RSC Training Instructor Completes Advanced PASMA Access Tower Specialist Course

RSC Training instructor Richard Chapman has completed the PASMA Access Tower Specialist (ATS) course at the Test & Research Centre in Soham, Cambridgeshire, further developing his expertise in complex access tower construction and working at height safety.

Held in September 2026, the course was the first ATS programme since 2023, attracting delegates from Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, Stoke and London.

The PASMA Access Tower Specialist qualification is the highest qualification available to PASMA tower users, designed for professionals involved in building complex, non-standard access tower structures.

Specialist PASMA Training at Soham

The course began with an online theory session covering design drawings, safety procedures and Assembly, Use and Dismantle Plans (AUDPs).

Delegates then attended a week of practical training at the Soham Test & Research Centre, which provides a 25-metre clearance height for specialist tower construction.

The programme included several challenging structures:

• Non-Standard Linked Tower: A 7-metre structure featuring staggered platforms and walk-through frames.

• Combination Tower: Linked towers with bridging, cantilever and stair sections.

• High-Level Tower: A 14-metre linked tower supported by a 10-metre buttress.

• Tower Tying-In Techniques: Practical exercises covering box ties, through ties and hook anchors.

Each participant was required to lead an assembly or dismantling exercise, developing leadership, teamwork and safe working practices.

Developing Advanced Access Tower Skills

Richard led the construction of the Combination Tower Structure, which involved following detailed design drawings and adapting the tower configuration during the exercise.

Reflecting on the experience, Richard commented:

"The build itself was fairly straightforward, which sounds silly to say when you see the complexity of it, but it is just a case of following the design drawing specifically.

That's where the role of team leader is important, as it's also about managing the team so the build gets done correctly and also safely."

The course also encouraged delegates to share practical experience and develop a greater understanding of specialist tower construction.

John Darby, General Manager at the Test & Research Centre, highlighted the importance of the programme in helping professionals gain knowledge they can apply to everyday working at height activities.

Further PASMA Training Opportunities

Completing the Access Tower Specialist course marks an important professional development achievement for Richard and further strengthens RSC Training's instructor expertise.

The next PASMA Access Tower Specialist course is scheduled for March 2027, with bookings and enquiries handled directly by PASMA.

RSC Training also provides PASMA, IPAF and working at height safety training for businesses and individuals.

Further information about available courses can be found on the RSC Training course calendar.