Efficiency improvements
Industrial rope access is the professional use of ropes to perform inspections, maintenance and other types of work at height. To gain access to inaccessible areas, rope access is commonly used along with various climbing techniques and of course, safety equipment. It’s also used in challenging or dangerous environments such as confined spaces, high rises, or on work sites above water, allowing people to work at height safely and efficiently. Rope access allows crews to use less equipment and fewer workers to complete the same job than traditional systems, such as lifts, cranes or scaffolding. Innovations in rigging systems, for example, anchor points and load-sharing techniques, have improved safety and allowed for more intricate and adaptable setups, enabling access to complex structures. Other efficiency improvements include the integration of drones and robotics in rope access work, the use of smart technology that can provide crucial data on environmental conditions and biometric measures, such as harnesses with built-in sensors, ensuring immediate responses in case of emergencies.Safety enhancements
Traditional scaffolding and crane methods pose inherent risks to workers, building staff, building occupants and bystanders, including falls from heights, falling debris, structural collapses and equipment malfunctions. Rope access however, prioritises safety through rigorous training and strict adherence to industry standards. Moreover, certified rope access technicians, such as the professional team from Kerrect, undergo comprehensive training programs that equip them with the skills, knowledge and experience necessary to perform rope access tasks, while also employing well-planned and executed safety protocols. In addition, strict safety processes, such as pre-work inspections and buddy checks, minimise the risk of accidents and ensure all equipment is well-maintained and in optimal condition before use.Agility in task execution
One of the most significant advantages of rope access is its versatility in accessing challenging structures that are inaccessible using traditional height access utilities. Buildings and structures, particularly ones that are ageing or have architecturally unique designs, may have irregular shapes, overhangs or limited access points that pose significant challenges for height access professionals. Although cranes and other height access utilities may need help navigating these obstacles, they can be costly, involve time-consuming set-up processes, and can provide a heightened risk (excuse the pun) of avoidable damage and safety breaches. Rope access systems however overcomes these limitations, by enabling technicians to ascend, descend and traverse structures easily, regardless of their complexity or height. This versatility minimises disruption to building occupants, operations and surrounding buildings and areas, while also ensuring that tasks are completed promptly and effectively. Furthermore, rope access techniques can be deployed in remote or environmentally sensitive locations, where traditional equipment may be impractical or prohibited.Environmental benefits
Rope access significantly reduces the environmental impact of building maintenance, compared to conventional methods. The use of traditional approaches, such as cranes and scaffolding consume substantial energy, generate excessive greenhouse gas emissions and also come with excessive labour costs. There is also the unnecessary obstructions to daily operations and the inefficient set-up and pack-down times to consider. Industrial rope access however promotes a less invasive approach, preserving biodiversity and the environmental integrity around the site, promoting a more sustainable and greener service.Want to know more?
If you’d like more information about the industrial rope access services the professional team at Kerrect employ across every job we do, reach out to our team of height safety specialists today and let us enhance the safety and efficiency of your next construction project.Behind the scenes at Kerrect: Meet the team dedicated to your safety
Who are we?
