Disasters don’t wait for business hours. A sudden storm shatters high-level glazing, impact damage cracks windows on a 20-storey tower, or vandalism leaves broken glass posing immediate risks – these are the moments when rapid response is essential to protect occupants, the public, and the building.

At Access All Areas, our 24/7 emergency rope access teams are on call across London and the South East, ready to deploy within hours to make high-level sites safe again. With IRATA Level 3 supervisors leading every response, we provide rapid, compliant, low-disruption solutions when traditional access (scaffolding or cranes) simply isn’t feasible or fast enough.

Common Emergencies We Handle

Rope access excels in urgent scenarios where speed, precision, and minimal ground impact are critical:

1. Storm Damage & Loose/Debris Hazards High winds or heavy rain can dislodge panels, flashings, or coping stones. We secure or remove hazards immediately, often installing temporary encapsulation netting to contain falling debris and protect pedestrians/traffic.
2. Broken or Shattered Glass Replacement & Make-Safe After impact, storms, or spontaneous failure (e.g., toughened glass issues), broken windows or glazing units create sharp hazards, weather ingress, or security risks. Our teams swiftly access the affected areas from ropes to remove hazardous glass, apply temporary film or boarding for weatherproofing, and coordinate or perform full replacement of custom units – all while minimising disruption to occupants.
3. Structural Failures & Falling Masonry Spalling concrete, delaminating cladding, or cracked render on occupied buildings – we make-safe loose sections, lower debris safely, and provide interim protection until full repairs can begin.
4. Leak Investigations & Urgent Waterproofing Sudden water ingress from roof failures or burst pipes at height – we locate, temporarily seal, and mitigate damage with minimal disruption.

How Our Emergency Response Works – Step by Step

When a call comes in (often from facilities managers, main contractors, or local authorities):

1. Immediate Contact & Assessment Our 24/7 line (01708 550 054) connects you to a supervisor who gathers details and assesses urgency.
2. Rapid Deployment A minimum two-person team (always including Level 3 oversight) mobilises within hours – fully equipped vehicle with ropes, tools, glazing equipment, vacuum lifters (where needed), temporary boarding/film, and safety gear.
3. On-Site Risk & Method Statement Quick site survey, dynamic risk assessment, and safe system of work established. Portable anchors rigged if needed.
4. Make-Safe & Replacement Actions
   • Secure/remove broken glass using controlled methods (tethered handling, debris bags/netting).
   • Apply temporary safety film, boarding, or weatherproofing.
   • Lift and install replacement glazing units (pre-ordered or coordinated).
   • All work tethered – zero ground debris.
5. Reporting & Handover Detailed photos, reports, and recommendations provided. We coordinate with engineers/surveyors/glaziers for permanent fixes.

Why Rope Access for Emergencies?

• Speed: Rig in hours vs. days/weeks for scaffolding.
• Minimal Disruption: No road closures, no evacuations, no heavy equipment.
• Safety First: IRATA two-rope system, ISO 45001 processes, £10m liability.
• Cost-Effective: Quick remedial works prevents further damage.
• Proven Track Record: We’ve responded to storm-damaged glazing, impact breakages, and urgent high-level stabilisations across commercial, residential, and heritage sites.

Real Example from Recent Calls

Last winter, after severe gales shattered multiple windows on a City of London high-rise, we were called in. Within 4 hours of the initial call, our team had rigged, removed hazardous glass, applied temporary boarding for weatherproofing, and coordinated replacement units – all while the building remained fully occupied. The client avoided costly evacuations and potential HSE action.

Don’t Wait for the Next Incident

Emergencies happen – but having a trusted rope access partner means you can respond fast and safely.

If you manage a high-rise or tall structure, get our emergency contact details on speed dial. We’re available 24/7 for make-safe, temporary protection, urgent glazing replacements, or inspections.

Call our emergency line: 01708 550 054 Email: [email protected] Website: www.aaaropeaccess.co.uk

Access All Areas – when disaster strikes at height, we’re the rapid response you need.