Rope Access is fast, dynamic and less invasive compared to other access methods like scaffolding, elevated work platforms and building maintenance units. While Rope Access isn’t necessarily suited to all work types, for painting, facade waterproofing, and render repair it is often a far more efficient, safer and cost effective method than the traditional methods outlined below.
Elevated Work Platform (EWP) vs. Industrial Abseiling
- EWP Timeline
- Set Up – 2 Hours
- Perform Works – 10 Hours
- Clear Site – 2 Hours
- Total – 14 Hours
- Rope Access Timeline
- Set Up – 0.75 Hours
- Perform Works – 7 Hours
- Clear Site – 0.75 Hours
- Total – 8.5 Hours
Recent Project
In this case the comparison was based on repair work required for a ten (10) level office building. The building project manager considered all forms of access until he settled on industrial rope access.
The work was completed on a building in the CBD with restricted access to the façade It was the first time that rope access was used in lieu of EWP and the ease and cost savings were significant.
Scaffolding vs. Industrial Abseiling
- Scaffold Timeline
- Set Up – 12 Hours
- Perform Works – 8 Hours
- Clear Site – 12 Hours
- Total – 32 Hours
- Rope Access Timeline
- Set Up – 1 Hour
- Perform Works – 8 Hours
- Clear Site – 1 Hour
- Total – 10 Hours
Recent Project
The task was to reseal façade panels and glazing in a multi-level office building.
The building manager had previously used scaffolding but in this case he used rope access technicians. The resultant work was completed effectively in a far shorter period at a much reduced cost.
Building Maintenance Unit (BMU) vs. Industrial Abseiling
- BMU Timeline
- Induction – 1 Hour
- Perform Works – 6 Hours
- Clear Site – 1 Hour
- Capital Cost – $150,000 – $400,000
- Annual Maintenance – $2,500 – $4,000
- Total – 8 Hours
- Rope Access Timeline
- Set Up – 1 Hour
- Perform Works – 8 Hours
- Clear Site – 1 Hour
- Rope Access System Installation – $7,500 – $15,000
- Annual Maintenance – $500 – $1,500
- Total – 10 Hours
Recent Project
The major comparison between BMU’s and Rope Access centres on the initial capital outlay rather than the recurrent costs. BMU’s are expensive to install and maintain with the main advantages being the simplicity of operation. Where BMUS’s are used regularly or the building has a large complex façade the BMU cost may outweigh the advantages of rope access. However over a 10 year cycle rope access will generally be 1/10 th as expensive as the BMU.
Conclusion
Rope access is not always the most optimal choice for all tasks, however it does offer a lot of advantages. Compared to more traditional access methods, Rope Access (Industrial Abseiling) stands out for a number of reasons primarily its fast dynamic mobility and deployment as well as its in-evasive nature. These strengths make it perfect for high density, built environments such as major cities where:
- regulations are tight,
- space is limited,
- public safety has a high risk factor,
- tasks are time critical and
- permits/road closures are expensive.
Working off ropes is not easy and does require a high level of experience and training in order to overcome the niche difficulties inherent with working while suspended. By using an experienced, well trained and managed team, Rope access can achieve quality results, safely at a lower price point than alternative access methods.
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