Fall Protection for Collins Roofing Standing Seam Roofs

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Collins Roofing and Sheet Metal Systems Standing Seam Panels.

Who Is Collins Roofing and Sheet Metal?

A story of leadership, craftsmanship, and innovation in Midwest metal roofing.

Collins Roofing and Sheet Metal is a small operation driven by ambition and a commitment to quality. What started as a modest venture has grown into a multi-location business staffed by a skilled team of professionals who take pride in their work.

A significant turning point came in 2015 when Collins Roofing and Sheet Metal began manufacturing its steel panels and trims. This move allowed the company to take complete control over the quality, fit, and performance of its products. It also led to breakthrough innovations, including ventilation-driven systems and foam-insulated panel solutions designed to combat ice damming, a frequent challenge in Midwest climates.

Collins Roofing has evolved into a full-service metal roofing contractor serving residential, commercial, and industrial clients across Minnesota and Wisconsin. Their ability to adapt, solve complex challenges, and consistently deliver quality results has made them a trusted partner for property owners, contractors, and facility managers alike.

In 2023, the business entered a new chapter with the addition of Brian Spender and Brandon Jones as partners. Their leadership brought fresh perspective and momentum, strengthening the company's ability to scale, innovate, and support a growing team. Together, the trio continues to lead Collins Roofing, focusing on long-term value, community trust, and roofing solutions that stand the test of time.

Why Are Compatible Fall Protection Anchors Critical for Collins Standing Seam Panels?

Protect the roof, the warranty, and your workers with compatible anchors.

Standing seam metal roofs have raised seams that interlock without exposed fasteners. The hidden clips allow for thermal expansion and contraction while keeping the visible roof surface clean and watertight. This fastener-free design is key to their ability to withstand harsh conditions, such as Minnesota's heavy snow, high winds, and extreme temperature fluctuations, while maintaining a sleek, uninterrupted appearance.

Penetrating a standing seam panel with screws, nails, or other fasteners, such as those used in traditional fall protection anchors, can disrupt the weathertight seal, leading to leaks that damage the underlying structure and interior of the building. These penetrations also weaken the panel's structural integrity, potentially causing seam failure under stress from wind or snow loads. Furthermore, any puncture through the panel surface can void the manufacturer's warranty, leaving property owners vulnerable to costly repairs and diminished roof lifespan. For contractors, using improper anchors risks not only the roof's functionality but also their longevity.

The critical need for worker safety adds another layer of complexity. Roofing professionals working at heights require reliable fall protection to meet OSHA standards and prevent falls and associated accidents. However, on standing seam roofs, safety cannot come at the expense of the roof's integrity. This concept is why specialized, non-penetrating fall protection systems are essential. Seam-mounted anchors, designed to clamp securely onto the raised seams without piercing the panel, provide a safe tie-off point for workers while preserving the roof's weathertight seal and warranty. These systems ensure the safety of the crew and the long-term performance of the roof, making them a critical component of any standing seam roofing project.

Collins 16-Inch Mechanically Locked Standing Seam Panel

A durable, time-tested panel system built for Midwest extremes.

The 16-inch mechanically locked standing seam panel delivers exceptional durability, aesthetic appeal, and weather resistance, making it an ideal roofing solution for a wide range of projects in the Midwest's challenging climate. This panel handles heavy snowfalls, high winds, and extreme temperature swings with ease. The 40-year warranty provides assurances of decades of performance. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Collins Roofing and Sheet Metal Systems Mechanically Locked Standing Seam Panels.

These panels have clean lines and a bold appearance that complements both contemporary and timeless architectural styles. Its defining feature is the mechanically locked seam, which is folded and secured with specialized tools to create a weathertight seal without relying on exposed fasteners. The 1.5-inch seams enhance the panel's visual impact while boosting resistance to wind uplift and waterproof integrity, ensuring the roof remains secure in stormy conditions. The hand-crimped seams feature an internal sealant to prevent water intrusion.

The panel's material options offer incredible versatility, enabling it to meet a wide range of project needs. For robust strength, it's available in 26-gauge and 24-gauge steel, making it ideal for commercial or industrial buildings that require durability. The panel can be installed over solid decking or open purlins, making it adaptable for new builds or retrofit projects.

