Fall Protection for Encore Steel Buildings
Posted by Howie Scarboro - CEO Fall Protection Distributors, LLC on Feb 14th 2025
See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Encore Steel Buildings Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Who Is Encore Steel Buildings?
Encore Steel Building Co. is a nationwide supplier of pre-engineered steel buildings and metal building components in Southaven, Mississippi. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, the company has built a reputation for delivering high-quality steel structures and roofing solutions for a wide range of applications. Encore Steel specializes in customizable prefabricated metal building kits designed for strength, efficiency, and long-term performance, from commercial and industrial buildings to agricultural and residential projects.
Encore Steel has expanded beyond its Mississippi headquarters, operating additional locations in Austell, Georgia, Owasso, Oklahoma, and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Its direct-to-customer sales model eliminates unnecessary markups, allowing clients to purchase metal buildings and roofing components at competitive prices. Encore Steel strongly emphasizes customer service, offering customized quotes within 24 hours and personalized support throughout the purchasing and installation process.
One of Encore Steel's key product lines is its standing seam metal roofing systems. These high-quality metal roof panels provide superior weather resistance, long-term durability, and sleek architectural appeal. With Kynar/PVDF-coated finishes for optimal longevity, these panels can withstand harsh environmental conditions while maintaining their structural integrity. To support proper installation, Encore has partnered with Quality Roof Seamers, providing rental access to specialized seaming tools for their standing seam roofing products.
Beyond roofing, Encore Steel utilizes advanced manufacturing equipment to ensure precision and quality in its metal building components. The company's commitment to innovation, efficiency, and top-tier materials makes it a strong competitor in the steel building industry, serving customers across the United States.
Why Are Compatible Fall Protection Anchors Critical For Encore Standing Seam Panels?
Standing seam metal roofs, such as those offered by Encore Steel, are designed for durability, weather resistance, and long-lasting performance. However, ensuring worker safety during installation, maintenance, and inspections requires specialized fall protection systems that are fully compatible with these roofing systems.
Unlike traditional metal roofing panels, standing seam roofs utilize concealed fasteners and interlocking seams to provide a watertight and structurally sound surface. While this design enhances weather resistance and reduces maintenance, attaching fall protection anchors creates a challenge. Standard fall arrest anchors that require drilling or penetration are unsuitable for standing seam roofs, as they can compromise the system's integrity, leading to leaks, warranty issues, and potential structural weaknesses.
To address this challenge, specialized non-penetrating fall protection anchors provide a secure and effective solution. These anchors clamp onto the standing seams without requiring fastener penetrations, preserving the roof's structural integrity while offering a reliable tie-off point for workers. For additional safety measures, adjustable roof jacks can provide stable walkboards that improve worker mobility and balance on the roof. In scenarios requiring greater mobility, anchor plates can support temporary horizontal lifelines, allowing workers to move freely across the roof while maintaining continuous tie-off compliance.
Incorporating these fall protection systems ensures both worker safety and the longevity of Encore Steel's standing seam panels. By utilizing non-penetrating anchor solutions, contractors can maintain the roof's structural integrity while adhering to OSHA safety standards. Whether installing new panels or performing maintenance on existing roofs, investing in compatible fall protection anchors is essential for a safe and successful project.
Seal-Lok 250: A High-Performance Standing Seam Roofing System
The Seal-Lok 250 metal roof panel is a mechanically seamed standing seam system designed for industrial, commercial, and architectural applications. Its trapezoidal leg profile provides exceptional weather resistance, structural strength, and long-term durability, making it a reliable choice for demanding projects. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Encore Steel Buildings Seal-Lok 250 Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Available in 18-inch and 24-inch widths, the Seal-Lok 250 panel is for low-slope applications with a minimum slope requirement of ¼:12. This design ensures optimal water drainage while maintaining weathertight integrity in extreme conditions. The system meets some of the highest industry standards, holding UL-90, FM ratings, and Miami-Dade County approvals for wind uplift and impact resistance.
Seal-Lok 250's most significant advantage is its ability to mount over existing R-panel roofing systems without requiring sub-framing. This retrofit capability allows building owners to upgrade their roofs while preserving the structural stability of the original system. The mechanically field-seamed design further enhances the panel's performance, ensuring long-lasting protection and energy efficiency.
With its durability, energy efficiency, and ease of retrofitting, the Seal-Lok 250 is a premium roofing solution for commercial and industrial buildings requiring superior performance and longevity.
Fall Protection for Seal-Lok 250 Panels
Ensuring proper fall protection while working on Seal-Lok 250 standing seam panels is crucial for maintaining worker safety without compromising the roof's structural integrity. Since this system relies on a mechanically seamed design, non-penetrating fall protection solutions must be used to avoid damage to the panels.
