The purpose of irata is to ensure that any rope access work done by irata members is carried out in a safe and high quality manner.

irata's mission is:

• IRATA aims for zero errors and accidents in Safety and Work Quality
• IRATA provides Association representatives able to give informed opinion and advice to external bodies such as CEN and BSI.
• IRATA prepares submission to government departments on matters such as health and safety and training eg. Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Energy, Health & Safety Executive.
• IRATA assists working parties charged with commenting on and discussing existing and draft legislation directives.
• IRATA indicates areas of research and development where initiatives are required to solve problems facing the industry.
• IRATA assists in the provision of appropriate educational training and certification opportunities for personal employment in Industrial Rope Access.
• IRATA provides a forum for the free and informal exchange of experience and opinion.
• IRATA provides guidance on training and certification of personnel involved in Industrial Rope Access and guidance on good working practice.

IRATA members are required to abide by a Code of Ethics and are subject to a strict audit by independent, qualified inspectors to ensure that all of the Association's requirements of Quality Assurance, Safety, Training and Working Practices are being met.