Compatible Fall Protection For Behlen Standing Seam Panels

Who Is Behlen Building Systems?

Behlen Building Systems began its journey in 1936 when Walter D. Behlen founded Behlen Manufacturing Company in Columbus, Nebraska. 1950, the company revolutionized the industry by introducing the world's first frameless "stressed skin" metal building design. This innovative method used deeply corrugated steel panels to create a complete load-bearing shell without an internal framing structure, allowing large, column-free interior spans ideal for agricultural and commercial applications. 

A pivotal moment for Behlen came in 1955 during Operation Cue, a series of controlled nuclear tests in Nevada. A Behlen building withstood the immense pressure generated by a 30-kiloton bomb, demonstrating its remarkable strength and boosting demand for Behlen's building systems across the United States and international markets. Under Walter Behlen's visionary leadership, the company grew into a multi-million dollar enterprise by the late 1960s, employing over 1,100 workers and maintaining a network of 500 authorized builders. 

Behlen Building Systems continues to innovate and deliver cutting-edge frameless steel building solutions to customers worldwide. Behlen is a leading manufacturer known for its high-quality products and commitment to excellence. 

What Are The Most Compatible Fall Protection Products For Behlen Standing Seam Panels?

Ensuring the safety of workers on standing seam roofs is crucial, and selecting the appropriate fall protection products is essential. As with all standing seam roofs, Behlen systems require specialized anchor systems that won't penetrate the panels or damage the roofing system. This blog provides valuable information on the best fall protection products for Behlen Building Systems' standing seam panels. By understanding and implementing the correct safety measures, installers, and maintenance workers can perform their tasks safely and efficiently.

ZL-24® Trapezoidal Industrial Standing Seam Roof System

The ZL-24® Trapezoidal Industrial Standing Seam Roof System is a patented roofing solution that excels in performance and cost-effectiveness. This innovative system features a distinctive trapezoidal panel design with a 24" coverage width and a 1-3/4" seam height. Panels are available in 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel, providing customization options based on project requirements and anticipated load conditions. One of the most notable features of the ZL-24® system is its advanced seam design, which allows the roof to adapt to various load zones. The roof can meet specific uplift load requirements by selecting the appropriate seam configuration without changing purlin spacing or using additional external mechanisms over the seams. This results in significant savings on materials and installation costs.

The ZL-24® system also offers a range of finishes to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal. The standard finish includes a Galvalume® Plus protective metallic coating, with optional painted finishes available in Kynar 500® or Hylar 5000® PVDF resin-based coatings. These coatings come in various standard colors or custom hues, allowing for tailored aesthetics to suit any project.

With its trapezoidal rib design and standing seam construction, the ZL-24® system delivers superior structural strength and weather resistance, making it an excellent choice for industrial and commercial buildings. The patented seam technology, combined with customizable gauge and finish options, optimizes material usage and reduces installation costs while meeting the specific needs of each project.

Fall Protection For ZL-24 Panels

The Behlen ZL-24 panel systems are durable steel substrates with numerous fall protection options, including the Standing Seam Roof Anchor and adapter plates.

Standing Seam Roof Anchor (SSRA1): The  SSRA1 system maintains the integrity of the ZL-24 panels by attaching securely without penetrating the roof surface. It is suitable for both 22-gauge and 24-gauge panels, ensuring reliable performance.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: Designed to be mounted on SSRA1 anchors, the  SSRA2 adapter supports 10-foot walkboards without roof penetrations. It also offers adjustable height options to accommodate various seam heights.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates: Ideal for extensive projects, the  SSRA3 Anchor Plates, used in conjunction with the Malta Dynamics HLL3001 Horizontal Lifeline System, provide robust temporary horizontal lifelines for two workers, enhancing safety and mobility.

Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor: This anchor is perfect for roofs with a 6/12 to 12/12 pitch. It hooks over the roof ridge, offering a secure attachment point and ensuring worker safety on steep slopes. The Ridge Pro Steep Assist anchor uniquely ensures 100% tie-off for workers from the moment they step off the ladder onto the roof until they safely return to the ladder. This continuous protection offers unparalleled safety and peace of mind during roofing tasks.

ZL-16® Standing Seam Roof System

The ZL-16® Standing Seam Roof System features a patented vertical leg design that provides a reliable and weather-resistant roofing solution. This system offers a 16" panel width seam height of 2". The panels are available in both 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel, allowing customization based on specific building requirements and span conditions.

A standout feature of the ZL-16® is its triple-bend seam, which offers superior resistance against leaks and wind uplift. The vertical leg design facilitates efficient seaming and accommodates thermal movement, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Regarding finishes, the ZL-16® offers a variety of options to meet different aesthetic and functional needs. The standard finish includes a Galvalume® Plus protective metallic coating, an aluminum-zinc alloy. A wide array of Kynar 500®/Hylar 5000® paint colors are available for painted panels, including popular shades like colonial red, burnished slate, and premium, energy-efficient roof colors. An unpainted Galvalume® Plus finish is also available as a cost-effective alternative. With customizable dimensions, steel thickness, and color options, the ZL-16® Standing Seam Roof System provides a cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing solution for metal standing seam roofing applications. Its patented design, durable finishes, and resistance to weather elements make it a reliable choice for various building projects.

