Fall Protection For Metal Roofing Systems Panels

Fall Protection For Metal Roofing Systems Panels

Posted by Howie Scarboro - CEO Fall Protection Distributors, LLC on Aug 16th 2024

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Roofing Systems (MRS) Standing Seam Panels.

Metal Roofing Sytems company logo. Image courtesy of www.MetalRoofingSystems.com.

Who Is Metal Roofing Systems?

Metal Roofing Systems (MRS) has become a significant player in the metal roofing industry since its founding in 2001. Established by high school classmates Jerod Lutz, Brian Thompson, and Gavin Seale, MRS quickly became known for delivering high-quality metal roofing and panel products with a strong emphasis on customer service. The company's mission has always been to help customers achieve success in their projects by offering top-tier products and exceptional support services, ensuring projects are completed "faster, better, and smarter."

MRS operates multiple manufacturing facilities across North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Mississippi, and Florida. These facilities are equipped with fixed machines in controlled environments, allowing MRS to produce various panel profiles in materials such as Galvalume, Aluminum, Galvanized Steel, Copper, Lead, and Stainless Steel.

What Are The Most Compatible Fall Protection Anchors For Metal Roofing Systems Standing Seam Roofs?

Safety is paramount when working on standing seam roofs.  Standing seam panels require specialized fall protection systems to keep workers safe during installation and maintenance. Standing seam roof systems eliminate the need for panel penetrations, ensuring superior water tightness and reducing the risk of leaks.

For this reason, specialized fall protection anchors for standing seam roofs are essential. These anchors typically clamp onto the seams of the panels without penetrating the metal, ensuring that the roof remains intact while providing a secure tie-off point for workers. The choice of  fall protection anchors must be compatible with the specific panel profile and material used, which is why selecting the right system is crucial for the safety and longevity of the roof. Let's research each standing seam panel produced by Metal Roofing Systems and identify the best fall protection anchorage for each.

MRS 3000

MRS 3000 Panel Information

Metal Roofing Sytems MRS 3000 panel. Image courtesy of www.MetalRoofingSystems.com.

The MRS 3000 panel is a versatile, mechanically seamed metal roofing option, ideal for low-slope applications. It can be crafted from 22-gauge or 24-gauge steel, .032 or .040 aluminum, and copper, making it adaptable to various architectural needs. The MRS 3000 panel stands out for its ability to radius or taper, which is particularly beneficial for complex roof designs. It meets rigorous standards, including UL 580 (Class 90 Rated) and ASTM 1592, 1646, 1680, and 2140, ensuring exceptional durability and performance. The panel can be installed over solid substrates and open framing, offering flexibility in installation methods. Individual panels can be removed or replaced without damaging adjacent panels, a valuable feature for long-term maintenance. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Roofing Systems MRS 3000 Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection For MRS 3000 Panels

Many MRS 3000 panels are on a radius roof. Therefore, they need a trained safety professional to inspect them before installing fall protection anchorage. Radius roofs require specialized fall protection systems and in-person inspections by trained safety professionals.

For straight installations of the MRS 3000 panels made from 22 or 24-gauge steel, SSRA products are fully compatible and provide an effective, non-penetrating fall protection solution.

SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor: This anchor securely attaches to the standing seam without penetrating the roofing material, providing a reliable tie-off point for workers. Its non-penetrating design preserves the roof's integrity while ensuring worker safety.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: This adapter works with the SSRA1 anchor to support walk boards, allowing for safe access during installation or maintenance without penetrating the panels.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates: Designed to be used with the SSRA1 anchors, these plates create a secure mounting platform for horizontal lifeline systems (HLL). They ensure workers can move safely across the roof while staying tied off without compromising the roof structure.

For aluminum and copper versions of the MRS 3000 panel, the  Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the best option for roof pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. This non-penetrating solution hooks securely over the roof peak, offering a dependable tie-off point that allows workers to maintain 100% tie-off while preserving the roofing system's integrity.

By integrating these fall protection solutions, contractors can ensure that workers remain safe while the roof's structural integrity is maintained, whether the panels are installed straight or curved.

Nailstrip

Nailstrip Panel Information

Metal Roofing Sytems Nailstrip panel. Image courtesy of www.MetalRoofingSystems.com.

