Fall Protection For Freedom Metals Standing Seam Roofs

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Freedom Metal Standing Seam Panels.

Who Is Freedom Metal?

Freedom Metal has built its name on vision, resilience, and a relentless drive to grow. The company's story began in 1995 when owner Matthew Will, then only 25 years old, purchased a small metal roofing business near Berlin, Pennsylvania.

With little more than a handful of old machines and a 3,500 square foot warehouse, he threw himself into every part of the business. Within just a few years, demand outpaced the space, prompting a move to Roaring Spring in 1999. That relocation provided the land and facilities needed to expand operations and set the stage for the next phase of Freedom Metal's journey.

Over the following decade and a half, the company experienced the challenges and triumphs familiar to any growing enterprise. The early 2000s saw the launch of Freedom Express, the company's trucking division, which began with the purchase of its first Freightliner. In 2011, Freedom Metal broadened its reach by opening a second retail location in Ridgeley, West Virginia. This store continues to thrive today. Through competition, market shifts, and other growing pains, the business pressed forward, seizing opportunities to strengthen its position in the industry.

By 2017, Freedom Metal was ready to scale again, and the years that followed marked the start of an impressive transformation. Today, the company operates out of a 20,000-square-foot facility equipped with modern machinery, producing an expanded lineup that extends far beyond roofing. Their offerings now include residential metal siding panels, interior trim such as crown molding and baseboards, as well as custom-fabricated panels for large-scale commercial projects, including schools, hospitals, and other institutions. With a third retail store set to open in Shamong, New Jersey, Freedom Metal continues to grow its footprint across the Mid-Atlantic.

What began as a small, determined operation has evolved into a regional leader in metal roofing and siding, driven by the same entrepreneurial spirit that fuels innovation and expansion. Freedom Metal's mission today remains unchanged from 1995: to continue building, creating, and pushing the industry forward.

Why Are Compatible Fall Protection Anchors For Freedom Metal Roofs Critical?

Compatible fall protection anchors are crucial for Freedom Metal roofs, as the incorrect equipment can compromise both worker safety and the roof system itself.

Freedom Metal produces a wide range of standing seam panels, siding, and custom-fabricated profiles for residential and commercial projects. Each product delivers strength, visual appeal, and lasting weather resistance. Still, their performance depends on maintaining the integrity of the seams and fasteners. Using anchors that require drilling or fastening through the panels would puncture the system, compromise watertightness, and potentially void warranties—an outcome no contractor or building owner wants.

OSHA requires 100% fall protection when working at height, and roofing is one of the most hazardous trades. Crews on Freedom Metal roofs often deal with steep pitches, slick surfaces, and long spans. Properly matched anchors grip the seam securely, provide dependable tie-off points, and protect the panel while maintaining effective fall protection systems. Non-compatible anchors may slip, deform the seam, or fail under load—placing workers in danger.

By choosing fall protection anchors specifically designed for standing seam roofs, contractors ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and protect their investment in Freedom Metal's panels. The proper anchors keep the roofing system intact, safeguard warranties, and most importantly, protect the people working on top of them.

1-Inch Nailstrip Snap Lock Panels

Freedom Metal’s 1 Inch Nailstrip Snap Lock Panels combine simplicity with strength, making them a reliable option for residential applications.

Manufactured in both 24- and 26-gauge steel, these panels come with either an SMP or Fluropon (PVDF) paint system for long-lasting performance and color retention. The design utilizes hidden fasteners, eliminating the need for clips and resulting in a cleaner aesthetic, as well as faster and easier installation. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Freedom Metal Nailstrip Snap Lock Standing Seam Panels.

Each panel is available in a standard 16-inch width, with optional striations or pencil ribs to minimize oil canning. These panels can be installed on roof pitches as low as 1/12 when placed over purlins at 12-inch spacing, giving contractors flexibility in both low-slope and traditional residential roofing projects. The system’s rigidity and ease of installation make it popular among both contractors and homeowners.