The SSRA1 Seam Anchor is a lightweight, non-invasive anchor that securely clamps onto the standing seam without drilling. This anchor provides a stable tie-off point for personal fall arrest systems, ensuring workers remain safely secured while navigating the roof. The SSRA1 maintains the roof's weathertight integrity by eliminating the need for fasteners and preventing leaks and long-term damage.
For applications requiring increased stability, the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack mounts on top of the SSRA1 anchors. The SSRA2 creates a secure support system for 10' walk boards, allowing workers to move safely across the roof while performing installations, maintenance, or inspections. This setup is particularly beneficial for extended projects where workers need a stable platform.
When working on larger roofs or in environments that require greater mobility, the SSRA3 Anchor Plate enhances the SSRA1 by enabling the attachment of temporary horizontal lifelines. This system ensures workers maintain continuous tie-off compliance while freely moving across the roof, reducing the risk of falls while improving workflow efficiency.
The Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides an effective alternative for steep slopes ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. This portable, non-penetrating anchor hooks securely over the roof ridge, allowing workers to maintain 100% tie-off at all times. Its lightweight design makes it easy to deploy, offering a practical safety solution for projects requiring quick and reliable fall protection.
By integrating the SSRA1 Seam Anchor, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack, SSRA3 Anchor Plate, and Ridge Pro Steep Assist, contractors can create a comprehensive, non-penetrating fall protection system that ensures both worker safety and the long-term integrity of Seal-Lok 250 panels. These solutions allow roofing professionals to complete projects efficiently, securely, and fully comply with OSHA safety regulations.
Vertical-Lok 150: A Versatile Standing Seam Metal Roofing System
The Vertical-Lok 150 standing seam metal roof panel is a flexible, high-performance roofing system designed for commercial and residential applications. Workers can install these panels over open framing or a solid substructure, making them a versatile solution for many projects. Unlike many standing seam panels that require a solid deck, the Vertical-Lok 150 can be installed without one, offering greater flexibility in construction and cost savings on materials. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Encore Steel Buildings Vertical-Lok 150 Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
This system is engineered for roofs with a minimum slope of 3:12, ensuring proper water drainage and excellent weather resistance. It is available in multiple width options, including 12-inch, 16-inch, 18-inch, and 19-inch configurations, allowing for design customization based on project needs.
The Vertical-Lok 150's standing seam design provides a clean, modern appearance while delivering superior strength and durability. Its concealed fastener system enhances weather protection by eliminating exposed screws, reducing the risk of leaks and corrosion over time. The ability to install the panel over open framing further simplifies the installation process, making it an attractive choice for contractors seeking efficiency without compromising structural integrity.
Fall Protection for Vertical-Lok 150 Panels
Ensuring proper fall protection while working on Vertical-Lok 150 standing seam panels is essential for maintaining worker safety and protecting the roof's integrity. Since this system does not require a solid substructure, it is crucial to use non-penetrating fall protection systems that securely attach to the seams without compromising the panel's structure.
The SSRA1 Seam Anchor is ideal for securing workers on Vertical-Lok 150 panels. This lightweight, non-invasive anchor clamps onto the standing seams without drilling, preserving the roof's weathertight integrity while providing a reliable tie-off point for fall arrest equipment. The SSRA1 ensures that workers remain securely attached while performing installation, inspections, or maintenance tasks.
For added stability and improved mobility, the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack works with the SSRA1 to create a secure support system for walkboards. This setup provides a stable platform for workers, allowing them to move safely across the roof while reducing the risk of slips and falls. The adjustable design accommodates various roof pitches, making it a versatile safety solution for different installation scenarios.
For larger projects requiring multiple workers or extended mobility, the SSRA3 Anchor Plate enhances the SSRA1 by supporting the attachment of temporary horizontal lifelines. This feature allows workers to move freely across the roof while remaining continuously tied off, improving safety and productivity. The SSRA3 ensures that fall protection remains intact across the entire worksite, reducing hazards on expansive roofing projects.
For steeper slopes between 6/12 and 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides an effective alternative. This portable, non-invasive anchor hooks securely over the roof peak, allowing workers to maintain 100% tie-off compliance without requiring attachment to the standing seams. Its lightweight design makes it easy to transport and deploy, offering a quick and reliable safety solution for challenging roof pitches.
By integrating SSRA1 Seam Anchors, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, and the Ridge Pro Steep Assist, contractors can ensure worker safety without compromising the craftsmanship of the Vertical-Lok 150 panels. These non-penetrating solutions allow for efficient, secure, and OSHA-compliant fall protection, ensuring projects stay safe.
SSR-Lok 200: A High-Performance Standing Seam Metal Roof System
The SSR-Lok 200 is a mechanically field-seamed standing seam with a 2" tall seam. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Encore Steel Buildings SSR-Lok 200 Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Available in 12-inch and 16-inch panel widths, SSR-Lok 200 provides flexibility in design while ensuring a sleek, modern aesthetic. One of its key advantages is its ability to be installed directly over purlins or bar joists without requiring a solid substructure. This capability reduces material costs and installation time while maintaining a high-performance roofing system capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions.
