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Get Trained In New England's Largest And Best-Appointed Training Center For Fall Protection, Rope Access, and Tower Climber/Rescuer


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READY TO GET CERTIFIED IN ROPE ACCESS OR WORK-AT-HEIGHT?

Take the first step towards becoming certified in Fall Protection or Rope Access with our comprehensive training programs.

Industry Applications:

  • Engineering: Heavy Civil, Structural Engineers, Bridge Inspection, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Technicians
  • Entertainment: Stage & Rigging, Amusement Parks, and other elevated attraction rigging. (Earn 32 ETCP renewal credits by attending this course!)
  • Telecom and Distribution: Tower Inspection and Maintenance
  • Fossil and Renewable Energy: Boilers, Wind Turbines, Plant Inspection and Maintenance
  • High-Rise: Window Cleaners, Inspection, Maintenance (Meets New York City Department of Buildings Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP) Rope Access Training Requirements)
  • USAR and Technical Rescue Teams: Rescue Teams operating in unique environments such as amusement parks and other elevated attractions

 

Work-At-Height Certification (SPRAT)

FALL PROTECTION COMPETENT PERSON TRAINING 

The work-at-height program establishes a certification program with performance-based criteria to ensure a baseline minimum of skills for the use of personal fall protection systems. 3RD Party certification in fall protection provides an opportunity for the organization to further contribute to the overall safety of the work-at-height industry

Our two-day certification course incorporates a bend of classroom instruction and extensive hands-on training. Each exercise focuses on minimizing free fall potential and transitions between fall protection systems. Evaluation criteria are based on performance principles, aligning with SPRAT's rope access evaluation standards. This new course is ideal for employers, rope access technicians, and those working with fall protection systems. Meets/exceeds OSHA and ANSI standards (29 CFR 1910 Subpart D, 29 CFR 1926 Subpart M, and ANSI Z359)

Student Requirements

Students must be 18 years or older and have a valid, government-issued ID.

Training Program

Our Work-at-height training program typically consists of one (8-10 hour) day of training , immediately followed by a single half-day of certification evaluation by a third-party Rope Evaluator. First Choice Safety Solutions provides all the necessary equipment to maintain a consistent presentation and identical student experience.

  • Third-Party Certification: SPRAT certification adds credibility to your skills.
  • Comprehensive Knowledge: Learn about fall arrest, work positioning, and travel restraint.
  • Hands-On Training: Master equipment use and limitations through practical training.
  • Calculation of Clearance Distance: Accurately calculate clearance distance to enhance risk mitigation.

Course Covers:

  • Fall protection use
  • Travel Restraint Systems
  • Overhead Self-Retracting Devices
  • Ladder Fall Arrest System Devices
  • Horizontal Lifeline
  • Hands-On Training: Master equipment use and limitations through practical training.
  • Calculation of Clearance Distance: Accurately calculate clearance distance to enhance risk mitigation
  • Energy Absorbing Lanyards, Backup Systems, and Descent Control Devices

This fall protection course meets or exceeds the following standards:

  • SPRAT
  • OSHA Walking-Working Surfaces regulations
  • ANSI Z490.1 adult training criteria in safety, health, and environmental training
  • ANSI A10.32 fall protection for construction
  • ANSI Z359.2-2023 Minimum Requirements for a Comprehensive Managed Fall Protection Program

Entertainment Professionals: (EARN 16 ETCP RENEWAL CREDITS) by attending this course!

Rope Access Certification (SPRAT)

 Our comprehensive 5-day Rope Access Certification course, accredited by the Society of Professional Rope Access Technicians (SPRAT)

What is Rope Access?

Rope Access is a specialized technique used to access difficult-to-reach locations using ropes and specialized equipment. The Society of Professional Rope Access Technicians (SPRAT) outlines skill sets, certification processes, and issues and maintains 3-year certifications for work-at-height professionals worldwide. Rope Access Technicians are utilized in various industries globally, including but not limited to Wind Energy, Telecommunications, Structural Inspection, Geological Work, Ski Resort Operations, and Window Washing. Rope Access techniques have also crossed over into public safety functions, with a rapid increase in Fire Rescue personnel and other safety professionals obtaining certification.

Student Requirements

Students must be 18 years or older and have a valid, government-issued ID.

Training Program

Our Rope Access training typically consists of four (8-10 hour) days of self-study sessions, immediately followed by a single half-day of certification evaluation by a third-party Rope Access Evaluator. First Choice Safety Solutions provides all the necessary equipment to maintain a consistent presentation and identical student experience.

SPRAT Certification

SPRAT Certification consists of three different levels, starting at Level I and evolving to Level III. No experience is required to obtain Level I certification. Upgrading to Level II and Level III each requires a minimum of 6 months and 500 hours of verified experience at the preceding level.

Level I (Technician)—Entry-level certification for rope access work. Under the supervision of a Level II or III professional, Technicians at this level can perform a specified range of rope access tasks. This level forms the foundation of rope access work, focusing on basic rigging, ascending, descending, and rescuing a casualty from heights.

