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 41 of 52

Connectors
Two types of connector are presently in use:

• EN 362 – compliant karabiners and scaffold hooks, these are either screwgate or
autolock and either alloy or steel.
• EN 12275 / EN 362 – compliant steel maillons of various shapes.
• For further detail see IRATA ICOP 2.7.4

Descenders
Descenders in use all have an autolock facility, and comply with EN 341 / EN 12841-C typical items
being the Petzl I’D and Stop.

For further detail see IRATA ICOP 2.7.5 and foreseeable misuse document for Stop.

Ascenders
Ascenders in use comply with EN 567 / EN 12841-B and typically include the Petzl Expedition and
Croll.

For further detail see IRATA ICOP 2.7.6.

Back-up Devices
For current conventional rope access operations and training the Petzl Shunt EN 567 is used as the
system back-up, the limitations and dangers through poor handling and misuse of the device are
highlighted to technicians and trainees.

Use of the Shunt is under constant review, in the event of a potentially more appropriate device
becoming available this will be field tested and reviewed for suitability.

For further detail see IRATA ICOP 2.7.7 and foreseeable misuse document for Shunt.

Lanyards

Rope access lanyards or “Cowstails” are cut from 11mm dynamic single rope EN 892 and tied
individually to the harness with figure of eight knots. Cowstails are subject to daily inspection by the
individual user and the Level 3 and are immediately replaced if showing signs of fatigue.

Fall Arrest lanyards are used in certain applications and comply with EN 354 and/or EN 355 as
appropriate.

In certain situations fall arrest blocks complying with EN 360 are used.

For further detail see IRATA ICOP 2.7.8

Helmets
TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 42 of 52

Appropriate industrial climbing helmets are used, complying with EN 397 and EN 12492. Currently
all technicians use the Petzl Vertex Best.

For further detail see IRATA ICOP 2.7.12

Anchor Slings

A variety of anchor slings may be selected for use by the company. As the minimum
requirement for anchor strength is 15kN, it follows that the slings attached to those anchors
should have at least equivalent strength. In practice all of the slings in use far exceed this
minimum requirement. All main anchor slings are hung in pairs and, depending on type, will
comply with one of the following standards:

Textile or Wire
EN 795 - B (Transportable temporary anchor devices)
Minimum MBL will depend on type - see below:

Textile
EN 566 (Mountaineering slings):
Minimum MBL 22kN

Textile
EN1492-2 (Rigging round slings):
Minimum 1Te WLL (purple) MBL 70kN

Wire
EN 13414-1 (Wire rope slings for general lifting service):
Minimum 7mm, 6x19FC = MBL 29.2kN

Chain
EN 818-6 (Short link lifting chain for lifting purposes):
Minimum 10mm, MBL 155kN

Where general lifting slings are used for the suspension of people the Factor of Safety will be
increased in line with LOLER recommendations.

For further detail see ICOP 2.7.8.3

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 43 of 52

ATTACHMENT VI COMMON EQUIPMENT STANDARDS

ITEM STANDARD

Pro-Static Rope (11mm) EN 1891

Dynamic Rope (11mm) EN 892
Access Cord (7mm) EN 564
Tape Slings EN 566
Wire Strops BS 1290
Sit Harness EN 358 EN 813
Chest Harness EN 12277 D
Helmet EN 397 (Shell) EN 124 (Chin Strap)
Karabiners EN 362
Maillon Rapides EN 12275
Chest Croll (ascender) EN 567
Hand Jammer (ascender) EN 567
Stop (descender) EN 341
Shunt (safety back-up) UIAA
Pulley EN 12278
Twin Tailed Fall Arrest Lanyard
(With energy absorbing properties) EN355 2002
Full Body Harness EN361; ISO 10333-1
Sit Harness EN813
‘Single’ Dynamic Rope Cow’s-Tails EN892 (Dynamic Rope)

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 44 of 52

ATTACHMENT VII OUTLINE OF TYPICAL ACCESS TECHNIQUES

A) STATIC ROPE TECHNIQUES

Typically an inspection below deck to investigate a point in a cargo tank will involve the
following techniques. (The Procedure outlined is for a simple task and only basic techniques
are described; many refinements and back-ups are available).

A “work-site“ is established vertically, or as near as possible vertically, above the location to

be inspected. The Safety Supervisor briefs the Work Team, covering all relevant access,
retreat and rescue strategies.

Two appropriate lengths of rope are attached to separate anchor points and either paid out
or deployed from rope bags.

Edge protection or re-belaying may be deployed to safeguard the ropes.

A separate rescue system is established by the Safety Supervisor.

