Fall Protection For AEP Span Roof Systems

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for AEP Span Standing Seam Panels.

Who Is AEP Span?

Founded in 1971, AEP Span has built a strong reputation in the metal roofing industry over the past 50 years. With a commitment to quality and innovation, the company has established itself as a leader in manufacturing architectural metal roofing and siding products. Headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, and with additional facilities in West Sacramento and Fontana, California, AEP Span efficiently serves the Western United States market. Their broad distribution network allows them to meet the growing demands of customers in various industries, from commercial and residential to industrial and architectural applications.

AEP Span is known for producing high-quality metal panels, including standing seam systems that are durable, energy-efficient, and weather-resistant. These panels are a go-to choice for architects, contractors, and building owners seeking performance and aesthetic appeal. Over the years, the company has remained focused on evolving its product lines to meet the changing needs of the industry while maintaining a firm commitment to environmental sustainability and energy efficiency.

This dedication to excellence, along with their customer-first philosophy and strong ties to the communities they serve, has positioned AEP Span as a trusted name in metal roofing. Whether it’s for new construction or retrofitting projects, their standing seam systems are designed to deliver long-term value and reliability.

Why Does Fall Protection Matter for AEP Span Standing Seam Roofs?

When it comes to working on standing seam metal roofs, like those produced by AEP Span, fall protection is not just a matter of compliance—it’s about preserving the integrity of the roof and ensuring worker safety. Standing seam systems are highly engineered to provide a sleek, weather-tight solution with concealed fasteners, making them popular in both residential and commercial projects. However, this hidden fastener system also creates a challenge: traditional fall protection methods, which often involve penetrating the roof, can compromise the very features that make standing seam roofs so effective.

Installing anchors that require drilling into the metal panels can lead to leaks, void warranties, and cause long-term damage to the structure. This is why seam-mounted fall protection systems, designed specifically for standing seam roofs, are essential. They attach to the seam without penetration, ensuring the roof’s performance and warranty remain intact.

At AEP Span, the six standing seam panels they offer—each designed for specific uses and conditions—require equally specialized fall protection solutions. Using the wrong type of anchor or fall protection system can damage these high-performance panels, which are meant to last decades. This is especially critical for projects located in harsh climates where water intrusion or wind-driven rain could lead to costly repairs if the roof’s integrity is compromised.

Throughout this blog, we’ll explore the best fall protection systems for each of AEP Span’s standing seam profiles. We’ll break down why these systems are necessary, how they keep workers safe, and why preserving the roof’s integrity is paramount. In doing so, we’ll ensure that you have the knowledge needed to make informed decisions that keep both your crew and the roof in top shape.

Curved Span-Lok: Performance and Design Flexibility

Curved Span-Lok is a high-performance architectural standing seam metal roof system specifically engineered for projects requiring a curved design. With its 2-inch mechanically seamed rib, this panel offers both aesthetic appeal and superior weather-tightness, making it an excellent choice for commercial, industrial, institutional, and retail applications. The durability and longevity of Curved Span-Lok make it a go-to for new constructions and retrofits, especially in environments that demand high resistance to the elements. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for AEP Span Curved Span-Lok Standing Seam Panels.

Available in 24 and 22-gauge steel, Curved Span-Lok panels offer 16-inch coverage, providing a broad surface that minimizes seams for a clean, sleek look. With its ability to be machine-curved (in the factory or field) for 35-foot radiused applications, this panel is perfect for designs that require a distinct architectural edge. Additionally, the panel's subtle striations come standard, with flat pans and pencil ribs available upon request, allowing for further customization based on project needs.

Curved Span-Lok is rigorously tested for safety and structural integrity, meeting UL580 Class 90 wind uplift requirements and ASTM standards for air and water infiltration. It's also rated for Class A fire resistance and Class 4 impact resistance, making it a robust solution for environments with severe weather conditions. With custom lengths ranging from 6 to 45 feet, Curved Span-Lok offers flexibility for various project types.

