Starting a Rope Access Career: Where to Begin?

What Is Rope Access?

Rope access is a method of working at height using ropes, harnesses, and specialized gear to access hard-to-reach places—like wind turbines, industrial towers, or offshore platforms. It’s used for everything from inspections and maintenance to repairs and cleaning.

But it’s not just climbing. Rope access is a high-skill, safety-focused trade. Every move is calculated, every action trained, and every rope-backed task certified.

Read more about what rope access is in our article.

Step One: Get IRATA Certified

To work professionally in rope access, you’ll need to earn IRATA certification. IRATA (Industrial Rope Access Trade Association) sets the international standard for safe rope access work.

The Level 1 course usually takes 5 days, ending with a practical and written exam. You’ll learn how to:

• Ascend, descend, and transfer between ropes

• Inspect your gear and rig anchor systems

• Perform basic rescues and follow strict safety procedures

After passing, you’ll receive an IRATA logbook and certificate, and be qualified to work under supervision on rope access jobs.

Step Two: Gain Real-World Experience

Once certified, the next phase is all about learning through doing. That’s where companies like Solwinda come in.

As a technician, you’ll be assisting with real inspections, maintenance work, and rigging. You’ll learn to work on turbines, towers, and industrial structures—always under the guidance of more experienced rope access professionals.

This period is not just about hours in the logbook—it’s about building the mindset, safety habits, and confidence that define true rope access pros.

What You Can Expect from the Work

Rope access isn’t your typical 9–5.

Some days you’re high above the ground on a turbine tower. Other days you’re inside confined spaces, inspecting welds or structures most people never even see. The work is physically demanding, but rewarding—and every day is different.

Expect:

• Teamwork – Rope access is never a solo job. You’ll be part of a tight-knit crew.

• Precision – Every knot, anchor, and movement matters.

• Travel – Projects can take you across the country—or across Europe.

• Progression – With experience, you can train for IRATA Level 2 and 3, unlocking leadership and more responsibility.

Other Courses Rope Access Specialists Often Need

Depending on the industry you want to work in, some additional training may be required or strongly recommended. These courses help you specialize, work safely in complex environments, and increase your chances of getting hired.

GWO Basic Safety Training (Wind Industry)

If you’re looking to work in onshore or offshore wind farms, most employers require GWO BST (Global Wind Organisation Basic Safety Training).

GWO training covers:

• Working at height

• Fire awareness

• First aid

• Manual handling

• Sea survival (if offshore)

Without GWO, you won’t even get on a turbine platform—especially offshore.

Confined Space Entry

Many rope access jobs involve entering tight, enclosed spaces—inside turbine towers, tanks, or ductwork. Confined space training teaches you how to work safely in these environments, including gas testing and rescue procedures.

BOSIET (For Offshore Oil & Gas)

If you’re heading into the offshore oil and gas sector, you’ll need the BOSIET (Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training) course.

BOSIET includes:

• Helicopter underwater escape training (HUET)

• Sea survival

• Emergency procedures

• Basic firefighting

It’s a must-have for anyone working on oil rigs or offshore platforms.

First Aid and Rescue Training

Some employers require enhanced first aid certifications, especially if you’re expected to act as a rescue technician or work in remote areas.

What Makes Solwinda a Great Place to Start?

At Solwinda, we’re always on the lookout for people who take safety seriously, learn fast, and want to build real skills. We work across wind farms, industrial sites, and offshore environments, meaning you’ll get exposure to a wide range of tasks early on.

You won’t just be a name on a rope—you’ll be part of a team that trains together, works hard, and helps each other grow.

Already IRATA certified? Even better. Reach out and let’s talk about where you could fit in.