Since 2000, we have been specialising in the use of height safety services, designing, installing and certifying height safety and roof access systems on projects across Australia. Given we are at the forefront of leadership in safety, all our height and rope access technicians always go the extra mile to ensure every aspect of what they do and where they work is safe. Since our inception, we have also developed a unique safety netting system with our team of safety netting specialists, which has provided immense benefits to our construction and infrastructure clients. Above all though, we continue to pride ourselves on fulfilling our client’s goals and always maintain the utmost of safety. In this month’s blog, we thought we’d introduce you to the operations team that makes us who we are. All our management and staff have an extensive background and wealth of experience in the construction safety management industry and are importantly, also passionate about what they do.Craig Rowland – Director of Kerrect Australia
For over twenty years, Craig has been the director of Kerrect and brings to his role a plethora of civil and construction industry experience. Craig lives and breathes Kerrect and thrives on helping clients understand what he can do for them, as well as finding practical solutions to seemingly impossible problems. Across his expansive career, Craig believes his two favourite projects are the introduction of their unique rope access techniques to the Sydney Harbour Bridge project and a full re-roofing project at a live distribution centre, the largest safety netting project ever carried out in the southern hemisphere. Not only did the Kerrect team install safety netting, with debris liners beneath the entire roof area that offered fall protection to the roofers, but they also provided overhead debris protection to the live conveyor and distribution plant below. With his dedication in generating team spirit and a work ethic that would put most to shame, Craig is the right man to be at the forefront of Kerrect.John Crabtree – Operations Manager
John has been the Operations Manager at Kerrect for over 15 years and is responsible for the preparation of estimates, quotes and procurement services for labour and materials for height safety installations, in multiple applications. These include fall arrest systems, industrial rope access systems, safety netting and safe roof access. John loves the bespoke jobs that require ingenuity and experience to successfully complete. Some of his favourite projects involved the work they performed on the Kempsey bridge, as well as the challenge of removing and replacing 35 glass panels from a high-rise building in Robina. As a result, it’s a given his mantra is, ‘If you’re going to do a job, do it properly.’Ryan McLoughlin– Operations Manager
Ryan has been the Operations Manager for Kerrect for almost ten years and is responsible for preparing project plans and ensuring the Kerrect and client’s team are safe and protected. He is dedicated to getting the job done correctly, within budget and eliminating potential issues in the planning process – something that can occur regardless. He is passionate about being transparent with clients and deals with issues that do pop up, swiftly. His career highlight was the Sydney Harbour project as he was responsible for ensuring the safety for everyone involved, as well as working out how to access difficult places throughout the project.Andy Foden – Solutions Manager
Andy has been the Solutions Manager for over five years and loves the vast spectrum of work the Kerrect team undertake. He is passionate about helping the business thrive and grow and is always looking for solutions to height challenges. To date, his career highlights have been his involvement on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House projects, and he enjoys every minute he spends on the job and with his colleagues.Our Project Managers
Our Project Managers are responsible for scheduling and organising resources and communicating with field staff and clients. They monitor, control and report on all the allocated projects, from the initial stages, right through to their completion. This role also involves problem-solving and finding safe and innovative solutions to ensure projects can be carried out in a timely, but above all, safe manner.Want to know more?
Stay tuned for next month’s blog, where you’ll get the opportunity to meet our highly regarded and indispensable safety specialists and technicians, as well as our administrative and support staff team. For more information about what we do, or if you would like to know more about our height or rope access solutions, reach out to one of the team today.Advantages of advancements in fall protection in height safety
Customised Training:
Analysing data allows organisations to tailor training programs to specific tasks, environments, and individual worker behaviours. This ensures workers are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate potential hazards.Continuous Improvement:
Data analysis provides a feedback loop for continuous improvement. Organisations can assess the effectiveness of safety interventions over time, refining strategies based on the collected data.Resource Optimisation:
By pinpointing high-risk areas and tasks, organisations can optimise the allocation of resources and focus their efforts on aspects where they will have the most impact on safety.Wearable devices
The integration of wearable technology into fall protection, such as smartwatches and specialised safety wearables, are now able to monitor biometric data, issue real-time safety alerts, and even detect falls, which all add an extra layer of security for workers at heights. However, the incorporation of technology doesn’t stop at the physical design. Some of the latest harnesses for example, are also equipped with RFID tags for easy tracking and inventory management. There are also innovations regarding the integration of GPS tracking and communication devices, which offer new ways to monitor worker safety and location on large or complex worksites.The use of Virtual Reality (VR)
