1. [F1Except as provided in paragraph 3,] a rope access or positioning technique shall be used only if—
(a)F2..., it involves a system comprising at least two separately anchored lines, of which one (“the working line”) is used as a means of access, egress and support and the other is the safety line;
(b)the user is provided with a suitable harness and is connected by it to the working line and the safety line;
(c)the working line is equipped with safe means of ascent and descent and has a self-locking system to prevent the user falling should he lose control of his movements; and
(d)the safety line is equipped with a mobile fall protection system which is connected to and travels with the user of the system.
Textual Amendments
F1Words in Sch. 5 Pt. 3 para. 1 inserted (6.4.2007) by The Work at Height (Amendment) Regulations 2007 (S.I. 2007/114), regs. 1, 5(a)
F2Words in Sch. 5 Pt. 3 para. 1(a) omitted (6.4.2007) by virtue of The Work at Height (Amendment) Regulations 2007 (S.I. 2007/114), regs. 1, 5(b)
2. Taking the risk assessment into account and depending in particular on the duration of the job and the ergonomic constraints, provision must be made for a seat with appropriate accessories.E+W+S
3. The system may comprise a single rope where—E+W+S
(a)a risk assessment has demonstrated that the use of a second line would entail higher risk to persons; and
(b)appropriate measures have been taken to ensure safety.