The Nailstrip panel is a popular choice for light commercial or residential applications due to its ease of installation and sleek appearance. This concealed fastener panel system features snap-together seams, eliminating the need for clips and special tools during installation. The Nailstrip panels are available in 1" and 1.5" seam heights. They can be fabricated from materials such as Galvalume (in 22 or 24-gauge), aluminum (.032, .040, .050), and copper (16 & 20 oz). See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Roofing Systems Nailstrip Standing Seam Panels.

The panels are available in widths from 12" to 16". The minimum roof pitch for Nailstrip panels is 3:12, and the recommended underlayment includes Ice & Water Shield or Synthetic Underlayment. The panels are finished with a durable Kynar 500 (Fluoropolymer PVDF Coating), ensuring long-lasting protection and aesthetic appeal.

Fall Protection For Nailstrip Roofs

For Nailstrip panels made from 22 or 24-gauge steel, SSRA products are fully compatible and provide a comprehensive fall protection solution that avoids penetrating the panels.

SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor: This non-penetrating anchor securely attaches to the Nailstrip's standing seams, providing a reliable anchor point that preserves the roof's integrity.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: This adapter allows walk boards to be installed securely on the roof without penetrating the panels, enhancing worker safety during installation or maintenance tasks.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates: When used with SSRA1 anchors, these plates provide a secure platform for horizontal lifeline systems, allowing workers to move safely across the roof while remaining tied off.

For aluminum and copper versions of the Nailstrip panel, the  Ridge Pro Steep Assist is perfect for roof pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. This solution hooks over the roof peak, providing a secure tie-off point that ensures worker safety without compromising the roofing system's structure.

These fall protection solutions help maintain worker safety while ensuring the longevity and integrity of the Nailstrip roofing system.

Tee Panel – 1" Snap Lock

Tee Panel Information

Metal Roofing Sytems Tee Panel. Image courtesy of www.MetalRoofingSystems.com.

The Tee Panel is a versatile metal roofing solution, ideal for roofing, mansard, and fascia applications. Designed to be installed over a solid substrate with a minimum roof pitch of 3:12, this panel offers flexibility in design, especially for radius and tapered conditions. The Tee Panel is available in various materials, including Galvalume in 22 and 24-gauge, aluminum (.032, .040, .050), and copper (16 & 20 oz). With widths ranging from 12" to 20", the Tee Panel is customizable to meet specific project needs. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Roofing Systems Tee Panel – 1 inch Snap Lock Standing Seam Panels.

The panel options include Striations (recommended for added strength), Stress Ribs, and the capability to be curved or radiused. The Tee Panel is finished with a durable Kynar 500 (Fluoropolymer PVDF Coating) to ensure long-lasting performance and aesthetic appeal.

Fall Protection For Tee Panel Roofs

When installing fall protection on Tee Panel roofs, it's essential to consider the specific needs of straight and curved applications. For straight panels made from 22 or 24-gauge steel, the SSRA product line offers a robust solution.

SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor: This anchor attaches securely to the standing seam without penetrating the roofing material, ensuring a reliable anchor point that maintains the roof's integrity.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: When used with the SSRA1 anchor, this adapter allows for the safe installation of walk boards, providing workers with a stable platform to conduct their tasks.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates: These plates work with SSRA1 anchors to create secure mounting points for horizontal lifeline systems, allowing workers to move across the roof safely while remaining tied off.

However, additional precautions are necessary for curved or radiused Tee Panel roofs. Given the unique challenges of installing fall protection on curved surfaces, it is crucial to have a trained safety professional conduct a thorough site inspection. This professional should determine the most suitable fall protection system for the specific conditions of the radius roof.

The Ridge Pro Steep Assist works great with roof pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12 for aluminum and copper versions of the Tee Panel. This non-penetrating solution hooks over the roof peak, offering a dependable tie-off point that preserves the roofing system's integrity while ensuring worker safety.

MRS 1000 – 1.5" Snap Lock

MRS 1000 Panel Information

Metal Roofing Sytems MRS 1000 panel. Image courtesy of www.MetalRoofingSystems.com.