The Technician dons harness etc., and rigs up his equipment for descending the static
ropes. Safety checks are made by the Safety Supervisor. The Technician takes with him
equipment for ascent. NDT equipment, tools etc., will normally be delivered later.

The Technician will usually lower himself on one rope using an abseil device (a Petzl stop,
for example) and secure himself with a Petzl Shunt or similar device on the safety rope.
Either or both of these devices can be used to arrest his descent. Both will engage ropes
when hands are removed, so either by conscious action, or inadvertently, these devices are
readily brought into play.

On reaching his objective, the Technician “locks off” the Petzl Stop. He runs the shunt tight
up on the safety rope. Further descent is impossible without releasing the stop “lock”.

Either by bringing into play a short length of rope, or by using slings or karabiners, the
Technician secures himself safely and comfortably to the structure so that he will not swing
about while working.

If NDT or any ancillary tools or inspection equipment are required, a simple diagonal
cableway may ensure the safe and controlled despatch of equipment and eliminate the
possible snagging of the Technician’s main ropes.

The Technician and the Safety Supervisor ensure that viable communications and watch
systems are established.

When the inspection has been completed, the Technician’s equipment and tools are hauled
back to the “work-site” using the spare ropes.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 45 of 52

To regain the “work-site” the Technician engages a chest jamming device and a second
jammer with footloop assembly, to the rope down which he originally abseiled (he leaves the
shunt in place). He unties his lock-off knots and disengages the Petzl stop.

He ascends the rope system by sequentially moving and loading the jammers. He has
independent safety back-up from the shunt (the Technician can tie-in to his load rope at
intervals for additional safety).

On arrival at the “work-site”, the Technician gains “safe” ground and methodically removes
himself from the ropes.

Note:

a) The inspection routine is completed when all equipment has been checked
and removed from the “work-site” and a loose article check carried out.

b) At any time, it is possible for the Safety Supervisor to lower a weighted

jammer clamp down either of the Technician’s ropes and independently
raise the Technician using a pulley system on a separate rope. The only
complication to a relatively simple job is posed by the Technician’s local
belays attached while working. The Safety Supervisor would need to
descend the system himself and release these, then ascend the system
again prior to winching. This would be the extreme scenario for an
unconscious Technician.

c) The Petzl system of equipment has been used for this illustration. Jumar or
Clog prussik devices can be deployed with equal success.

d) The role of a third member of the Work team can be a flexible one according
to the task in hand. In the case illustrated, he is additional to requirements.

B) CLIMBING TECHNIQUES

Typically an inspection of a deck traverse, flare boom or any horizontal structure may call for
the deployment of the following techniques. Again, a “classic” example is given and the
potential for variation is considered.

A “work-site” is established at a safe and appropriate place. The Safety Supervisor briefs the
team, specified the techniques and equipment requirements; he covers the rescue strategy.

The Technician dons his harness and “racks-up” his access protection gear, strops, slings,
karabiners etc.

The Safety Supervisor establishes himself in a suitable stance with two anchor points. He
deploys an appropriate length of dynamic climbing rope and makes ready the independent
safety equipment. He assembles a dynamic belay on the climbing rope.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 46 of 52

The Technician ties-on to the rope.

The Safety Supervisor conducts a routine system of checks with the team.

The Technician climbs the structure, placing strop, tape or rope running belays as required,
until he reaches his objective. The Safety Supervisor pays out the rope. (He can lock-off the
rope at any time, bring it in or pay it out as required, and he can direct the Technician, when
necessary).

Once the Technician reaches his objective, he secures himself with extra rope lengths, cow's
tails or slings and karabiners, so that he can conduct his work in complete security.

Additional equipment can be despatched as described in the static rope example (diagonal
ropeway). Extra ropes may be brought into play by the Safety Supervisor, relocating as he
deems fit.

At the completion of the inspection, surplus equipment is hauled back to the “work-site”. The
Technician removes his local belays and, as the Safety Supervisor takes in the rope, the
Technician climbs back to his starting point removing all the running belays.

Note:

a) In the event of a slip or fall by the Technician, the Safety Supervisor locks-off
his Belay device. Normally, the Technician should be able to remain in
contact with the structure, but if not, either:
1) He deploys a Petzl jammer or Jumar and climbs his own dynamic rope
to safety
or
2) The Safety Supervisor hoists or lowers him to a safe location
or
3) The Safety Supervisor rescues the Technician in one of a variety of
ways, depending on the location.
b) Almost any high location, which has to be accessed by climbing, can be
exited by abseil.

c) Some tasks might require a team to climb up one structure, climb across
another and abseil to the location requiring inspection. Egress will then
usually be by abseil with the Safety Supervisor rigging the system.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 47 of 52

ATTACHMENT VIII IRATA ACCIDENT RETURN FORMS

FORM 020R ACCIDENT RETURN: PART 1
Quarterly summary of the average number of persons employed during the period, either directly or as self-employed individuals
NOTE Where rope access work is undertaken by a separate division or branch in a company then the returns should only be prepared
for that division or branch.