The VR experience uses actual film footage where actors role play the circumstances that lead up to an actual accident. The idea is to make the scenario as realistic as possible and allow trainees to become fully immersed in the action. Unlike some technologies, the use of VR in safety training doesn’t directly lead to cost savings, but if it’s preventing accidents and therefore preventing downtime on sites, there is a net benefit. Combined with building information modelling (BIM), VR can also be used to help facility managers get to know the buildings they will be responsible for, long before they are actually onsite. This has substantial benefits when it comes to health and safety, particularly when working at height, as it allows workers to see and understand what the maintenance of the building is going to be like before it’s even built.IOT Integration
The Internet of Things (IoT) offers unprecedented, data-driven insights across businesses, giving them the power to better inform and automate their processes. By using smart sensors, IoT-enabled solutions on construction sites collect and transmit real-time data that can help detect risky behaviour or dangerous situations early on, or before they happen. This allows site managers to act quickly to prevent accidents and injuries, improving worker safety. The sensors can be placed around the building site or be worn by workers (wearable IoT technology) and can even be integrated into safety equipment such as hard hats, safety boots and machinery. The smart sensors used in the IoT height safety industry collect a range of data related to workers’ activities, movements, location, and health status. Connected to the internet via low-power networks like LoRaWAN (long-range wide area network) or the cellular NB-IoT (narrowband IoT), the sensors allow for data to be transmitted from even the most remote and secluded locations on a building site. By using this real-time data, height safety managers can monitor remotely and take immediate action to prevent accidents and improve overall safety conditions on the construction site.Want to know more?
This blog has only scratched the surface in regards to the range of advancements in fall protection, and the team at Kerrect are passionate about providing roof safety solutions and industrial rope access systems that are of the utmost safety, incorporating the latest technology, fall protection and height safety equipment across every job we perform. For more information, get in touch with one of our height safety engineers today.Uses of safety netting
Typical uses of safety netting are numerous and include fall protection, overhead protection, vertical containment of people, materials, or debris and for working platforms. Believe it or not, there is even safety netting for pets to ensure they don’t fall off a building. Basically, the world is your oyster with safety netting and the professional team at Kerrect are always thinking outside the box when it comes to their usage.Installation process
Installed by our team of FASET qualified and experienced safety net riggers, our collective safety netting systems are designed to protect all workers above and below. In fact, did you know Kerrect height safety engineers are the only FASET qualified safety net installers in Australia and were the first company to introduce certified safety netting solutions, way back in 2007? Nets can be installed using either EWP, rope access, or a combination of both. As a result, they can be safely installed in pretty much any location, no matter how high or difficult the job is perceived to be.Benefits of safety netting
There are a range of benefits to having safety netting installed. First and foremost, building and construction projects can be dangerous, and its essential safety is prioritised. Given they provide a barrier around elevated work sites, the installation of safety net protection is an imperative measure to prevent accidents and injuries. Another reason to consider safety net protection is the cost savings it can provide for your business in the long run. If you can minimise the occurrence of accidents and injuries, then you will also avoid costs associated with worker’s compensation, hospital bills and project delays. A further benefit of safety netting is that ensure you remain compliant with all relevant regulations and standards, avoiding potential fines or costly legal issues. For example, a system of horizontal safety nets with debris liners, set up beneath your work area, provides collective fall protection beneath the entire work area, enabling works to proceed safely and more efficiently above along with overhead protection beneath the work area, works can also continue below, as they are unhindered by exclusion zones. The results? Savings in time, costs and ultimately, lives.Versatility to different worksites
We have a range of safety netting varieties to suit any workplace. With our range of netting and expertise in the industry, we can either encapsulate work areas, or loose elements of buildings and structures, and provide either short- or long-term solutions. All our netting solutions are also available in a wide choice of mesh sizes and colour when aesthetics matter.High energy absorption and ease of rescue
Importantly, safety nets utilise energy absorption as the fundamental principle governing their design and performance. In fact, in most situations, safety nets have distinct advantages over other forms of fall arrest and Australian standards regard nets as a “preferred method of fall arrest when working at height.” Our range of certified fall arrest netting, with or without material catching overlays, provide a complete ‘soft catch’ alternative or supplement to traditional fall arrest systems. This type of netting is unique in that it offers high energy absorption, which drastically lessens the impact on the fallen person and reduces the risk of injury. It also enables a less fatal result and an easy rescue. In fact, in most cases, the employee can simply climb out of the net, without the need for high-risk rescue scenarios.Reliability
One feature of our netting products is durability. All our products are crafted from top quality materials that can withstand the harshest weather conditions and heavy use, ensuring they last for years. They also meet Australian safety standards and are rigorously tested and certified to ensure they meet all necessary safety and quality requirements.Examples in past projects
Recently we wrapped the tops of brick chimneys, high rise balconies and even an entire building – walls, roof, and all- with our engineered encapsulation safety netting systems. This ensured deteriorating facades, roofs and structures were safely contained, while decisions were made for a more permanent solution.Want to know more?
