Fall Protection For Garland Standing Seam Roofs

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for The Garland Company Standing Seam Panels.

The Garland Company: Over 125 Years of Roofing Innovation

The Garland Company is a true giant in the roofing industry, with over 125 years of experience. Founded in 1895 in Cleveland, Ohio, Garland has grown from a small operation into a leader in high-performance roofing systems. Today, they specialize in cutting-edge commercial roofing solutions, including standing seam metal roofs, waterproofing, and modified bitumen systems. One of the company's significant milestones was the introduction of StressPly®, the first high-performance modified bitumen roofing system in North America.

In 1992, Garland expanded into the metal roofing market with the release of R-Mer Lite®, a product that revolutionized their offerings. Since then, they've added multiple standing seam roofing options, including R-Mer Span, R-Mer Loc, and R-Mer Shield, each designed to provide a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and weather-resistant solution. Garland has a global presence and offers a full spectrum of products, from traditional roofing to more advanced sustainable systems like vegetative roofing. Their focus on innovation and customer-first philosophy has helped them maintain a strong foothold in the roofing industry for over a century.

The Importance of Compatible Fall Protection for Standing Seam Roofs

Working on metal roofs, especially standing seam systems like those from Garland, requires more than standard safety precautions. The unique design of standing seam panels means that traditional fall protection methods, such as mechanically fastened anchor points, aren't suitable. Modern standing seam roof systems require specialized fall protection anchors.

Garland's standing seam systems have hidden fasteners, which means any attempt to use penetrating fall protection systems could compromise the roof's performance. Not only could you cause leaks, but you might also invalidate warranties or reduce the roof's lifespan. The solution? Non-penetrating fall protection anchors that latch onto the seams without causing damage.

This blog aims to educate roofing professionals on safeguarding workers while maintaining the roof's integrity. We'll explore the best fall protection equipment on standing seam metal roofs and explain why using compatible systems is critical to avoid unnecessary risks. Whether dealing with a steep pitch or a flat roof, having the right gear keeps workers safe. It ensures that Garland's premium roofing products continue to perform at their best.

R-Mer Span Panels: Heavy-Duty Protection for Extreme Conditions

The R-Mer Span panel system from Garland is no ordinary standing seam roof. This structural standing seam roof system has long-lasting durability and aesthetic appeal. With a 2-3/8" high vertical seam and a unique profile that includes mesas throughout the panel, it minimizes the "oil canning" effect, which is the waviness that sometimes appears in flat metal panels. But it's not just about looks—this system is made to perform. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for The Garland Company R-Mer Span Standing Seam Panels.

The R-Mer Span can be installed on slopes as low as 1/4" per foot, making it suitable for retrofits and new construction. Its heavy-duty, 16-gauge continuous clip design allows unlimited thermal expansion and contraction, ensuring the roof stays intact even during temperature fluctuations. Testing has confirmed that these panels comply with moisture resistance, wind uplift, and overall weather performance standards. The R-Mer Span withstands ASTM E 1646 pressure at 20 psf, which is higher than most competitors offer.

These panels are available in various materials, including G-90 galvanized steel, aluminum, copper, and stainless steel, and widths of 12", 16", or 18". Whether you're dealing with intense heat, cold, or wind, the R-Mer Span system stands strong, backed by a 20—or 30-year warranty. Curving is available on this panel, and curved panels require specialized fall protection strategies.

Fall Protection for R-Mer Span Panels

For those working on 22- and 24-gauge steel R-Mer Span panels, it's essential to use fall protection systems that won't compromise the roof's integrity. The SSRA1 Seam Anchors attach directly to the seams without penetrating the panel, ensuring the roof remains weathertight while providing a secure anchor point for workers. These anchors also match perfectly with SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, which allow 10' walk board mounting, offering stable footing for workers as they move across the roof. The SSRA3 Anchor Plates can be added for 100' temporary horizontal lifelines, ensuring multiple workers stay safely tied off while completing tasks.

For other materials, like aluminum or copper, and steeper roofs (6/12 to 12/12 pitch), the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the ideal solution. It hooks over the roof peak, allowing workers to maintain a 100% tie-off without affecting the performance of the roof panels. Whether retrofitting an old roof or installing a new one, these fall protection systems keep your crew safe without compromising the roof's performance.

When dealing with a curved R-Mer panel system, a trained safety professional should inspect the site before determining the best fall protection strategy.

R-Mer Loc Panels: The Ideal Blend of Aesthetic Appeal and Structural Strength

Garland's R-Mer Loc panel system offers a sophisticated blend of architectural appeal and structural performance, making it a standout choice for new construction and retrofitting projects. One of the critical features of this standing seam roof system is its watertight seam, paired with a durable 18-gauge one-piece clip. This design allows for excellent spanning capabilities, making it ideal for mansards, re-roofing applications, and other architectural features. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for The Garland Company R-Mer Loc Standing Seam Panels.

The panel's internal gutter/anti-siphon feature protects against water infiltration, ensuring the roof remains watertight even in harsh weather conditions. The 1-3/4" high vertical seam, combined with the concealed clip design, accommodates thermal movement and enhances the system's longevity. Available in a variety of colors and 22- and 24-gauge G-90 galvanized steel or .040 aluminum, the R-Mer Loc system is versatile enough to fit both aesthetic and performance needs. Panel widths of 12", 16", and 18" allow for flexibility in design, and the panels can be factory-formed in lengths up to 50 feet. The system also performs exceptionally well on lower slopes, with installations possible on slopes down to 3:12 over open purlins or down to 1.5:12 over a solid substrate.

