Fall Protection For Metal Panels, Inc Roof Systems
Posted by Howie Scarboro - CEO Fall Protection Distributors, LLC on Jan 23rd 2026
See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Panels Inc. (MPI) Standing Seam Panels.
Who Is Metal Panels Inc. (MPI)?
Founded in 2001 by industry veteran Mitchell Hentkowski, Metal Panels Inc. (MPI) emerged as a solution to a common frustration: the lack of reliable, locally available metal roofing and trim products. With years of hands-on roofing experience, Mitchell recognized the need for faster, more accessible solutions in the metal construction market. This vision quickly gained traction as builders and contractors in the Tulsa area embraced MPI for its efficiency and commitment to quality.
This strategic expansion allows MPI to serve a broad market across seven states, including Northern Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, Southern Nebraska, and Iowa. MPI stands out for its customer-focused approach, emphasizing rapid turnaround times to minimize project delays while upholding strict quality standards. Their products meet top industry certifications, such as UL Class A fire resistance and Class IV impact ratings.
MPI Roofs Require Non-Penetrating Fall Protection
Preserving the weather-tight integrity of an MPI roof requires safety hardware that respects the pane design and thermal expansion requirements. Because MPI standing-seam roofs typically use concealed fasteners, traditional penetrating anchors are unsuitable. Standard anchors that puncture the metal compromise the weatherproof seal, leading to leaks, corrosion, and structural damage. To maintain the roof's longevity and warranty, contractors must use specialized, non-penetrating anchors that clamp to the standing seams or ridge without piercing the metal.
The SSRA1 Seam Anchor serves as the foundational component for a compliant safety strategy. Important Note: The SSRA1 is only compatible with non-curved steel panels (22-gauge and 24-gauge). For MPI steel projects, testing confirms that set screw selection must match the specific steel gauge to ensure maximum holding power:
- Cupped Tip Stainless Steel Set Screws: Use these exclusively for 22-gauge steel and torque to 90 inch-pounds.
- Nylon-Tipped Set Screws: Testing shows that nylon tips provide superior performance on lighter 24-gauge steel panels when torqued to 180–200 inch-pounds.
SSRA Expansion Adapters & Specialty Kits
For steel panel applications, the SSRA1 integrates with several modular adapters and kits to provide a complete fall protection solution:
- SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters: Mount directly to the anchors to hold 10-foot wooden walk-boards for stable footing on steep slopes.
- SSRA3 Anchor Plates: Connect two anchors to serve as structural endpoints for horizontal lifelines.
- 100-foot SSRA Horizontal Lifeline Kit: Allows two workers to move the entire length of the roof while remaining 100 percent tied off on short-term projects.
- 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit: This kit provides a long-term, non-penetrating maintenance solution. It uses 5-inch riser posts that attach to the standing seams with specialized clamps, providing a permanent lifeline system that does not void the roof's warranty.
- The Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor: This is the industry's premier "First-Man-Up" tool. The Ridge Pro is a ridge-mounted, non-penetrative anchor that hooks securely over the roof peak. It allows a worker to safely transition from a ladder to the peak while maintaining a 100 percent tie-off. It is for pitches between 6:12 and 12:12. It is the mandatory solution for 26-gauge steel, aluminum, or nailstrip panels where seam clamping is prohibited.
MPI LF2A Mechanical Standing Seam (SSRA Compatible — 22/24-Gauge Steel)
The LF2A is a robust choice for architectural and structural roofing applications. Featuring a 2-inch tall lock-forming rib, this mechanically seamed system is ideal for installation over open purlins or solid decks, delivering enhanced strength and wind-uplift resistance. It is available in 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel with coverage widths of 16 or 18 inches. The minimum recommended slope is 0.5:12. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Panels Inc. (MPI) 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge LF2A Mechanical Standing Seam Panels. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Panels Inc. (MPI) 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge LF2A Mechanical Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for LF2A Panels
- Steel Substrates (22/24-Gauge): SSRA1 Seam Anchor (Cupped Tip for 22-gauge; Nylon-Tipped for 24-gauge), SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, 100-foot SSRA Horizontal Lifeline Kit, 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit, and The Ridge Pro Steep Assist (For steep slopes/First-Man-Up).
