IRATA WASA Report Analysis: Leading Indicators for Proactive Prevention

IRATA International put together 5 key lessons, from the latest WAHA Report. We’ve discussed four so far in previous articles: today we look at the 5th recommendation: “Leading Indicators for Proactive Prevention”.

It’s a tricky one – as accident and incident statistics are, by their nature, ‘lagging’ indicators. They provide insight into past events but offer little in the way of prevention. To foster a culture of safety, organisations must prioritise proactive measures — leading indicators — that allow teams to identify and mitigate risks before incidents occur.

So why is it important to understand leading indicators?

Because leading indicators are measurable actions or behaviours that can predict and prevent workplace incidents. Unlike lagging indicators, which focus on outcomes such as injury rates or lost workdays, leading indicators are proactive and preventive in nature. They help organizations shift from reactive responses to a culture of continuous improvement and risk mitigation.

Key Leading Indicators for Safety

To enhance workplace safety, organisations should incorporate the following leading indicators into their safety programs:

  1. On-the-Ground Safety Observations Regular safety observations provide real-time insights into workplace conditions and behaviours. By engaging workers and supervisors in structured observations, organisations can detect unsafe practices early and implement corrective actions before incidents occur.
  2. Safety Conversations Open and frequent safety discussions between workers and management encourage hazard recognition and proactive problem-solving. These conversations create an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting potential risks and suggesting improvements.
  3. Pre-Task Briefings Before beginning any task, a structured pre-task briefing ensures that workers understand potential hazards, proper safety measures, and emergency protocols. These briefings reinforce awareness and prepare teams to handle challenges safely.
  4. Near-Miss Reporting and Analysis Encouraging employees to report near-misses helps organisations identify patterns and address potential risks before they escalate into accidents. Analysing near-miss data allows safety teams to refine training, update procedures, and implement engineering controls to prevent recurrence.
  5. Safety Training and Engagement Continuous safety training and engagement ensure that workers remain aware of best practices and emerging risks. Interactive training sessions, hands-on drills, and refresher courses help reinforce a strong safety culture.

Measuring and Improving Leading Indicators

To maximize the effectiveness of leading indicators, companies should periodically review their impact by analyzing trends, soliciting employee feedback, and adjusting strategies accordingly. Implementing digital tracking tools and dashboards can help organisations measure the effectiveness of proactive safety initiatives and refine their approach.

In conclusion, prevention must always be at the core of workplace safety. By integrating leading indicators such as safety observations, meaningful safety conversations, pre-task briefings, and near-miss reporting, companies can create a proactive safety culture that prioritises risk mitigation over incident response. The result is a safer work environment where employees feel empowered to contribute to continuous improvement and long-term safety success.

Yours in Safety

Deborah Chick

Ascend QM CEO

Incident Reporting: Consistency Drives Improvement

In the high-risk environment of rope access operations, consistency in incident reporting is not just a regulatory necessity—it is a critical driver of safety improvement.

Reliable and consistent reporting, particularly for near misses, allows companies and the wider industry to identify trends, analyze root causes, and share lessons learned.

Without accurate and detailed incident data, opportunities for improvement may be overlooked, potentially leading to repeated hazards and unnecessary risks.

IRATA International has recognised the need for enhanced data precision in incident reporting; (If you didn’t know, all IRATA Member Companies are required to report incidents within 7 days of them occurring) but historically companies are under reporting indents and near misses, a topic we have already covered in a previous article.

If you are a member of IRATA: there is a new incident reporting form and associated guidance which marks a significant step forward in gaining precise data categories and refined criteria for defining “dangerous occurrences”. These improvements will facilitate a better understanding of incident patterns, allowing for a more robust measurement of safety performance and improvements over time.

A key feature of this update is the integration of incorporated and accessible guidance within the Incident Report [FM-021]. This built-in support is designed to remove barriers to accurate reporting by offering clear instructions and definitions. By making the reporting process more intuitive, IRATA aims to ensure that organisations can submit detailed and meaningful incident data without ambiguity or confusion.