Designed to handle thermal movement, the mechanically locked seam and concealed clip system enable the panel to expand and contract with temperature changes without stressing the structure, ensuring long-term performance in regions with significant temperature fluctuations.

Fall Protection For Collins 16-Inch Mechanically Seamed Panels

OSHA-compliant anchors that preserve roof integrity and meet regional demands.

The 16-inch mechanically locked standing seam panel from Collins Roofing and Sheet Metal is designed for durability and weather resistance, utilizing a concealed clip system and a mechanically locked seam to maintain a weathertight seal. Penetrating this panel with traditional fall protection anchors risks compromising its integrity, which can lead to leaks, structural damage, and voided warranties. To ensure worker safety without harming the roof, specialized non-penetrating fall protection systems are essential. These systems clamp securely to the panel's 1.5-inch seam or hook over the ridge, providing OSHA-compliant tie-off points while preserving the roof's performance and appearance.

For 24-gauge steel versions of the 16-inch panel, the SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor is a standout solution. This lightweight, 6061-T6 aluminum anchor clamp directly attaches to the standing seam using six pairs of stainless steel cupped-tip set screws, providing a certified tie-off point of 5,000 pounds for a single worker in fall arrest or restraint mode. Its non-penetrating design ensures no damage to the panel, maintaining the roof's weathertight seal and warranty. The SSRA1's universal fit is compatible with a wide range of seam profiles. Still, we always recommend a test fit to confirm secure attachment, especially given potential variations in seam geometry. This seam anchor provides a single worker tie-off, with a removable d-ring for adding adapter plates.

The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter mounts on top of the SSRA1 seam anchor, creating a stable platform for 10-foot-long 2x10 wooden walkboards. These walkboards provide a secure working surface for tasks such as panel installation, seam sealing, or maintenance, particularly on sloped or slippery surfaces. The SSRA2's adjustable height legs easily accommodate the 1.5-inch seam height, ensuring stability and OSHA compliance while keeping the panel intact on 6/12 to 12/12 roofs. This setup is ideal for contractors needing a safe, elevated walking surface without penetrating the panels.

For larger projects requiring multiple workers, the SSRA3 Anchor Plate is a game-changer. Mounted on two SSRA1 anchors, it features an integrated D-ring that serves as an attachment point for a temporary horizontal lifeline, such as the Malta Dynamics HLL3001 100-foot Horizontal Lifeline System. This configuration enables up to two workers to move safely along the roof while remaining continuously tied off, thereby boosting productivity without compromising safety. The SSRA3's non-penetrating design ensures the preservation of the panel's integrity, making it perfect for extended installations or repairs on commercial properties.

For long-term safety needs, the Super Anchor 120-foot Permanent Horizontal Lifeline Kit is an excellent choice for 24-gauge steel panels. This system includes compatible seam anchors, a galvanized steel cable, 5-inch riser posts, cable guides, and turnbuckles, creating a permanent fall arrest solution that doesn't penetrate the roof. It's ideal for commercial buildings or facilities that require regular maintenance, providing reliable tie-off points for years while maintaining the panel's weathertight seal.

For 26-gauge steel versions of the panel, or roofs with pitches between 6/12 and 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is the go-to solution. This lightweight anchor hooks securely over the roof's ridge without the need for fasteners, providing a 5,000-pound-rated tie-off point for a single worker. It ensures a 100% tie-off for workers doing inspections and quick repairs. The Ridge Pro's non-penetrating design protects the panel's surface, making it a versatile option for materials where seam-mounted anchors may not be suitable.

Before deploying any of these systems, we conduct a test fit to verify compatibility with the specific seam profile of the 16-inch panel, ensuring a secure grip without compromising the roof. These fall protection solutions—SSRA1, SSRA2, SSRA3, Super Anchor 120-foot Permanent Horizontal Lifeline, and Ridge Pro—meet OSHA and ANSI standards, providing a comprehensive safety framework that protects both workers and the roof's long-term performance.

Collins 238T Seam Panels

238T panels create a durable roofing system for for commercial buildings. 

