Fall Protection For Flexospan Standing Seam Roofs

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Flexospan Steel Buildings Standing Seam Panels.

Who Is Flexospan Steel Buildings?

Flexospan Steel Buildings, Inc., based in Sandy Lake, PA, has been a significant force in the metal construction industry for over fifty years. Established in 1969, the company has become a top manufacturer of metal roofing, siding panels, and other structural components used in commercial and industrial construction projects.

Flexospan has a reputation for quality and exceptional customer service. The company offers various products, including metal roofing and siding panels, matching trims, decking, structural components, and pre-engineered metal buildings. Additionally, they provide complete self-storage packages catering to various construction needs.

One of Flexospan's standout features is its ability to supply hard-to-find heavy gauges and finishes. They maintain a vast inventory of coil stock in various gauges and finishes, which helps ensure quicker lead times compared to many competitors. This inventory includes bare galvanized steel, Galvalume Plus, stainless steel, bare aluminum, and painted steel in 15 standard colors and three paint finishes.

Flexospan's production facility spans over 265,000 square feet and is strategically located near major interstates, facilitating convenient shipping. Their product lineup includes more than 20-panel profiles, C and Z purlins in various sizes, and a comprehensive range of accessories such as flashings, closures, fasteners, insulation, and sealants.

Flexospan offers several high-quality standing seam roof panel products. The company began manufacturing decking to meet customer demands for standing seam roofs and alternative roof systems, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

Flexospan's engineering staff brings a wealth of experience in building design and production, contributing to the high quality and innovation of their standing seam roofing solutions.

In summary, Flexospan Steel Buildings, Inc. has earned a strong reputation over its five decades of operation. It offers a comprehensive range of metal construction products, including standing seam steel roofing panels. Its commitment to quality, extensive inventory, and ability to handle specialized orders have made it a trusted provider in the metal construction industry.

What Is The Best Fall Protection For Flexospan Standing Seam Roofs?

This article informs workers, contractors, and building owners about the most effective fall protection solutions for Flexospan's standing seam roof panels. Proper fall protection is essential for maintaining a safe job site when working on these roofing systems.

It is crucial to use  compatible fall protection anchors with the unique design and material properties of Flexospan's standing seam panels. In the following sections, we will explore specific fall protection strategies and recommend products that ensure comprehensive safety measures while working on Flexospan's high-quality roofing systems.

Flexospan offers three standing seam roof profiles, each requiring tailored fall protection solutions to ensure safety during installation and maintenance. Understanding these safety measures is vital for anyone involved in roofing projects, whether new construction or renovations. By following the recommended guidelines and using the appropriate equipment, contractors can create a secure working environment while upholding the high standards set by Flexospan's roofing solutions.

Let's examine the specifics of each Flexospan panel and discuss the best fall protection products for each one. By providing this information, we aim to help you make informed decisions that enhance safety and efficiency on the job site.

FSS-1.5 Panel

The FSS-1.5 panel from Flexospan is known for its flat-pan profile and 1.5" deep seam, making it an ideal choice for architectural projects with varying elevations and transitions. This panel is also well-suited for applications over decking or wood and felt substrates. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Flexospan Steel Buildings FSS-1.5 Standing Seam Panels.

Available in widths of 12", 16", 20", and 24", the FSS-1.5 panel offers flexibility in design and application. The 20" wide panel is the most economical option, stocked with stiffening ribs. Other widths are available as special orders, subject to minimum quantity restrictions. The 24-gauge stainless steel construction ensures durability and strength, making this panel suitable for various light commercial and residential-grade buildings.

This panel's versatility in terms of width and color makes it a popular choice for a wide range of roofing applications.

Fall Protection For FSS-1.5 Panels

When working on FSS-1.5 panels, ensuring proper fall protection is essential for worker safety. The Standing Seam Roof Anchor (SSRA1) is fully compatible with these panels, attaching securely to the standing seam without penetrating the roof. This system provides a reliable anchorage point for fall protection equipment, maintaining the panel's integrity and ensuring worker safety during installation and maintenance.

The  SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters mount on top of the SSRA1 anchors to support 10' walkboards without requiring roof penetrations. This setup offers adjustable height options for different seam heights, enhancing safety and flexibility on the job. For jobs requiring temporary horizontal lifelines, workers can attach the SSRA3 Anchor Plates on top of SSRA1 seam anchors for reliable 100' horizontal lifeline deployment.   

Workers should use the  Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor for roofs with steeper pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. This anchor hooks over the ridge, creating a secure anchorage point and ensuring workers remain tied off while navigating steep slopes. The Ridge Pro system provides stability and safety, especially during high-risk tasks.

FSS-18 Panel

The Flexospan FSS-18 panel is for both new and retrofit roofing projects. Featuring a seam height of 2-5/8" and an overall coverage area of 18", this panel includes stiffening ribs as standard. The FSS-18 is particularly effective where strength over open purlins is required or long runs with limited openings are necessary. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Flexospan Steel Buildings FSS-18 Standing Seam Panels.

Available in 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel, the FSS-18 panel comes in G-90 galvanized, Galvalume, and stainless steel materials. With 15 standard color options, this panel meets various aesthetic and functional requirements.

