This part of ISO 22846 gives the fundamental principles for the use of rope-access methods for work at height. It is intended for use by employers, employees and self-employed persons who use rope-access methods, by those commissioning rope-access work and by rope-access associations. This part of ISO 22846 is applicable to the use of rope-access methods on buildings, other structures (on- or offshore) or natural features (such as cliff faces), during which ropes are suspended from or connected to a structure or natural feature. It is applicable to situations where ropes are used as the primary means of access, egress or support and as the primary means of protection against a fall.
This part of ISO 22846 is not intended to apply to the use of rope-access methods for leisure activities, arboriculture, general steeplejack methods or emergency personal-evacuation systems, or to the use of rope-access (line rescue) techniques by the fire brigade and other emergency services for rescue work or for rescue training. Nevertheless, those engaged in other similar activities are likely to benefit from the advice given in this part of ISO 22846, as many of the principles do apply to, and offer good practice for, activities outside this formally defined scope.
NOTE This is the first of a planned multi-part series of International Standards for rope access.