Fall Protection for ZL-16 Panels

Standing Seam Roof Anchor (SSRA1): This seam anchor system maintains the integrity of the ZL-16 panels by attaching them with non-penetrating set screws. Compatible with both 22-gauge and 24-gauge panels, the SSRA1 ensures secure and reliable performance.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: When mounted on SSRA1 anchors, the SSRA2 adapter supports 10-foot walkboards without roof penetrations. It also offers adjustable height options to suit various seam heights.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates: For larger projects, the SSRA3 Anchor Plates, used with the Malta Dynamics HLL3001 Horizontal Lifeline System, provide robust temporary horizontal lifelines for two workers, enhancing safety and mobility.

Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor: Ideal for roofs with a 6/12 to 12/12 pitch, this anchor hooks over the roof ridge, creating a secure anchorage point. It ensures 100% worker tie-off while on the roof, making it suitable for steep slopes.

Prioritizing Worker Safety on Behlen Panels

Behlen Building Systems' standing seam roof panels—ZL-16 and ZL-24—provide excellent durability, weather resistance, and aesthetic appeal. Ensuring worker safety is paramount when installing and maintaining these panels. Utilizing compatible fall protection systems such as the SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, and Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is crucial for maintaining a safe working environment.

ZL-16 and ZL-24 panels meet the highest performance standards while offering flexibility in gauge and finish options. The ZL-16 panel features a patented vertical leg design with a triple-bend seam for superior leak and wind uplift resistance. The ZL-24 panel boasts a unique trapezoidal design, providing robust structural integrity and weather protection.

By integrating advanced fall protection solutions with Behlen's innovative panel systems, building owners and contractors can ensure safety and efficiency on every project. These systems comply with safety standards and enhance the overall performance and longevity of Behlen's standing seam panels. Prioritizing worker safety while leveraging the superior qualities of ZL-16 and ZL-24 panels makes for a reliable and successful roofing solution.

Get in Touch for More Information

We'd love to hear about your project! Call us at 863-703-4522 to discuss your needs, or visit our website at www.StandingSeamRoofAnchor.com for more details. For additional insights into fall protection, check out OSHA's comprehensive 48-page manual.

General Safety Guidelines for Standing Seam Roofs

Promote a Safety Culture

Foster a safety-conscious workplace by encouraging regular equipment inspections and ongoing training sessions. A strong safety culture helps maintain high standards and reduces the likelihood of accidents.

Comprehensive Safety Planning

Before starting work, the on-site safety manager or project manager should develop an OSHA-compliant safety plan. This plan should include a detailed rescue strategy to protect workers in the event of an accident.

Use Tailored Roof Anchor Systems

Utilize roof anchor systems specifically designed for standing seam roofs. Ensure proper sizing and installation according to manufacturer instructions, including precise placement on the seam and correct torque settings. Avoid using seam anchors that require attachment over clips, as locating clips on existing roof systems can be impractical.

High-Quality Safety Gear

Equip workers with premium full-body harnesses and shock-absorbing lanyards. These products significantly reduce impact loads during falls, minimizing the risk of serious injuries or fatalities.

Trauma Strap Utilization

Encourage workers to use trauma straps on their harnesses and undergo regular training on their proper use. Trauma straps are essential for preventing severe injuries or fatalities after a fall by reducing suspension trauma.

Stable Access Points

Ensure that ladders and scaffolding are correctly positioned and free of obstacles. Conduct thorough OSHA-compliant ladder training for workers and always follow the 4-1 rule for ladder positioning to ensure stability and safety.

Establish Secure Work Zones

Install guardrails, warning lines, or other barriers to prevent falls on low-slope roofs and create secure work zones. These measures help create a safer environment and minimize the risk of accidents.

Appropriate Footwear

Workers should wear non-slip footwear designed for smooth metal roof systems and avoid working on wet roofs. Proper footwear enhances stability and reduces the risk of slips and falls.

Precautions for Curved Panels

Workers should avoid using seam-mounted anchors on curved metal panels. For curved roof systems, enlist a trained safety professional to conduct site inspections and develop a comprehensive safety strategy tailored to the specific challenges of curved surfaces.

Consider Permanent Roof Anchor Systems

Invest in permanent roof anchor systems that can remain in place to facilitate future roof work and inspections. Permanent systems enhance long-term safety measures and ensure ongoing protection.

The views, recommendations, and information presented in this blog are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of the featured panel manufacturer, its brands, subsidiaries, or parent companies. Customers are strongly encouraged to reach out directly to the roof panel manufacturer for inquiries regarding fall protection compatibility with their products, as well as to address any potential warranty issues that may arise following the installation of our products.