Fall Protection For Knudson Standing Seam Panels

Who Is Knudson Manufacturing?

Knudson Manufacturing is a global leader in the roll-forming industry, delivering high-performance machinery solutions to manufacturers and contractors for over 60 years. Headquartered in Broomfield, Colorado, Knudson has recently expanded its reach as a premier division of Scottsdale Construction Systems. This strategic partnership combines Knudson's American manufacturing heritage with a global footprint, serving the United States, Australia, Europe, and beyond.

Specializing in the design of modular roll-forming systems, Knudson is a trusted partner for the light-gauge steel framing and metal roofing sectors. Their systems are the backbone of high-stakes projects, producing industry-standard standing-seam profiles, including the KR-24, KR-21, and KR-18. From portable on-site roof panel machines to advanced structural systems, Knudson brings versatility and unmatched efficiency to every job site. Their team's technical expertise ensures that every machine is a long-term investment backed by exceptional service, training, and precision engineering.

Why Are Compatible Fall Protection Anchors Critical for Knudson Standing Seam Roofs?

Knudson's standing seam profiles, specifically the KR-series, are engineered to create a sleek, floating, and weather-tight barrier. However, maintaining this structural integrity requires fall protection hardware that respects the roof's precision design. Using incompatible, penetrative anchors on these systems is a critical mistake that undermines the very benefits of a standing seam roof.

The Risk of Traditional Penetrative Anchors

Traditional anchors require drilling through the panel and into the substrate to secure a tie-off point. On a Knudson mechanical seam roof, this approach creates immediate vulnerabilities:

• Breaching the Weather-Tight Seal: Every hole drilled into the panel is a permanent leak risk, inviting water ingress and internal corrosion.
• Voiding Manufacturer Warranties: Puncturing weather-tight panels typically voids the Knudson or material manufacturer's warranty, leaving building owners and contractors liable for catastrophic repair costs.
• Restricting Thermal Movement: Knudson systems expand and contract with changes in environmental temperature. Penetrating the panels can "pin" the panels, leading to buckling, seam failure, and structural fatigue.

The Solution: Non-Penetrating Seam Clamps

Non-penetrating, seam-mounted anchors provide an OSHA-compliant solution without the risk. These anchors clamp securely to the vertical ribs of profiles like the KR-24, preserving the system's weatherproofing while providing a 5,000-lb-certified tie-off point. This approach allows workers to navigate the roof safely.

Proper Attachment: Set Screws and Torque Requirements

The safety and holding power of your anchor depend on the proper application of the set screw. We provide specialized fastening options based on the material gauge produced by your Knudson machine:

• Cupped-Tip Stainless Steel Set Screws: Use these exclusively on 22-gauge steel panels—torque to 90 inch-pounds for a secure, non-destructive lock.
• Nylon-Tipped Set Screws: Compatible with 22 or 24-gauge steel. Torque to 180–200 inch-pounds to achieve full holding strength. Nylon tip screws are consumable fasteners. They provide a superior grip but will wear down over time. Replace nylon tips every 3-5 uses to ensure they maintain certified holding power.

CRITICAL WARNING: Never use an impact gun to install set screws. Over-torquing with an impact driver can crush the standing seam, damage the anchor hardware, and void the roof warranty. Always use a calibrated torque wrench for final set screw installation.

The SSRA Component System & Expansion Tools

The SSRA fall protection component system allows the SSRA1 to adapt to the various job site needs. Below are the core components used for Knudson roof profiles:

• SSRA1 Seam Anchor: The foundation of the system. This patented aluminum anchor provides a non-penetrating, 5,000-pound certified tie-off point. Its universal-fit design is compatible with nearly all Knudson mechanical and snap-seam profiles.
• SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: These adapters mount directly to the SSRA1 to support 10-foot wooden walk-boards. They are fully adjustable to match the roof pitch, providing a level, stable work surface.
• SSRA3 Anchor Plates: These heavy-duty plates connect two SSRA1 anchors across the panel field. They serve as the structural mounting interface for horizontal lifeline systems, providing safety for multiple users.
• 100-Foot SSRA Temporary HLL Kit: A complete, non-penetrating horizontal lifeline solution. This kit includes the SSRA1 anchors and SSRA3 plates necessary to set up a 100-foot safety line.
• 120-Foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit: For long-term facility maintenance, this kit provides a permanent horizontal safety installation using non-penetrating riser posts that clamp to the seams.
• The Ridge Pro Steep Assist: The premier "First-Man-Up" tool for steep-slope projects. For Knudson roofs with pitches between 6:12 and 12:12, the Ridge Pro hooks over the peak to provide a secure tie-off point. This device is the required choice for aluminum, copper, and lighter-gauge (26-gauge) panels.

