A FORMER oil rig worker has started his own business to train people how to safely climb rigs and skyscrapers.

Andy Scott from Consett, County Durham, set up Scott’s Access Training to teach people how to use a rope and harness to manoeuvre around the outside of high buildings.

Andy, who worked on the oil rigs for 14 years, said: “Rope access training is for any person or business where the work would be made easier by being able to get up and down the side of a building using a rope and harness.

“I mostly train people who want to work on the oil rigs because it is a highly desirable skill for that industry. But we also train people like window cleaners who need better access to large buildings.”

He has received Government accreditation for the training he provides, alongside other members of his family. Wife Rose runs the office and two of their children have also taken the training for their jobs in the offshore industry.

Andy received help from Be Enterprising programme, including coaching on the practicalities of running a business.

He said: “The coaching from Be Enterprising explained how to set the business up, helped us deal with things like financial planning and even look at ways of marketing the business to more customers.

“The certificate we provide gives people the chance to earn much higher salaries on the oil rigs and, for those onshore, it can really widen the scope for their business.”

Be Enterprising coach Gillian Khachickian said: “Andy’s new business is quite specialised. He knew exactly what he wanted to do right from the outset and knows his field inside out. He has been a great client to work with.”