The mechanically seamed construction enhances weather tightness, ensuring long-term resistance against wind, rain, and other environmental factors. Designed for commercial, industrial, and architectural applications, the SSR-Lok 200 delivers a reliable and efficient roofing solution for structures requiring superior strength and weather protection.
Fall Protection for SSR-Lok 200 Panels
Proper fall protection is essential when working on SSR-Lok 200 standing seam panels, as its mechanically seamed design requires specialized anchorage solutions that do not compromise the panel's structural integrity. Since this system is installed over purlins or bar joists without a solid deck, using non-penetrating fall protection solutions is critical for ensuring worker safety while maintaining the roof's performance.
The SSRA1 Seam Anchor is a reliable solution for securing workers on SSR-Lok 200 panels. This lightweight, non-invasive anchor clamps securely onto the standing seams without drilling, preserving the roof's structural and weathertight properties. The SSRA1 provides a strong and stable tie-off point for lifelines and lanyards, ensuring safe movement across the roof during installation, maintenance, or inspections.
For additional stability, the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack integrates seamlessly with the SSRA1, offering support for walkboards. This system creates a secure platform for workers to navigate the roof safely, reducing the risk of slips and falls. The SSRA2's adjustable design ensures compatibility with different roof pitches, making it a versatile and practical safety enhancement.
When a job site requires multiple workers or expanded mobility, the SSRA3 Anchor Plate enhances the SSRA1 by accommodating temporary horizontal lifelines. This setup allows workers to maintain continuous tie-off compliance while moving freely along the roof, improving safety and efficiency on larger projects. The SSRA3 ensures a safe work environment on extensive roofing systems.
For steep slopes ranging from 6/12 to 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides an effective alternative. This portable, non-invasive anchor hooks securely over the roof peak, offering a stable tie-off point without requiring attachment to the seams. Lightweight and easy to deploy, the Ridge Pro is an excellent solution for ensuring 100% tie-off compliance on challenging roof slopes.
By integrating the SSRA1 Seam Anchor, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack, SSRA3 Anchor Plate, and Ridge Pro Steep Assist, contractors can create a comprehensive fall protection system for SSR-Lok 200 panels. These non-penetrating solutions provide the highest level of worker safety while preserving the performance and longevity of the standing seam roof.
SSR-Lok 210: A High-Strength Structural Standing Seam Roofing System
The SSR-Lok 210 is a mechanically field-seamed standing seam roofing system with a 2" tall seam. Available in 12-inch, 14-inch, 16-inch, and 18-inch widths, it provides design versatility and is suitable for various commercial, industrial, and architectural applications. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Encore Steel Buildings SSR-Lok 210 Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
One of the key advantages of the SSR-Lok 210 is its ability to be installed directly over purlins or bar joists, eliminating the need for a solid substructure. This feature reduces material costs and speeds up installation while maintaining excellent load-bearing capacity. The mechanically seamed construction enhances the panel's weathertight properties, making it a reliable choice for buildings exposed to high wind, heavy rain, or other harsh environmental factors.
The SSR-Lok 210 also offers seamless roof-to-fascia transition capabilities, creating a clean and cohesive architectural aesthetic. With a broad selection of coating options, including high-performance PVDF (Kynar 500®) finishes, this system ensures long-term durability, color retention, and low maintenance requirements.
Fall Protection for SSR-Lok 210 Panels
Ensuring proper fall protection when working on SSR-Lok 210 panels is critical for maintaining worker safety and preserving the structural integrity of the roofing system. Given the mechanically seamed design and direct installation over purlins or bar joists, non-penetrating fall protection systems are essential to prevent damage while providing reliable tie-off points.
The SSRA1 Seam Anchor is a highly effective solution for securing workers on SSR-Lok 210 panels. This lightweight, non-invasive anchor clamps directly onto the standing seams without penetrating the roof surface, preserving the panel's watertight integrity. The SSRA1 provides a strong, stable tie-off point for lifelines and lanyards, ensuring safe movement across the roof during construction, maintenance, or inspections.
For added stability and worker maneuverability, the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack works with the SSRA1 to create a secure platform for walkboards. This system allows workers to navigate the roof safely while performing tasks, reducing the risk of slips and falls. The SSRA2's adjustable design ensures compatibility with different roof slopes, enhancing safety across varying roof pitches.
For larger roofing projects that require continuous mobility, the SSRA3 Anchor Plate expands the capabilities of the SSRA1 by supporting temporary horizontal lifelines. This setup lets workers maintain 100% tie-off compliance while moving freely along the roof, improving safety and efficiency on expansive job sites. The SSRA3 ensures secure and compliant work environments on SSR-Lok 210 panels.
For steep slopes between 6/12 and 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides an alternative fall protection solution. This portable, non-invasive anchor hooks securely over the roof peak, offering a stable tie-off point without attaching directly to the seams. The Ridge Pro's lightweight and easy-to-deploy design ensures that workers remain safely tied off at all times, making it an excellent option for challenging roof geometries.
By utilizing the SSRA1 Seam Anchor, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack, SSRA3 Anchor Plate, and Ridge Pro Steep Assist, contractors can implement a comprehensive fall protection strategy for SSR-Lok 210 panels. These non-penetrating solutions provide superior worker safety while maintaining the standing seam roofing system's performance, aesthetics, and longevity.
Standing Seam Roof Anchor Point Compatibility for Encore Steel Buildings
Seal-Lok 250 Panel 22-24 ga. | Vertical-Lok 150 Panel 22-24 ga. | SSR-Lok 200 22-24 ga. | SSR-Lok 210 22-24 ga. | |
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YES | YES | YES | YES | |
YES | YES | YES | YES | |
YES | YES | YES | YES | |
YES | YES | YES | YES | |
YES | YES | YES | YES |
Contact Us For More Information
For further details on roofing solutions and fall protection systems, contact us at 863-703-4522 or www.StandingSeamRoofAnchor.com. Let's work together to make your roofing projects safe, beautiful, and built to last. For more safety tips, check out 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
Ladders are one of the most commonly used tools on job sites, yet improper use remains a leading cause of workplace falls. Safety managers must ensure workers properly secure ladders on stable ground, maintain three points of contact when climbing, and adhere to the 4-to-1 base-to-height ratio for safe positioning. Implementing ladder safety protocols ensures secure access to roofs and minimizes preventable accidents.
Use Specialized Anchor Systems for Standing Seam Roofs
Not all anchor systems are compatible with standing seam metal roofs. Traditional anchors that require drilling can compromise the roof's weathertight properties, leading to leaks and structural issues. Non-penetrating seam-specific anchors clamp onto the seams without damage, providing reliable tie-off points for fall protection while preserving the roof's integrity.
Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear
Protective equipment is only effective if it meets safety standards and fits properly. Project managers should provide OSHA-approved harnesses, lanyards, and self-retracting lifelines matching the job hazards. Well-maintained, properly fitted gear enhances mobility, reduces fatigue, and ensures compliance with fall protection regulations.
Install Permanent Roof Anchor Systems
For buildings that require frequent maintenance, permanent roof anchors provide a safe, long-term fall protection solution. These fixed tie-off points streamline safety protocols and eliminate the need for temporary anchorage setups. They also reduce the risk of improper anchor placement, ensuring a secure and compliant work environment for future inspections and repairs.
Ensure Proper Footwear for Stability
Foot traction is critical when working on metal roofs, especially in wet or cold conditions. Roofing-specific boots with slip-resistant soles provide stability on steep slopes and slick surfaces. Proper footwear prevents slips, enhances balance, and gives workers the confidence to move safely and efficiently at elevated heights.
Set Up Protective Guardrail Barriers for Work Zones
Guardrails and warning lines serve as the first line of defense against falls. Marked and strategically placed barriers help define work areas, ensuring workers remain within safe zones. On large or low-slope roofs, these barriers improve hazard awareness and provide extra security, reducing fall risks.
Encourage the Use of Trauma Straps
In a fall event, a suspended worker can experience circulation issues that lead to suspension trauma, a potentially fatal condition. Trauma straps allow workers to relieve leg pressure and restore blood flow while awaiting rescue. Providing these straps and training workers on their use can make a critical difference in emergencies.
Develop OSHA-Compliant Safety Plans
A comprehensive safety plan isn't just about compliance—it's a proactive strategy to prevent workplace injuries. OSHA-compliant safety plans should outline clear fall protection measures, emergency rescue procedures, and site-specific hazards. Ensuring every worker understands and follows the plan fosters a culture of accountability and minimizes risks.
Promote a Culture of Safety
Safety should be more than a checklist—it should be an ingrained part of company culture. Encouraging workers to report hazards, participate in regular training, and engage in open discussions about safety concerns fosters a proactive mindset. When teams prioritize safety, job sites become more efficient, morale improves, and accidents decrease.
Consult Experts for Curved Metal Panels
Curved metal roofs present unique fall protection challenges that require specialized solutions. Consulting trained safety professionals ensure the proper anchoring and tie-off systems are selected. Expert input helps tailor fall protection strategies to curved panels' complexities, preserving worker safety and the roof's long-term performance.
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 reach out directly to the roof panel manufacturer for inquiries regarding fall protection compatibility with their products and to address any potential warranty issues that may arise following the installation of our products.