For more information or for any questions you might have regarding safety netting, get in touch with one of our experienced team members today. Given Kerrect are the thought leader when it comes to safety netting, we have you covered (literally) above ground and beyond, get in touch with Kerrect today.The use of drones in height safety
Unsurprisingly, drones offer a bird’s eye view of sites, enabling inspectors to assess structures, buildings, or other elevated sites, without the need for workers to work at heights. In fact, those relatively small buzzing flying robots come with a range of benefits and drawbacks for height safety engineers and their teams, and in this month’s blog, we’re going to take a look at exactly what they bring to the height safety industry.The benefits of drones
Obviously one of the main benefits of drones is the enhanced safety they provide, given there is no need for people to physically access hazardous or dangerous work zones. They can also significantly reduce the costs associated with traditional inspection methods, such as the need to hire specialised access equipment or services. Not only can they cover large areas quickly and access hard to reach places, but they can also collect high resolution imagery and sensor data, which in turn enhances decision-making in safety management. They are also advantageous when it comes to revealing any biological or structural hazards associated with a site that could affect a worker’s performance. Finally, they can cover all aspects and areas of a site, including interiors and exteriors.The drawbacks of drones
Pending the purpose or location of the site, drone usage may be subject to strict regulations and licensing requirements, which can result in long delays. Within Australia, there are strict guidelines in place regarding the operation of drones for financial gain and in many cases, operators need to obtain a remote pilot licence or operator’s certificate. They also have relatively limited flight times, due to battery life constraints, with the average drone able to fly continuously for a twenty-minute period, which can reduce their effectiveness on large sites. Drones are also affected by adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain or strong winds and their technical limitations, such as flight stability, can impact their suitability for specific tasks.The future
Although there is little doubt drones have changed the way height safety operators approach hazardous work sites, it is important to acknowledge their limitations. However, as technology continues to evolve, drones will no doubt continue to play an integral role in height safety operations, improving both risk management strategies and making the workplace a safer place for everyone.Want to know more?
If you’d like more information on how the team at Kerrect can help with your next project or have any questions about our height safety practices and projects, get in touch with Kerrect today.Preparation and problem-solving
Risk management is all about thinking about what could go wrong and what to do to eliminate or minimise those potential risks. Although this sounds easy, managing risk requires a high level of competency and industry experience. Before commencing any work, the leading hand of our team will carry out an extensive risk assessment and consider potential onsite risk factors such as the building’s condition and the surrounding activities. Having well-maintained personal protective equipment, that is in good working order, is also imperative to reducing the risk of accidents or falls onsite. Our team also ensure the equipment they use for industrial rope access systems is designed, manufactured, elected, used, and maintained in compliance with relevant standards, and is being inspected before and after use. This involves checking on our working partner’s PPE to ensure all equipment is correctly attached and locked off before giving the thumbs up to proceed with the task.It doesn’t stop there
Safety briefing the team before ascent is a must-do for all of our height access specialists and having a clear, concise plan of action is something Kerrect are passionate about, particularly in order to identify hazards, assess risks and adopt appropriate control measures, such as exclusion zones, if necessary. Once the weather conditions have been given the all-clear, the team are ready for action.Our passion
As you’ve probably seen in some of our videos, every project is different and brings a new set of daily challenges. Regardless, Kerrect are passionate about delivering cutting-edge industrial rope access services to all of our clients. One of our latest projects that showcased our skilled and adept team was ‘The Pocket’ at Robina. Despite the technical aspects of the job, the team from Kerrect safely removed and replaced 31 glass spandrel panels quickly and efficiently, causing minimal disruption to the building’s tenants. Just another day for our team!Want to know more?
