IRATA Logbook Refresher

From the perspective of an experienced IRATA Level 3 instructor and assessor, the IRATA logbook refresher exists to verify current competence and ensure safe return to operational rope access duties after a period of reduced activity.


This guidance explains the purpose of a refresher, typical triggers for requiring one, the core skills assessed, and the criteria followed before a logbook sign-off is applied.


If you're looking for the next available date for a Logbook refresher, please click the link below.

Logbook Refresher Availability

Purpose of a Logbook Refresher

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A logbook refresher is not a qualification course. The objective is to confirm that a technician:

  • Retains core rope access competency after a period of inactivity.
  • Demonstrates safe, consistent performance of manoeuvres and rescue procedures at the declared IRATA level.
  • Understands updates or changes in IRATA International Code of Practice (ICOP) and relevant legislation.
  • Is ready to return to operational duties without creating avoidable risk to personnel or the worksite.

A refresher functions as a professional calibration, verifying both technical ability and practical judgement.

When a Refresher Is Appropriate

A refresher is commonly required when:


  • No recent logbook entry exists (often interpreted as six months or longer, depending on policy).
  • Approach to reassessment benefits from verification of current skill levels.
  • An employer or site controller requests documented evidence of competence prior to mobilisation.
  • The individual feels uncertain about fundamental rope access manoeuvres after an extended break.


Refresher training protects both the individual and the employer by providing structured proof of current capability.

Core Skills Assessed

While formats may vary among different instructors and the IRATA training member companies (TMCs), the following key elements are routinely verified in accordance with the technician's specific IRATA level. These aspects are crucial for ensuring that all technicians are well-prepared and competent in their roles.


  • Equipment Familiarisation & Pre-Use Checks
  • Rope Manoeuvres
  • Team Coordination & Worksite Behaviour
  • Rescue Readiness
  • Logbook Standards & Recordkeeping
  • Criteria for Logbook Sign-Off


Records Logbook Compliance

Revisit the technicians' responsibilities as defined under UK legislation, which encompasses a range of critical regulations including the Work at Height Regulations, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER), and the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER). It is essential to understand how these regulations interconnect with the IRATA International Code of Practice (ICOP), particularly in relation to on-site supervision requirements that ensure safety and compliance in high-risk environments.


Students should also update their IRATA logbook with signed entries from Level 3 instructors to evidence recent activity.

Participant Requirements

Before enrolling, ensure candidates meet the essential criteria:


  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Hold a current and valid IRATA Level 1, 2, or 3 certificate
  • Have not worked on the ropes or had a logbook entry for 6 months or more
  • Be physically fit and medically certified to work at height
  • Bring their IRATA logbook (even if it hasn’t been updated recently - on the day)
  • Wear suitable work clothing
  • Be proficient in Language of the Training Member Company (for instruction, safety, and assessment)


These standards ensure participant safety, allow any instructors to tailor the refresher to the technicians needs, and ensure compliance with IRATA training and record-keeping requirements.

  • What is the IRATA Logbook Refresher and why is it needed?

    IRATA certificates remain valid for three years, but if a technician haven’t worked in rope access for over 6 months, a 1‑day refresher is required by IRATA standards to ensure skills are still current.

  • Do I need to hold a current IRATA certification to attend?

    Yes — participants must hold a current, valid IRATA Level 1, 2, or 3 certificate and have not had a logbook entry in the past six months to attend a IRATA Logbook Refresher.

  • What will the refresher cover at Dangle Academy?

    IRATA logbook refresher, is an essential practical rope skills test, including twin‑rope use, rigging setup, movement technique, rescue's, risk assessment, and logbook entry protocols for any technician who has not been active in the rope access industry for six months or more.

  • Will my logbook be signed during the course?

    Yes. A Dangle Academy qualified IRATA Level 3 instructor will formally sign your logbook to confirm completion of the refresher in accordance with IRATA TACS (Training, Assessment and Certification Scheme) requirements.

  • What happens if I have lost my logbook?

    A technician must arrange a replacement logbook with IRATA prior to attending. 


    A training member company requires a valid logbook to participate, and refresher entries cannot be made without it.

Importance of Accurate Logbook Maintenance

The logbook serves as a professional and legal record of:


  • Competence and supervised experience.
  • Hours worked and nature of rope access tasks.
  • Risk exposure and emergency/rescue activity.
  • Continuous professional development.


Proper maintenance prevents administrative delays, supports career progression and satisfies client, employer and auditor scrutiny for IRATA technicians.

REGAIN THAT EDGE & CONFIDENCE

Who Should Attend a IRATA Logbook Refresher?

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Rope Skills Revivers


For technicians who need to revisit essential movement on rope, including ascent/descent use, back-up systems, edge protection, and anchor setups — all under IRATA Level 3 guidance.

Learn More
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Returning Techs


Ideal for IRATA Level 1–3 rope access workers who still hold a valid IRATA certificate but have not had a logbook entry in six months or more and want to restore site-ready competence & confidence.

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Rescue Readiness


Perfect for those refreshing their ability to rig lowering/ hauling systems, perform basic snatch rescues, manage dropped objects and create effective RAMS  for upcoming projects.

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Site Compliance


Designed for technicians ensuring they meet employer & client requirements, including current IRATA ICOP awareness, legal responsibilities & accurate logbook records signed by a L3.

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Elevate Your Skills

IRATA Certification & Logbook Refresher

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IRATA Logbook Refresher

Typically a refresher day is led by an experienced IRATA Level 3 instructor who will guide the student through practical exercises to restore confidence in rope skills, rigging, and rescue basics. Candidates may also review risk control measures and legal responsibilities to ensure they're site-ready.

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What A Technician Receives

Usually at the end of the refresher, a technician will leave with a fully updated IRATA logbook, signed and dated by the TMC's Level 3 instructor to confirm the skills they have practiced and demonstrated during the day. This formal record ensures they meet IRATA’s requirement for maintaining competence after periods away from the ropes.

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Pick an IRATA Member

IRATA member companies follow audited compliance frameworks that maintain consistent safety, training and operational standards. Technicians trained within member organisations gain structured competency assurance, standardised rescue procedures and traceable records aligned with international best practice.

Step back onto the Ropes

After an absence of six months or more, holders of a valid IRATA Level 1, 2 or 3 certificate may undertake a one-day IRATA logbook refresher to re-establish practical competence. The single-day programme focuses on core rope techniques, rigging practice, rescue procedures and a structured review of safety protocols and legal responsibilities.

Returning to Rope Access

After a period away from rope access duties, technicians holding a valid IRATA Level 1, 2, or 3 certificate may undertake a logbook refresher to verify current competence. The session reinforces core rope techniques, rigging, rescue procedures, and relevant safety and legal requirements.

Join Our IRATA Logbook Refresher Training in Belfast!

At Dangle Academy, we’re excited to offer our 1-day IRATA Logbook Refresher course in Belfast. This course is designed for IRATA Level 1, 2, and 3 technicians who have not worked on the ropes or had a logbook entry for six months or more, but still hold a valid IRATA certificate.


Our expert-led training will help you sharpen essential rope skills, reinforce safe working practices, and ensure you meet IRATA’s competency requirements — with logbook entries signed-off by our qualified Level 3 instructor.


Through practical exercises and targeted refreshers, you’ll leave the course ready to return to work with confidence, knowing your techniques meet the latest IRATA International Code of Practice (ICOP) standards. Whether you’re preparing for your next project or meeting site compliance requirements, this refresher is your essential step back into safe, efficient rope access work.

65%

of all rope access incidents occurred "on ropes" last year

18.1%

Increase in rope access employment in 2024

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