Regardless if you are a member of IRATA or working for a non-Member, fostering a culture of openness remains a primary focus for us all. Whilst IRATA have an ongoing global campaign seeking to encourage transparent incident reporting by promoting open discussion without fear of blame it is up to us to ensure that the companies we work with have a shifting workplace cultures that prioritise safety over liability. We believe this is essential to achieving genuine improvements in incident prevention.

As IRATA continues to drive these changes, companies within the rope access industry must actively support and participate in the initiative. Embracing consistent and accurate incident reporting will lead to a safer working environment for all, ensuring that lessons are learned and improvements are made before serious incidents occur. By working together and prioritising safety, the industry can move towards a future where every worker benefits from a well-informed and proactive approach to risk management.

Yours in Safety

Deborah Chick

Ascend QM CEO

Addressing Near Miss Reporting

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

Addressing Human Factors in Rope Access Safety: The Role of IRATA

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 an IRATA Member Company.

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

Why you should choose an IRATA Member Company

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

So we know that IRATA is at the forefront of safety and excellence in the rope access world, but what exactly is the break down of IRATA Membership? It’s important as both a technician and as a PCBU to know the breakdown of membership.

An individual person who holds a current IRATA International qualification is not a member of IRATA. However they do uphold and agree to operate to the standards set out in the International Code of Practice (ICOP). We encourage you to read the back of your assessment day form one day!

A worker may be trained and hold a IRATA International qualification and not work for an IRATA Member Company.

An organisation may undertake rope access operations, employ IRATA trained technicians, but not hold IRATA membership.

Ultimately, IRATA Membership is for PCBU’s aka businesses! There’s over 650 IRATA Member Companies globally, who enjoy the benefits of membership and can truly say they uphold and operate to the standards outlined in the ICOP.

IRATA International have a comprehensive membership process in two primary categories: Operations and Training. Companies can hold individual membership in one of these sectors, or attain membership with both. IRATA requires that member companies work in accordance with the ICOP and the Training, Assessment and Certification Scheme (TACS) and, by doing so, contribute to maintaining the prized safety record of the Association that is unmatched in the access industry; the details of Members’ operational safety records are required to be submitted on a quarterly basis and are independently audited on a three yearly cycle, along with internal audit and quality assurance requirements.

Choosing to work with, or be employed by an IRATA Member Company ensures high standards of safety, training, and professionalism in rope access operations.

Here are key reasons to choose an IRATA Member Company:

1. Commitment to Safety

  • Industry-Leading Safety Standards: IRATA’s work methods prioritize minimal risk through robust systems and protocols.
  • Proven Track Record: IRATA members collectively report one of the lowest accident rates in the working-at-heights industry.

2. Certified Personnel

  • IRATA technicians undergo rigorous training and certification at three levels, ensuring their competence and knowledge are up to date.
  • Regular assessments and adherence to a structured career progression system maintain technician skills and safety awareness.

3. Compliance with International Standards

  • Member companies operate in accordance with IRATA’s International Code of Practice (ICOP), ensuring compliance with global safety and operational guidelines.
  • IRATA certification is recognized and respected worldwide, making member companies ideal partners for international projects.

4. Regular Audits and Accountability

  • Member companies are subject to regular independent audits by IRATA to verify compliance with the association’s stringent requirements.
  • Adherence to strict membership criteria ensures consistent quality and reliability.

5. Global Network and Support

  • IRATA’s extensive network of member companies and technicians ensures a collaborative and resource-rich environment.
  • Members benefit from access to IRATA’s resources, including training, guidance, and technical advice.

6. Ethical and Professional Practices

  • IRATA members are committed to ethical business practices and the professional development of their workforce.
  • Clients can trust that projects will be completed efficiently and with integrity.

Conclusion

Partnering with an IRATA Member Company provides peace of mind through unmatched safety standards, certified expertise, and a global reputation for excellence in rope access work.

