For as long as there have been buildings, there has been a need for people to maintain them. Left alone, structures will inevitably start to decay, so a thorough understanding of a structure’s condition and proactive maintenance is key to preserving Britain’s built heritage.
Berenice Northcott, Managing Director of Access North Structures, explores how rope access can play a vital part in ongoing building conservation…
In recent decades, rope access has emerged as the best option for carrying out a multitude of tasks at height. Whether working on a 20-storey office block, a 200-year-old church or just two metres from the ground, good access is essential to making sure all angles are covered when it comes to understanding – and prolonging the life-span of – any building.
So what exactly are the benefits of rope access?
Safety first
Rope access is rapidly becoming renowned as one of the safest ways to clean, maintain and carry out repairs at height. For tall buildings and ageing or complex structures, the technique enables difficult areas to be reached safely and efficiently.
Extensive IRATA training undertaken by the technicians suitably prepares them for the adrenaline-inducing working environment, while ensuring they understand the importance of adhering to the Work at Height Regulations 2005.
Cost-effective
One of the biggest reasons for the rise in rope access for building conservation is undoubtedly its cost-effectiveness. By removing the need for scaffolding or powered access equipment, the technique can help to lower costs, minimise disruption and reduce the impact on the environment.
Environmental adaptability
If all structures were a simply a large cube, an FM’s role would arguably be so much easier. But, with the complexities of modern design – as well as the often hard-to-reach grandeur offered by historic buildings across the UK – access can sometimes be tricky.
The manoeuvrability afforded by rope access means that necessary maintenance, cleaning and repairs can be conducted swiftly and securely, even in parts that are particularly tricky to reach.
Minimal disruption
Building and facilities managers will know all too well the challenges of keeping a site running as normal whilst maintenance or repair work is being conducted. While other means of access can often require lengthy set-ups, rope access systems can be established and dismantled very quickly.
Flexible working
A slight change in the weather or disruption to a client’s own plans needn’t have a detrimental effect on a rope access project. Rescheduling can be achieved with relative simplicity, whereas the hire and transportation of more traditional access equipment can quickly leave FMs with a logistical – and financial – headache if plans change at short-notice.
From routine maintenance to essential repairs, a vast array of elevated assignments can be conducted efficiently by rope access. No matter how tall, intricate or challenging a structure is, rope access is undeniably raising the stakes when it comes to conserving our built heritage.
Access North Structures
03330 062182