Fall Protection for Curved Span-Lok Panels

When working on curved roofs like those designed with Curved Span-Lok panels, traditional fall protection solutions are not compatible. Seam-mounted systems like SSRA products and even the Ridge Pro Steep Assist are designed for flat or straight panel installations, and using them on curved surfaces can be hazardous and ineffective. Curved roof designs require a more specialized approach to fall protection due to the unique structure of the roof, which presents additional challenges in maintaining safety.

Because of the specific curvature of these panels, a trained safety professional should conduct a thorough inspection of the roof before any fall protection system is installed. The professional can determine the most suitable method for ensuring worker safety, whether it involves custom rigging systems or other specialized solutions that work with the curved architecture. Preserving both worker safety and the roof’s structural integrity is paramount, and ensuring the right fall protection plan is in place will prevent long-term issues.

Design Span® hp: Performance Meets Flexibility

Design Span hp is a high-performance structural standing seam metal roof panel designed to meet the diverse needs of residential, commercial, and retail applications. Known for its durability and long-lasting performance, this panel is perfect for both roofing and vertical metal siding. Its ability to blend with traditional building materials makes it a favorite among architects, building owners, and contractors seeking design flexibility and energy efficiency. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for AEP Span Curved Design Span Standing Seam Panels.

Available in 24 and 22 gauge steel, Design Span hp comes in several coverage options: 12”, 16”, 17", and 18" widths, offering a range of sizes to accommodate different design needs. With a minimum slope requirement of 2:12, this panel is versatile for a variety of roofing projects. Additionally, Design Span hp is rigorously tested for air, water, and wind infiltration, meeting ASTM standards and achieving Class A fire ratings. Its factory-applied sealant and snap-together design eliminate the need for field seaming, simplifying the installation process. The panel is custom-manufactured to lengths between 5 feet 3 inches and 45 feet, with options for even longer panels if required.

Whether used over metal or wood decking, or as fascia and mansard over plywood or other supports, Design Span hp offers durability, energy efficiency, and clean architectural lines. This versatility makes it a strong contender for projects requiring a blend of aesthetics and functionality.

Fall Protection for Design Span hp Panels

When working with Design Span hp, proper fall protection is essential to ensuring the safety of your workers without compromising the roof’s structure. Fortunately, a wide range of fall protection systems are compatible with this panel, including SSRA1, SSRA2, SSRA3, and the Ridge Pro Steep Assist for roofs with pitches between 6/12 and 12/12.

SSRA1 Seam Anchor: This anchor attaches directly to the standing seam of the panel without requiring penetration. It provides a strong, reliable tie-off point, preserving the roof’s warranty and integrity.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: Designed to complement the SSRA1, this adapter allows for the secure attachment of roof jacks, giving workers a stable platform for tools and materials during installation or maintenance.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates: These anchor plates mount onto the SSRA1 system, allowing for the installation of temporary horizontal lifelines. This setup is ideal for larger projects where multiple workers need to move across the roof safely.

Ridge Pro Steep Assist: For roofs with pitches between 6/12 and 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist offers a non-penetrating fall protection solution that hooks over the roof’s peak, ensuring safety without affecting the panel’s structure.

By using these compatible systems, you’ll ensure that both the integrity of the Design Span hp panel and the safety of your crew are maintained throughout the installation or maintenance process.

Select Seam Narrow Batten® Narrow Batten: A Classic Architectural Choice

Select Seam Narrow Batten Narrow Batten is a non-structural, performance-rated batten seam metal roofing panel, perfect for projects where a clean, wide-pan aesthetic is desired. Its classic architectural appearance makes it a favored choice for educational, civic, and institutional buildings. The panel is also highly versatile, offering the ability to be curved for many radius applications, allowing architects to create unique, custom designs. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for AEP Span Select Seam Narrow Batten Standing Seam Panels.