So how do you become a Member Company?

Ascend QM offer consultancy services to businesses looking to attain IRATA Membership, or even maintain existing Membership. Becoming accredited to IRATA International is highly beneficial for companies operating in the rope access sector.

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.

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

This journey often starts with a gap analysis. A gap analysis is a systematic method used to assess the difference (or “gap”) between an organization’s current state and its desired future state. In the context of IRATA International standards, a gap analysis helps identify areas where a company’s existing processes, procedures, or systems fall short of the requirements needed for certification to particular standards as outlined in the IRATA International Code of Practice (ICOP) and the Training, Assessment and Certification Scheme (TACS).

If you have an exisiting IRATA International Membership, you can undertake an internal audit with Ascend QM. An internal audit is a systematic, independent, and documented process of evaluating an organization’s operations, procedures, and controls to ensure compliance with internal policies, standards, and regulations. In the context of IRATA International, internal audits are a key component of the management system and serve to check whether the organisation’s processes align with the requirements of the ICOP and/or TACS.

If you’d like to learn more about how Ascend QM can assist your business in taking things to the next level, get in touch with us today.

Yours in Safety.

Deborah Chick

Ascend QM CEO

IRATA release Safety Bulletin No. 50

A new publication from IRATA International has landed. 

In Safety Bulletin No. 50, IRATA released a case study exploring the complexities encountered by a rope access team operating within confined shafts.

The case study highlights how the considerations in operational planning and ongoing dynamic risk assessment were essential in ensuring a safe outcome for the task when presented with unpredictable conditions. 

Despite robust plans that included gas monitoring, forced ventilation, and emergency drills, the team encountered an unexpected rush of gas during work on one of the shafts. This exposure quickly affected nearby workers who experienced symptoms of nausea, prompting an immediate evacuation and medical assessment, which helped avoid further risk. The event emphasises the potential for sudden unforeseen hazards in confined spaces.

Challenges like restricted movement, complex rescue, and reliance on specialised equipment and communication methods in confined areas are compounded by the potential for hazardous gas buildup, as in this case. These conditions underscore the importance of comprehensive preparation and dynamic risk assessments for a safe job outcome.

For a complete look at the findings from this case study and the safety protocols that the team engaged, download IRATA SAFETY BULLETIN NO. 50. HERE. It includes insights on essential control measures, from atmospheric monitoring to effective rescue planning, and is a helpful resource for managing confined space risks in rope access work.

Under Reporting of Incidents in the Rope Access World.

Another year, another Work and Safety Analysis (WASA) Report from IRATA International, and yet again …. It has been noted that companies are under reporting.

If you didn’t know, Member Companies of IRATA International (the worlds leading authority on industrial rope access), are required to report any serious accident, incident, or a ‘dangerous occurrence’ within 7 days. It’s been a long-standing requirement of IRATA, and over the years … it would seem that the vast majority of Member Companies still struggle with this requirement.

During my time on the IRATA International Health & Safety Committee I spoke about it during multiple RAC meetings and challenged our region to do better. We did – for a period of time. But there is still a lag in accident and incident reporting.

2011 WASA Report – “The increasing trend to report dangerous occurrences should be encourages, particularly when relevant to rope access.”

2014 WASA Report – “Members should be reminded of the requirement to report all accidents and incidents, however trivial.”

2017 WASA Report – “The low level of reported events, particularly ‘dangerous occurrences’, in relation to the over employment level and hours worked, continues to be of concern.”

2024 WASA Report – “Of the 267 accidents and incidents analysed, 124 reports (46.4%) were linked to 7 companies. These 7 companies account for just 4.78% of all hours worked. It seems likely that this is due to the lack of reporting by the majority as opposed to poor performance by the few.”

IRATA have identified under-reporting as an issue for the Association, again and again. To the point where they published two Topic Sheets, one on Accident and Incident Reporting (No. 23) and another on Near Miss and Under Reporting (No. 27) in 2022.