Knudson KR-21 VP Varipan Mechanical Panel (SSRA Compatible — 22/24-Gauge Steel)

The Knudson KR-21 VP Varipan is a high-performance standing seam panel system engineered for maximum versatility in architectural roofing applications. These panels use advanced on-site or in-shop continuous roll-forming machinery, such as the New Tech SS Multipro, which enables precision manufacturing tailored to specific job-site requirements. The KR-21 VP Varipan produces a robust standing seam with a 38 mm (1.5 inches) height. The system offers exceptional flexibility, with adjustable widths ranging from 305 mm (12 inches) to 500 mm (20 inches). See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Knudson Manufacturing KR-21 VP Varipan Mechanical Standing Seam Panels.

The machinery handles a diverse range of substrates, including 22 or 24-gauge steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc, with material thicknesses spanning from 0.015 to 0.032 inches. The KR-21 VP Varipan is suitable for installation on wood- or steel-sloped decks with a minimum roof pitch of 2:12.

Fall Protection Strategy for KR-21 VP Varipan Panels

• For 22 and 24-Gauge Steel Substrates: The SSRA1 Seam Anchor provides a secure, non-penetrating attachment point by clamping tightly to the 1.5-inch panel seams. This device preserves the roof's weatherproof design while creating a certified tie-off location.
• Staging: When paired with the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter, the system supports 10-foot walkboards, enabling safe, stable movement for inspections or equipment installation.
• Lifelines: The SSRA3 Anchor Plate integrates with two SSRA1 anchors to create a structural mounting platform for temporary horizontal lifelines, such as the Malta Dynamics HLL3001. This assembly allows workers continuous tie-off across large roof areas, significantly enhancing job-site efficiency.
• Aluminum, Copper, or Light-Gauge Substrates: For materials other than 22/24-gauge steel, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is required. Designed for roof slopes between 6:12 and 12:12, this anchor hooks securely over the ridge, providing a non-penetrating 100% tie-off point.

Knudson KR-24 Mechanical Panel (SSRA Compatible — 22/24-Gauge Steel)

The Knudson KR-24 standing seam system sets the industry standard for roofing performance, engineered for maximum strength, adaptability, and precision. Manufactured using Knudson's advanced roll-forming technology, these panels feature a robust 2-inch flange profile designed to withstand the most demanding structural environments. With a high-speed production capacity of up to 100 feet per minute, the KR-24 system enables rapid, high-volume output for both in-shop and on-site applications. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Knudson Manufacturing KR-24 Mechanical Standing Seam Panels.

The KR-24 is compatible with a broad range of substrates, including steel (22-, 24-, and 26-gauge), aluminum (.0217" to .0336"), and copper (16 to 20 oz). The KR-24 is UL 90-certified, providing proven resistance against severe weather conditions and extreme wind uplift pressures.

The system offers options for both single-lock (90°) and double-lock (180°) mechanical seams, delivering superior aesthetic appeal alongside structural integrity for architectural and industrial projects.

Fall Protection Strategy for KR-24 Panels

• For 22 and 24-Gauge Steel Substrates: Utilize the SSRA1 Seam Anchor for an OSHA-compliant tie-off point that preserves weather-tight performance.
• Access: The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter supports stable staging for rooftop navigation.
• Commercial Lifelines: SSRA3 Anchor Plates work with the Malta Dynamics HLL3001 to ensure 100% tie-off across large roof fields.
• Light-Gauge Substrates: For softer metals or 26-gauge steel, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides ridge-mounted security for pitches between 6:12 and 12:12.