- The Ridge Pro Steep Assist is an excellent alternative anchoring system for steep metal roofs.
MPI Cee-Lock Snaplock Panels (SSRA Compatible — 22/24-Gauge Steel)
The Cee-Lock is an architectural standing seam panel featuring a 1.5-inch tall seam. Manufactured in 22-, 24-, 26-, and 29-gauge steel, its strength makes it a popular choice for regions with demanding weather. It holds certifications including UL 580 and UL 90 wind uplift, UL fire resistance, and Class IV hail resistance. Its engineering meets approvals from Florida Product Approval, Miami-Dade, and the Texas Department of Insurance. It is available in 11.5-inch or 16.5-inch coverage options. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Panels Inc. (MPI) 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge Cee-Lock Snaplock Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for Cee-Lock Panels
- For 22/24-Gauge Steel: SSRA1 Seam Anchor (Nylon-Tipped Set Screws for 24-gauge), SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, 100-foot SSRA Horizontal Lifeline Kit, 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit, and The Ridge Pro Steep Assist.
- For 26- or 29-gauge steel: The Ridge Pro Steep Assist.
MPI TS-324 Mechanical Trapezoidal (SSRA Compatible — 22/24-Gauge Steel)
The TS-324 is a large-format structural trapezoidal standing seam system with a 3-inch-tall rib. It is for industrial and commercial buildings where extreme durability and low-slope performance are critical. It is primarily available in 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel with a 24-inch coverage. The system offers multiple seaming options, including RollLok®, TripleLok®, and QuadLok®. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Panels Inc. (MPI) 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge TS-324 Mechanical Trapezoidal Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for TS-324 Panels
- Standard Compatibility (22/24-Gauge Steel): SSRA1 Seam Anchor (Nylon-Tipped Set Screws for 24-gauge), SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, 100-foot SSRA Horizontal Lifeline Kit, 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit, and The Ridge Pro Steep Assist.
MPI Zee-Lock Mechanical Seam (SSRA Compatible — 22/24-Gauge Steel)
The Zee-Lock panel is a versatile system with a 2-inch tall mechanically seamed side lap, providing exceptional durability and weather resistance. Available in 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel, it is for slopes as low as 1:12. It can be field-curved to a minimum radius of 20 feet, making it a reliable choice for high-wind areas. It holds UL 90 wind uplift, UL fire resistance, ASTM air and water resistance, and Class IV hail resistance ratings. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Panels Inc. (MPI) 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge Zee-Lock Mechanical Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for Zee-Lock Panels
- Steel Substrates (22/24-Gauge): SSRA1 Seam Anchor (Nylon-Tipped Set Screws for 24-gauge), SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, 100-foot SSRA Horizontal Lifeline Kit, 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit, and The Ridge Pro Steep Assist.
- Curved or Non-Steel Panels: The Ridge Pro Steep Assist. Note: A qualified safety professional must perform a mandatory on-site inspection of field-curved panels before the safety manager chooses a fall protection strategy.
MPI LF15 Mechanical Standing Seam (SSRA Compatible — 24-Gauge Steel)
The LF15 is an architectural panel featuring 1.5-inch-tall mechanical standing seams. It is typically installed over a solid deck but can span closely spaced open purlins. The system allows mechanical field seaming at 90° or 180°, depending on the project's specific uplift requirements. Available in 24- and 26-gauge steel, it offers coverage widths of 16, 18, and 20 inches for 24-gauge material. The minimum recommended slope for this profile is 1:12. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Panels Inc. (MPI) LF15 Mechanical Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for LF15 Panels
- Steel Substrates (24-Gauge): SSRA1 Seam Anchor (Required: Nylon-Tipped Set Screws for 24-gauge), SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, 100-foot SSRA Horizontal Lifeline Kit, 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit, and The Ridge Pro Steep Assist.
