Singapore Rope Access Association (SRAA) was founded more than 10 years ago and had progressed over the years.  We had taken a new outlook this year with our name changed to ISO Certification Limited.  This is aligned to international standards and as a Certification Body operating globally.

ISO 22846 (all parts) sets out important criteria for the application of rope access systems for industrial purposes.  Rope access is a method of working at height, typically using synthetic fibre kernmantel ropes and associated equipment, used to gain access to, be supported at, and as a means of egress from, a place of work.

The application of rope access methods are regarded as a complete system, in which planning, competence and suitable equipment are equally important. The malfunction or removal of any component in the system can weaken the operation or prevent the system from operating properly.

This part of ISO 22846 is intended for use by all persons concerned with the use of rope access, including operatives, specifiers, managers, rope access supervisors, purchasing personnel, trainers, clients and regulatory authorities. Users are reminded always to take into account the entire system and not just the component parts.

To ensure a rope access system operates correctly, at least the following factors are important:

—    system management and planning;

—    competence of the operatives and correct team composition;

—    equipment selection, use and maintenance;

—    proper organization and execution of working methods.

There can also be other issues to consider, depending upon the nature and location of the work, the competence and experience of operatives and possible local or regional legal requirements.

A failure or shortcoming in any of the above can render the entire system deficient

The SS 588 is an Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) and it is a modified adoption of the ISO 22846.  It is contextualized to follow local legislation and regulations.