ASSP Z459.1-2021 PDF

This standard sets forth accepted practices for rope access work. It is applicable for use in any environment where ropes are suspended from or connected to a structure or natural feature and used as the primary means of access, egress or support and as the primary means of secondary protection against a fall.

NOTE: This standard includes minimum program, equipment, component and element requirements for the use and application of the two-rope system, including both progress system and backup system, required for use during rope access work.

Where applicable, this standard establishes requirements for the performance, design, marking, qualification, test methods and instructions of key equipment comprising rope access systems for authorized rope access technicians within the capacity range of 130 pounds to 310 pounds (59kg to 141kg).

This standard should be used in conjunction with other fall protection requirements standards in order to achieve a balanced managed fall protection program.

NOTE: Additional guidance on training, use, maintenance, removal from service of rope access systems is addressed in ANSI/ASSP Z359.2, Minimum Requirements for a Comprehensive Managed Fall Protection Program, which provides the requirements for overall program management.