Despite each region having its own legal requirements, the principles of reportable incidents remain the same.

In broad terms, a “reportable accident” is:

  • The death of a person.
  • A serious injury, e.g. a fracture, loss of consciousness, etc.
  • Incapacitation, e.g. injured and away from work for over 7 days.
  • Some occupational diseases, e.g. hand arm vibration syndrome, or.
  • Certain dangerous occurrences.

So why is under reporting still occurring?

Companies and individuals may underreport incidents for several reasons:

One of the most common reasons is fear of negative consequences.

Companies may fear that reporting incidents could lead to financial penalties, increased insurance premiums, or scrutiny from regulatory bodies. This fear sometimes motivates companies to avoid reporting to minimize perceived negative outcomes.

For individuals, the fear may be loss of job, or other penalties or restrictions applied to the worker, impacting their income or standing at work.

Reporting incidents provides IRATA with valuable data; data that can be evaluated and resources created to increase awareness and help prevent accidents from occurring again in the future. Lessons can be learned from accidents. Reporting them ensures a business doesn’t become complacent or dismissive of its personnel. Reporting promotes a positive safety culture within the organisation. The more people who report incidents, more serious accidents – and fatalities – can be prevented.

Companies and individuals may also have a concern for their reputation.

A company’s public image and reputation are vital in competitive industries. It is perceived that by reporting incidents, especially serious ones, it can affect how clients, stakeholders, and the public view the company’s commitment to safety. Likewise, how a person is perceived at work, their reputation in a niche industry, and how there are treated may impact their decision to report incidents or safety concerns.

IRATA do not disclose names or company details. The data that is reported is reviewed by the Health & Safety Committee – who all bound to a code of conduct and a non-disclosure agreement. The data is anonymised when it is reported in the WASA or stripped back to a case study for Topic Sheets and Safety Bulletins.

Another deterrent of incident reporting is a ‘Blame Culture’. Why report it if the company blames someone for it occurring in the first place? As noted in the IRATA International Work and Safety Analysis report of 2024, some companies may operate within a “blame culture” where incidents are seen as failures that should be hidden rather than learning opportunities. This culture discourages open reporting and reduces transparency around safety.

There is also the educational piece: people simply may not know they are to report incidents or safety concerns (and loop back to being afraid of reporting something if they are new to the business). Lack of awareness of reporting requirements should be an easy one to tackle for Member Companies – every induction should cover off on the importance of incident reporting. But in some organizations, there may be limited understanding of the value of thorough incident reporting as part of a safety management system. Without robust training on incident reporting’s role in improving safety, workers and management may not prioritize it.

There may also be an inadequate reporting system in place. Companies without streamlined, accessible reporting systems may find that employees and supervisors overlook reporting requirements, especially if reporting is seen as complex or time-consuming.

So how can a company (and individuals) improve on incident reporting?

To improve incident reporting, you can take several practical steps:

1. Cultivate a Safety Culture: Encourage a “just culture” over a blame culture, where employees feel safe to report incidents without fear of blame or punishment. Emphasize that incidents and near-misses are learning opportunities, not failures. Management should lead by example, discussing safety openly and rewarding transparency.

2. Simplify Reporting Processes: Make the reporting process straightforward and accessible. Implement an easy-to-use digital platform or app for incident reporting, reducing the effort and time required. This increases the likelihood that employees will report incidents, particularly near-misses.

3. Train Employees on Reporting Importance: Educate all employees on the value of incident reporting for both individual and organizational safety. Training should highlight how reporting helps prevent future incidents and contributes to everyone’s well-being.

4. Use Leading and Lagging Indicators: Incorporate both lagging indicators (such as the number of reported incidents) and leading indicators (like safety observations, near-miss reporting, and training participation). Focusing on both types of data helps companies assess safety culture and make proactive improvements.

5. Conduct Safety Conversations and Observations: Regular “safety conversations” between supervisors and employees encourage ongoing dialogue about risks and safety practices. Routine observations also help supervisors identify unreported hazards and address them before they lead to incidents.