Fall Protection For 1 Inch Snap Lock Panels

Due to the unique seam shape of the Snap Lock system, SSRA seam-mounted products are not a compatible option.

Avoid traditional screw-through anchors because they puncture the seam and compromise the roof's watertight integrity. For these panels, the best solution is the Ridge Pro Steep Assist anchor. On roofs with a 6/12 to 12/12 pitch, the Ridge Pro mounts on the end of a lightweight 16-foot extension pole, allowing installers to set it securely over the peak from the safety of a ladder. This design provides continuous fall protection the entire time workers are on the roof, ensuring OSHA compliance while preserving the integrity and warranty of Freedom Metal's Snap Lock panels.

1.5 Inch Snap Lock Panels

Freedom Metal's 1.5 Inch Snap Lock Panels bring real versatility to standing seam projects that need strength, clean lines, and room to grow.

Offered in 24- and 26-gauge steel with SMP or premium Fluropon (PVDF) finishes, the panels lock together with clips, keeping fasteners hidden and preserving a smooth surface and a tight weather seal. For best results, install on a 2/12 pitch or greater over a solid deck at least 7/8 inch thick. The result is a roof that looks refined, sheds weather. It serves as a stable, non-penetrating platform for safe, efficient work. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Freedom Metal 1.5 Inch Snap Lock Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection For 1.5 Inch Snap Lock Panels

On 24-gauge versions, the SSRA system turns the roof into a flexible work zone without a single panel penetration.

The SSRA1 Seam Anchor clamps to the seam, creating a solid, OSHA-compliant tie-off point. The twelve stainless-steel set screws grip the seam without damaging the internal waterproofing seals.

Workers can mount the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack adapters on top of those anchors to support 10-foot wooden walkboards across steeper slopes, providing crews with a stable footing for installation and service. Adding SSRA3 Anchor Plates on top of SSRA1 anchors will create lifeline anchor points; this is the foundation for the SSRA HLL 100' temporary horizontal lifeline kit, which lets multiple workers move safely along the run while staying tied off the entire time.

For long-term projects or facilities that need a permanent solution, the Super Anchor 120' permanent horizontal lifeline kit provides durable, engineered coverage with dependable, repeated access. This system serves standing seam roofs with non-penetrating seam clamps, base plates, 5" riser posts, and 120 feet of galvanized steel cable.

For roofs with pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12, both 24-gauge and 26-gauge panels are compatible with the Ridge Pro Steep Assist anchor. The Ridge Pro sets over the peak using a lightweight 16-foot extension pole, so crews establish protection before stepping onto the roof. That keeps workers tied off from the first move to the last while preserving panel integrity and warranties.

1.75 Inch Snap Lock Panels

Freedom Metal's 1.75-inch Snap Lock Panel takes the familiar features of the 1.5" system and elevates them with added strength and adaptability.

Manufactured exclusively from 24-gauge steel, this panel is available in Galvalume or premium Fluoropon (PVDF) finishes for enhanced durability and long-term color performance. The hidden-fastener design keeps the surface sleek, while clips secure the seams for reliable attachment. With an 18-inch width and a 1.75-inch rib height, the panel offers greater structural integrity, making it a strong choice in regions with high winds or when spanning wider purlin distances. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Freedom Metal 1.75 Inch Snap Lock Standing Seam Panels.

Install this panel over solid decking or on purlins spaced up to 4 feet apart while preserving a clean standing seam look. It performs well on pitches as low as 1/12, and visual options like striations, pencil ribs, or a crinkle finish help reduce oil canning, keeping the roof looking sharp for decades to come. The taller seam not only enhances strength but also gives contractors a dependable, modern-looking panel that's at home on both residential and commercial projects.

Fall Protection For 1.75 Inch Snap Lock Panels

The 24-gauge construction of the 1.75-inch Snap Lock Panel ensures full compatibility with the entire SSRA product lineup.

The SSRA1 Seam Anchor provides a strong, non-penetrating tie-off point. At the same time, the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack adapters can be mounted on those anchors to create sturdy walk-board supports for crews on steep panels.

