SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Rig working ropes, undertake rescues and perform a range of rope access tasks 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
229996  Rig working ropes, undertake rescues and perform a range of rope access tasks 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Hiring Services 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 11 - Services Cleaning, Domestic, Hiring, Property and Rescue Services 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 3  NQF Level 03  6 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-06-30   2029-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
Learners working towards competence in this unit standard will be a person using rope access techniques to access work to be performed, where rope access skills are required. Qualifying learners will be able to perform a wide range of rope access techniques, perform some rescues and rig and inspect rope access equipment under supervision.

The qualifying learners are capable of:
  • Rigging ropes for work and rescue situations using relevant knots.
  • Performing rope manoeuvres.
  • Performing rescues.
  • Maintaining and inspecting rope access equipment.
  • Demonstrating knowledge of worksite organisation.
  • Applying knowledge of the legal and safety requirements to different worksites.

    The practice in the industry is that for someone to operate at this level he/she should:
  • Have a minimum time of 6 months and 750 logged hours performing rope access work under supervision.
  • Be medically fit and in possession of a medical certificate. The certificate should conform to the content of SABS 0333:2 Annex A. The learner should be free from conditions that may prevent her/him from working safely as specified in the range statement.
  • Be physically fit to be able to perform all the tasks required under this standard on the day of assessment.
  • Have team communication skills to ensure fast and effective communication during rescue and site work.
  • Be competent in a registered unit standard for first aid and performing Cardio Pulmonary re-resuscitation (CPR).
  • Be at least 18 years old as required by national and international safety standards. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Learners accessing this unit standard will have demonstrated competence in:
  • Communication at NQF Level 2 or equivalent.
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 2 or equivalent.
  • Unit standard - 'Perform a limited range of rope access tasks and rescues'. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    This unit standard describes the competence and knowledge required of a person referred to in the rope access industry as a "level 2" rope access technician.
  • The scope of this unit standard for any person who rigs access ropes and uses access ropes to perform a range of industrial tasks under supervision of a qualified supervisor. Access to the task is gained by means of ropes anchored to the structure being accessed. It excludes access techniques used by emergency services for rescue work and ropes used for recreational purposes. It can be used in a range of contexts such as cleaning, construction, telecommunications, and vessel inspection.
  • In the context of this unit standard, structures being accessed can include buildings, onshore or offshore structures or geological features such as cliff faces. Ropes are used as primary means of support, primary protection and positioning and a means for personnel to ascend or descend.

    Range statements that refer to assessment criteria:

