IRATA Exam

AT MCL HEIGHT SAFETY WE WANTED TO PROVIDE YOU WITH GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE TECHNICIAN EXAM.

The competence of IRATA-certified Technicians engaged in industrial rope access activities is a fundamental component of IRATA’s safe system of work. Candidates being assessed for Level 3 IRATA Certification must undergo an assessment that consists of both a theory examination and a practical assessment, as per the ‘IRATA Training, Assessment, and Certification Scheme (TACS)’ [TC-101ENG].

REQUIREMENTS

The Theory Examination is mandatory for all Level 3 IRATA candidates, including those upgrading from Level 2 to Level 3 and those revalidating their Level 3 certification.

Level 1 and Level 2 candidates will be asked questions by the Assessor about their training to demonstrate their awareness of rope access theory knowledge.

EXAM STRUCTURE

The Level 3 Exam is a computer-based test lasting 30 minutes and consists of 10 questions. It is scheduled to take place before the practical assessment, on the same day.

The exam includes the following question types:

• True or False: Read the statement and decide if it is true or false, then select the appropriate option.
• Multiple Choice: Choose the correct answer from the provided options.
• Drag and Drop: Drag the appropriate labels into the correct areas of an image or text.
• Drop-down: Select the correct answer from the drop-down boxes provided.

The outcomes of the exam are as follows:

• Pass: 70% or higher
• Minor Discrepancy: 50% to 69%
• Major Discrepancy: Below 50%

EXAM CONTENT

The exam will test you on the following topics covered (as per TACS section 9.5.2.1):

• Hazard identification and risk assessment
• Selection of access method
• Selection of personnel and competence
• Safety method statement
• Exclusion zones, protection of third parties, and permits to work
• Planning for emergencies
• First aid and suspension intolerance
• Equipment

For more information, refer to ‘Level 3 Theory Examination Categories & References’ [FM-412ENG] available on the IRATA website.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON ASSESSMENT DAY

IRATA has prepared the document ‘Guidance for Candidates Undergoing IRATA Assessments’ [FM-381ENG] to detail what to expect throughout the assessment day. Additionally, IRATA has prepared a sample exam to help you familiarise yourself with the Level 3 Technician Theory Exam before your assessment.

At MCL Height Safety we regularly run all level IRATA training along with revalidation and refresher courses which you can book on our website or by calling 020 8558 5688. Following your training we wish you the best of luck with your examination and practical assessment!