The R-Mer Loc system has extensive certifications, including UL 90 wind uplift classification and a Class A fire rating. It also meets the rigorous ASTM standards for air infiltration and water penetration. It is a trusted choice for projects that demand visual appeal and exceptional durability.

Fall Protection for R-Mer Loc Panels

Regarding fall protection on 22- and 24-gauge R-Mer Loc panels, it's important to use systems that preserve the roof's integrity while keeping workers safe. The SSRA1 Seam Anchors are perfect for these panels, providing a non-penetrating anchor point that ensures the roof remains watertight. The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks mount on top of the SSRA1 anchors, allowing the installation of 10' walk boards, giving workers stable, secure access across the roof surface. The SSRA3 Anchor Plates mount 100' temporary horizontal lifelines, ensuring that multiple workers remain tied off while performing tasks without compromising the roof's structural integrity.

For other substrates, such as aluminum, or steeper roofs with slopes between 6/12 and 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the best option. This system hooks over the roof peak, allowing workers to maintain a 100% tie-off without penetrating the surface. It ensures that safety remains a top priority, even in challenging environments, without affecting the roof's performance.

R-Mer Shield Panels: Next-Level Wind Uplift Performance

Garland's R-Mer Shield panels are the latest in high-performance standing seam roof systems, specifically designed to handle severe weather conditions. These panels excel in wind uplift performance, making them a top choice for areas with extreme weather. The 2-1/16" vertical seam, with an extruded aluminum clip and top rail system, ensures unlimited thermal expansion and contraction, maintaining roof integrity even under fluctuating temperatures. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for The Garland Company R-Mer Shield Standing Seam Panels.

The mesas and pencil lines in the panel's design minimize the risk of oil canning, which is the waviness that sometimes occurs on flat metal surfaces. The seam sealant is also isolated from the clip, enhancing the roof's weathertight performance. The system can span over open purlins on slopes as low as 1/4:12, making it suitable for retrofits over existing roofs or new installations. Available in various materials such as G-90 galvanized steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, and stainless steel, R-Mer Shield panels offer flexibility in both design and performance, with warranties ranging from 30 to 40 years.

Fall Protection for R-Mer Shield Panels

Due to the unique top rail-box seam design, it's essential to test-fit SSRA1 anchors to ensure compatibility with the specific seam profile. For steel panels with a top box seam cover no taller than ¾" and no wider than 1", the SSRA1 anchor, SSRA2 Roof Jack Adapter, and SSRA3 Anchor Plates work well together to add walk boards and temporary horizontal lifelines to the standing seam panels without roof penetrations.

For other materials, such as aluminum or zinc, or roofs with slopes ranging from 6/12 to 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the ideal fall protection solution. This system hooks securely over the roof peak, ensuring a 100% tie-off for workers at all times. It's a non-penetrating solution that maintains the integrity of the R-Mer Shield panels while ensuring worker safety during installation or maintenance tasks.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility Chart For The Garland Company

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 Anchor Inspection Form.

Safety Guidelines for Standing Seam Roofs

Ensure Proper Access Points

Carefully position ladders and scaffolding, making sure they are stable and free of obstructions. Adhere to OSHA's 4-to-1 ladder safety rule, which requires one foot of ladder extension for every four feet of height. Provide workers with adequate training to minimize fall risks during roof access.

Select the Right Footwear

Wear shoes designed for non-slip performance, mainly when working on metal roofing. These shoes provide better traction, especially on slippery or wet surfaces, reducing the chances of slipping.

Utilize Permanent Roof Anchors

Installing permanent roof anchors can be a long-term investment in safety. These anchors provide reliable fall protection for future maintenance work and inspections, reducing the need to reinstall temporary systems.

Install Guardrails on Low-Slope Roofs

Guardrails or warning lines create safe zones for low-slope roofs that help prevent falls. These physical barriers add a critical layer of security, especially when traditional fall protection equipment is not feasible.

Adopt a Safety-First Work Culture

Regular safety training and routine checks of all equipment foster a culture focused on preventing accidents. Instilling a sense of responsibility in workers for personal and team safety reduces incidents and promotes safer work environments.

Always Use Trauma Straps

Ensure all workers are equipped with safety harnesses and use trauma straps. These straps are essential for mitigating the risk of suspension trauma, providing a lifeline in the event of a fall by reducing the pressure on the legs and circulation.

Select the Correct Roof Anchors for Standing Seam Panels

Always use roof anchors explicitly designed for that panel type when working on standing seam roofs. Seam-mounted systems work best, and it is important to follow installation guidelines closely. Avoid solutions that require locating hidden panel clips, often impractical on existing roofs.

Work Safely on Curved Metal Roofs

Curved metal roofs present unique challenges that require special fall protection planning. Workers should avoid using seam-mounted anchors on curved roof systems unless authorized by a trained safety expert.

Provide High-Quality Safety Gear

Equip your team with full-body harnesses and shock-absorbing lanyards that are OSHA-compliant. This equipment is crucial in minimizing injury during a fall, offering essential protection that can prevent fatalities.

Develop an OSHA-Compliant Safety Plan

Before beginning any project, establish a comprehensive safety plan that meets OSHA standards. This plan should cover fall protection measures, equipment use, and detailed emergency rescue procedures to ensure a fast and safe response in case of an incident.

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.