When it comes to working at height either from high-rise maintenance to industrial inspections, you have two main options: rope access or traditional access methods such as scaffolding, aerial work platforms (AWPs), or crane baskets.
This guide compares rope access vs scaffolding and other traditional systems in terms of cost, safety, and speed, so you can choose the best method for your project.
Rope access is a work-at-height method that uses ropes, harnesses, and climbing techniques to reach hard-to-access locations.
Rope access technicians are always attached to two separate rope systems; a main working line and a safety backup line; following strict IRATA or SPRAT training standards.
Traditional access includes scaffolding, AWPs and Crane baskets/man cages. Each of these methods are common for longer term projects, larger crews, and heavy lifting.
Rope Access Costs
Scaffolding and Traditional Access Costs
Example:
A facade inspection on a 20-story building:
For short-duration or inspection projects, rope access cost savings can be dramatic.
Rope Access Safety Advantages
Traditional Access Safety Risks
Although many companies perceive rope access as risky, the data is consistently showing rope access is safer than scaffolding when performed by certified technicians.
Rope Access
Scaffolding
If speed of completion is a priority, rope access is often the better choice, especially for short-term maintenance or inspections.
It's best to choose rope access if any of the following statements are correct. The project is only short-term; there is limited ground space and/or has complex shapes; you need to minimise the disruption to the general public or finally your aiming to lower the environmental impact of the product through less transport and machinery use.
On the other hand, scaffolding or AWPs might be the better option if the job is a longer term project; there is a large team who all need to work at height together at the same time; there are heavy tools or materials which also need to be lifted or finally continuous and stable access is required.
Rope access is often the faster, safer, and more cost-effective choice for short-term, small-crew, or inspection work.
Scaffolding and other traditional methods are still best for heavy-duty, long-term, or multi-person projects.
The right choice depends on your:
For many companies, the ideal solution is a hybrid approach — using rope access for quick, flexible work and scaffolding for extended or heavy-duty tasks.
