· IRATA Training Manual

IRATA technicians' responsibilities under LOLER

IRATA technicians have a number of responsibilities under LOLER for inspecting equipment, depending on their level of competence.

Level 1 Technician

  1. Be able to carry out a pre-use check of all their personal suspension equipment.
  2. Be able to identify defective or worn items of personal suspension equipment and describe the reasons for failure.
  3. Understand key requirements of LOLER, including:
    • Rope access operations should be planned and managed.
    • Equipment should be used safely.
    • Equipment should be identified and examined regularly.
    • Understand the principles of certification and traceability.

Level 2 Technician

  1. As Level 1.
  2. Identify proper maintenance measures.
  3. Be able to carry out periodic inspection of items (e.g. long-term rigging).
  4. Know how to complete records of periodic inspections (and understand the need for keeping those records).
  5. Understand the consequences of not reporting defects or situations posing a risk to health and safety.

Level 3 Technician

  1. As Level 2.
  2. Be able to produce an examination scheme for any given item of lifting equipment.
  3. Be able to plan rope access operations.
  4. Be aware of factors of safety for metal and textile items.
  5. Understand the Safe Working Loads for key items of rope access equipment.
  6. Explain the key requirements of the regulations relating to rope access equipment and operations, covering:
    • Application — access / egress of the worksite; protection to others; objective hazards.
    • Equipment strengths.
    • Positioning — especially in relation to other work tasks.
    • Equipment marking — be able to identify proper position and method; understanding of SWL of 1 person for PPE.
    • Organising of operations — adequate theoretical and practical knowledge in relation to load attachment, work environment and hazards.
    • Thorough examination and inspection of equipment.
    • Reporting defects — the need for good record keeping.
  7. Understand the strength and properties required of anchorages suitable for use in rope access operations.
  8. Be aware of the relationship of LOLER with other key legislation.