When it comes to working at height, few solutions are as efficient, safe and cost-effective as rope access. From high-rise maintenance and façade cleaning to ductwork and riser hygiene and inspections, rope access offers minimal disruption with maximum precision. However, the success of your project depends heavily on how to choose the right rope access company.
In this article, we guide you through the key factors to consider when selecting a rope access provider – ensuring you choose a team that is not only qualified but also fully compliant with UK safety regulations and standards.
- Check for IRATA Accreditation
The Industrial Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA) is the gold standard for rope access certification. A company employing IRATA-certified technicians demonstrates:
- Full compliance with international rope access safety protocols
- Consistent training and assessments
- Comprehensive rescue planning and supervision
✅ Ensure the provider uses Level 3 IRATA supervision on all projects for maximum oversight and risk management.
- Evaluate Industry Compliance and UK Legislation
With the introduction of the UK Building Safety Act 2022, the importance of legal and regulatory compliance has never been greater. When choosing a rope access company, you must ensure that their procedures align with the relevant national standards, including:
- NAAD21 (National Association of Air Duct Specialists) – for ventilation hygiene, cleaning and ductwork inspection
- BSEHV11 (National Occupational Standard for Ventilation Hygiene) – to ensure technicians are competent and trained for specialist tasks
- Alignment with updated safety obligations under the UK Building Safety Act 2022, promoting accountability, traceability and transparency in all building safety works
A compliant rope access provider will be able to demonstrate documented procedures, technician qualifications and safe working practices that meet or exceed these industry benchmarks.
- Review Their Range of Services
Choose a rope access provider that offers a broad set of capabilities, including:
- Ductwork and riser hygiene
- Façade cleaning and repairs
- DOFF cleaning for delicate surfaces
- Pest control netting installation
- High-level inspections and surveys
- Access panel installations
A multi-skilled team can deliver more efficient outcomes and reduce the need for multiple contractors.
- Ask for Case Studies and Client Feedback
A reputable rope access company will gladly share examples of past projects and client testimonials. This helps you verify:
- Industry experience
- Problem-solving ability
- Client satisfaction and safety record
Look for documented case studies involving similar environments or project requirements to yours.
- Ensure 24/7 Operational Support and Flexibility
Access issues often arise out of hours, or during tight operational windows. Your rope access provider should offer:
- 24/7 operational support for urgent works
- Flexible scheduling to minimise business disruption
- Ongoing support throughout the project
- A strong customer support team to communicate efficiently and effectively at all stages of the project.
At Rope Access 24 Seven, we operate round-the-clock to support clients with responsive, expert-led services whenever they are needed.
- Verify Equipment Standards and Safety Culture
All rope access equipment should meet recognised safety standards, with:
- Regular inspection and maintenance logs
- Pre-use and post-use equipment checks
- Clear rescue plans and RAMS (Risk Assessments and Method Statements)
- Full insurance and liability cover
Safety isn’t just a checklist – it should be a core company value embedded in every job.
Conclusion
How to choose the right rope access company isn’t just about the price – it is about professionalism, compliance and proven expertise. From IRATA accreditation and NAAD21 compliance to 24/7 support and wide-ranging services, your provider should be capable, responsive and fully aligned with UK legislation, including the Building Safety Act 2022.
At Rope Access 24 Seven, we bring all of this together. Our team of IRATA-certified professionals delivers industry-compliant, safety-led rope access solutions tailored to your needs – every time.
📞 Ready to discuss your project?
Contact us today to speak with our operations team or arrange a free site survey:
📧 info@24sevengroup.co.uk
📞 0203 640 8247
🌐 www.ropeaccess24seven.co.uk
Rope Access 24 Seven – Trusted rope access solutions that meet the highest UK safety standards.
For more information on our full range of services use these helpful website links Rope Access Ductwork, Rope Access Building Maintenance, Industrial Rope Access, Doff Cleaning and Pest Control.