Don’t Get It Wrong: The Differences Between TKPK 1, 2, and 3 – A Complete Guide to Working at Height Competency Standards
TKPK (Tenaga Kerja Pada Ketinggian – Working at Height Personnel) certification is regulated under the Indonesian Ministry of Manpower Regulation No. 9 of 2016 and serves as the national competency standard for working at height. This article explains the definition of TKPK and the differences between TKPK 1, 2, and 3 based on job complexity, contract duration, and field responsibilities—helping you choose the right personnel for your project.
What is TKPK?
Definition According to the Regulation
TKPK, or Working at Height Personnel, is defined under Article 38 of the Ministry of Manpower Regulation No. 9 of 2016 as personnel authorized and competent to work on permanent platforms, temporary platforms, and move horizontally or vertically across building structures. They are also responsible for tasks performed on sloped surfaces, rope access work, and lifting or lowering materials using pulley systems or mechanical assistance. This definition highlights the critical need for skills and certification to ensure safety in working at height.
The Role of TKPK in Occupational Safety
The goal of TKPK certification is to enhance safety and competency standards for personnel working at height. Certified workers are equipped with in-depth knowledge of:
- safety procedures
- personal protective equipment (PPE) usage
- techniques that comply with both national and international standards.
Implementing these standards reduces the risk of workplace accidents, boosts operational efficiency, and ensures all tasks are executed in accordance with applicable regulations.
Differences Between TKPK 1, TKPK 2, and TKPK 3
TKPK 1 – Basic Height Work
TKPK 1 is intended for workers performing low-complexity, short-duration height work. Key characteristics include:
- Contract Duration: Typically used for short-term projects with simple tasks requiring minimal planning.
- Tasks: Includes anchor point installation, performed under the supervision of TKPK 2 or TKPK 3 personnel.
- Skills: Must understand basic height safety procedures, including PPE usage and self-rescue in emergencies.
TKPK 2 – Intermediate-Level Height Work
At this level, workers take on greater responsibility and must possess additional skills in supervision and risk management. Main characteristics include:
- Task Complexity: Involves more technical tasks compared to TKPK 1.
- Supervision Duties: Independently installs anchors and supervises TKPK 1 personnel to ensure compliance with procedures.
- Emergency Response: Must be able to perform emergency rescues for themselves and teammates.
TKPK 3 – Complex Height Work
TKPK 3 is the highest certification level and is intended for personnel responsible for planning, supervising, and implementing safety procedures. Main differences include:
- Contract Duration: Typically used in large-scale, long-term projects (over one year).
- Responsibilities: Develops work plans including safety procedures, risk mitigation strategies, and implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Equipment & Inspection: Must be able to inspect anchor points, assess structure integrity, and operate advanced safety equipment to ensure full compliance.
Key Differences by Category
Each TKPK level focuses on different skills and responsibilities. Below is a breakdown of key differences:
Category |
TKPK 1 – Basic Height Work |
TKPK 2 – Intermediate-Level Work |
TKPK 3 – Complex Height Work |
Skill & Competency Level |
Basic height safety skills, PPE usage, and fundamental safety procedures. |
Requires deeper understanding of height work techniques and supervision. |
Advanced management, safety planning, and risk control skills. |
Responsibilities & Scope |
Focuses on basic tasks like anchor installation and PPE usage. |
Supervises TKPK 1 workers and ensures safety compliance. |
Leads strategic planning, high-level supervision, and full safety management. |
Safety Standards |
Applies basic safety protocols. |
Implements risk mitigation and team management. |
Enforces advanced safety standards and strict supervision. |
Salary & Benefits |
Entry-level compensation based on basic responsibilities. |
Higher salary due to added supervisory duties and skills. |
Highest compensation for managing project and team safety. |
Certification & Training |
Basic training in PPE usage and work procedures. |
Advanced training in supervision and emergency response. |
Intensive training in safety management and risk control. |
Conclusion & Recommendations
Understanding the distinctions between TKPK 1, 2, and 3 is essential to assigning the right personnel based on the complexity of height work. Selecting the correct certified workforce improves safety standards and boosts operational efficiency across industries such as construction and maintenance.
Job Recommendations by Certification Level
1. TKPK 1 – Basic Height Work
Best for workers handling basic PPE and simple safety procedures. Suitable jobs include:
- anchor installation under TKPK 2 or 3 supervision
- window cleaning, billboard installation
- light building maintenance
- Industries: light construction, building maintenance, advertising
2. TKPK 2 – Intermediate-Level Work
Ideal for workers involved in technical execution and supervision. Suitable jobs include:
- industrial maintenance technicians
- large-scale construction workers
- elevated electrical technicians
TKPK 2 workers ensure proper implementation of safety procedures and handle emergency rescues.
3. TKPK 3 – Complex Height Work
Best suited for professionals managing safety systems and project planning. Suitable roles include:
- safety managers
- major construction project supervisors
- occupational safety specialists in mining and oil & gas
These roles involve developing safety protocols, performing inspections, and ensuring full regulatory compliance across the team.
How to Choose the Right Certification Level?
- If you're new to working at height and starting your career, TKPK 1 is the right entry point.
- If you already have experience and want to level up in supervision and technical skills, TKPK 2 is a great next step.
- If your goal is to work in safety management, be involved in large-scale planning, or become a certified safety expert, TKPK 3 is essential.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Training Provider
Selecting a Ministry of Manpower-certified training provider is crucial to ensuring that workers are properly certified and competent. Make sure your training is conducted by an accredited institution with experienced instructors.
As an officially recognized training provider, SpanSet Indonesia has a proven track record of producing reliable and competent personnel in the field of height safety. Trust your training to a provider known for its quality. Contact us for more information and registration.