IRATA Level 1 - Rope Access Technician

Objectives

IRATA Level 1 is the entry-level qualification in the IRATA International rope access system. It confirms that a technician can use rope access equipment correctly, carry out standard manoeuvres safely, and work under the supervision of an IRATA Level 3 supervisor within a pre-planned system. No previous rope access experience is required to enrol.

Target Audience

Individuals starting out in industrial rope access who wish to obtain entry-level IRATA certification. Suitable for technicians in sectors such as oil and gas, construction, wind energy, maintenance, and inspection.

General Requirements

• Minimum Age: All candidates must be at least 18 years of age at the start of the course.
• Maximum Intake per Course (MBTC): Mega Brahma Training Centre accommodates a maximum of 10 candidates per course.
• Medical Fitness: Candidates must be physically fit and unaffected by any disability or medical condition that may prevent them from working safely at height. A self-certification medical declaration (IRATA Form 014) is required.
• Attitude & Fitness: Candidates must demonstrate a responsible attitude, a respect for heights, and appropriate physical capability including strength, agility, and coordination.
• Identity Verification: Candidates must register on IRATA TechConnect and complete identity verification before training.
• Course Duration: All IRATA training courses consist of a minimum of 30 hours of training delivered over 4 days, followed by a 1-day independent assessment.
• Certification Validity: IRATA certificates are valid for 3 years from the date of assessment.
• Logbook: All IRATA technicians are required to maintain an IRATA logbook recording rope access hours worked.

Prerequisites

• Minimum age of 18 years.
• No previous rope access experience required.
• Medical fitness to work at height (self-certification declaration required).
• Ability to understand training and safety information in the course language.
• Registered and identity-verified on IRATA TechConnect.

Course Content & Syllabus

• Introduction to the IRATA International Code of Practice (ICOP) and the roles of Level 1, 2, and 3 technicians.
• Equipment identification, function, inspection, and care: harnesses, helmets, connectors, descenders, ascenders, backup devices, ropes, and slings.
• Knots and terminations used in rope access.
• Fundamental rope access techniques: ascending, descending, changeovers, passing deviations, and re-anchors.
• Simple rigging tasks under direct supervision.
• Work positioning and tool handling at height.
• Basic rope access rescue awareness: understanding the rescue plan, raising the alarm, and the technician's role in an emergency.
• Risk awareness: typical rope access hazards and control measures.
• Theory: legislation, safety principles, equipment standards, and inspection intervals.

Course Duration & Assessment

• Training Duration: 4 days (minimum 30 hours of contact training).
• Assessment Day: 1 day with an independent IRATA International Assessor.
• Total Duration: 5 days.
• Assessment Format: Practical demonstration of all Level 1 rope manoeuvres and techniques, plus written and/or verbal theory questions covering the IRATA syllabus, equipment identification, and rescue awareness.
• Re-sit Policy: Candidates who fail the assessment have 60 days from the date of the failed assessment to re-sit before being required to retake the full training course.

Certification & Expiry

• Certificate Validity: 3 years from the date of assessment.
• Upon Certification: Successful candidates receive an IRATA certificate of competence, a photo identification (ID) card, and an IRATA logbook.
• Revalidation: Must be completed before the 3-year expiry date in line with IRATA TACS guidelines.
• Progression to Level 2: After 12 months of experience and 1,000 logged working hours at Level 1, technicians become eligible to upgrade to Level 2.