The SSRA3 Anchor Plates expand the anchor's functionality by allowing temporary horizontal lifeline attachments. The SSRA HLL 100' temporary horizontal lifeline kit protects two workers while allowing for maximum mobility.

For facilities requiring long-term safety solutions, the Super Anchor 120' permanent horizontal lifeline kit is another excellent fit, offering engineered durability and repeated-use reliability. Five-inch riser posts, non-penetrating seam clamps, and 120 feet of galvanized steel cable make this an excellent choice for permanent installations.

In addition to SSRA systems, these panels are also compatible with the Ridge Pro Steep Assist anchor when working on roofs with slopes ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. The Ridge Pro installs over the peak using a lightweight 16-foot extension pole, providing workers with a secure tie-off before they step onto the roof. Together, these solutions enable crews to work efficiently and safely on Freedom Metal's 1.75-inch Snap Lock Panels without penetrating or compromising the roof system.

Metal Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For Freedom Metal

Contact Us For More Information

For further details on roofing solutions and fall protection systems, please 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, 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

Ensure Proper Footwear for Stability

Roofing boots with slip-resistant soles, supportive ankles, and flexible construction provide a secure grip on slick panels, reducing strain during extended periods of work. Wearing proper footwear helps crews stay balanced on slopes, reduces fatigue, and gives them confidence with every step.

Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear

Harnesses, SRLs, and lanyards are only effective when they're comfortable, well-fitted, and trusted by the worker wearing them. Investing in OSHA-compliant gear that crews actually want to wear ensures consistent protection. Workers who trust their equipment are less distracted, more productive, and far better protected.

Set Up Protective Guardrail Barriers for Work Zones

Guardrails act as silent guardians on the job site. Once installed around roof edges, hatches, or skylights, they deliver constant, passive protection. Crews can focus on their work without pausing to clip in and out. At the same time, the barriers themselves provide clear boundaries that prevent missteps.

Encourage the Use of Trauma Straps

After a fall, suspension trauma becomes the next serious risk. Trauma straps provide workers with a means to stand up while suspended in their harness, relieving pressure and maintaining circulation while waiting for rescue. They weigh almost nothing, cost very little, and add a vital safeguard to every harness.

Install Permanent Roof Anchor Systems

For roofs that see repeated service—such as those with solar panels, HVAC units, or frequent inspections—permanent anchors are invaluable. These fixed tie-off points remain ready year-round, eliminating the need for repetitive installations that could damage panels. They offer peace of mind for owners and efficiency for workers.

Prioritize Ladder Safety Training

Safe roof work begins with the proper use of ladders. Teaching the 4-to-1 setup rule, three points of contact, and regular ladder inspections helps crews avoid injuries before they even reach the panels. Reinforcing these skills on every site ensures that access remains as safe as the work itself.

Consult Experts for Curved Metal Panels

Curved roof systems look impressive but come with seam angles that standard anchors can't always handle. Misusing equipment here risks damaging the panels—or worse, endangering workers. A trained fall protection specialist can select the right gear and guarantee that safety remains uncompromised.

Develop OSHA-Compliant Safety Plans

A well-built safety plan lays out more than rules—it defines how a crew will work together. Identifying hazards, assigning responsibilities, and outlining rescue steps keep everyone aligned. Regular updates and clear communication transform a plan from paperwork into a working shield against accidents.

Use Specialized Anchor Systems for Standing Seam Roofs

Penetrating anchors can damage seams, void warranties, and lead to leaks. Seam-mounted anchors built for standing seam panels clamp securely without a single puncture. They give crews strong tie-off points while protecting the integrity of the roof system—critical for both safety and long-term performance.

Promote a Culture of Safety

Safety grows from everyday actions, not just policies. When crews share responsibility, speak up about concerns, and hold regular safety talks, protection becomes second nature. A culture that values every worker's voice creates a stronger, safer job site for all.

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 compatibility with their products and to address any potential warranty issues that may arise after installing our products.