Safety and Compliance Flashcards

What is the typical minimum strength SPRAT and OSHA expect for each personal anchorage used for fall protection when it is not engineered?

Answer: 5,000 lbf (about 22 kN) per person attached

Anchorages that are not engineered must support at least 5,000 lbf per attached person; otherwise a qualified person must design them with a safety factor of at least 2.

What is the purpose of edge protection on a rope access system?

Answer: To prevent ropes from being cut or abraded on sharp or rough edges

Edge protection shields the rope from cutting and abrasion where it runs over edges, which is one of the main failure risks in rope access.

How often must SPRAT-certified technicians recertify?

Answer: Every 3 years

SPRAT certification is valid for three years, after which the technician must pass a recertification assessment.

When is a permit required before rope access is used to enter a confined space?

Answer: When the space meets permit-required confined space criteria under OSHA

Permit-required confined spaces need an entry permit, atmospheric testing, and a rescue plan no matter which access method is used.

Why should technicians keep accurate logbooks of their rope access hours?

Answer: To document experience needed for advancing to the next SPRAT level

SPRAT requires documented hours and time at each level before a technician can be assessed for the next level.

What does a fall factor describe?

Answer: The length of a fall divided by the length of rope or lanyard available to absorb it

A higher fall factor means more force on the person and the system, so rope access systems are set up to keep fall factors low.

What is the most important first step when a technician becomes unconscious while suspended?

Answer: Start the planned rescue promptly to get them out of suspension

Motionless suspension can lead to suspension intolerance, so a prompt team rescue according to the rescue plan is critical.