Emerging rope access company Vertical Logic Rope Access MD Craig Muller highlights an “interesting new trend” in the rise of robotics and third-party access initiatives, such as drones, and other unmanned non-destructive testing (NDT) devices in work-at-height applications and projects.

He says these trends allow for easy access while ensuring the efficient and safe testing of surfacing and photographic surveys, and that, in a rapidly evolving world, staying dynamic and adaptable with advancing technology is “not just an industry challenge, but a fundamental necessity”.

“Embracing the latest technological advancements, fostering a culture of continuous learning and being open to innovation are essential for organisations and individuals aiming to thrive in the face of rapid change,” Muller tells Engineering News.

As a work-at-height company, Vertical Logic prioritises high health, safety and environment (HSE) standards for clients and their employees, with HSE presenting challenges, as it demands significant time and expense and is constantly evolving.

To maintain a competitive edge, the company has established efficient in-house policies and implemented a user-friendly, automated system that streamlines processes, reduces costs and provides real-time data updates.

“Through this system, we can monitor and ensure that HSE tasks are completed daily before starting work on sites, thereby mitigating potential risks and preventing injuries to employees, or damage to assets,” Muller comments.

A seemingly simple task, such as a daily site task inspection, can make a significant difference in safeguarding everyone involved in the operations, he adds.

Vertical Logic supports employee growth and development through cultivating a lifelong learning culture that revolves around honing skills and prioritising HSE.

“We achieve this by consistently promoting awareness of total quality and safety principles, encouraging adaptability to change, fostering a spirit of continuous improvement and embracing innovation,” says Muller.

The Three Cs

Effective communication and coordination play a pivotal role in the success of work-at-height projects, which often involve collaboration among various stakeholders such as engineers, architects and construction teams.

Vertical Logic, therefore, recognises the significance of seamless collaboration and has implemented strategies to foster strong partnerships, Muller says.

The company’s project managers use proven project management principles and employ International Organisation for Standardisation documentation to facilitate efficient collaboration.

To tailor the approach to specific requirements, the company has also customised the system to optimise its collaboration efforts.

“This adaptability enables us to align the communication process with the unique requirements of each project, promoting greater transparency, accountability and overall project success. Through clear channels of communication, we build trust among stakeholders, enhance problem-solving capabilities and maintain a seamless flow of information throughout the project’s life cycle,” Muller explains.

He concludes that within such a collaborative environment, innovation thrives, delays are minimized, and ultimately, high-quality work-at-height projects are delivered, surpassing the expectations of all parties involved.