The FSS-18 panel has been UL 90 tested for uplift, making it a solid and economical choice for many roofing applications. Pre-formed profile closures are available for ridge and high eave conditions, matching the color and finish of the panels for a seamless look.

Fall Protection For FSS-18 Panels

The SSRA1 is the recommended fall protection solution for installing and maintaining FSS-18 panels in 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel versions. This anchor system attaches securely to the standing seam without penetrating the roof, ensuring the integrity of the panels and providing a reliable anchorage point for fall protection equipment.

The  SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter, used with SSRA1 anchors, supports 10' walkboards without requiring roof penetrations. It allows for adjustable height options, enhancing safety and flexibility during roofing activities. For horizontal lifeline use, workers can mount the SSRA3 Anchor Plates on top of SSRA1 seam anchors for HLL kits up to 100'. 

For FSS-18 panels made from other substrates or different steel gauges, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is ideal. This anchor hooks over the ridge, creating a secure anchorage point and ensuring workers remain 100% tied off while navigating steep slopes. It is particularly effective for roofs with pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12, providing necessary stability and safety during high-risk tasks.

FSS-316 Panel

The Flexospan FSS-316 panel is a straight-sided, non-trapezoidal metal roofing panel that is easy to install and flash. This panel is best suited for roofs with continuous transitions or mansards. It is ideal for light industrial and commercial-grade applications. With 3" tall seams and a 16" panel width, the FSS-316 offers a robust and visually appealing roofing solution. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Flexospan Steel Buildings FSS-316 Standing Seam Panels.

Constructed from 20, 22, or 24-gauge steel, the FSS-316 panel provides excellent strength and durability. It is designed for easy installation and maintenance, making it a practical choice for roofing projects.

Fall Protection For FSS-316 Panels

For the FSS-316 panels, the SSRA1 anchor system is fully compatible with 20, 22, and 24-gauge steel versions. This system attaches securely to the standing seam without penetrating the roof, preserving the panel's integrity and providing a reliable anchorage point for fall protection equipment. The SSRA1 ensures workers can perform their tasks safely on the roof.

The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter, when used with SSRA1 anchors, supports 10'' walkboards without roof penetrations. This setup offers adjustable height options, enhancing safety and flexibility during roofing activities. workers can mount SSRA3 Anchor PLates on top of SSRA1 seam anchors for temporary 100' horizontal lifeline deployment. 

For FSS-316 panels made from other substrates or different steel gauges, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is the best option. This anchor hooks over the ridge, creating a secure anchorage point and ensuring workers remain 100% tied off while navigating steep slopes. It is particularly effective for roofs with pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12, providing necessary stability and safety during high-risk tasks.

By utilizing these recommended fall protection systems, contractors can ensure safe and efficient work on Flexospan's standing seam panel installations. These measures protect workers and maintain the structural integrity and performance of the panels, creating a secure working environment while upholding Flexospan's high standards.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility Chart For Flexospan Steel Buildings

Contact Us To Discuss Your Project

You can contact us with details about your project by calling 863-703-4522 or visiting our website at  www.StandingSeamRoofAnchor.com. For further information on fall protection, consult OSHA's 48-page manual.

Best Practices for Fall Protection on Standing Seam Roofs

Foster a Safety-Conscious Work Culture

Encourage regular equipment inspections and continuous training sessions to promote a culture of safety in the workplace. A robust safety culture helps maintain high standards and reduces the likelihood of accidents.

Develop a Detailed Safety Plan

Before starting any roofing project, the safety or project manager should develop an OSHA-compliant safety plan. This plan must include a thorough rescue strategy to ensure worker protection in the event of an accident. Proper planning ensures all necessary safety measures are in place before work begins.

Use Roof Anchor Systems Specifically for Standing Seam Roofs

Utilize roof anchor systems designed explicitly for standing seam roofs. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for correct sizing and installation, ensuring accurate seam placement and torque settings. Avoid anchors that attach over clips, as locating clips on existing roofs can be challenging and unsafe.

Ensure Stable and Safe Access Points

Safely set up ladders and scaffolding, ensuring they are free from obstacles to reduce fall risks. Provide comprehensive OSHA-compliant ladder training for workers and always follow the 4-1 rule for ladder positioning to ensure stability and safety.

Provide Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear

Equip workers with top-quality full-body harnesses and shock-absorbing lanyards. These items significantly reduce the impact load during falls, minimizing the risk of severe injuries or fatalities.

Wear Suitable Footwear

Ensure workers wear non-slip shoes for smooth metal roof systems and avoid working on wet roofs. Appropriate footwear improves stability and reduces the chances of slips and falls.

Establish and Maintain Secure Work Zones

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

Encourage the Use of Trauma Straps

Safety trainers and managers should instruct workers on using trauma straps on their harnesses and provide regular training on their proper use. Trauma straps are crucial 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 to secure anchorage points for future roofing work and inspections. Permanent systems enhance long-term safety and simplify ongoing maintenance.

Take Extra 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 unique challenges of curved surfaces.

By following these best practices, you can create a safer working environment for your team and maintain the integrity of your standing seam roofing systems.

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.