Latchways® Guided Type Fall Arrest (GTFA) Devices – How to Examine, Repair and Certify

This course provides specialist training for personnel responsible for maintaining Latchways Guided Type Fall Arrest (GTFA) devices in safe working condition.

The programme focuses on the examination, repair, disposal and recertification processes for GTFA devices including LadderLatch®, TowerLatch® and ClimbLatch® models.

GTFA devices are designed to travel along vertical lifeline systems, allowing continuous attachment while climbing and automatically locking onto the cable in the event of a fall.

Training combines technical knowledge with practical workshop activities to ensure devices are maintained safely and remain compliant with inspection and certification requirements.

What can I expect from this Latchways® Guided Type Fall Arrest (GTFA) Devices – How to Examine, Repair and Certify course?

Learners will gain both theoretical understanding and practical skills required to inspect, repair and certify GTFA fall arrest devices.

GTFA Device Overview and Safety Principles

• Understanding GTFA device design and function
• Understanding the concept of use and employment across GTFA models
• Understanding fall arrest principles within vertical cable systems
• Importance of periodic inspection and maintenance

GTFA devices must be inspected regularly and undergo periodic examination by a competent person, typically at least annually depending on usage and regulations.

Examination and Inspection Procedures

• Performing periodic inspection of GTFA devices
• Identifying damage, wear and component failure
• Understanding inspection intervals and compliance requirements
• Recording inspection findings and certification data

Delegates learn to carry out full device examinations including visual, tactile and functional checks.

Repair and Maintenance Techniques

• Performing Level 2 repair tasks on GTFA devices
• Understanding repair limitations and escalation requirements
• Identifying when devices must be removed from service
• Correct disposal processes for non-repairable equipment

Training includes practical repair exercises using approved tooling and PPE.

Tooling, PPE and Safe Working Practices

• Identifying correct tools for inspection and repair
• Selecting and using appropriate PPE
• Safe handling, storage and maintenance practices
• Documentation and traceability requirements

Delegates will learn how to correctly condition a GTFA device through examination, repair and recertification processes.

Practical Workshop Exercises

• Hands-on examination of GTFA devices
• Performing repair and reassembly tasks
• Conducting functional testing and verification
• Completing recertification processes

Training blends classroom theory with practical workshop activities to build real-world competence.

Who is this course suitable for and what are the entry requirements?

This course is designed for:

• Fall protection technicians
• Equipment inspection personnel
• Maintenance engineers working with vertical fall protection systems
• Specialist installers responsible for maintaining GTFA devices

This module is typically aimed at personnel responsible for maintaining fall protection equipment in operational condition.

Learners must:

• Be physically capable of completing practical workshop tasks
• Have a good understanding of written and spoken English
• Typically have completed prerequisite vertical system installer training modules

Installer training pathways normally require completion of a foundation introduction module within the previous three years.

Learners are assessed using:

Practical Assessment

• Examination of GTFA devices
• Completion of repair tasks
• Demonstration of certification process
• Safe working practices during maintenance activities

Assessment is primarily practical based. 

On successful completion, delegates will receive:

• Manufacturer approved GTFA maintenance certification
• Industry recognised proof of competence
• Certification valid for 3 years

Certification validity aligns with typical installer and maintenance training standards.