b'It is important to remember that those who do rope access are contractors, and if a job can be done easier, they are the first to do so. After all, standing on two feet is always preferred. So, if rope access, scaffolding, swing stages or MAWPs are not an option, what else is available? Well, rope access is not the only answer. Another possibility is hybrid access. Here, scaffolding companies come in with solutions such as specialist decking you can walk on, like the V-Deck from Velco Tech Systems (VTS) out of Scotland. Originally a rope access contractor, Jo Bisset now runs the specialized access solution company manufacturing the V-Deck, which is a suspended work platform made up of high tensile steel trusses that you lay decking on. The V-Deck is fully scaffolding compatible while delivering up to 88 per cent time savings compared to scaffolding on projects. It has increased production compared to rope access by creating an even safer access solution.Many of us are also familiar with bosun chairs, in which the chair is suspended, and the worker is protected by a fall arrest lifeline. Most often users of this system are window washers and look at rope access as a more modern solution. An even better solution for themwe all have seen the YouTube videos of scaffolders taking extreme might be fall protection rail systems and auto-ascenders. With these,risks to get the job done. Gravity sucks, so falling is not an option.the method of access can be even faster and safer and goes beyondAs scaffolders I have taught know best, being trained in rope access what we would consider rope access. Many wind turbine bladeallows you to do your job as a scaffolder safer and easier, and your repair companies already use this hybrid system, as climbing up aabilities are more well-rounded. At the end of the day, customers are 100-m/300-ft wind turbine several times a day is not as glamorous asdemanding time-saving solutions, and you want to be able to say, I most might think. can help with that. Overall, the most significant advantage of rope access is thatAs a manufacturer of working at heights and recreational climbing its safety standards are incredibly strict, and supervision by anequipment for the last 20 years at Eyolf,Igor Stomp has developed experienced technician is so ingrained in its DNA that the systemnumerous new products that are now being made in Fergus, Ontario, works. Technicians are also trained to such a high degree in regardfor the wind industry, rope access and adventure industries. The link to performing rescues that a lot of other organizations, such as theto manufacturing shouldnt be a surprise, as in Europe his career Special Forces, fire departments, police and mountain rescue teamsinvolved developing anchoring systems for the fall protection industry. have their people take these courses.This started 25 years ago simultaneously with working as a Project So, who is using rope access? Too many trades to mention; NDTManager on many difficult access projects in the petrochemical and inspectors, painters, riggers, electricians, welders, insulators,offshore industry around the world for leading Dutch companies.for me there is no difference between scaffolders or rope accessStomp is also highly active in the rope access industry as a committee technicians. The difference is the solution you bring to the table.member, is a retired evaluator for SPRAT and holds a L3 IRATA These days, being smart about how you get the job done is how youCertification. He has also presented numerous times for organizations stay safe and employed.such as the International Society for Fall Protection (ISFP), For me, the proof is in the pudding. Sometimes scaffolding is hard,SarSCENE, Canadians Search and Rescue Organization, SPRAT especially if you have to do the first legs of a hanging scaffold. Yes,conferences, among others. 146 Millwick Drive, Toronto, ONM9L 1Y6146 Millwick Drive,146 MT: (416) 248-6600 Toronto, ONM9L 1Y6 Toronto, ONToll Free: 1 (855) 248-6600T: (416) 248-6600Email: info@ACEcorp.caT: (416) 248-6600 Sales / Rentals / Installation / Training www.ACEcorp.caToll Free: 1 (855) 248-6600 Toll Free: 1 (855) 248-6600Email: info@ACEcorp.caEmail: info@ACEcorp.ca 146 Millwick Drive, Toronto, ONM9L 1Y6Sales / Rentals / Installation / Training Sales / Rentals / Installation / Training www.ACEcorp.caT: (416) 248-6600 Toll Free:w.ACEcorp.caww1 (855) 248-6600Email: info@ACEcorp.ca www.ACEcorp.caACCESS CANADA WINTER 2019/20 17'