    This unit standard describes the competence and knowledge required of a person referred to in the rope access industry as a "level 2" rope access technician.
  • Level 1 rope access (NQF level 1) refers to a "technician" who is able to perform a limited range of rope access work, preferably under close supervision of a "level 3 supervisor".
  • Level 2 rope access (NQF level 2) refers to a "lead technician" who is capable of rigging working ropes, undertaking rescues and performing rope access tasks under supervision of a "level 3 supervisor".
  • Level 3 rope access (NQF level 4) refers to a "supervisor" who is capable of complete responsibility for work projects, able to demonstrate skills and knowledge of both levels 1 and 2, is conversant with relevant work techniques and legislation and has comprehensive knowledge of advanced rescue techniques.
  • Assessment criteria marked with * are assessed according to worksite procedures.
  • A range of knowledge and skills of basic rope access manoeuvres includes all the rope access manoeuvres specified for level 1 rope access work performed with confidence. It includes all of the following: descending and ascending ropes; passing knots, deviations and rebelays (intermediate anchors) and obstructions; performing rope transfers and changeovers.
  • Bolts include but are not limited to stainless steel, chemical anchor bolts, expansion bolts.
  • Cable ways refer to either a horizontal or a diagonal cable way.
  • Equipment inspection and safe working loads are governed by rope access guidelines, rope access codes of practice, requirements for safety, safety regulations, lifting equipment regulations.
  • Equipment logs include user logs for ropes and equipment inspection forms.
  • Factors affecting safe placing of bolts include the number of bolts, distance between placement, depth of bolt holes, suitable surfaces, chemicals, manufacturers requirements.
  • External conditions include excessive heat, excessive cold, wet weather wind and fatigue.
  • Hauling systems during rescues include plug-in system, pitch-haul, diagonal and horizontal cable ways.
  • Hauling systems refer to Y systems, Z systems, 3:1 and 2:1 systems.
  • Hazards that can affect the safe work environment include but are not limited to wet and slippery surfaces, sharp edges, chemicals, objects falling from above the work area, restricted work area, fumes that can lead to asphyxiation or unconsciousness.
  • To be considered medically fit learners should be free form any disability that may prevent them from working safely. The learner should be free form the following conditions: Heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, fits and blackouts, fear of heights, giddiness or difficulty with balance, impaired limb function, alcohol or drug dependence, psychiatric illness, diabetes.
  • PPE include, as relevant to the work performed, helmets with a chin strap, gloves, goggles, safety footwear, close fitting overalls, life jackets or items specified by the client or the nature of the job.
  • Regulatory requirements include the Occupational Health and safety act, ISO 9001, SABS 0333-part1-3, lifting equipment regulations.
  • Rescue techniques include all of the following rope systems: rescues using a hauling system, using the lowering system, using basic horizontal and vertical cable ways.
  • Rigging of ropes includes all of the following deviations, rebelays, cable ways, retrievable rope systems, midrope knots.
  • Rigging equipment for load sharing anchors include wire strops, slings and beam clamps.
  • Rope transfer techniques include short rope transfers and long rope transfers but refer to the method of transferring from one rope to another rather than just the distance the ropes are apart.
  • Slings include certified, stitched tape slings, wire slings and rope slings.
  • Safety awareness during rope access includes wearing PPE, Doing, double/final check of equipment, following the principles of double attachment and double ropes, awareness of legal implications of safety incidents. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Rig ropes for work and rescue situations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The factors and surfaces affecting the safe placing of bolts are described with examples of relevant safe practices. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The typical strength and safe loading requirements of anchor points are described, load-sharing anchors and intermediate anchor (rebelays), are rigged using a range of rigging equipment according to strength and loading requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Rope systems are rigged according to the requirements of the purpose for which they will be put. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Working ropes are joined using the correct knot ropes. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Setting up a loop is demonstrated with practical examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The ways rope protection is achieved during rigging are explained and demonstrated according to rigging procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Perform rope manoeuvres. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    A range of basic rope access manoeuvres are performed following safety practices and double rope protection at all times. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Transfer from one rope to another, using rope transfer techniques, is demonstrated using double rope protection. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Traversing a loop is demonstrated using the correct procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Safe lead climbing skills are performed including lead climbing; belaying a lead climber using a double rope system, rescue techniques from lead climbing. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The transport of equipment weighing less than 8 kg and equipment weighing more than 8 kg is demonstrated, using correct rope systems. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Perform rescues. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    A rescue is performed using a plug-in hauling system. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    A simulated rescue of an unconscious casualty who is in ascent mode is performed bringing the casualty down to safety. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    A snatch rescue is performed by passing knots. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    A full range of advanced rope access manoeuvres are performed according to industry requirements. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Maintain and inspect rope access equipment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The purpose of maintenance and equipment logs for rope access equipment is explained and a log completed according to worksite procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The purpose and identification of certified equipment are explained with the examples of industry requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The effect hazardous substances and dangerous chemicals can have on rope access equipment is explained with two examples of each from a familiar worksite. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The factors that speed up damage to ropes are described, with three examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The inspection methods for ropes, webbing, harnesses and hardware are described and defects pointed out according to inspection criteria. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The action to take with substandard equipment, suspect or defective equipment is explained according to procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Demonstrate knowledge of worksite organisation. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Two ways to establish an exclusion zone are explained verbally and the purpose for establishing an exclusion zone is explained according to worksite requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The ways to ensure safe access to the worksite are explained based on worksite. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Hazards that could affect a safe working environment are described giving four examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Safety requirements for a worksite are explained based on procedures, regulations the type of work, and the type of site. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 6 
    Apply knowledge of the legal and safety requirements to different worksites. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Awareness of legal requirements of rope access is verbally demonstrated by naming applicable codes of practice and regulations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The reason for performing equipment examinations and determining safe working loads is explained in accordance with legal requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    External conditions that could affect the safety of the work team are explained with three examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The reason why rope access work is best to be performed in teams is explained with examples of the consequences to safety. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The reason why work should not start without authorisation are explained with examples of the consequences to safety. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The reason why it is important to maintain communication amongst team members at all times, is explained, with examples of the consequences to safety. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Any institution or provider offering learning that will enable achievement of this unit standard must be accredited by the relevant ETQA.
  • To assess competency, an assessor must be registered by the relevant ETQA as an assessor.
  • Assessment tools recommended are written or verbal assessment and a practical assessment.
  • Questions and answers must determine the theoretical knowledge. An Oral examination is suggested to assess knowledge. Reporting skills are demonstrated by effective communication that may be verbal or any other agreed upon method.
  • A practical demonstration of competencies is required in this unit standard. Direct observation to take place in simulated conditions. Simulated conditions are recommended, as the workplace often does not lend itself to the range of situations required for assessment, and the learner first needs to be deemed competent before being allowed to perform manoeuvres on a worksite.
  • Internal and external Moderation of the assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the moderation guidelines outlined in the relevant qualification and agreed ETQA procedures.
  • Assessors will need to be assessed as competent against the unit standard ID 230001 Supervise rope access teams and perform advanced manoeuvres and rescues. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
  • Embedded knowledge is reflected within the assessment criteria of each specific outcome.

