What is an essential safety measure before starting any rope access work?

Before starting any rope access work, it is crucial to ensure that all personnel are trained and certified. This is a fundamental safety measure because rope access work involves inherent risks, and only those who have received proper training can identify hazards, use equipment correctly, and follow safety protocols. Trained personnel are familiar with emergency procedures and are equipped to handle situations that may arise during access work.

In contrast, the other options do not address the foundational safety requirements necessary for rope access operations. For example, while confirming good weather conditions can be beneficial, it is not sufficient on its own to ensure safety. Immediate commencement of work may lead to overlooking essential safety checks, and setting up a blog does not contribute to safety on-site at all. Therefore, having trained and certified personnel is the bedrock of a safe working environment in any rope access scenario.