FAQ

Yes, in principle anyone who is at least 18 years old and mentally and physically able to do so can go through the training for an industrial climber. Please refer to the detailed descriptions of the individual courses to find out which special admission requirements you need to meet.

No, industrial climber is not a recognised occupation that requires formal training. Rather, it is an additional qualification that teaches how to use ropes and certain techniques to qualify for jobs to which conventional access is no longer possible.

No, a completed vocational training is not mandatory. However, industrial climbers are not only booked and paid for climbing but also for the craft, which is then practised at the “destination”. Industrial climbing is only the way to get to work, so to speak. Skilled craftsmanship and technical understanding are therefore important prerequisites for becoming an industrial climber. Those who also have team spirit, fun at heights, motivation and the ability to cope with mental and physical stress are in good hands with industrial climbing.

Surely it can’t hurt to already have an affinity for climbing and enjoy challenges at heights. However, the techniques and also materials are to a large extent completely different. Admittedly, a varied and exciting job, which has at least one thing in common with sport climbing or mountain sports: it is possible to reach areas that most people cannot reach so quickly.

Industrial climbing or rope access and positioning technology is a recognised and approved working procedure. Industrial climbers are used wherever access is not possible by conventional means. This can range from the assembly of advertising material or industrial cleaning, inspection and documentation work to onshore and offshore activities on wind turbine generators or expert opinions. The areas of application for industrial climbers are so varied that it is almost impossible to list them all. In the end, it is always the individual qualification and competence of the individual that determines the actual scope of duties.

This question cannot really be answered in clear cut terms. The earning potential depends on a variety of factors and not just on the type of work (self-employment or employment) but also on individual qualifications and skills and the resulting job opportunities.

When rope access and positioning techniques are used correctly and in accordance with standard rules and regulations, the type of work does not present a higher risk than other access methods. Certainly working at heights and depths, as well as in areas where there is a risk of falling, is potentially dangerous and there is always a residual risk, but ultimately everything comes down to thorough preparation. In addition to comprehensive training of the deployed personnel, this also means that hazard assessments, emergency and rescue concepts as well as clear work instructions are provided on site by the client or the supervising rope access technician.

The detailed descriptions of our course offerings tell you which requirements you must meet or need before the course starts and how you can register. You start with the course “Rope Access and Positioning Procedures (RAP) Level 1” according to FISAT guidelines, which is the basic course for industrial climbers. After passing the exam, you will receive a certificate and an identity card from our professional association FISAT. You have now proved, under the supervision of an independent examiner, that you know and can apply the basic techniques of an industrial climber.

However, the actual apprenticeship period only begins with the various operational assignments under the guidance of experienced colleagues. No job is like another! As an industrial climber, you have to meet the constantly changing requirements and challenges and continue to train yourself. True to the motto: standing still is a step backwards!