Being proactive: IRATA Rope Access Re-Certification

Early Re-certification: The Pros and Cons

Plan to Suit Your Schedule

You get the flexibility to pick a revalidation date that fits into your calendar, often not clashing with work or important events. Choosing the time of year is equally as important. For example, you could avoid scorching summers by opting for a cooler spring renewal; it's your call!

Extended Certification Period

Recertifying up to six months in advance means your new certificate will still expire three years from the original expiration date. That’s like scoring an extra six months of validity, saving hard-earned dollars. Imagine getting three and a half years on a certificate just by being ahead of the game! Your Company will love you too if they are paying for it!

Competency provides Confidence

If you’re solid in your current skills, why wait? Revalidating early keeps you sharp and lets you carry that confidence into your job without worrying about certification status.

Be Prepared

If you decide to re-certify early and don’t pass, there is a caveat. Your certification will become invalid (per IRATA’s TACS 9.4.6 and 9.4.7). So, be sure you’re ready both physically and mentally before you sign up!

If you're competent at your current level and don’t plan on attempting the next level, the risk of this is minimised.

Upgrading a Level? What You Need to Know

Upgrading your level early has its perks too! If you successfully pass the upgrade assessment, you’ll receive a shiny new certificate valid for three years from the date of the upgrade. If you don’t pass, don't panic! Unlike revalidation, your current certification remains valid until its expiration date (TACS 9.4.5). Just because you weren’t quite ready to level up doesn’t mean you’re out of a job!

However, keep in mind that if your upgrade fails (due to a major discrepancy or a third minor discrepancy on any syllabus item) you are ineligible to revalidate to a lower level immediately. You’ll have to reassess at your current or lower level within 60 days of your failed attempt with the option for further training should you need it.

Differences when Upgrading

Unlike revalidation, upgrading early won’t give you an extra six months on your certification. So, while it's a great way to progress, you won’t enjoy the same time advantage that early revalidation offers.

Delaying your Re-Certification

There is no grace period should your certification expire.

Waiting to recertify until the last moment can have serious consequences and challenges, including:

• Availability Issues: If you leave it late, you might struggle to find an open assessment slot, especially during busy periods or if you’re working offshore.
• The Business Impact: If your certification lapses, you may not be able to legally work or find yourself caught out mid-project working in the field with an expired certification. This could leave your Company short-staffed, particularly if you’re a Level 3 Technician or Supervisor. This can create potential rostering issues and often, additional costs for your Employer.
• Out of pocket: In the instance of not being able to work, this may affect your income and lead to flow-on effects in your personal circumstances.

This situation not only affects yourself but also others around you. Let's be honest, no one wants to be the person responsible for that kind of disruption!

Key Takeaways

• Revalidate early to be in control of your career and save money and time
• Choose a date that suits your work and personal life.
• Being proactive reduces the risks of losing work or impacting your Employer.

IRATA’s system is designed to keep technicians competent and safe on the job. Whether you’re revalidating or upgrading, taking early action helps ensure a smoother, stress-free experience—so you can keep your focus on what really matters: doing your job safely, to the best of your ability!

For more details, you can check out the full IRATA Rope Access Training options here or book a course with our experienced trainers here.

About the author:

Chris Davies is an Industry Mentor, Rope Access Manager, IRATA Technical Authority and Training Manager with 30+ years of training experience, 12 of which are with Applus+. Chris and his team, train 200+ candidates annually at Applus+’ Western Australian training centre.

Chris volunteers on IRATA’s Training, and Health and Safety Committee and has a passion for mentoring personal and professional development.