EDGE OBSTRUCTIONS AT THE TOP

The edges of roofs, platforms, cliffs, cavities and other drops may be unprotected or surrounded by edge protection such as guardrails or parapet walls. In many cases, the edge presents both awkward obstruction for the rope access Technician and a contact hazard to the ropes.
Trainees must demonstrate passing a top edge obstruction, where anchor points are at or near right angles to the line of descent, in both ascent and descent modes.
Trainees must demonstrate taking care to attach their equipment correctly before approaching the edge and be able to explain the use of appropriate rope protection in regard to hazards associated with edges, including rope stretch and the potential for impact loads.
Trainees must demonstrate safe control during this manoeuvre, and avoidance of impact loads and cross loads on equipment.