Available in 24 and 22 gauge steel, with coverage options of 12", 16", and 21 1/4" widths, Select Seam Narrow Batten Narrow Batten accommodates various design needs. With a minimum slope requirement of 3:12, the panel is suited for steeper roof applications, further enhancing its flexibility. Additionally, it meets rigorous ASTM standards for wind uplift, air infiltration, and water infiltration, with a Class A fire rating and Class 4 impact resistance, ensuring it can withstand harsh environmental conditions.

Select Seam Narrow Batten Narrow Batten comes in custom lengths ranging from 5 feet to 45 feet, and can be field-curved to a 4-foot radius, making it adaptable for intricate architectural designs. Subtle striations are standard, but a flat pan option is available upon request, allowing further customization to suit aesthetic preferences. This combination of durability, performance, and aesthetic appeal makes Select Seam Narrow Batten Narrow Batten a reliable choice for demanding architectural projects.

Fall Protection for Select Seam Narrow Batten Narrow Batten Panels

Due to the full batten cover of Select Seam Narrow Batten Narrow Batten, traditional seam-mounted fall protection systems such as SSRA products are incompatible. The shape and design of the batten seam prevent the secure attachment of these systems, making them unsuitable for this panel.

For straight Select Seam Narrow Batten Narrow Batten panels, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the best option. This system provides a secure tie-off point by hooking over the roof’s peak without penetrating the roof’s surface. It is highly effective on 6/12 to 12/12 roof pitches, ensuring worker safety without compromising the panel's structure.

However, for curved applications, a different approach is required. Curved roofs demand a trained safety expert to assess the specific requirements of the project and determine the most appropriate fall protection strategy. Custom solutions tailored to the roof’s curvature are necessary to ensure both worker safety and the preservation of the roof’s architectural integrity.

By using the Ridge Pro Steep Assist on straight panels and consulting safety experts for curved designs, you can guarantee that both your crew and the Select Seam Narrow Batten Narrow Batten panels remain protected.

Select Seam Narrow Batten® Wide Batten: A Classic Architectural Metal Roof

Select Seam Narrow Batten Wide Batten offers a clean, wide pan design that creates a timeless architectural effect, making it a popular choice for education, civic, retail, commercial, and institutional applications. Its versatile and sleek appearance makes it suitable for both roofing and siding projects, providing design flexibility for architects and building owners alike. The panel can also be combined with other building materials to enhance the overall aesthetic. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for AEP Span Select Seam Narrow Batten Standing Seam Panels.

Available in 24 and 22 gauge steel, Select Seam Narrow Batten Wide Batten panels come in 13 1/4", 17 1/4", and 22 1/2" widths, allowing for customization based on specific project needs. The panel’s minimum slope requirement is 3:12, ensuring it works well in steeper roof applications, while its durable, energy-efficient design helps it resist the elements. With third-party testing verifying its compliance with ASTM standards for wind uplift, air infiltration, and water infiltration, Select Seam Narrow Batten Wide Batten offers reliability and performance. The panel is Class A fire-rated and has Class 4 impact resistance for additional peace of mind in high-stress environments.

Custom manufactured to lengths between 5 and 45 feet, this panel can be used in vertical metal siding applications as well. Subtle striations are standard, with a flat pan option available upon request, providing further customization options for different architectural styles.

Fall Protection for Select Seam Narrow Batten Wide Batten Panels

The full batten cover design of Select Seam Narrow Batten Wide Batten panels makes traditional seam-mounted fall protection systems, like SSRA products, incompatible. The batten structure prevents these systems from attaching securely, making them unsuitable for this roofing style.

For straight panel installations, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the best option. This non-penetrating fall protection system hooks over the peak of the roof, providing a secure tie-off point without compromising the roof’s structure. It works effectively on roofs with pitches between 6/12 and 12/12, ensuring worker safety without the need for roof penetrations.

However, for curved roof applications, fall protection requires a more specialized approach. Curved roofs present unique safety challenges that require a trained safety professional to inspect the site and determine the most appropriate fall protection strategy. Custom solutions will need to be implemented to ensure both worker safety and the structural integrity of the roof.