- For 26-Gauge Steel: The Ridge Pro Steep Assist (Recommended for slopes 6:12 to 12:12).
MPI SL15 Snaplock Panels (SSRA Compatible — 24-Gauge Steel)
The SL15 Snaplock panel combines a sleek architectural design with functional durability. Featuring a 1.5-inch-tall standing seam, this snaplock panel is easy to install over a solid deck. It is available in 26-gauge and 24-gauge steel with coverage options of 16 inches (26-gauge) or 12, 16, and 18 inches (24-gauge). The minimum recommended slope is 3:12. Each panel is UL Class A fire-rated and UL Class IV impact-rated, providing robust resistance to fire and hail. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Panels Inc. (MPI) SL15 Snaplock Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for SL15 Panels
- For 24-Gauge Steel Panels: SSRA1 Seam Anchor (Required: Nylon-Tipped Set Screws at 180–200 in-lbs), SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, 100-foot SSRA Horizontal Lifeline Kit, 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit, and The Ridge Pro Steep Assist (Mandatory First-Man-Up tool for steep slopes).
- For 26-Gauge Steel Panels: The Ridge Pro Steep Assist (Only recommended solution).
MPI SL175 Snaplock Panels (SSRA Compatible — 24-Gauge Steel)
The SL175 is an architectural snaplock panel with a 1.75-inch-tall vertical rib. Designed for both strength and ease of installation, this system provides a modern profile for high-end residential and commercial projects. MPI manufactures the panels from 24-gauge and 26-gauge steel in 14-inch, 16-inch, and 18-inch widths. The minimum recommended pitch is 2:12. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Panels Inc. (MPI) SL175 Snaplock Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for SL175 Panels
- Standard Compatibility (24-Gauge Steel): SSRA1 Seam Anchor (Nylon-Tipped Set Screws at 180–200 in-lbs), SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, 100-foot SSRA Horizontal Lifeline Kit, 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit, and The Ridge Pro Steep Assist for 26-gauge versions.
MPI FF1 Nailstrip Panels (Ridge Pro Only)
The FF1 panel is a specialized roofing solution featuring a 1-inch tall standing seam with a nailstrip (fastener flange) design. It uses a pancake fastener that secures through the flange, eliminating the need for separate clips. MPI offers coverage widths of 12, 16, and 18 inches for 24-gauge steel and a standard 16-inch width for 26-gauge steel. MPI recommends a minimum slope of 3:12 for optimal performance. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Panels Inc. (MPI) FF1 Nailstrip Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for FF1 Panels
- Compatible Products: The Ridge Pro Steep Assist (recommended as the only non-penetrating solution).
- Nailstrip Compatibility Warning: Standard seam-mounted anchors (SSRA1, SSRA2, SSRA3, and HLL kits) are not compatible with FF1 nailstrip panels. The Ridge Pro provides the only secure tie-off that preserves the weather-tight seal and structural integrity.
MPI Tee-Panel Batten System (Ridge Pro Only)
The Tee-Panel is an architectural system that utilizes a separate batten strip (Tee cap) over the seams. Designed for installation over a solid substrate with a minimum 1:12 roof pitch, it is an excellent choice for radius, tapered, and curved conditions. While visually striking, the batten cap snaps over the base clips and is not a structural clamping surface. MPI constructs this panel from 24-gauge steel with a 1-inch seam height and a 12.75-inch panel width. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Panels Inc. (MPI) Tee-Panel Batten Standing Seam Panels
Fall Protection Strategy for Tee-Panel
- Compatible Products: The Ridge Pro Steep Assist (recommended as the only non-penetrative solution).
- Seam Clamping Warning: SSRA1, SSRA2, SSRA3, and all HLL kits are not compatible with the Tee-Panel, as clamping will crush the architectural batten and compromise the weather-tight seal.