1. Company name or IRATA reference number

2a. Year
Note: delete boxes that are not
applicable
2b. Year and quarter

3. Number of 021R forms included

Average number of persons employed and have been directly managed during the quarter, i.e. do NOT include other
4.
IRATA company employees sub-contracted to you but who will be making their own returns directly to IRATA.

Manager (only Level 3 Level 2 Level 1 Other, e.g. Totals

those trainees, non-
experienced in rope access
rope access) workers

All directly
employed

All self-
employed
individuals

Other; non-
IRATA company
employees

Estimate of hours worked in various situations. This is to include only those who are on rope access sites (i.e. not including
5.
those employed at head office etc), and who are under direct control of the company

Working on ropes including Work at height other than Work at ground or secure Other type of work (if any).
rigging ropes and ropes e.g. from cradles or floors on rope access sites Please specify below
anchorages and gaining scaffolding
access

Directly Sub- Directly Sub contract Directly Sub contract Directly Sub-
employed contract employed employed employed contract

On shore

Off shore

Other Please
specify

6. Comments and clarifications. To include any views on the reporting process or explanation of any detail on this form or on form
022R.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 48 of 52

FORM 021R ACCIDENT RETURN: PART 2

Incident record, which may be either an injury or a dangerous occurrence that could have resulted in an injury
NOTE One form to be completed for each incident and for each person injured. Where more than one person is injured, then the
second and subsequent forms are to be attached or referenced to the first form, noting how many additional part 021R forms are attached
to it. Only boxes 6, 7, 8 and 9 on these secondary forms are to be completed.

1. IRATA company reference number or company name

2. Date of Incident

3. Grade of injured person

4. Employee or sub-contractor

5. Time lost

6. The place where incident occurred. Tick appropriate box.

Working on ropes including Work at height other that on Work at ground or secure Other type of work (if any).
rigging ropes and anchorages ropes e.g. from cradles or floors on rope access sites Please specify below.
and in gaining access. scaffolding

7. Immediate cause of the accident/incident. If more than one cause tick all relevant boxes.
Fall Falling object Collapse or Caught by tools Electric shock Gassing/ Burn or Equipment Other Please
overturn or materials Asphyxiation explosion failure specify below
including blown
grit or debris.

8. Consequences of accident/incident Please tick appropriate box

Reportable accidents i.e. those notifiable by law Non reportable accidents i.e. Dangerous occurrence, i.e.. a Health problems e.g. industrial
very minor injury, resulting in serious incident that could have sickness, sprains, poisoning etc.
Fatal Major Minor absence from work of less that 3 lead to an injury. Note some of
days. these could be notifiable by law

9. If an accident the part of the body hurt. Please tick one or more boxes as appropriate.
Head Neck/ Face/ Back Arm Hand/ Chest Stomach Leg Foot/ Other
shoulder eyes fingers ankle/
toes

10. External factors. Where necessary explain further in box 11.

Time of day Weather conditions Presence and type of Had suitable training Was rescue required? Other. Please specify
site supervision been provided? below

11. Brief description of incident only required if necessary to make the situation clearer.

12. Remedial action taken following the incident. The supply of this information is voluntary but it could be useful when reviewing
IRATA procedures.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 49 of 52

ATTACHMENT IX EXAMPLE OF TECHNICIAN ACCESS WORK LOG

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 50 of 52

ATTACHMENT X EXAMPLE OF SPECIFIC ACCESS PROCEDURE FORM

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 51 of 52

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915
 OPERATING PROCEDURE

Doc Ref: GAP-M/001 Rev: 8 Doc Status: Approved Date: 8th March 2016 Page 52 of 52

ATTACHMENT XI BRANCH RESPONSIBILITY FLOW CHART (ROPE ACCESS

ACTIVITIES)

The procurement, examination and re-certification of all rope access equipment before issue to site
is the responsibility of RA Equipment Supervisor.

The nominated EM&I / IRATA Focal Point (Graham Bissett), previously qualified as an IRATA LIII
technician.

The EM&I nominated QHSE Manager has been involved in the management of rope access
activities for 10 years.

TECHNICAL DOCUMENT
EM&I Master Doc 915