By using the Ridge Pro Steep Assist on straight panels and consulting with safety experts for curved roofs, you can ensure that both your workers and the Select Seam Narrow Batten Wide Batten roof remain secure.

Span-Lok™ hp: Versatility and Weather-Tight Performance

Span-Lok hp is a high-performance, architectural standing seam roofing panel that combines aesthetic appeal with a weather-tight design. Perfect for commercial, mixed-use, retail, and multi-use projects, this panel offers flexibility and durability, making it a top choice for architects and building owners. Span-Lok hp is available in a variety of energy-efficient colors, ensuring that it can meet diverse design requirements while providing long-term sustainability. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for AEP Span Span-Lok Standing Seam Panels.

Available in 22 and 24 gauge steel, with 12" and 16" coverage options, Span-Lok hp offers broad versatility for different architectural styles. The minimum slope requirement of 1/4:12 makes it ideal for low-slope applications. Its durability is proven through rigorous third-party testing, meeting standards for wind uplift, air infiltration, and water infiltration. Span-Lok hp is also Class A fire-rated and Class 4 impact resistance certified, providing reliable protection from hail and other environmental elements.

With custom lengths ranging from 6 to 45 feet, Span-Lok hp can be tailored to specific project requirements. It also comes with factory-applied sealants and optional pencil ribs, allowing for both functional and aesthetic customization. The panel is available in .040 aluminum by special order for 16-inch widths, further expanding its application range.

Fall Protection for Span-Lok hp Panels

Ensuring proper fall protection for Span-Lok hp panels is essential for maintaining worker safety and protecting the roof's structural integrity. For 22 and 24 gauge steel panels, SSRA1, SSRA2, and SSRA3 products are recommended:

SSRA1 Seam Anchor: This anchor attaches securely to the standing seam without penetrating the roof, preserving the panel's warranty and integrity while providing a reliable tie-off point.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: Designed to complement the SSRA1, this adapter allows for the secure attachment of roof jacks, providing a stable platform for tools and materials during installation or maintenance.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates: These plates mount onto the SSRA1 system, enabling the installation of temporary horizontal lifelines. This setup allows workers to move safely across the roof without compromising safety.

For aluminum versions of Span-Lok hp, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the recommended fall protection solution. This non-penetrating system hooks over the roof’s peak, offering a secure tie-off point without damaging the aluminum panels, ensuring both worker safety and roof integrity.

By selecting the appropriate fall protection system based on material, you can ensure that Span-Lok hp panels maintain their performance while keeping your crew safe.

SpanSeam™: Versatility and Performance in Metal Roofing

SpanSeam is a performance-rated, architectural standing seam metal roof system, ideal for both new construction and retrofit projects. Known for its aesthetic appeal and weather-tight design, SpanSeam combines durability with versatility, making it a popular choice for retail, institutional, industrial, commercial, education, and hospitality projects. The panel’s 2-inch mechanically seamed rib not only enhances its structural integrity but also gives it a sleek, modern appearance. With a range of energy-efficient colors and paint systems, SpanSeam can meet a wide variety of design and performance needs. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for AEP Span SpanSeam Standing Seam Panels.

Available in 24 and 22 gauge steel with a 16-inch coverage, SpanSeam is adaptable for both roofing and vertical metal siding applications. The panel’s minimum slope requirement of 1/4:12 makes it suitable for low-slope applications, while rigorous third-party testing ensures its performance under tough conditions. It meets UL580 Class 90 wind uplift requirements, has been tested for air and water infiltration, and is rated for Class 4 hail impact resistance, ensuring that SpanSeam withstands even the harshest environments.

Custom lengths range from 6 to 45 feet, and features like factory-applied sealant, pencil ribs, and subtle striations offer customization for both performance and aesthetics. SpanSeam also includes factory notching for the 16-inch panel and factory swaging for end laps, making installation more efficient.