Knudson KR-18 Mechanical Panel (SSRA Compatible — 22/24-Gauge Steel)

The Knudson KR-18 (specifically the KR-18 Black) is engineered for robust performance and high-volume efficiency, serving as the premier choice for low-slope structural applications. Featuring a deep trapezoidal design with a 2.5-inch (63.5 mm) leg height, these panels offer exceptional load-bearing capacity and a distinctive architectural profile. With a standard 18-inch cover width and a maximum production speed of 90 feet per minute, the KR-18 system provides the versatility required for expansive industrial roofs and complex commercial builds. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Knudson Manufacturing KR-18 Mechanical Standing Seam Panels

Material Versatility: The KR-18 is compatible with various substrates, including steel (22-, 24-, and 26-gauge), aluminum (.024" to .032"), and copper (16 to 20 oz). The profile carries a UL90 certification, guaranteeing superior resistance to wind uplift and structural integrity under challenging weather conditions.

Fall Protection Strategy for KR-18 Panels

• For 22- and 24-Gauge Steel Substrates: The SSRA1 Seam Anchor provides a secure attachment to the 2.5-inch trapezoidal rib without damaging the watertight seal.
• Access: The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter integrates with SSRA1 anchors for safe navigation.
• Large Projects: The SSRA3 Anchor Plates work with HLL3001 systems for continuous tie-off.
• Steep Slopes: For alternative substrates, use the Ridge Pro Steep Assist for non-penetrating peak protection.

The Risks of Non-Certified Fall Protection

Choosing generic or non-certified fall protection hardware can introduce unforeseen challenges to your business. From a regulatory perspective, using equipment without verifiable third-party test data may complicate safety audits. Agencies like OSHA and ANSI increasingly require documentation confirming that equipment meets specific standards, such as OSHA 1926.502 and ANSI Z359. Without this, a firm may face citations that can significantly impact project timelines and operating costs.

Standing Seam Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For Knudson Manufacturing Panels

	KR-21 (22 Ga.)	KR-21 (24 Ga.)	KR-24 (22 Ga.)	KR-24 (24 Ga.)	KR-18 (22 Ga.)	KR-18 (24 Ga.)
SSRA 1	YES	NO	YES	NO	YES	NO
SSRA1 Nylon Tip	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
SSRA2 Roof Jack	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
SSRA3 Anchor Plate	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
The Ridge Pro	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 visit www.StandingSeamRoofAnchor.com. Explore OSHA's 48-page fall protection manual for more tips, or download our Anchor Inspection Form.

10 Pro Safety Tips for Standing Seam Roof Projects

1. Equip the Team with "Leading Edge" Rated SRLs: Traditional lanyards often fail on metal roofs because the sharp, vertical edges of standing seams can sever standard lifelines during a fall.
2. Prevent Seam Damage During Anchor Installation: Tighten set screws to exact torque specs to avoid crushing standing seams.
3. Treat Nylon Tips as Consumables: Replace nylon tips every 3 to 5 uses to maintain grip and certified holding power.
4. Factor "Dynamic Sag" into Fall Clearance: The elasticity of the rope and the length of the horizontal lifeline create a "sag" that can affect fall clearance calculations. Always add 2-3 feet of safety margin to your total fall distance calculation.
5. Implement a "Ground-to-Peak" Weather Protocol: Metal roofs become exponentially more dangerous when exposed to moisture. The "First Man Up" can utilize the Ridge Pro to reach the peak safely.
6. Equip All Harnesses with Trauma Relief Straps: When a worker remains suspended after a fall, the harness leg straps can trigger life-threatening suspension trauma in as little as five minutes. Pre-install trauma relief straps on every harness.
7. Allow for Thermal Expansion: Standing-seam panels can expand with temperature changes throughout the day. Utilize non-penetrating seam anchors that won't interfere with the natural movement of the panels.
8. Use Specialized Care for Softer Panel Materials: For Copper and Zinc, the Ridge Pro hooks over the roof peak to provide a secure anchor point for workers.
9. Avoid "Swing Fall" Situations: Working too far to the left or right of your anchor creates a "pendulum" effect that can swing a falling worker into a gable end or the ground. Mark your "Safe Zone" within a 30-degree arc of the anchor.
10. Secure the Ladder-to-Peak Transition: The most dangerous moment is the transition from the ladder onto the slick metal surface. Extend your ladder 3 feet above the eave and use a stabilizer.