Providing a Safe Window Cleaning Service using Controlled Rope Access

Controlled rope access provides a way for professional window cleaners to access large buildings safely and efficiently. It is the perfect means for high level window cleaning, structural inspections and masonry maintenance. In order for this type of high rise maintenance to be carried out correctly and safely there are a number of factors that need to be addressed

prior to starting the clean.

Risk Assessment
It is of upmost importance that a full risk assessment should always be carried out prior to the commencement of any work. The risk assessment should include assessing the ease of access, the likely duration of the work, the presence of any dangers or hazards, and the possibility of using a safer alternative method.

Planning the Task
A complete plan should be drawn up at the start with details of all identified risks involved, rescue arrangements, and full details of all team members to be involved in the clean. This must include their relevant level of training and experience to carry out the work.

Management Role
A member of the team should be nominated as the person who will be responsible for managing the work. They must have enough experience and training, particularly relating to the type of work that is about to be commenced.

Involved Personnel
Prior to the commencement of work the competence of all personnel must be evaluated. Personnel who are about to carry out the work must be fully trained and have satisfactory practical experience to carry out the required duties. They must also fully understand the potential risks, and recognise any problems with the procedure. This will allow professional window cleaners to take any necessary action to overcome any identified problems.

Levels of responsibility
Professional rope access work normally involves team members with different levels of responsibility and skills. A normal team would include a rope access manager, supervisor and rope operatives.

• Rope Access Manager – The rope access manager main task will be the responsibility for defining the operation plan and ensuring it is maintained safely at all times.
• Job Supervisor – The job supervisor will be responsible for managing the team of rope operatives, and overseeing the execution of the required operation in a safe manner.
• Rope Operatives – The professional rope operatives will be responsible for carrying out the rope access duties under supervision of the job supervisor. They must at all times have safety in mind whilst carrying out their required tasks and if in doubt report back to their supervisor with the identified problems or rope safety issues.

Controlled rope access is being used more regularly by professional window cleaning companies. It is crucial that all window cleaning companies fully understand the procedures and the risks involved prior to starting any job and above all safety must be adhered to.