SPRAT (Society of Professional Rope Access Technician) and IRATA (Industrial Rope Access Trade Association) are both organizations who seek to promote safety and develop standards for rope access.
While similar there are some differences to note:
IRATA requires 4 day minimum training prior to assessment, while SPRAT minimum training is recommended, not required.
IRATA membership is exclusive to companies who undergo audits and an application process. SPRAT does not assure quality of their member companies.
Upgrade requirements for IRATA are currently double what SPRAT requires. IRATA upgrade is a much longer process.