The Collins 238T Seam Panel is engineered for heavy-duty commercial applications, delivering exceptional durability, aesthetic appeal, and a remarkable 60-year service life. Designed to meet the demands of warehouses, institutional buildings, and other commercial structures across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa, this panel excels in harsh Midwest conditions, from intense snowfalls to high winds. The innovative T-seam with a batten cap defines the Collins 238T Seam Panel, delivering a bold, clean aesthetic and enabling workers to remove individual panels for repairs without disassembling the entire roof. This repair-friendly design ensures maintenance is efficient and cost-effective, keeping commercial buildings in top shape for decades. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Collins Roofing and Sheet Metal Systems 238T Standing Seam Panels.

Spanning 24 inches in width, the 238T panel achieves a seamless, polished appearance by eliminating exposed fasteners and the need for panel splicing on long runs. With a 2-3/8-inch seam height, it offers robust structural integrity, supporting roofs with a minimum slope of just 1/2:12, making it ideal for low-slope commercial designs. Available in 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel, the panel provides the strength needed for demanding environments, with optional insulation beneath to boost energy efficiency. The T-seam is sealed with high-performance butyl sealant, creating a weathertight barrier against rain, snow, and ice. Finished with Galvalume Plus and Kynar 500 paint, the 238T resists fading, chalking, and corrosion, ensuring lasting vibrancy. For commercial projects seeking a blend of longevity, functionality, and bold aesthetics, the Collins 238T Seam Panel stands as a top-tier roofing solution.

Fall Protection for Collins 238T Seam Panels

238T panels are fully compatible with SSRA products.

The Collins 238T Seam Panel, designed for heavy-duty commercial applications, features a T-seam with a batten cap, providing a 60-year service life and a weathertight seal that withstands the Midwest's harsh climate. Its fastener-free surface, sealed with butyl sealant, ensures durability but makes it highly sensitive to penetrations. Using traditional fall protection anchors that pierce the panel can lead to leaks, structural damage, and voided warranties, compromising both the roof's performance and its polished aesthetic. To protect workers while preserving the integrity of the 238T panel, specialized non-penetrating fall protection systems are crucial, providing OSHA-compliant safety without compromising the roof.

For the 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel versions of the 238T panel, the complete line of SSRA products—SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter, and SSRA3 Anchor Plate—is fully compatible, as the T-seam's design allows the SSRA1's stainless steel cupped tip set screws to clamp securely to the seam without contacting the batten cap. The SSRA1, crafted from lightweight 6061-T6 aluminum, provides a 5000-pound certified tie-off point for a single worker in fall arrest or restraint mode, ensuring no damage to the panel's surface or warranty. The SSRA1 seam anchors feature a removable D-ring, allowing adapter plates to mount in its place for expanded functionality.

The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks mount on top of SSRA1 anchors to support 2x10 wooden walkboards, creating a stable walking surface for tasks like panel installation or maintenance.

The SSRA3 Anchor Plate, attached to two SSRA1 anchors, offers an end mount for temporary horizontal lifelines, such as the Malta Dynamics HLL3001 100-foot system, allowing up to two workers to move safely across the roof while remaining tied off.

The Super Anchor 120-foot Permanent Horizontal Lifeline Kit is also compatible with the 22-gauge and 24-gauge 238T panels, using SSRA-compatible seam anchors to secure a galvanized steel cable system with 5-inch riser posts, non-penetrating seam clamps, and turnbuckles. This permanent solution is ideal for commercial facilities that require ongoing maintenance, providing long-term safety without compromising the panel's surface.

For added versatility, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is compatible with these panels, particularly on roofs with pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. This lightweight anchor hooks over the ridge without fasteners, offering a 5000-pound tie-off point for quick inspections or repairs, ensuring a 100% tie-off from ladder to roof. Its non-penetrating design suits projects with or without optional insulation beneath the panels.

Before deploying any system, conduct a test fit to confirm compatibility with the 238T seam, securing a firm grip without damaging the batten cap or sealant. These solutions—SSRA1, SSRA2, SSRA3, Super Anchor 120-foot Lifeline, and Ridge Pro—meet OSHA and ANSI standards, safeguarding workers while maintaining the durability and weathertight performance of the 238 T panel.

Metal Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For Collins Roofing and Sheet Metal

Contact Us For More Information

For further details on roofing solutions and fall protection systems, please contact us at 863-703-4522 or visit www.StandingSeamRoofAnchor.com. Let's work together to make your roofing projects safe, beautiful, and built to last. For more safety tips, refer to OSHA's 48-page Fall Protection Manual. Once you have determined the most suitable anchors for your roof system, download our free Anchor Inspection Form.

