What is the maximum distance you can be from a live edge before establishing a point of connection?

The maximum distance one can be from a live edge before establishing a point of connection is indeed 2 meters, as stipulated by IRATA guidelines. This is primarily to ensure the safety of personnel working at height. Staying within this distance allows for a more controlled environment should there be an accidental slip or equipment failure, reducing the potential fall distance.

Establishing a point of connection before reaching the 2m threshold ensures that the technician is secured at all times while approaching the edge, minimizing the risks associated with falls. This distance addresses the dynamics of rope access work, where the proximity to the edge and the potential hazards involved necessitate stringent safety measures.

While other standards may suggest different distances, such as 3m in New South Wales or varying distances in general practice, IRATA's 2m guideline is specifically designed to align with best practices in rope access safety. Emergency situation protocols might require different considerations, but the established norm for routine operations is 2m. The emphasis is on the need for a secure connection to prevent accidents, a core principle in rope access training and operations.