If you’re after more information about our industrial rope access services or want to learn more about our team of height safety engineers, get in touch with Kerrect today.Common hazards for workers at height
There are range of hazards our team face on a daily basis, some of these include:- Potential falls from height due to inadequate fall protection systems, access and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Structural collapse or instability of elevated surfaces or platforms.
- Electrocution from live electrical equipment.
- Poor weather conditions, such as strong winds or extreme temperatures.
- Falling objects, tools, or materials that can injure workers below.
- Physical or mental fatigue, which can lead to reduced awareness and reaction times.
Identify Hazards and Assess the Risks
Conducting a height safety risk assessment is an essential step in identifying potential hazards and implementing appropriate controls. This assessment should consider all areas where workers will be at height, including roofs, scaffolding, ladders and platforms. It should also take into account the type of work being performed, evaluating the severity and likelihood of hazards occurring during the process. From there, appropriate control measures are applied and the equipment that is required is identified.Choose the Right Fall Protection System
The team from Kerrect endeavour to manage the risk of a fall when providing their rope access or height safety services through a fall protection system that is specifically suitable for the worksite. Let’s take a look at the three of the most common types of systems we implement.Fall Prevention Systems
Fall prevention systems are considered the most effective way to protect against falls. Not only do they provide a high level of safety, but they also don’t require workers to use PPE or undergo specific training. This type of system can take the form of various structures such as roof guardrails, roof walkways, work platforms and scaffolding.Fall Restraint Systems
Fall restraint systems, also known as work-positioning systems, utilise a full-body harness and lanyard to protect workers from a fall hazard. They are a great option to use when a fall prevention system is unsuitable. However, given the heavy reliance on fall restraint systems when in operation, it is important to inspect all PPE to ensure it meets Australian standards and is fit for purpose. Workers also need to be sufficiently trained and briefed on the operation of the system and equipment, such as anchor points or rigid rail systems, which need to meet Australian standards and maintain annual certification.Fall Arrest Systems
Although this particular system doesn’t prevent a fall, it can reduce the impact and potential for serious injury or fatality, by stopping the fall mid-way. Examples include industrial safety nets, catch platforms, or individual harnesses attached to anchors. The correct use of the fall arrest systems by the team is crucial, most importantly however is that everyone needs to have an understanding of the fall distance and the degree of reliance on the arrest system. As a result, it is imperative that fall arrest systems meet Australian standards and again, maintain annual certification.Use the Right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Another critical component in staying safe while working at height is to choose the appropriate and most suitable PPE gear. If your fall protection system relies on PPE to work effectively, these decisions can be the determining factor of whether a serious injury or fatality occurs. Compliance with Australian standards and state regulations, as well as quality and comfort, are all essential components to using gear that can potentially save lives. It’s also important to ensure the type of gear you’re using is appropriate for the work being carried out. Just as all safety gear has a working life and eventually need to be replaced, so too does PPE, so regular inspections and updates are a must.Permanent access systems
For industrial and commercial operations that require regular access to rooftops or other at-height situations, a permanently installed access system usually offers safer access for all of your team. Ladders, platforms or stairways, to name a few, provide compliant and safe access and are designed to minimise worker risk. However, when using permanent access systems, it is imperative that the right type of system is installed, so that it meets the job and safety requirements.Want to know more?
To find out more regarding the best use of equipment for different work sites and environments, get in touch with our height safety specialists today.Teamwork makes the dream work at Kerrect
When it comes to working at heights, Kerrect believe that upholding (pardon the pun) the safety of all team members is paramount. Rope access, a technique widely used in our industry, demands a high level of precision, skill and above all, teamwork.Why is safety so important?
