In the dynamic and high-risk industries that rely on rope access and working at heights, every opportunity to enhance safety is invaluable. Near-miss reporting is one such opportunity that holds immense potential for transforming safety practices and reducing incidents. Despite its importance, low levels of near-miss reporting among organisations significantly limit the ability to identify hazards and prevent accidents.

Under-reporting, including ‘near misses’, was one of five key areas IRATA International identified in its recent 2024 WASA Report. It’s been a key area of concern for over a decade. We’ve touched on under-reporting in a previous article, found here.

So how can companies address the prolific under-reporting happening in the rope access industry? In particular – the near misses that occur.

By fostering a culture of openness and proactive communication companies can unlock the full potential of near-miss reporting to safeguard their workforce and improve overall operational safety.

So what is a near miss? A near miss, often referred to as a “close call,” is an unplanned event that could have resulted in an incident but did not, either by chance or timely intervention. These events provide critical insights into underlying risks and potential system failures that might otherwise go unnoticed. Reporting and analysing near misses allow organisations to address issues proactively before they escalate into actual incidents, creating a safer and more resilient working environment.

Recognizing the importance of this practice, IRATA’s ‘Report a Problem. Prevent a Fatality’ campaign is an industry-leading initiative aimed at encouraging incident and near-miss reporting.

This campaign seeks to foster a learning environment where members are empowered to identify risks, share their experiences, and collectively improve safety standards. By promoting a culture of accountability and learning, the initiative helps transform near-miss events into valuable lessons that can benefit the entire industry.

Near-miss reports are not just internal tools for individual companies but also serve as critical resources for industry-wide learning. When members report near misses, they contribute to a shared knowledge base that enables organizations like IRATA to produce topic sheets and safety bulletins. These materials disseminate pertinent lessons learned to the broader community, ensuring that best practices and preventive measures reach as many practitioners as possible.

The benefits of robust near-miss reporting systems are far-reaching. Beyond immediate hazard identification, they help build trust among employees by demonstrating that their observations and concerns are valued. This trust encourages more open communication, which in turn enhances overall safety culture. Additionally, analysing near-miss data can reveal recurring patterns, guiding the development of targeted training programs, equipment improvements, and procedural changes.

However, achieving high levels of near-miss reporting requires overcoming certain barriers. Fear of blame or repercussions often deters employees from reporting incidents. To address this, organisations must cultivate a non-punitive reporting environment where the focus is on learning and improvement rather than assigning fault. Providing clear reporting mechanisms, offering training on recognizing and documenting near misses, and celebrating the proactive identification of hazards can further bolster participation.

As IRATA’s campaign highlights, the path to a safer industry begins with every member’s commitment to identifying and addressing risks. By harnessing the power of near-miss reporting, companies can not only prevent accidents but also foster a culture of continuous improvement. Together, we can transform near misses from missed opportunities into powerful tools for progress, ensuring a safer future for all who work at height.

Yours in Safety

Deborah Chick

Ascend QM CEO

The Industrial Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA) has long been recognised as a global authority on safe working at heights. Rope access, a method used to perform work at height using ropes and specialised equipment, demands an unwavering commitment to safety.

Within the recent WASA Report of 2024, human factors was identified as one of five key learning opportunities – in fact human factors stand out as a critical focus for IRATA International and the working at heights industry at large. Addressing these factors effectively can significantly reduce incidents and foster a robust safety culture.

Understanding Human Factors

Human factors encompass a range of elements that influence workers’ behavior and performance. These include physical and mental well-being, stress, fatigue, communication, and the workplace environment. In rope access, where precision and concentration are vital, even minor lapses in judgment or attention can lead to severe consequences. The WASA emphasised that incident reports consistently highlight human error as a primary cause of accidents, underscoring the need for proactive measures to mitigate such risks.

Behavioural Safety and Accountability

Promoting a culture of behavioral safety is key to addressing human factors in rope access. Behavioural safety involves understanding why people act the way they do and implementing strategies to encourage safe practices. This approach requires:

1. Training and Education: Comprehensive training programs that emphasize hazard awareness, situational assessment, and the psychological aspects of safety.
2. Open Communication: Establishing channels for workers to voice concerns without fear of retribution. Open communication fosters trust and ensures that potential issues are identified early.
3. Positive Reinforcement: Recognizing and rewarding safe behavior can motivate employees to adhere to safety protocols consistently.

Crucially, fostering accountability without creating a blame culture is essential. A blame-free environment encourages individuals to report near-misses and unsafe conditions, enabling organizations to address root causes before incidents occur.

IRATA’s Contributions

IRATA’s guidelines and training standards are designed to minimize human error by instilling a culture of safety and accountability. The association’s three-tier certification system ensures that technicians are trained to the highest standards, emphasizing both technical proficiency and safety awareness. Additionally, IRATA’s independent audits and strict operational procedures provide a framework for continuous improvement in safety practices.

Building a Strong Safety Culture

Addressing human factors requires an organizational commitment to embedding safety into every aspect of operations. This includes:

• Leadership Engagement: Leaders must lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to safety and holding everyone accountable for their actions.
• Regular Assessments: Conducting routine evaluations of safety practices and incorporating feedback from workers.
• Mental Health Support: Providing resources to manage stress and fatigue, which are significant contributors to human error.

