Role that needs a head for heights
THERE is high demand for rope access technicians to work on tall buildings, steeples, clock towers, chimneys, suspension bridges and wind turbines.
Rotor blade repair technician Stuart Kelsall says: ‘I was introduced by chance to an employer looking for rope access technicians. I was given full training.
‘At first it was scary but you learn to trust your colleagues and equipment, and soon build your confidence.’
Now Stuart works for wind turbine blade repair firm Altitec.
‘Work in the wind industry may be at sea or remote areas, in a team of two, assessing or repairing damage.
‘The weather can be poor and you must be fit,’ he adds.
Demand for blade turbine technicians is high worldwide.
Tom Dyffort, managing director, Altitec Group says: ‘The proliferation of on and offshore wind energy means Altitec technicians travel to Mexico, South Africa, Australia, South America, Europe and the US.’
Simply being happy at heights is not enough — you need additional skills such as painting, masonry, carpentry, or roof repair.
Employers offer training for new entrants — Altitec offers a twoweek £ 500 training course. ( See altitec. co.uk).
Valuable qualifications include those from the Industrial Rope Access Trade Association (IRATA) ( see irata.org). The Association of Technical Lightning & Access Specialists ( atlas.org. uk) has useful information.