Fall Protection for SpanSeam Panels

Ensuring proper fall protection when working on SpanSeam panels is critical for maintaining both worker safety and the integrity of the roof. For 22 and 24 gauge steel SpanSeam panels, SSRA1, SSRA2, and SSRA3 products are fully compatible:

SSRA1 Seam Anchor: A non-penetrating anchor designed to clamp securely onto the standing seam, preserving the panel's structure while providing a reliable tie-off point for workers.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: This adapter works with the SSRA1 anchor, allowing the secure attachment of roof jacks to provide a stable platform for tools and materials during installation or maintenance.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates: Mounted onto the SSRA1, these plates enable the setup of temporary horizontal lifeline systems, ensuring safe mobility for workers across the roof surface.

For roofs with pitches between 6/12 and 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is also an excellent non-penetrating solution. It hooks over the roof's peak, providing a secure tie-off point without compromising the panel’s structure.

By choosing the correct fall protection systems for SpanSeam panels based on material and roof configuration, you can ensure both the long-term performance of the roof and the safety of your crew.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility Chart For AEP Span

 

Get in Touch for More Information

We'd love to hear about your project! Call us at (863) 703-4522 to discuss your requirements, or visit our website at www.StandingSeamRoofAnchor.com for more information. For additional details on fall protection, consult OSHA's comprehensive 48-page manual. Once you have determined the most suitable anchor system for your roof, download our Anchor Inspection Form.

Essential Safety Tips for Metal Roofing Work

Ensure Safe Ladder and Scaffold Use

Safety starts with solid footing. Always set up ladders and scaffolding on stable ground, clear of obstructions, and follow OSHA guidelines. The 4-to-1 rule for ladder placement provides a simple way to check stability, preventing unnecessary accidents.

Equip Workers with Quality Fall Protection Gear

Providing workers with high-quality safety gear like full-body harnesses and shock-absorbing lanyards is crucial. A reliable harness can be the difference between life and death. The better the gear, the lower the chance of serious injury during a fall.

Choose Appropriate Footwear for Stability

Wearing non-slip shoes designed specifically for metal roofs is a small but essential safety measure. It reduces the risk of slips, especially on steep or slick surfaces, ensuring workers maintain their footing on challenging terrain.

Create Safe Work Zones with Guardrails

On low-slope roofs, it's smart to establish work zones using guardrails, barriers, or warning lines. These protective measures help reduce the risk of falls by clearly marking safe areas and keeping workers within designated boundaries.

Exercise Caution on Curved Roofs

Curved roofs require a different approach to fall protection. Standard seam-mounted anchors won’t do the job here. It’s essential to bring in a safety expert to assess the unique needs of the project and design a customized fall protection plan.

Regularly Inspect Gear and Offer Continuous Training

Frequent equipment inspections are critical to ensure that gear remains in peak condition. Equally important is keeping workers updated with regular training, ensuring they know the latest fall protection practices and how to recognize potential hazards.

Highlight the Importance of Trauma Straps

Suspension trauma can set in quickly after a fall, making trauma straps an essential part of fall protection equipment. These straps allow workers to shift their weight and improve circulation, preventing serious injury while awaiting rescue.

Use Anchors Designed for Standing Seam Roofs

Not all anchors are suitable for standing seam roofs. Avoid the temptation to install anchors over roof clips, as it can lead to dangerous outcomes. Instead, choose anchors specifically designed to attach securely without compromising the roof’s structure.

Consider Permanent Roof Anchors for Frequent Maintenance

If roof maintenance or inspections are a regular task, investing in permanent roof anchors is a wise decision. These anchors offer long-term safety, saving time and effort by eliminating the need for temporary systems each time workers are on the roof.

Develop a Comprehensive Safety Plan

A well-prepared safety plan is just as important as the gear workers use. Before any roofing job begins, ensure you have an OSHA-compliant safety plan in place, complete with rescue procedures and clear protocols. Being prepared for emergencies is key to maintaining a safe work environment.

Disclaimer

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 contact the roof panel manufacturer directly with inquiries.