- Curved Applications: Because curving is a popular option for the Tee-Panel, a qualified safety professional must perform a mandatory on-site inspection of curved or radius Tee-Panel roofs before the safety manager determines a final fall protection plan.
Shielding Your Firm from Liability: The Risk of Generic Hardware
An MPI roofing system represents a high-end engineering investment; your fall protection hardware should mirror that level of professionalism. Utilizing unbranded, imported, or generic anchors creates a massive legal vulnerability for your business. Regulatory inspectors are increasingly seeking safety equipment that includes verifiable third-party test data.
Failing to provide documentation of compliance with OSHA 1926.502 and ANSI standards can result in immediate site shutdowns and "Willful Violation" penalties that often exceed $100,000. Beyond the fines, these incidents damage your safety rating and bonding capacity. If a roof anchor lacks a third-party paper trail, domestic technical support staff, or certified test reports, it is an unacceptable liability that has no place on an MPI job site.
Standing Seam Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For Metal Panels Inc
| LF2A (22 Ga.) | Cee-Lock (22 Ga.) | TS-324 (22 Ga.) | Zee-Lock (22 Ga.) | FF1 Nailstrip | Tee-Panel Batten | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SSRA 1 |
YES | YES | YES | YES | NO | NO |
SSRA1 Nylon Tip |
YES | YES | YES | YES | NO | NO |
SSRA2 Roof Jack |
YES | YES | YES | YES | NO | NO |
SSRA3 Anchor Plate |
YES | YES | YES | YES | NO | NO |
The Ridge Pro |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
Standing Seam Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For Metal Panels Inc Cont.
| LF2A (24 Ga.) | Cee-Lock (24 Ga.) | TS-324 (24 Ga.) | Zee-Lock (24 Ga.) | LF15 (24 Ga.) | SL15 (24 Ga.) | SL175 (24 Ga.) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SSRA 1 |
NO | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO |
| SSRA1 Nylon Tip |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| SSRA2 Roof Jack |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| SSRA3 Anchor Plate |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| The Ridge Pro |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
Contact the Experts in Metal Roof Safety
To select the correct fall protection system for your specific MPI profile, contact our specialists today at 863-703-4522 or visit www.StandingSeamRoofAnchor.com. We are here to help you protect both your workers and your roof's warranty. For more information, you can download OSHA's 48-page Fall Protection Manual and our Anchor Inspection Form.
10 Essential Safety Rules for MPI Roofing Projects
- Protect First-Man-Up Workers: On pitches between 6:12 and 12:12, the first worker must use The Ridge Pro to ascend the roof safely while remaining tied off.
- Conduct Daily Torque Verification: Users must verify set-screw torque before each attachment to confirm that anchors meet specifications.
- Eliminate Clip-Location Guesswork: The SSRA1 locks directly to the seam, providing a certified 5,000-pound anchor point regardless of hidden clip placement.
- Demand Documentation: Never install an anchor that lacks a verifiable third-party test report. Uncertified hardware is a $100,000 liability risk.
- Control the Swing Zone: To avoid pendulum falls, limit the work area to a 30-degree arc from the anchor point.
- Respect Thermal Movement: Only use non-penetrating clamps that allow MPI panels to expand and contract naturally, preventing buckling or "oil-canning."
- Stainless Steel Fastening Only: To prevent galvanic corrosion, ensure you use only Stainless Steel set screws on steel panels.
- Equip for Self-Rescue: Every harness must include trauma relief straps to prevent suspension trauma while awaiting rescue teams.
- Gauge-Specific Fastening: Testing proves that Nylon-Tipped Set Screws (180–200 in-lbs) provide superior performance on 24-gauge steel, while Cupped Tip Screws (90 in-lbs) are for 22-gauge steel.
- Curved Surface Protocol: A qualified safety professional must perform a mandatory on-site inspection of field-curved panels before the safety manager chooses a fall protection strategy.
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.