Although a large chunk of your Evaluation will take place on the ropes, you are also required to have a theoretical understanding of the systems you're using as a rope tech.
During your SPRAT evaluation, L2 and L3 techs will be asked to demonstrate their understanding of the forces involved in rigging a rope access system through a closed book, multiple choice written test.
You will specifically be tested on your knowledge of:
Remember that load distribution should take place in the direction of pull, and the (interior) angle of your rope access system should never exceed 120°.
Although you'll mostly be satisfying this requirement on paper, you may also be asked to demonstrate your knowledge of rigging and system dynamics practically. For example, after rigging a cross-haul your Evaluator may ask you to estimate the forces in the system you've just established.Your SPRAT Evaluators expectations for this requirement will vary depending on the level that you're certifying for -- naturally, a more in-depth knowledge will be expected of L3 techs.
We'll go into further detail on all of this during your training week.
Most Common Discrepancies to Avoid:
There will be 40 questions on the written test portion of your evaluation, and you will need to answer 80% of them correctly to pass. But don't worry if you get less than that! You'll still be allowed to complete the field practical portion of your evaluation, and you'll have 60 days to retake the test (beginning a week after your Evaluation has occurred).
Additional resources to check out:
8.6 (section 11) of the SPRAT Evaluation Guidelines for the source material for this blog.
8.6 (section 11) of the SPRAT Certification Requirements for a concise evaluation summary.
7.15 (section 11) of the SPRAT Evaluation Guidelines for the sub-requirements of rigging an anchorage system.
8.8 (section 11) of the SPRAT Evaluation Guidelines for the L2 sub-requirements of rigging a load-sharing anchorage system.
Section 7 of the SPRAT Certification Requirements for the details of what's involved in the written test.
Appendix 4 of the SPRAT Certification Requirements for more information on angle physics, with very helpful diagrams that outline load-sharing (table 1) and directional (table 2) anchorage system forces.
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This is part of an ongoing series, where we’re breaking down the SPRAT Syllabus and clarifying exactly what will be expected of you on your evaluation day. To continue exploring this series and learn more about SPRAT's Technician Evaluation Form, please click below: