Fall Protection For Exceptional Metal Roofs

Fall Protection For Exceptional Metal Roofs

Posted by Howie Scarboro - CEO Fall Protection Distributors, LLC on Jul 26th 2024

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Exceptional Metals logo. Image courtesy of www.exceptionalmetals.com.

Who Is Exceptional Metals?

Exceptional Metals, founded in 2003 as a subsidiary of Duro-Last Roofing, specializes in producing high-quality metal components for roofing systems. This venture was part of Duro-Last's strategy to offer a comprehensive range of roofing solutions by vertically integrating their operations. Over the years, Exceptional Metals established an 89,000-square-foot production facility in Carrollton, Texas, in 2013. This state-of-the-art plant bolstered the manufacturing capabilities of both Duro-Last and Exceptional Metals.

By 2018, Exceptional Metals had celebrated its 15th anniversary, marking a significant period of success in the roofing industry. Based in Saginaw, Michigan, the company has expanded its product line to include metal roofing accessories such as edge materials, gutter systems, and wall panels. Today, Exceptional Metals stands out as a competitor in the metal roofing accessories market, and it is known for its high-quality products and innovative solutions.

The company operates multiple manufacturing facilities across the United States, including Oregon, Mississippi, Texas, and Massachusetts, alongside its Michigan headquarters. This extensive network enables Exceptional Metals to meet diverse customer needs efficiently and uphold its commitment to excellence and innovation in the roofing industry.

What Are The Most Compatible Fall Protection Anchors for Exceptional Metals Roofs?

Choosing the proper fall protection for Exceptional Metals roofs is essential to ensuring worker safety and maintaining the roofing system's integrity. Adequate fall protection safeguards workers and preserves the roofing system's performance and longevity. This section will provide detailed information on the most compatible fall protection products for Exceptional Metals' standing seam panels, aiming to guide contractors, building owners, and safety managers in making informed decisions.

SSRA1, SSRA2, and SSRA3 for Steel Panels:

The SSRA1, SSRA2, and SSRA3 products are perfect for 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel panels. These anchors attach securely to the standing seam without penetrating the roof, preserving the roof's integrity while offering reliable fall protection.

The  SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor provides a secure anchor point for fall protection systems without damaging the roof.

The  SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter works with the SSRA1, allowing for the support of walk boards up to 10' without roof penetration. This setup offers stability and safety for roof workers.

The  SSRA3 Anchor Plates, used with the Malta Dynamics HLL3001 Horizontal Lifeline System, provide a robust temporary horizontal lifeline solution for up to two workers.

Ridge Pro Steep Assist for Other Substrates or Steel Gauges:

For roofing systems with other substrates or different steel gauges, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is an excellent choice. This anchor hooks securely over the ridge, creating a stable anchorage point that ensures workers remain tied off while navigating steep slopes. The Ridge Pro system is particularly effective for roofs with pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12, offering the necessary stability and safety during high-risk tasks.

Implementing these recommended fall protection systems protects workers and helps maintain the performance and lifespan of Exceptional Metals' roofing systems. Ensuring the proper safety measures are in place can prevent costly damage and repairs while safeguarding lives. This information serves as a guide to help you choose the appropriate fall protection equipment, emphasizing the importance of using compatible and high-quality products for Exceptional Metals roofs.

Let's discuss each standing seam panel profile available from Exceptional Metals.

BattenLok® HS Standing Seam

Exceptional Metals BattenLok HS profile. Image courtesy of www.exceptionalmetals.com.

Exceptional Metals offers a versatile and robust BattenLok® HS system for roofing and wall applications. This standing seam panel comes in 12" and 16" widths, featuring 2" vertical seams that provide strength and visual appeal. It can be installed on roofs with slopes as low as 1/2:12, making it suitable for various architectural designs. The panels are 24-gauge steel, with an option for 22-gauge for more demanding applications. Finishes include the corrosion-resistant Galvalume Plus and the durable PVDF (Kynar 500) paint system in multiple colors. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals BattenLok HS Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

The BattenLok® HS system is compatible with various substrates, such as plywood, metal decking, and rigid insulation. Its concealed fastener design enhances weather protection and allows for thermal expansion and contraction, maintaining the roof's integrity over time. It has earned a UL 580 Class 90 rating for wind uplift resistance and a UL 790 Class A fire rating, and it is approved under the Florida Building Code, highlighting its reliability and performance in diverse conditions.

Fall Protection for BattenLok® HS Panels

For the BattenLok® HS panels, the recommended fall protection products include the SSRA1, SSRA2, SSRA3, and Ridge Pro. The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor attaches securely without penetrating the roof, providing a safe anchorage point for fall protection systems. The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter works with the SSRA1 to support walkboards up to 10', offering a stable working platform while preserving the roof's integrity. The SSRA3 Anchor Plates can be combined with the Malta Dynamics HLL3001 Horizontal Lifeline System, providing robust temporary horizontal lifeline solutions for up to two workers, enhancing mobility and safety. The Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is ideal for steep slopes, hooking over the ridge to ensure workers securely tie off.

Double-Lok® Standing Seam

Exceptional Metals Double-Lok profile. Image courtesy of www.exceptionalmetals.com.

Exceptional Metals' Double-Lok® system is a durable standing seam metal roofing solution featuring a concealed clip design and 2" high vertical ribs. Double-Lok roofs are available in 18" or 24" panel widths and are suitable for roof pitches as shallow as 1/4:12. Made from 24 or 22-gauge steel, the panels are available in corrosion-resistant Galvalume Plus and durable PVDF (Kynar 500) finishes. The standard panel width is 16", with custom widths and lengths up to 55 feet also available. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals Double-Lok Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

The Double-Lok® system has impressive performance credentials, including UL 580 Class 90 for wind uplift resistance and UL 2218 Class 4 for impact resistance. It also meets Florida Building Code standards. Installation involves on-site seaming with specialized electric machinery, and the system is compatible with substrates like plywood, OSB, and metal decking. Exceptional Metals provides comprehensive warranty options, including weather-tightness guarantees and finish warranties of up to 35 years.

Fall Protection for Double-Lok® Panels

For the Double-Lok® panels, the SSRA1, SSRA2, SSRA3, and the Ridge Pro Steep Assist are the best options for workers. The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor attaches securely without penetrating the roof, ensuring a reliable anchorage point. The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter mounts on top of the SSRA1 to allow the mounting of 10' wooden walkboards.

The SSRA3 Anchor Plates, used with the Malta Dynamics HLL3001 Horizontal Lifeline System, provide a temporary horizontal lifeline solution, enhancing safety and mobility for up to two workers. The Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is perfect for steep slopes, hooking over the ridge to ensure secure tie-off points for workers.

LokSeam® Standing Seam

Exceptional Metals LokSeam profile. Image courtesy of www.exceptionalmetals.com.

The LokSeam® system by Exceptional Metals uses mechanical seaming to enhance durability and weather resistance. Available in 22, 24, or 26-gauge steel, the panels are 12", 16", and 18" wide and can be custom-cut to lengths up to 50'. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals LokSeam Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

The LokSeam® system has undergone rigorous testing for wind uplift resistance, fire safety, and impact protection. Its weather-tight design features a concealed clip fastening method, securing the panels and maintaining a sleek appearance. Suitable for roof pitches as shallow as 3:12, the panels have a Kynar 500®/Hylar 5000® coating for long-lasting color retention and protection. This quality is backed by a paint finish warranty of up to 35 years, with an additional weather-tightness warranty available.

Fall Protection for LokSeam® Panels

For the LokSeam® panels, the SSRA1, SSRA2, and SSRA3 are recommended for 22 and 24-gauge steel. The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor provides a secure attachment point without penetrating the roof, preserving its structural integrity. The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter works with the SSRA1 to support walkboards, creating a stable and safe working surface.

The SSRA3 Anchor Plates and the Malta Dynamics HLL3001 Horizontal Lifeline System offer a robust horizontal lifeline solution for up to two workers, ensuring mobility and safety. For the 26-gauge panels, the Ridge Pro is recommended for roof pitches from 6/12 to 12/12, offering secure attachment points on steeper slopes.

SuperLok® Vertical Leg Standing Seam

Exceptional Metals SuperLok Vertical Seam profile. Image courtesy of www.exceptionalmetals.com.

The SuperLok® system by Exceptional Metals features concealed fasteners and a mechanically seamed design for steep-slope applications. Available in 12" or 16" panel widths with a 2" seam height, the panels are crafted from Galvalume® substrate in 26, 24, and 22-gauge options, with a durable Kynar 500® or Hylar 5000® PVDF coating. The system has received numerous certifications, including UL 580 Class 90 for wind uplift resistance, UL 2218 Class 4 for impact resistance, and UL 790 Class A for fire rating. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals SuperLok Vertical Leg Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Fall Protection for SuperLok® Panels

For the SuperLok® panels, the SSRA1, SSRA2, and SSRA3 are recommended for 22 and 24-gauge steel. The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor attaches without penetrating the roof, providing a secure point for fall protection systems. The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter, used with the SSRA1, supports walkboards to ensure a stable working platform. The SSRA3 Anchor Plates can be combined with the Malta Dynamics HLL3001 Horizontal Lifeline System to create a robust horizontal lifeline setup for up to two workers. For 26-gauge panels, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is ideal for securing workers on steep slopes, ensuring they remain safely tied off.

Ultra-Dek® Standing Seam

Exceptional Metals Ultra-Dek profile. Image courtesy of www.exceptionalmetals.com.

The Ultra-Dek® system from Exceptional Metals is a high-performance standing seam metal roofing system suitable for roof pitches as shallow as ¼:12. Available in 18" or 24" widths and lengths up to 50 feet, the panels come in 24 and 22-gauge options, utilizing Galvalume® as the base material. The system boasts impressive certifications, including UL 580 Class 90 wind uplift rating and UL 790 Class A fire resistance classification. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals Ultra-Dek Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Fall Protection for Ultra-Dek® Panels

For the Ultra-Dek® panels, the SSRA1, SSRA2, and SSRA3 are recommended for 22 and 24-gauge steel. The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor attaches securely without penetrating the roof, providing a reliable anchorage point. The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter works with the SSRA1 to support walkboards, ensuring a stable working surface. The SSRA3 Anchor Plates, used with the Malta Dynamics HLL3001 Horizontal Lifeline System, provide a robust horizontal lifeline solution for enhanced worker mobility and safety. The Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is suitable for roof pitches from 6/12 to 12/12, ensuring secure tie-off points for workers on steeper slopes.

Craftsman™ Series High Batten Standing Seam

Exceptional Metals Craftsman High Batten profile. Image courtesy of www.exceptionalmetals.com.

The Craftsman Series by Exceptional Metals offers durable roofing and wall solutions with a sleek design. These panels feature a 2" high rib and 12" or 16.5" coverage widths, crafted from robust 22, 24, or 26-gauge steel. The panels are available in various finishes, including Kynar 500, Hylar 5000, SMP, and Galvalume Plus, and boast impressive performance ratings, such as UL 580 Class 90 wind uplift and UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistance. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals Craftsman Series High Batten Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Fall Protection for Craftsman™ High Batten Panels

Due to the batten cover style seam, SSRA products are non-compatible. However, workers can use the Ridge Pro Steep Assist on roofs with pitches from 6/12 to 12/12. The Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor provides secure attachment points for workers on steep slopes, ensuring they remain safely tied off while working.

Craftsman™ Series Small Batten Standing Seam

Exceptional Metals Craftsman Small Batten profile. Image courtesy of www.exceptionalmetals.com.

The Craftsman Small Batten by Exceptional Metals is ideal for residential and light commercial projects. It features a compact batten for a sleek aesthetic. Available in 12" and 16.5" widths with 1" high ribs, the panels suit roofs with a minimum 3:12 pitch. The hidden fastening mechanism enhances visual appeal and weather resistance; multiple gauge options and finish choices are available. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals Craftsman Series Small Batten Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Fall Protection for Craftsman™ Small Batten Panels

Due to the batten cover style seam, SSRA products are non-compatible. However, workers can still use the Ridge Pro Steep Assist anchor on roofs with pitches from 6/12 to 12/12. The Ridge Pro hooks over the roof peak to provide a strong anchor point for workers.

EM Slimline Metal Roof Panel

Exceptional Metals EM Slimline panel profile. Image courtesy of www.exceptionalmetals.com.

The EM Slimline roof panel system is a sleek, modern option that is perfect for residential and light commercial applications. Its minimalist design offers a clean and contemporary look, making it an excellent choice for projects that value aesthetics without sacrificing functionality. The Slimline panel features a 16-inch coverage width and a concealed fastening system, ensuring a smooth, uninterrupted surface that enhances the roof's appearance and performance. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals EM Slimline Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

This panel system is available in 29-gauge steel as standard, with an optional upgrade to 26-gauge for added durability. One of the critical features of the Slimline panel is its striated finish. However, you can opt for minor rib striations if preferred. With a minimum slope requirement of 3:12, this panel is suitable for various residential roofing styles. The panels are coated with GALVALUME® Plus or Signature® 200 finishes, providing long-lasting protection and visual appeal. The Slimline panel also meets stringent safety standards, including UL 580 approval for wind uplift, UL 790 Class A fire ratings for external fire, and UL 2218 Class 4 impact ratings, making it a dependable choice for regions prone to severe weather.

While this panel system can't be endlapped, it makes up for that with its durability and impressive range of approvals, including Florida approval, meaning it's built to withstand harsh conditions. Its 1-inch rib height gives it a subtle profile that maintains structural integrity while still looking great on any home or light commercial building.

Fall Protection for EM Slimline Panel

Regarding fall protection on EM Slimline panels, the lighter steel substrates, such as the standard 29-gauge option, present a unique challenge. Due to the lighter nature of the materials, the SSRA products are not compatible with the Slimline series. Instead, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the best solution for this type of roof. It provides a reliable, non-penetrating anchorage option for roofs with pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12, making it ideal for residential and light commercial projects where preserving the integrity of the panel system is vital.

Using the Ridge Pro Steep Assist ensures worker safety without compromising the Slimline panel's performance or aesthetics. It's an innovative, efficient solution that protects your roof and the workers, even on steeper slopes.

EM CFR Insulated Panels

Exceptional Metals EM CFR Insulated panel profile. Image courtesy of www.exceptionalmetals.com.

The EM CFR Insulated Roof Panel is an all-in-one solution for those demanding superior performance from their roofing system. Perfect for architectural, commercial, industrial, and institutional projects, this panel combines a 2-inch high standing seam with a Mesa profile on the exterior and a stucco-embossed Mesa pattern on the interior. The concealed clip attachment system offers continuous insulation and eliminates thermal bridges, ensuring exceptional weathertight performance. This means fewer worries about leaks or drafts, even in challenging weather conditions. Its precise engineering makes installation a breeze, with minimal field reworking required. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Exceptional Metals EM CFR Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

With a standard coverage width of 42 inches and optional sizes of 30 or 36 inches, the EM CFR Insulated Panel gives you the flexibility to meet the needs of your specific project. The range of thicknesses from 2 inches to 6 inches, combined with a minimum slope requirement of just ½:12, means this panel is as adaptable as it is efficient. Exterior finishes include GALVALUME® with a stucco-embossed texture, and it's coated with Signature 200 or Signature 300 for long-lasting durability. On the inside, the standard Igloo White finish can be customized if desired. Altogether, this panel system provides robust thermal protection, streamlined installation, and excellent longevity, making it a great choice for various building types.

Fall Protection For EM CFR Insulated Panels

You have a couple of reliable fall protection options for protecting your workers while maintaining the integrity of the EM CFR Insulated Roof Panel. The SSRA1 Seam Anchors are fully compatible with these panels, offering robust and secure attachment points without penetrating the roof surface. This is crucial for maintaining the roof's weathertight performance, as the seam anchors clamp directly onto the panel's standing seam without causing any damage.

You can add the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters to expand your safety setup further. These adapters are handy because they allow installing 10' walk boards, creating a safe and stable platform for workers to move around on the roof. This feature is invaluable on larger jobs, where multiple workers may be on the roof simultaneously. It ensures that everyone stays safe while also protecting the roof's surface.

However, the SSRA3 Anchor Plates are incompatible with the EM CFR Insulated Panels. These plates are designed for panels with a maximum width of 24 inches, while the EM CFR panels start at 30 inches in width. As an alternative, for roofs with a slope between 6/12 and 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor offers a solid fall protection solution, ensuring safety without compromising the roof system. This combination of SSRA1 Seam Anchors, SSRA2 Adapters, and Ridge Pro options ensures a safe, efficient working environment while preserving the high-quality performance of the EM CFR panel system.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility Chart For Exceptional Metals

Exceptional Metals

BattenLok HS
22-24 ga.

Double-Lok
22-24 ga.

LokSeam
22-24 ga.

SuperLok
Vertical Leg
22-24 ga.

Ultra-Dek
22-24 ga.

Craftsman
High Batten
22-24 ga.

Craftsman
Small Batten
22-24 ga.

EM Slimline
26 ga.

EM CFR
22-24 ga.

SSRA 1

SSRA_1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor

YES YES YES YES YES NO NO NO YES

SSRA1 Nylon Tip

SSRA_1 Anchor Nylon Tip Standing Seam Roof Anchor

YES YES YES YES YES NO NO NO YES

SSRA2 Roof Jack

SSRA_2 Roof Jack Adapter

YES YES YES YES YES NO NO NO YES

SSRA3 Anchor Plate

SSRA_3 Anchor Plate

YES YES YES YES YES NO NO NO NO

The Ridge Pro

Ridge Pro Roof Anchor

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

 

Get in Touch for More Information

We're eager to learn more about your project! Call us at 863-703-4522 to discuss your needs, or visit our website at www.StandingSeamRoofAnchor.com for further details. For additional information on fall protection, refer to OSHA's comprehensive 48-page manual.

General Safety Guidelines for Standing Seam Roofs

Ensure Stable Access Points

Properly position ladders and scaffolding, ensuring they are obstacle-free. Provide comprehensive OSHA-compliant ladder training for workers and adhere to the 4-1 rule for ladder positioning to guarantee stability and safety.

Foster a Safety-Conscious Workplace

Encourage regular equipment inspections and continuous training sessions to create a safety-first environment. A robust safety culture maintains high standards and decreases the likelihood of accidents.

Develop a Comprehensive OSHA Safety Plan

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

Wear Appropriate Footwear

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

Take Precautions for Curved Panels

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

Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear

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

Establish Secure Work Zones

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

Deploy Specialized Roof Anchor Systems

Use roof anchor systems designed specifically for standing seam roofs. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper sizing and installation, ensuring precise seam placement and torque settings. Avoid using seam anchors that require attachment over clips, as locating clips on existing roofs can be difficult.

Encourage the Use of Trauma Straps

Promote the use of trauma straps on harnesses and ensure regular training on their proper use. Trauma straps are essential for preventing severe injuries or fatalities after a fall by reducing suspension trauma.

Invest in Permanent Roof Anchor Systems

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

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, as well as to address any potential warranty issues that may arise following the installation of our products.

Howie Scarboro, C.E.O. and co-founder of Fall Protection Distributors, L.L.C., recognized the need for continued improvements in roofing safety during the 2010 MetalCon show in Las Vegas. He joined forces with SnoBlox-Snojax, a leader in snow retention and seam clamping technology for metal roofs, to create the SSRA1 prototype. Tested by Gravitec for OSHA/ANSI certifications, the SSRA1 proved to be the industry's lightest, most robust, and most universal-fit anchor point for standing seam roofs. Fall Protection Distributors, L.L.C. was born in 2015, shaping the future of fall protection and instilling confidence in the industry.