Safety Tips For Standing Seam Roofs

Prioritize Ladder Safety Training

Ladder incidents are preventable with the proper training and attention to detail. Every crew member should master ladder inspection to ensure that no defects compromise the stability of the structure. Proper setup using the 4-to-1 rule—where the ladder's base is one foot from the wall for every four feet of height—creates a secure foundation. Emphasize safe climbing habits, like maintaining three points of contact and wearing high-traction footwear. By instilling these fundamentals, you ensure every step onto the roof is a safe one, reducing risks before work even begins.

Develop OSHA-Compliant Safety Plans

A robust safety plan is the backbone of a secure job site, going beyond mere compliance to foster a culture of preparedness. Craft a detailed strategy that maps out hazard zones, specifies fall protection systems, outlines rescue procedures, and assigns clear roles to each team member. Regularly review and share updates to keep the plan relevant and actionable. A well-communicated plan transforms safety from a requirement into a shared commitment, ensuring everyone can handle safety challenges.

Use Specialized Anchor Systems for Standing Seam Roofs

Standing seam roofs demand precision in fall protection to avoid costly damage. Unlike traditional roofs, penetrating anchors can ruin seams, trigger leaks, and void warranties. Seam-mounted anchors, designed to clamp securely without piercing the panel, provide a 5000-pound tie-off point while preserving the roof's integrity. Always verify compatibility with the specific seam profile to ensure a secure fit. Choosing these specialized systems protects both workers and the roof's long-term performance.

Install Permanent Roof Anchor Systems

For roofs requiring frequent access, permanent anchor systems are a game-changer. These fixed tie-off points eliminate the need for repeated setups, reducing wear on the roof and saving time. Built to meet OSHA standards, they provide reliable safety for ongoing maintenance or inspections, making them ideal for commercial buildings with regular rooftop activity. Investing in permanent anchors ensures consistent protection without compromising the roof's structure.

Set Up Protective Guardrail Barriers for Work Zones

Guardrails provide a proactive approach to fall prevention, creating a clear boundary around high-risk areas, such as skylights, hatches, or roof edges. These sturdy barriers reduce reliance on constant tie-off in busy work zones, allowing crews to focus on their tasks with confidence. Easy to install and highly effective, guardrails enhance safety by keeping workers away from danger zones, making them a must-have for any roofing project.

Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear

Top-notch safety gear is the foundation of worker confidence and compliance. Harnesses, lanyards, and self-retracting lifelines must be OSHA-certified, comfortable, and tailored to the job. Gear that fits well and feels reliable encourages consistent use, reducing risks during every task. Regular inspections and proper maintenance of equipment ensure it performs when it matters most, giving your team the tools to work safely at heights.

Encourage the Use of Trauma Straps

A fall stopped by a harness is only half the battle—suspension trauma can pose serious risks if rescue efforts take too long. Trauma straps are a lightweight, cost-effective solution that allows workers to stand within their harness, relieve pressure, and improve circulation while awaiting help. Integrating these straps into every harness equips your team with a critical safety net, turning a potentially dangerous situation into a manageable one.

Ensure Proper Footwear for Stability

Boots with slip-resistant soles, firm ankle support, and durable treads provide stability and reduce the risk of slips, especially on sloped surfaces. Quality footwear also minimizes fatigue, keeping workers safe and stable throughout the day. Investing in roofing-specific boots is a simple and effective way to enhance safety and performance on the job.

Consult Experts for Curved Metal Panels

Curved or radiused metal roofs require specialized fall protection due to their unique geometry and design. Standard anchors may fail to grip properly, posing a risk to both worker safety and panel damage. Before starting work, consult a fall protection expert to assess the roof and recommend tailored solutions that meet your specific needs. Their expertise ensures you select systems that meet safety standards while preserving the roof's structural and aesthetic integrity.

Promote a Culture of Safety

Trust, effective communication, and a shared sense of responsibility build a culture of safety. Encourage daily safety briefings where workers can voice concerns, share near-miss reports, and discuss hazards openly. Recognize and foster proactive safety behaviors, creating an environment where everyone feels empowered to prioritize safety and well-being. When safety becomes a collective mission, it evolves from a rule to a habit, creating a stronger and more vigilant team.

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 for inquiries regarding fall protection.