6. Provide Feedback and Recognition: Share feedback with employees on reported incidents, including actions taken to resolve issues and improve safety. Recognizing and rewarding those who report incidents, especially near-misses, reinforces the message that reporting is valued.

7. Benchmark and Set Reporting Goals: Benchmark incident reporting rates against industry standards to identify gaps. Set achievable goals for incident reporting and monitor progress over time. This encourages teams to view reporting as part of a larger safety objective rather than an isolated activity.

By focusing on these steps, companies can make incident reporting more consistent, transparent, and beneficial for improving workplace safety.

See it. Report it. Prevent it.

Yours in Safety,

Deborah Chick

CEO of Ascend QM

London Work at Height Seminar

2023 saw the fifth LWAHS return to the London Guildhall. It was a great success providing an opportunity for industry counterparts to come together to further their professional knowledge and safety awareness of the wider work at height industry. Deborah Chick attended, representing the Working at Height Association of Australia. 

The LWAHS welcomed Joanna Carrington, Jonathan Cooper and Jamie Ruxton from the City of London Corporation, who offered valuable insights into the impact of safety culture within the City. 

Principal Designer and CDM Adviser at Baily Garner (Health & Safety) Ltd, Adam Smith, complemented these insights with a discussion on the practical implementation of the ‘hierarchy of controls’ and how this helps to reduce risk throughout the design and construction process in the City.

Stephen Green from the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE), presented the impact of workplace culture on safe working practices and Simon Richmond, Senior Technical Officer at the Arboricultural Association, informed the audience of arboreal industries’ continuous progression to safer working practices. Peter Bennet OBE represented the Access Industry Forum (AIF) and provided statistical data, and updates from the APPG on working at height.

IRATA International was represented by Dr Sheila Kondaveeti and Jonathan Capper, IRATA’s CEO and Executive Chair. Dr Kondaveeti expressed the benefits of using IRATA members for industrial rope access needs, stating that “the cost of unsafe working practices will far outweigh any savings in the short term. Jonathan spoke about the IRATA safe system of work.

Thank you to the City of London Corporation for hosting the event and for their continued support.

View the event video: https://irata.org/media/videos/london-work-at-height-seminar-2023-video

Vale Rodney Magare 1969 – 2022

Rodney; thank you for being the pioneer of positive change within IRATA.

We first met in 2016, and since then – I honestly cannot thank you enough for your mentoring; for imparting your values onto me. Working with you over the years has been a true highlight of my professional career. Your contributions, innovation, unwavering commitment and high work ethics will be felt for years to come across the rope access industry.

My condolences to your family, and to the team at IRATA Head Office. 

Deborah Chick, CEO Eve Consulting


From IRATA International:

It is with a heavy heart that we inform you that Rodney Marage, our General Manager and Company Secretary, passed away on the 2nd February 2022 following a battle with cancer. This announcement has been delayed until now to allow Rodney’s family time to share this tragic news.

Rodney’s significant contribution, innovative approach and unwavering dedication to the progression of IRATA were immeasurable. Rodney was unquestionably a prominent figure in the association’s global growth and advancement, which the industry will benefit from for many years to come. Rodney encouraged a collaborative approach, and undoubtedly, this news will be a cause of great sadness for all those he inspired. We offer our sincere condolences to his family and to all those affected by his passing. 

For anyone wishing to share their sympathies, IRATA has set up an online book of remembrance HERE and for those wishing to donate to the family’s chosen charity, Ellenor Hospice, who cared for Rodney in his final days, may do so HERE. We encourage those who would like to pay their respects, to do so in these forums.

Rodney was a truly remarkable man who was widely respected by the IRATA community. In his memory, we shall use our best endeavours to fulfil his ambitious vision for IRATA and emulate the association’s achievements during his time as General Manager.

Jonathan Capper
IRATA International Chairman
For and on behalf of the IRATA Executive Committee