    The assessor should be familiar with the following subject matter:
  • Rope access techniques.
  • Rope access Rescues techniques.
  • Legal safety requirements for rope access worksites.
  • Rigging rope systems. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problems pertaining to the safety requirements. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively by using mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO CONTRIBUTING 
    Contribute to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of the society at large by participating as a responsible citizen in the life of local, national and global communities. 

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this unit standard was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    Supplementary information - Terminology used in this unit standard:
  • Ascender refers to a hand-held device, also called a jumar, which grips a rope when loaded in one direction but moves freely along the rope when loaded in the opposite direction.
  • Anchor point refers to a structure or point to which access ropes or slings are attached.
  • Back-up device refers to a rope adjustment device for a safety line which accompanies the user during changes of position or allows adjustment of the length of the safety line, and which locks automatically to the rope or only allows gradual movement along it, when a sudden load occurs.
  • Belay refers to a device or method used to fix a running rope round an intermediate anchor point, in order to secure the rope or to control its pay-out rate.
  • Chest ascender refers to an item similar to an ascender but without a handle. It is usually attached to a rope access technician's harness and used in conjunction with an ascender to ascend a fixed rope.
  • Cow's tail refers to pieces of dynamic rope generally 1m long that attach a rope access technician to a variety of different items of equipment or anchors. They are semi permanently fixed to the harness. There are usually 3 cow's tails in number.
  • Connectors refer to connectors with a suitable closure that cannot inadvertently open. Connector in use must be screwed closed. They should have minimum closed gate strength of 22kN.
  • Footloop refers to a sling with a loop at the end. The sling end is attached to a hand-held ascender and the loop end is used as a step-up device while ascending a fixed rope.
  • Descender refers to a device that utilises friction between itself and a rope to slow down the descent of a body or load down that rope, incorporating a "hands-free" self-locking device or stop.
  • Double protection refers to a protection system whereby the access technician attaches her/himself by two individual ropes or slings, to two individual and suitable suspension points.
  • Fall factor refers to the ratio of a potential fall distance divided by the length of the technician's restraining line. It is used as an indication of the relative impact forces which could be generated in a fall situation.
  • Gear loop refers to an attachment point on a harness, sole for the purpose of attaching equipment weighing less than 8 kg.
  • Harness refers to a webbing garment worn by rope access technicians that serves as an attachment point for items including but not limited to equipment, ropes, back-up slings. A sit harness and a chest harness are usually used in conjunction with one another.
  • Hauling system refers to the use of ropes and lifting equipment (e.g. pulleys) to achieve mechanical advantage, when lifting loads (e.g. equipment or people).
  • Karabiner refers to a type of metal shackle or clip formed by a complete loop with a spring loaded entry gate which is safeguarded in the closed position by a screw-closed sleeve (a screw-gate karabiner).
  • Maillon refers to a type of metal shackle or clip in the form of a complete loop and closed by an internally threaded sleeve. Maillons are typically triangular or D-shaped.
  • PPE or (Personal protective equipment) refers to any device or appliance designed to be worn or held by an individual for protection against potential hazard.
  • Rope access; the use of rope techniques developed by mountaineering enthusiasts and adapted for industrial purposes for reasons of efficiency and cost. It is used to access and work in areas previously only accessed by conventional means.
  • Rigging refers to the organising and anchoring of the access and back-up ropes.
  • Sling refers to a piece of rope, tape or wire tied in a loop and used for a variety of purposes but normally to attach one load bearing article to another.
  • Static rope refers to a kern mantel rope, which has a low stretch coefficient. It is not intended to absorb shock loads. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  57803   Further Education and Training Certificate: Fire and Rescue Operations  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  LG SETA 
    Elective  48889   Further Education and Training Certificate: Hiring Operations  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  SERVICES 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Fire Protection Association of Southern Africa 
    2. Goldfields Emergency Fire Services Training Academy 
    3. Josmap Training Institute 
    4. RLSTP Training & Development (PTY) LTD. 
    5. Vhutshilo Health And Training Organisation 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.