1. Legal & Regulatory Framework

This section covered the legal foundation of working at height in Ontario, especially for rope access workers on high-rise buildings. Key regulations include:

• Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) – Provides all workers the right to a safe work environment, the right to refuse unsafe work, and the right to know about
• Construction Projects Regulation (O. 213/G1) – Requires fall protection above 3 m, site-specific procedures, and proper training.
• CSA Standards (ZG1 s Z25G Series) – Cover suspended access systems, anchors, harnesses, lanyards, and rescue equipment.
• Ontario Regulation 85G (Window Cleaning) – Mandates suspension systems, fall arrest devices, and weather restrictions for exterior building work.
• Roles & Responsibilities – Employers must provide safe systems and rescue plans; supervisors enforce procedures; workers must follow training and report

2. Rope Access Fundamentals

This section introduced the core principles, gear, and system design that define rope access as a unique form of work-at-height.

• Two-Rope System – All rope access work requires a main (working) line and an independent backup (safety) line.
• PPE – Rope access requires a Class 3 full-body harness, helmet with chinstrap, gloves, boots, and certified

Main System Components:

• Ropes – Static kernmantle ropes (10.5–11mm) meeting EN/CSA standards
• Anchors – Each rope must be anchored separately (15–22 kN rating minimum)
• Descenders – Allow controlled descent; some have panic-stop
• Backup Devices – Lock onto the backup rope in the event of a fall
• Edge Protection – Prevents rope damage at parapets, ledges
• Difference from Fall Protection – Rope access enables movement and work positioning, while typical fall protection systems only arrest falls.

3. Site Risk Management

This section focused on recognizing and controlling hazards in the high-rise rope access environment.

• Hazard Identification – Includes structural issues (cracked façades, loose panels), environmental risks (wind, heat, lightning), and pedestrian or mechanical interference.
• Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) – Breaks each task into steps, identifies hazards, and lists control measures like signage, drop zones, and spotters.

Environmental Risks:

• Wind >30 km/h: Dangerous for suspended workers
• HVAC vents: Can release steam or chemicals
• Precipitation or ice: Increases rope and anchor risk
• Public Safety Controls – Barricades, drop nets, ground signage, and flaggers must protect the public from falling tools or

4. Rescue & Emergency Planning

This final section emphasized the critical importance of having a documented, practiced rescue plan for every rope access site.

MOL Requirements:

• Rescue plans must be site-specific, written, and practical

• Plans must not rely solely on calling G11

Rescue Types:

• Self-rescue
• Assisted descent
• Pick-off rescue by Level 2 or 3 techs

When to Call G11:

Only if trained rescue personnel are unavailable, or in life-threatening emergencies

Post-Incident Requirements:

• Incident report

• Rescue log

• Corrective actions

• Notifications to the MOL (within 4 days for injuries)