Level II (Technician)—Intermediate-level certification for rope access work. Technicians at this level can perform more complex rope access tasks and supervise Level I Technicians. This level focuses on advanced rigging, rope maneuvers, rescue techniques, and equipment inspections.

Level III (Supervisor)—Advanced-level certification for rope access work. Technicians at this level can perform the most complex rope access tasks and supervise both Level I and Level II Technicians. This level focuses on complex rigging, advanced rescue techniques, risk management, and the overall supervision of rope access work.

Entertainment Professionals: (EARN 32 ETCP RENEWAL CREDITS) by attending this course!

 

FALL PROTECTION AUTHORIZED USER TRAINING

8 hours (classroom and hands-on)

Prerequisites

None

Description

Authorized User Fall Protection training helps workers understand the mechanics and performance of each piece of equipment they use on the job. Authorized Persons typically use pre-established fall protection systems and are not responsible for selecting anchorages or systems. They know how the equipment works but may not have the in-depth knowledge to determine what fall protection should initially be established. Authorized Persons usually work closely with Competent Persons or Competent Rescuers.

Participants will learn fall hazard identification, fundamentals of working at height, fall protection oversight, basic system components, pre-use inspections, harness donning and inspection, emergency procedures, regulatory compliance, and equipment maintenance and storage. This comprehensive training ensures workers can use fall protection systems effectively and safely.

Regulatory

  • OSHA CFR 1926.32(d): "Authorized person" means a person approved or assigned by the employer to perform a specific type of duty or duties or to be at a specific location at the job site.
  • OSHA 29 CFR 1926.503: Training Requirements for Fall Protection
  • 29 CFR 1910.132-140, Subpart I: OSHA PPE Regulations
  • 29 CFR 1926, Subpart M
  • All employees exposed to fall hazards in construction work need training in the recognition and avoidance of fall hazards and in the use of any fall protection systems to be used, pursuant to, as applicable, 29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2), 29 CFR 1926.503, or 29 CFR 1926.1060.

What You Will Learn

  • Regulatory Compliance
  • Fall hazard identification
  • Fundamentals of working at height
  • Fall protection oversight
  • Basic system components
  • Pre-use inspections
  • Harness donning and inspection
  • Equipment Maintenance and Storage
  • Overview of Emergency Procedures and Rescue Plans

Training Requirements

An Authorized Person shall participate in classroom training prior to being exposed to fall hazards in the workplace. Classroom training is defined as “A location that is conducive for the candidate to comprehend and retain the material presented.” The initial training, at minimum, must ensure that the employee has had an opportunity to use the equipment in a safe environment. Furthermore, the equipment should be of a like or similar type that the employee will utilize in his/her workplace. After this initial training, the employee must work under the supervision of a Competent Person in the workplace.

 

OSHA Definition of an Authorized Person

The OSHA definition of an Authorized Person means a person approved or assigned by the employer to perform a specific type of duty or duties or to be at a specific location at the job site. No course alone can provide that authority since it can only be provided by the employer.

FALL PROTECTION COMPETENT PERSON TRAINING

16 hours (classroom and hands-on)

Prerequisites

Authorized User

Description

Competent Person Fall Protection training is a two-day intermediate-level course designed for facility and site supervisors who must serve as the competent person required by OSHA standards. This course helps workers understand the mechanics and performance of fall protection equipment. Participants will learn the necessity of maintaining 100% connection to a proper attachment point and applying this with a clear understanding of the Scope of Work (SOW). Competent Persons are responsible for selecting anchorages or systems and must have the skill and experience to establish appropriate fall protection measures. Participants will evaluate fall hazards, select appropriate measures, and implement safety protocols. This course equips supervisors with the skills and knowledge to ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and enhance workplace safety.

Regulatory

OSHA CFR 1926.32 (d) "Competent person" means one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions that are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.

  • OSHA 29 CFR 1926.503 Training Requirements for Fall Protection
  • 29 CFR 1910.132-140, Subpart I) OSHA PPE Regulations
  • 29 CFR 1926. Subpart M
  • All employees exposed to fall hazards in construction work need training in the recognition and avoidance of fall hazards and in the use of any fall protection systems to be used, pursuant to, as applicable, 29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2), 29 CFR 1926.503, or 29 CFR 1926.1060.
  • ANSI Z359.2-2007 Minimum Requirements for a Comprehensive Managed Fall Protection Program

What You Will Learn

  • Anchorages
  • Anchor Connectors
  • Connectors and D-rings
  • Carabiners
  • Full Body Harness
  • Energy Absorbers and Energy Absorbing Lanyards
  • Work Positioning Devices
  • Self-Retracting Devices
  • Vertical Lifelines,
  • Rope Grabs and Back-up Devices
  • Ladder Climbing Systems
  • Horizontal Lifelines
  • Introduction to Rescue
  • Inspection, Care and Maintenance

Training Requirements

The participants in the Competent Person Fall Protection course must already have successfully completed the Authorized Person Fall Protection course.

OSHA Definition of a Competent Person

The OSHA definition of a competent person requires the individual to have the authority to take prompt corrective action. No course alone can provide that authority since it can only be provided by the employer.

