What is the recommended length for a cow's tail in rope access work?

The recommended length for a cow's tail in rope access work is typically around 600mm. A cow's tail, often used as a secondary lanyard or positioning aid, provides extra safety for technicians working at heights by allowing them to secure themselves to a structure while maintaining movement. A length of 600mm is considered effective because it offers the right balance between usability and safety, allowing the technician to manoeuvre comfortably without excessive slack that could lead to entanglement or added fall potential.

Length variations beyond this standard may lead to increased risks, such as improper positioning or difficulty in maintaining a secure anchor point. As such, the 600mm measurement has been widely adopted in rope access standards to ensure both safety and functional efficiency for users in various climbing and work-at-height scenarios.