Frequently asked questions about IRATA training courses in Geelong
At Ropeology, we understand that you may have questions about our IRATA training courses in Geelong. Below, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to provide clarity on the course structure, certification process, and other important details related to IRATA training.
IRATA training refers to the specialised courses provided by the Industrial Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA) for rope access technicians. These courses are globally recognised and prepare individuals to work safely and efficiently at height using ropes and related equipment.
IRATA training is suitable for individuals who want to pursue careers in industries requiring rope access, such as construction, oil and gas, telecommunications, and industrial maintenance. It is also a requirement for professionals who wish to advance their skills and qualifications in rope access.
IRATA training is divided into three levels:
Level 1: Entry-level course for beginners.
Level 2: Intermediate training for technicians with experience, focusing on advanced techniques and supervision.
Level 3: The highest qualification for experienced rope access professionals, emphasising safety, team management, and rescue operations.
IRATA revalidation is required every three years at all levels, following a minimum of four days of training.
Holders of expired IRATA Level 1, 2, or 3 certificates wanting to regain IRATA certification should contact Ropeology.
Rope access technicians not engaged in rope access work for 180 days or more shall attend the IRATA refresher training.
To ensure rope access technicians are up-t0-date with certification, IRATA training and revalidation assessment may be undertaken up to 180 days before their certification expiry date without any time penalty.
Each IRATA course typically lasts five days. The first four days cover theoretical knowledge and practical skills, while the fifth day is reserved for assessment.
The student-to-trainer ratio for our IRATA training courses is 6:1. This ensures that each participant receives focused attention, personalised instruction, and a safe learning environment during practical sessions.
For Level 1, no prior experience is necessary, but participants must be physically fit and have a good understanding of working at heights.
For Level 2, participants must have logged a minimum of 1,000 hours and one year of work experience as a Level 1 technician.
For Level 3, participants must have logged 1,000 hours and one year of work experience as a Level 2 technician, along with demonstrated leadership and safety skills.
The purpose of assessment is to ensure that each candidate demonstrates the required tasks in a safe manner, in accordance with the requirements of this scheme.
The assessor shall not require tasks that are outside the relevant syllabus.
IRATA assessments shall only be carried out by IRATA assessors who are independent of the candidate, the candidate’s employer and the organisation providing training.
Before starting the assessment, the assessor and trainer member company shall agree how the responsibility for the health and safety of the candidates is to be managed.
All candidates shall be fully briefed by the assessor before and during the assessment. All candidates are required to undergo a practical assessment, where they shall demonstrate their competency as per the required ‘TACS’ [TC-101] syllabus items. Where appropriate, the Assessor may explore the candidate’s knowledge further by discussion.
Candidates being assessed for Level 3 certification will additionally be required to sit a theory examination. Candidates shall comply with examination and assessment rules. If a candidate is in breach of the rules, the assessment shall be terminated, resulting in a fail.
Candidates may be asked to carry out an exercise, or exercises, that include more than one element of the assessment.
There are two possible overall results: pass or fail. To pass the assessment, the candidate shall successfully complete all the required elements of the syllabus at the relevant level. The assessment ends and the candidate fails if one major discrepancy or three minor discrepancies are committed during the assessment.
The candidate shall be able to obtain clarification of any requirement from the assessor at any time during the assessment.
The assessor shall inform the candidate of discrepancies and shall explain the safety issue(s) arising from the situation, when they occur and when safe to do so.
The candidate shall sign the IRATA ‘Technician Assessment Form’ [FM-025] prior to the assessment. At the end of the assessment, the assessor shall debrief each candidate and inform them of their assessment outcome.
Where a candidate has failed to reach the required standard, the Assessor may specify that more training is required. This should be completed before reassessment.
To enrol in our IRATA training courses in Geelong, simply contact us for available course dates and registration information. We will guide you through the enrolment process and provide any additional details you may need.