1. A rope access or positioning technique shall be used only if –
(a)subject to paragraph 3, it involves a system comprising at least two separately anchored lines, of which one (“the working line”) is used as a means of access, egress and support and the other is the safety line;
(b)the user is provided with a suitable harness and is connected by it to the working line and the safety line;
(c)the working line is equipped with safe means of ascent and descent and has a self-locking system to prevent the user falling should he lose control of his movements; and
(d)the safety line is equipped with a mobile fall protection system which is connected to and travels with the user of the system.
2. Taking the risk assessment into account and depending in particular on the duration of the job and the ergonomic constraints, provision must be made for a seat with appropriate accessories.
3. The system may comprise a single rope where –
(a)a risk assessment has demonstrated that the use of a second line would entail higher risk to persons; and
(b)appropriate measures have been taken to ensure safety.