NEWS

When it comes to maintaining high-access areas on industrial sites, safety and efficiency are non-negotiable. From large storage tanks to refinery stacks and roofing systems, accessing hard-to-reach areas has always been a challenge. Two primary approaches dominate the field – traditional access (such as scaffolding or cherry pickers) and modern rope access.

In this article, we’ll explore how the two compare, and why more South African companies are choosing rope access companies like DRAM for maintenance, inspection, and coating work.

1. What Is Rope Access?

Rope access is a method that uses certified technicians suspended by ropes, harnesses, and anchor systems to reach elevated or confined areas. Originating from mountaineering techniques, it’s now a leading solution in industrial rope access across the world.

At DRAM, all rope access work is performed by IRATA-certified professionals trained to follow strict safety and compliance standards.

2. Traditional Access Explained

Traditional access methods rely on fixed or mechanical structures – scaffolding, ladders, or mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs). While these are still common, they often require significant setup time, additional space, and greater manpower.

For many industrial environments, especially where downtime is costly, this can quickly drive up project costs and extend schedules.

3. Safety and Risk Comparison

Contrary to common assumptions, rope access is statistically safer than scaffolding when managed correctly. Because technicians are secured at multiple points, with redundant safety lines, the risk of falls is dramatically reduced.

Traditional access can expose teams to hazards from falling tools, structural instability, or poor weather – especially on tall structures or complex geometries. Rope access, on the other hand, minimises ground obstruction and enhances control in confined or vertical spaces.

4. Cost and Efficiency

One of the strongest advantages of rope access is its efficiency. Setting up scaffolding can take days whereas rope access systems can be deployed in hours.

That reduced setup time means faster project turnaround – and fewer interruptions to production. Additionally, with smaller teams and less equipment, rope access companies can often deliver the same or better results at a lower overall cost.

5. Environmental and Operational Impact

Traditional access structures can obstruct operations or require partial shutdowns. Rope access, by contrast, has a minimal footprint – ideal for active sites that need continuous operation.

Less equipment also means fewer transport emissions and reduced site disturbance, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable maintenance solutions.

6. Versatility in Application

Rope access isn’t limited to one task. DRAM’s rope access teams handle:

• Structural inspections and reporting
• Industrial coating and corrosion protection
• Fireproofing applications
• Roof refurbishments and waterproofing
• Cleaning and maintenance of high structures

This flexibility makes it a preferred option for multi-disciplinary maintenance without requiring multiple contractors or extensive downtime.

7. Why Choose DRAM for Rope Access in South Africa

With more than 30 years of experience in industrial maintenance, DRAM brings an unmatched combination of safety, precision, and reliability.

Our industrial rope access specialists are trained to work in complex, high-risk environments – from factories and warehouses to refineries and commercial roofing systems. Every project is completed under strict compliance with SANS standards and industry best practice.

Conclusion

Whether maintaining high-rise façades or inspecting large industrial roofs, rope access offers a faster, safer, and more cost-effective alternative to traditional methods.

By partnering with DRAM, your business benefits from proven expertise, IRATA-certified technicians, and end-to-end support – from inspection to long-term maintenance.

Contact DRAM today to learn how our rope access solutions can improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and protect your assets.