What is rope access insurance?
Rope access insurance is designed to cover the specific risks faced by abseiling contractors and other professionals who work at height using ropes and harnesses. It typically includes public liability insurance, covering ropes access specialists and abseiling contractors if their work causes injury to a third party or damage to property.
Given the unique dangers of working at height, this type of insurance is tailored to high-risk environments where falls, dropped tools, or structural mishaps can have serious consequences. For anyone scaling buildings or industrial sites, it’s an essential safety net.
What does public liability insurance for rope access and abseiling contractors cover?
Public liability insurance for rope access and abseiling contractors covers claims related to injuries or property damage caused by your work. Here are some examples of how it can protect you:
- Falling equipment: While performing maintenance on a high-rise building, a tool slips from your harness and damages a parked car below. The insurance covers the repair costs.
- Injured pedestrians: A passerby trips over your safety equipment on the ground level and sustains an injury. The policy covers their medical expenses and any compensation.
- Property damage: While conducting facade repairs, a piece of exterior cladding comes loose and damages a nearby structure. The repair costs are covered under your policy.
Without this coverage, you’d be left footing the bill for these potentially costly claims.
Other insurance for rope access and abseiling contractors
While public liability insurance is essential, additional coverage can provide comprehensive protection for your business.
Employers’ liability
If you have employees, employers’ liability insurance is legally required in the UK. It protects you if a team member is injured or becomes ill due to their work. For example, if an employee suffers a fall or sustains an injury while rigging ropes, this insurance covers medical expenses, compensation, and legal fees.
Business equipment
Your equipment is critical to your work, from harnesses and ropes to specialist tools. Business equipment insurance ensures you can replace or repair items that are stolen, damaged, or lost, minimising downtime and keeping your business running smoothly.
Own and hired-in plant
If you regularly use machinery such as cherry pickers, winches, or portable cranes, own and hired-in plant insurance is a smart investment. This coverage protects owned and rented equipment against theft or damage while in your care.