The kind of rope access operations Kerrect perform involve technicians suspended by ropes, undertaking tasks in challenging environments such as construction sites, industrial facilities, or even natural landscapes. At every job Kerrect attend, everyone has specifically allocated roles and responsibilities, and it’s the way these roles come together that fosters a secure and collaborative working environment, but it’s more than just teamwork effective communication skills are necessary.Effective communication
Kerrect strongly believe that communication is the backbone of any successful team. Before even embarking on a task or project at hand, a thorough briefing is always carried out. First and foremost, we believe that team members must be on the same page regarding the objectives, potential hazards and the specific roles each person will play on the job at heights. During operations, constant communication, through radios or hand signals, ensures that everyone is aware of the current status of the task, potential changes, or any emerging safety concerns. We believe that maintaining clean and concise communication at heights prevents misunderstandings and ensures a swift response to unforeseen challenges.Role allocation and specialisation
We pride ourselves on collaboration for all our safe rope access procedures and believe that part of our success comes from recognising the unique skills of our employees. By clearly defining and allocating specific roles, based on our team member’s strengths, as well as ensuring the skill sets complement each other, our team functions harmoniously and effectively whilst working at heights.Collaborative problem-solving
Unfortunately, not every rope access task unfolds according to plan. Unforeseen challenges and complications can arise, demanding quick thinking and collaborative problem-solving. As a result, we believe our focus on having a well-coordinated team is imperative. Not only is the team then better equipped to address these challenges, but it also draws on the collective intelligence and experience of our team members.Shared responsibility
Kerrect also believe that safety in rope access is not the responsibility of a single individual; it is a collective commitment. Team members must be vigilant for their own safety and that of their colleagues. Given the risks associated with working at heights, having a culture of shared responsibility fosters a proactive approach to safety, one where everyone actively looks out for potential hazards and takes corrective actions promptly to resolve them.Kerrect- the height safety specialists
As we navigate the ongoing challenges of working at heights in 2024, Kerrect are here to answer any questions regarding height safety, rope access operations and working at heights. As we continue to foster effective communication and collaboration across our team, we aim to not only achieve our operational objectives, but also uphold a workplace where safety is paramount. Remember, collaboration isn’t a preference, it is a prerequisite for safety success.2023
Without a doubt, 2023 has proven to be another busy and productive year. Throughout the year, our professional team worked on a few significant projects around NSW and Queensland, providing industrial rope access, debris netting and height safety solutions, to a broad range of clients, across a diverse project portfolio. Some of these have included Rocket Robina, Soul Surfers Paradise, Brisbane Roar, Sofitel and Sydney Airport. Given our commitment to what we do, we have also stayed one step ahead of the latest technology trends of the height industry and attended a number of conferences, such as The Workplace Health & Safety Expo and Sydney Build 2023. We have also offered our experienced team several training sessions on height safety and new technology, to ensure the utmost safety is adhered to at all times, across every single project we work on.
New Premises
As the year wraps up, we are also very excited to be moving into our new cutting-edge headquarters in Alexandria, so come and check out our new digs-we are looking forward to meeting you and answering any of your questions regarding rope access or height safety.
Employee Advocacy
Throughout the year, Kerrect remained committed to putting the mental health and well-being of our employees first. Most of our team have just returned from some well-overdue (thanksCovid 19) extended leave, visiting family and friends abroad. As a result, they are fresh and motivated for the new year. Given the intense nature of our work at times, Kerrect are dedicated to ensuring the mental well-being of our employees always comes first and we have always encouraged an open-door policy and supportive workplace environment to all members of staff.
Thank You
We’d also like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support in 2023 and wish you a safe and enjoyable holiday season. We take pride in the work we do and will continue to remain committed to enhancing our services, skills, and technological capabilities in 2024, providing astute height safety and rope access services across Australia.
