With a new work at height training tower installed in Belfast, ARCH recently provided a demonstration of work at height and rescue techniques using IRATA rope access methods. The demonstration was organised by Ridgeway for companies involved in work at height equipment and installations. ARCH’s IRATA trained technicians showed visitors from around the world the very latest of their abseil, climbing and rescue techniques. ARCH trainers were on hand to discuss the equipment being used and the latest developments in work at height and rescue training methods.
The new training tower commands a bird’s eye view of the D1 site operated by DONG Energy and Scottish Power in Belfast Harbour and will be used by ARCH for IRATA rope access, telecoms and wind turbine climber and rescue training. Our first IRATA rope access course will be delivered on 21-25 October 2013.
It is planned to gain GWO accreditation for the delivery of GWO Basic Safety Training at the Belfast site in the very near future. This accreditation will complement the GWO training already being provided by ARCH at our Lisnaskea facility in Co. Fermanagh. GWO Basic Safety Training will facilitate workers in the offshore wind sector in Belfast Harbour to access locally based training which is high quality and accredited to international standards. On the tower, trainees will practice safe harness and PPE use, safe climbing techniques, and be trained how to undertake self evacuation or rescue of a colleague in the event of an emergency situation. This wind safety training will complement other services and training being provided by our partners in the Energy Skills Training Network, and support Northern Ireland people and businesses participate in the offshore and onshore wind sector supply chains and employment opportunities.