By prioritising these elements, organisations can create an environment where safety is not just a priority but a core value.

Human factors represent a complex but critical challenge in the rope access industry. By addressing these elements head-on, leveraging IRATA’s rigorous standards, and fostering a culture of behavioral safety and accountability, the industry can continue to enhance safety outcomes.

The goal is clear: to protect the lives of workers and ensure that rope access remains a safe and effective solution for working at heights.

Yours in Safety
Deborah Chick
Ascend QM CEO

Becoming accredited to IRATA International (Industrial Rope Access Trade Association) is highly beneficial for companies operating in the rope access sector. However the process of becoming an IRATA Member Company is perceived to be a complex one, but with Ascend QM we can simplify the process and work with you to achieve your desired membership level. We’ve spoken about the differences in IRATA Membership before in a previous article, today we’re going to explore some of the reasons PCBUs should look into, and become an IRATA Member.

IRATA International is the globally recognised association that sets the highest standards for safety, training, and operational excellence in rope access.

In fact, IRATA has been the leading international expert in rope access since the early 1980’s. Since its inception, IRATA has maintained a documented approach to training technicians, in the interest of providing the safest possible operational solutions within the work-at-height and confined space sectors. Ultimately, IRATA’s objective was the development of a safe system of work, allowing personnel to gain access to and from the work position, and be supported there. Along with the development of such systems, came the development of a robust operating documentation that has been revised over the years and ancillary equipment, personal protective equipment and rope access methodology has evolved.

IRATA has three types of membership:

1. Operator – Companies engaging in operations utilising industrial rope access techniques (other than training);
2. Trainer – Companies engaging in training personnel in all techniques of industrial rope access;
3. Associate – Equipment manufacturers and suppliers of other services.

IRATA’s membership requirements are strict and are founded on international best practice for working at height. IRATA provides guidance and direction to its members, who in turn, manage the delivery of training and the management of operational work within the rope access sector. This ensures that all member companies, and technicians, act according to the safety practices proscribed by IRATA, with the quality of this system safeguarded through the process of auditing IRATA members.

The initial membership process is simple – get in touch with us for a full breakdown of the membership application process and audit stages: https://ascendqm.com/contact/

For a PCBU, are a small number of requirements that may seem to be a deterrent – like requiring an IRATA Level 3 safety supervisor on every job – that when risk assessed, actually become a selling point for why clients should engage with IRATA Member Companies. Cost is another barrier for some companies, although IRATA Membership is cheaper to maintain in the long run compared to ISO Membership.

Becoming an IRATA Member Company offers several advantages for companies specialising in rope access services. These include:

1. Global Recognition of Standards

• This is probably the flagship reason to become an IRATA Member – as IRATA is internationally recognised as the gold standard in rope access safety, training, and operations.
• By attaining membership, you are able to demonstrate that the company is aligned with a globally trusted organisation known for its rigorous safety protocols and operational excellence.

2. Verified operations to the IRATA Code of Practice

• Despite the IRATA ICOP (a comprehensive guide that ensures high safety and performance standards) being freely available online, it’s only after an IRATA Audit that a company can truly say it operates to this standard.
• By gaining membership, a company is able to demonstrate compliance with the ICOP, which in turn improves the company’s risk management and operational efficiency.

3. Enhanced Credibility and Trust

• Clients are more likely to trust and engage companies that are IRATA-certified, as it reflects a commitment to safety, training, and quality assurance.
• Membership demonstrates that a company adheres to industry-leading practices and ongoing improvement.

4. Exclusive Networking Opportunities

• IRATA membership allows companies to connect with other industry professionals, contractors, and clients globally.
• Members can participate in industry events, workshops, and conferences, fostering collaboration and business growth.

5. Training and Development Resources

• IRATA members benefit from access to certified training schemes and resources.
• This ensures employees are highly skilled and competent, reducing risks and enhancing the quality of work.

6. Regulatory Compliance

• IRATA standards often align with national and international safety regulations, making it easier for member companies to comply with local laws.
• Membership simplifies navigating complex regulatory requirements, particularly for multinational projects.

7. Market Advantage

• Being part of IRATA can provide a competitive edge when bidding for contracts, as many clients and industries prefer or require IRATA-certified contractors.
• Membership highlights a company’s dedication to maintaining high professional standards.

8. Safety Statistics and Continuous Improvement

• IRATA gathers and analyzes global safety statistics, helping members benchmark and improve their safety performance.
• Members benefit from shared insights, lessons learned, and advancements in rope access techniques.

9. Support and Advocacy

• IRATA represents its members in discussions with regulatory bodies, ensuring that the rope access industry’s needs and concerns are heard.
• Membership provides companies with a collective voice, influencing policies and standards.

10. Sustainability and Future Readiness

• IRATA’s focus on safety, efficiency, and minimal environmental impact aligns with growing demands for sustainable practices in industrial work.

By becoming an IRATA member, companies not only enhance their reputation but also ensure they remain at the forefront of industry best practices, safety, and professionalism.

Ascend QM specialise in IRATA International consulting services. Ascend QM focus on providing expert guidance and solutions to ensure safety and regulatory compliance in industries that required work in elevated environments. Our services include consultation on implementing IRATA International standards in the workplace for safe and efficient operations at heights.

Get in touch today to ascend to the next level.

Yours in Safety.
Deborah Chick
Ascend QM CEO