 

AUTHORIZED - ON-SITE RESCUER

Urban-lead-climbing-rescue-2-4

8 hours (classroom and hands-on)

Prerequisites

Fall Protection Competent Person training

Description

OSHA requires that employers provide for "prompt rescue of employees in the event of a fall or shall assure that employees are able to rescue themselves." This should include identifying rescue procedures that address the potential for orthostatic intolerance and suspension trauma. Rescue procedures also should address how the rescued worker will be handled to avoid any post-rescue injuries. It is each employee’s responsibility to read and follow their company’s emergency action plans.

An Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is designed to guide workers in emergency rescue situations. The best way to respond effectively to rescue emergencies is to first identify them and then rehearse your reactions. By doing this, you can identify any potentially hazardous situations that might prevent you from effecting a quick and safe rescue of a worker who has fallen at a height or another incident.

The participants in this course shall have already successfully completed Authorized Person or Competent Person Fall Protection training. The main objective of rescue training is to develop an awareness-level course designed to enable an Authorized or Competent Person to understand the Rescue or Emergency Action Plan. This course is not intended to replace a Competent Rescuer course.

The scope of the Authorized Rescuer level training is limited to the use of a pre-established rescue system and plan. This outline does not apply to professional rescuers or situations where the rescuer must “respond” to an incident without the benefit of pre-planning. Employees are encouraged to assess their rescue needs to determine what level of rescue will be required. A Competent Rescuer may not be necessary.

Regulatory

  • OSHA CFR 1926.502(d)(20) AND CFR 1910.33-39, Subpart E (Training Requirements):
  • All employees exposed to fall hazards in construction work need training in the recognition and avoidance of fall hazards and in the use of any fall protection systems to be used, pursuant to, as applicable, 29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2), 29 CFR 1926.503, or 29 CFR 1926.1060.
  • ANSI/ASSE Z359.4-2013 Safety Requirements for Assisted-Rescue and Self-Rescue Systems, Subsystems and Components
  • 3.4 Workers and emergency response personnel should be trained to recognize and respond to the risks of suspension trauma.
  • Rescuers should be trained to respond rapidly to minimize the dangers of suspension trauma. Time is of the essence and trauma may occur if a worker is suspended in an upright position for longer than five minutes.
  • ANSI Z359.2-2007 (3.2.7), Authorized Rescuer (3.2.7.1) It is the responsibility of the authorized rescuers to perform or assist in workplace rescues.

What You Will Learn

  • preplanning of rescue;
  • methods of rescue;
  • rescue personnel availability;
  • type of equipment for rescue and effective means to summon rescue personnel;
  • drilling of rescue personnel in rescue and evacuation procedures.

OSHA Requirements for Rescue Plan

Workers who wear fall arrest devices while working and those who may perform rescue activities should also be trained in the following:

  • How to ascertain whether their personal protective equipment is properly fitted and worn so that it performs as intended;
  • How orthostatic intolerance/suspension trauma may occur;
  • The factors that may increase a worker’s risk;
  • The appropriate rescue procedures and methods to diminish risk while suspended.
NATE Logo Full Color w Reg (1)

AUTHORIZED TOWER CLIMBER/RESCUER (NATE)

16 hours (classroom and hands-on)

Prerequisites

None

Description

This course is designed for climbers with less than 90 days of climbing experience. It includes half a day of classroom instruction and half a day of practical instruction, which will consist of basic and advanced climbing and tower rescue procedures. Students will participate in several rescue scenarios. Successful completion of this course is dependent upon passing the written exam and satisfactory demonstration of skills on the tower.

Regulatory

This course meets or exceeds the minimum requirements outlined in the NATE Climber/Rescuer Training Standard (NATE CRTS). Meets/exceeds OSHA and ANSI standards (29 CFR 1910 Subpart D, 29 CFR 1926 Subpart M, and ANSI Z359).

OSHA Definition Of An Authorized Person:

The OSHA definition of an Authorized person means a person approved or assigned by the employer to perform a specific type of duty or duties or to be at a specific location or location at the job site. No course alone can provide that authority since it can only be provided by the employer.

Fall Protection

COMPETENT TOWER CLIMBER & RESCUE (NATE)

8 hours (classroom and hands-on)

Prerequisites

Must hold NATE Authorized Climber/ Rescuer Certification and have verified 90 days of climbing experience under the supervision of NATE Trained Competent Tower Climber & Rescue.

Description

Competent Climber/Rescuer is a one-day course designed to exceed OSHA training requirements, NATE CTS for Competent Climber/Rescuer, and ANSI training standards. This certification course is recommended for crew leaders, site supervisors, safety representatives, and tower personnel who are required to be certified as competent climbers/rescuers to oversee work performed by Authorized climbers.

Regulatory

This course meets or exceeds the minimum requirements outlined in the NATE Climber/Rescuer Training Standard (NATE CRTS). Meets/exceeds OSHA and ANSI standards (29 CFR 1910 Subpart D, 29 CFR 1926 Subpart M, and ANSI Z359).

OSHA Definition Of A Competent Person

The OSHA definition of a competent person requires the individual to have the authority to take prompt corrective action. No course alone can provide that authority since it can only be provided by the employer

Nate/NFPA Tower Rescue

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