Installing valves and Pressure Safety Valves (PSVs) in elevated or restricted-access locations often presents a logistical challenge in oil and gas operations. Traditionally, scaffolding and cranes were the default solutions—but they come at a cost: high setup time, greater risk exposure, and often, increased downtime.
Today, a more agile, cost-effective, and safer solution is making waves across the energy sector: Rope Access.
What is Rope Access?
Rope access is a specialized method of working at height or in confined spaces using climbing techniques, safety harnesses, and load-rated ropes to gain secure access to hard-to-reach areas.
It was originally adapted from mountaineering and caving disciplines, but it’s now a globally recognized method in industrial operations—certified under standards like IRATA (International Rope Access Trade Association) and SPRAT (Society of Professional Rope Access Technicians).
Why Use Rope Access for Valve and PSV Installations?
In a refinery or offshore platform, some valve or PSV locations may be:
- 15–40 meters above ground
- Positioned over live production lines
- Located in confined spaces or near flare stacks
- Too remote or narrow for scaffolding or cranes
Rope access allows skilled technicians to reach these installations directly, carry out tasks efficiently, and exit without heavy structural setups.
According to a 2022 IRATA safety report, rope access work recorded a lower incident rate (0.58 per 100,000 hours) compared to traditional scaffold-based access (1.88 per 100,000 hours).
How CCEL Deploys Rope Access Teams for Valve Operations
At CCEL, rope access isn’t a novelty—it’s an integrated part of our field service toolkit. Whether it’s a PSV replacement 30 metres up, or flange bolting inside a cramped manifold chamber, our rope access-certified engineers can execute with precision and safety.
Our process includes:
- Site-specific risk assessment and rescue planning
- Deployment of IRATA Level 1–3 technicians
- Safe lowering/lifting of tools, valve components, and fasteners
- In-situ installation, torquing, and post-job inspection
Recent Project Spotlight: As part of the Port Harcourt Refinery Rehabilitation Project in Area 5, CCEL was awarded the contract to overhaul, calibrate, and install PSVs in challenging locations. Using rope access, our team efficiently navigated restricted zones and vertical structures, completing the task with zero incident reports, full calibration compliance, and within a compressed turnaround window
Is Rope Access Safe?
Absolutely—when executed properly.
CCEL adheres strictly to IRATA best practices, with double-rope systems, fall arresters, independent anchor points, and real-time supervision. Every technician is trained in:
- Fall prevention and rescue techniques
- Working under live process conditions
- Load management and rigging
We also conduct mock drills before every major rope access deployment.
Cost Savings and Efficiency Benefits
Beyond safety and versatility, rope access delivers clear financial and operational wins:
| Parameter | Traditional Access | Rope Access |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Time | 2–5 days | < 1 day |
| Cost (structure & labor) | High | 40–60% less |
| Downtime Impact | High | Minimal |
| Mobility Between Sites | Limited | Highly mobile |
In the long run, rope access pays for itself, especially in facilities requiring frequent valve maintenance in awkward or elevated positions.
Conclusion: Safe, Smart, and Field-Tested
Rope access isn’t just about scaling heights—it’s about reaching solutions faster, reducing risk exposure, and optimizing costs without compromising safety. As valve and PSV installations become more demanding, CCEL continues to lead with ingenuity and technical discipline in every project.
Thinking of how to service or install valves in hard-to-reach places? Talk to CCEL about a Rope Access solution that works.
