Competent Climber Training
Fixed ladder climbing systems such as Latchways provide continuous fall protection on permanent structures, but using them safely requires correct equipment fitting, disciplined climbing technique and an understanding of what to do if something goes wrong at height. This course gives delegates the knowledge and practical skills to access protected structures using fixed ladder fall arrest systems, covering harness inspection and fitting, climbing techniques and emergency procedure awareness. On successful completion, delegates receive a certificate of competency.
• Legislation and regulations
The legal framework for working at height on fixed structures, including the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and the duties they place on employers and employees when planning and carrying out access using fixed ladder climbing systems.
• Risk assessment
How to identify and assess the hazards associated with climbing fixed structures using fall arrest systems, and apply appropriate control measures before access begins.
• PPE inspection and fitting
How to carry out pre-use checks and correctly fit harnesses, helmets, fall arrest lanyards and positioning lanyards in line with manufacturer requirements, including checks specific to fixed ladder climbing systems such as Latchways.
• Protected access ways
The design and purpose of protected access ways on fixed structures, how the climbing system interfaces with the fixed installation, and what the delegate is and is not protected against at each stage of the climb.
• Climbing techniques
How to climb safely using harnesses, lanyards and fixed systems, including correct body position, equipment management and the precautions required when connecting and disconnecting from the system during access and egress.
• Emergency procedure awareness
Awareness of the emergency procedures applicable to fixed ladder climbing environments, including what to do in the event of a fall arrest activation, how to raise the alarm and what to expect from a rescue response.
• Assessment
Theory test and observed practical assessment evaluated by the course instructor.
Course combining classroom learning with practical climbing exercises on fixed ladder structures. Focuses on safe climbing techniques, equipment checks and emergency awareness in compliance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005.
Personnel required to access height using fixed ladders with climbing systems, including maintenance engineers, installers and technicians working with fixed fall arrest systems such as Latchways.
Delegates must be medically fit to work at height. Delegates must have a good level of physical fitness, as the course involves practical climbing exercises. Delegates must wear suitable clothing and safety footwear for the practical elements of the course.