As you are aware, Petzl previously stated that as a measure of precaution the Petzl Shunt should notbe used while towed by a cord, as a backup device in rope access.
IRATA have issued a statement in November 2012 that subject to ultimate member/employer decision, thorough risk assessment and appropriate training, the Petzl Shunt could be used in certain circumstances as detailed more particularly in that statement, a copy of which is available on the IRATA website. http://www.irata.org/index.php
Our training assessment and certification manual (TACS) and International Code of Practice outline best practice as regards selecting and using rope access equipment and backup devices.
If TMCs and assessors have decided, having carried out a thorough risk assessment and consider a candidate’s competence is of sufficient level to use a Petzl Shunt, then selection of that product should not adversely impact the training assessment and evaluation.
TMCs and assessors, however, are solely responsible for any loss or liability arising out of the continued use of the Petzl Shunt and IRATA’s recommendation is to phase out the use of such equipment as soon as reasonably practicable.
Paul Bingham
IRATA H&S Chair
Leigh Greenwood
IRATA Training Chair
In a previous statement IRATA also issued some FAQ's to be read in conjunction with the IRATA Statement issued in 2012.
1, What are the specific risks with the Petzl Shunt that I need to re-address in my risk assessments
Risk 1= Panic Grabbing or holding the rope above the Petzl Shunt during any manoeuvre
Risk 2= Panic Grabbing or holding the Petzl Shunt during any manoeuvre
Risk 3 = Rescue use with a 2 person load –particularly in training
Risk 4 = Use by users over 100kg
Other potential risks exist in relation to the foreseeable uses and misuses of the Petzl Shunt in your particular applications during industrial rope access.
These must be identified and treated by the user’s complete risk analysis prior to specification and subsequent use.
2, What happens if we change the equipment or method but then have an incident, who is to blame?
Answer: The Employer has responsibility for the supply of equipment and training in the method of use.
3, Why now – the shunt has been used successfully for years?
Answer:Petzl have issued a statement and FAQs that is available on their website as a result of this IRATA has provided its statement to address these issues
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4, Who isresponsible for any changes that may be required?
Answer: It is the Employer’s responsibility to select and train operatives in the equipment used or supplied.
5, What is my legal position?
Answer: In many countries using, providing or operating personal protective equipment specifically against the manufacturer’s recommendations could be illegal [ for example European PPE Regulations ].
6, What if client requires a particular type or set of equipment?
Answer: A dialogue should be opened between the client and the technical authority from within thecompany, to explain and justify the equipment and techniques to be used.
7,As an Employer how do we know that a Technician has been trained in the use a particular piece of equipment?
Answer: Each company should verify that their technicians are competent in the use of any particular equipment and technique. Each technician should complete the details of any training and equipment used in the IRATA log book. Assessors must fill in descender/ back – up device & appropriate lanyard used on the assessment forms.
8,Will IRATA allow towed back – up devices if their performance and effectiveness can be demonstrated.
Answer: Yes
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