The MRS 1000 panel is a snap-lock architectural metal roof system that combines installation efficiency with weathertight protection. It is available in 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel, aluminum, or copper, in 12" and 20" widths, and requires a minimal roof pitch of 3:12. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Roofing Systems MRS 1000 – 1.5 inch Snap Lock Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection For MRS 1000 Panels

For MRS 1000 panels made from 22 or 24-gauge steel, the SSRA products offer a comprehensive fall protection solution that avoids penetrating the panels.

SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor: This anchor securely attaches to the MRS 1000's standing seams, providing a reliable anchor point that preserves the roof's integrity while ensuring worker safety.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: This adapter works with the SSRA1 anchor to safely support walkboards, allowing workers to conduct installation or maintenance tasks without penetrating the roof.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates: Used with SSRA1 anchors, these plates provide secure mounting points for horizontal lifeline systems, ensuring workers can move safely across the roof while remaining tied off.

For aluminum and copper versions of the MRS 1000 panel, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the best alternative anchor for roof pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. This non-penetrating anchor hooks over the roof peak, offering a secure tie-off point that maintains the structural integrity of the roofing system.

MRS 1500 – 1.5" Mechanical Lock

MRS 1500 Panel Information

Metal Roofing Sytems MRS 1500 panel. Image courtesy of www.MetalRoofingSystems.com.

The MRS 1500 panel is a 1.5-inch mechanically seamed metal roof system designed to offer the aesthetics of a historical field-formed roof panel while meeting modern performance standards. This panel is particularly effective in low-slope roof conditions. It can handle high wind loads, making it suitable for challenging environments. One of the most popular features of the MRS 1500 panel is its various seam styles: 90° (Single Lock) and 180° (Double Lock), using a mechanical field seamer. Additionally, this panel is designed for radius roof conditions, offering flexibility in architectural design. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Roofing Systems MRS 1000 – 1.5 inch Snap Lock Standing Seam Panels.

Available in various materials, including Galvalume (22, 24 gauge), aluminum (.032, .040, .050), and copper (16 & 20 oz), in 12" and 20" panel widths. Panel options include Striations (recommended for added strength), Stress Ribs, and Curved/Radius. Flat panels are generally not recommended due to the risk of oil canning.

Fall Protection For MRS 1500 Panels

Regarding fall protection for MRS 1500 panels, the approach depends on whether the panel is straight or curved. For straight panels made from 22 or 24-gauge steel, the SSRA product line offers a non-penetrating solution.

SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor: This anchor securely attaches to the MRS 1500's seams without penetrating the metal, providing a robust anchor point that preserves the roof's integrity.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: When used with the SSRA1 anchor, this adapter facilitates the safe installation of walk boards, ensuring a stable working platform without compromising the roof's structure.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates: These plates work with the SSRA1 anchors to create secure mounting points for horizontal lifeline systems, allowing workers to move safely across the roof while staying tied off.

Additional precautions are necessary for MRS 1500 panels installed on curved or radiused surfaces. Since curved roofs pose unique challenges, it's essential to have a trained safety professional conduct a thorough site inspection. This expert should assess the roof's conditions and determine the most appropriate fall protection measures.

For aluminum and copper versions of the MRS 1500 panel, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is perfect for roofs with pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. This anchor system hooks over the roof peak, providing a non-penetrating tie-off point that maintains the integrity of the roofing material while ensuring worker safety.

MRS 2000 – 1.75" Snap Lock

MRS 2000 Panel Information

Metal Roofing Sytems MRS 2000 panel. Image courtesy of www.MetalRoofingSystems.com.

The MRS 2000 panel is a 1.75-inch integral snap-lock metal roof system designed for structural applications. This panel offers a weathertight joint without needing a mechanical seamer, making installation more efficient while ensuring long-term protection against the elements. Known for its excellent structural spanning capabilities, the MRS 2000 panel is ideal for projects requiring both strength and ease of installation. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Roofing Systems MRS 2000 – 1.75 inch Snap Lock Standing Seam Panels.

Available in materials such as Galvalume (22, 24 gauge), aluminum (.032, .040), and copper (16 oz), with panel widths of 12" to 18". Panel options include Striations (recommended for added strength), Flat, and Stress Ribs. The panel is finished with a durable Kynar 500 (Fluoropolymer PVDF Coating), ensuring it meets harsh environmental conditions.

Fall Protection For MRS 2000 Panels

For MRS 2000 panels made from 22 or 24-gauge steel, the SSRA product line offers a complete, non-penetrating fall protection solution.

SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor: This anchor clamps securely onto the MRS 2000's seams without penetrating the metal, offering a reliable anchor point that preserves the roof's integrity.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: When paired with the SSRA1 anchor, this adapter enables the safe installation of walk boards, providing a stable platform for workers during installation or maintenance.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates: These plates, used with SSRA1 anchors, create secure attachment points for horizontal lifeline systems, ensuring workers can move safely across the roof.

For aluminum and copper versions of the MRS 2000 panel, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is best for roof pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. This non-penetrating anchor system hooks over the roof peak, providing a secure tie-off point that maintains the roof's structural integrity while ensuring the safety of those working on it.

These tailored fall protection solutions help ensure that workers remain safe and that the roofing system retains its structural integrity, whether the panels are straight or curved.

MRS 2500 – 2" Mechanical Lock

MRS 2500 Panel Information

Metal Roofing Sytems MRS 2500 panel. Image courtesy of www.MetalRoofingSystems.com.

The MRS 2500 panel is a robust 2-inch mechanically seamed structural metal roof system designed to perform exceptionally well in both high wind load and low slope conditions. This panel is known for its superior structural spanning capabilities, making it an ideal choice for projects where strength and durability are paramount. The MRS 2500 panel is versatile, offering installation options with 90° (Single Lock) and 180° (Double Lock) seam styles, requiring a mechanical field seamer. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Roofing Systems MRS 2500 – 2 inch Mechanical Lock Standing Seam Panels.

It is particularly well-suited for radius roof applications, providing flexibility in architectural design. It is available in a variety of materials, including Galvalume (22, 24 gauge), aluminum (.032, .040, .050), and copper (16 & 20 oz). The MRS 2500 is available in 12" to 20" widths. Panel options include Striations (recommended for added strength), Stress Ribs, and Curved/Radius. Flat panels are generally not recommended due to the potential for oil canning.

Fall Protection For MRS 2500 Panels

For straight sections of MRS 2500 panels made from 22 or 24-gauge steel, the SSRA product line offers a complete non-penetrating fall protection solution.

SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor: This anchor attaches securely to the MRS 2500's seams without penetrating the metal, providing a reliable and non-invasive anchor point for fall protection.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: Used in conjunction with the SSRA1, this adapter supports the installation of walk boards, creating a safe and stable working platform.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates: These plates, when paired with SSRA1 anchors, allow for the installation of horizontal lifeline systems, enabling workers to move across the roof safely.

A specialized approach is necessary for curved or radiused installations of the MRS 2500 panel. Since curved roofs present unique challenges, it is crucial to have a trained safety professional conduct a site inspection to determine the most appropriate fall protection measures. This assessment ensures that the fall protection system is tailored to the specific conditions of the roof, providing maximum safety without compromising the roof's integrity.

For aluminum and copper versions of the MRS 2500 panel, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is compatible with 6/12 to 12/12 pitched roofs. This anchor system provides a secure, non-penetrating tie-off point by hooking over the roof peak, making it an ideal solution for ensuring worker safety while maintaining the structural integrity of the roofing material.

MRS 3500 – 2" Mechanical Lock

MRS 3500 Panel Information

Metal Roofing Sytems MRS 3500 panel. Image courtesy of www.MetalRoofingSystems.com.

The MRS 3500 panel is a high-performance 2-inch mechanically seamed metal roof system designed for demanding applications, particularly in low slope conditions. This panel offers excellent structural spanning capabilities and can handle high wind loads, making it a reliable choice for commercial and industrial projects. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metal Roofing Systems MRS 3500 – 2" Mechanical Lock Standing Seam Panels.

The panel's design also accommodates radius and tapered profiles, providing versatility in architectural applications. Available in 22 and 24-gauge steel, as well as .032 and .040 aluminum and copper, the MRS 3500 panel comes in widths ranging from 12" to 20". The panel meets stringent standards, including UL 580 Class 90 and ASTM 1592, 1646, 1680, and 2140.

Fall Protection For MRS 3500 Panels

For straight sections of the MRS 3500 panel made from 22 or 24-gauge steel, the SSRA product line provides comprehensive, non-penetrating fall protection solutions.

SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor: This anchor securely clamps onto the MRS 3500's seams without penetrating the metal, creating a reliable anchor point for fall protection without compromising the roof's structure.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: When used with the SSRA1 anchor, this adapter allows for the safe installation of walkboards and provides a stable working platform for roofing projects.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates: These plates, used alongside SSRA1 anchors, support horizontal lifeline systems, ensuring workers can navigate the roof safely while remaining tied off.

Specialized fall protection considerations are required for curved or radiused sections of the MRS 3500 panel. Curved roofs pose unique challenges, and it is essential to have a trained safety professional conduct a site inspection to develop a tailored fall protection strategy.

For aluminum and copper versions of the MRS 3500 panel, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is best for roof pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. This non-penetrating anchor system hooks over the roof peak, offering a secure tie-off point that preserves the roofing material's integrity while ensuring the safety of workers during installation or maintenance.

Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility Chart For Metal Roofing Systems (MRS)

Metal Roofing Systems (MRS)

MRS 3000
22-24 Ga.

Nailstrip Panel
22-24 Ga.

Tee Panel
22-24 Ga.

MRS 1000
22-24 Ga.

MRS 1500
22-24 Ga.

MRS 2000
22-24 Ga.

MRS 2500
22-24 Ga.

MRS 3500
22-24 Ga.

SSRA 1

SSRA_1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

SSRA1 Nylon Tip

SSRA_1 Anchor Nylon Tip Standing Seam Roof Anchor

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

SSRA2 Roof Jack

SSRA_2 Roof Jack Adapter

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

SSRA3 Anchor Plate

SSRA_3 Anchor Plate

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

The Ridge Pro

Ridge Pro Roof Anchor

YES YES 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  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 free Anchor Inspection Form

Safety Guidelines for Standing Seam Roofs

Implement Permanent Roof Anchor Systems

To enhance long-term safety, consider installing permanent roof anchor systems that remain in place for future roofing work and inspections. These solutions provide ongoing protection and improve safety during subsequent maintenance tasks.

Ensure Stable Access Points

Properly set up ladders and scaffolding, ensuring they are free from obstacles. Workers should receive comprehensive ladder safety training that complies with OSHA regulations, including the 4-to-1 rule for ladder positioning, to ensure stability and safety.

Wear Appropriate Footwear

Workers should wear non-slip footwear, especially on smooth metal roofing surfaces. It's crucial to avoid working on wet roofs, as proper footwear can greatly enhance stability and decrease the risk of slips and falls.

Utilize Specialized Roof Anchor Systems

Use anchor systems designed specifically for standing seam roofs. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for correct sizing, installation, and seam placement. Avoid using seam anchors that require workers to install them over clips, as locating clips on existing roofs can be difficult.

Encourage Regular Use of Trauma Straps

Promote using trauma straps with harnesses, and ensure workers receive regular training on their correct application. Trauma straps are critical in reducing the risk of suspension trauma and related injuries following a fall.

Establish OSHA-Compliant Safety Plans

Before starting any work, the safety manager or project leader should develop a comprehensive safety plan that meets OSHA standards. This plan should include a detailed rescue strategy to ensure worker safety during emergencies.

Secure Work Areas with Protective Barriers

Install guardrails, warning lines, or other protective barriers on low-slope roofs to establish secure work areas. These measures help define safe zones and reduce the likelihood of falls, contributing to a safer work environment.

Take Precautions for Curved Metal Panels

Avoid using seam-mounted anchors when working with curved metal panel systems. Engage a trained safety professional to conduct site inspections and create a safety plan tailored to the specific challenges of curved surfaces.

Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear

Provide workers with high-quality full-body harnesses and shock-absorbing lanyards. These essential safety items can significantly lessen the impact force during a fall, reducing the risk of serious injuries or fatalities.

Foster a Safety-First Workplace Culture

Conduct regular equipment inspections and ongoing safety training sessions to cultivate a strong safety culture. Emphasizing safety helps maintain high standards and significantly reduces the likelihood of accidents on the job.

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.

Howie Scarboro, C.E.O. and co-founder of Fall Protection Distributors, L.L.C., recognized the need for continued improvements in roofing safety during the 2010 MetalCon show in Las Vegas. He joined forces with SnoBlox-Snojax, a leader in snow retention and seam clamping technology for metal roofs, to create the SSRA1 prototype. Tested by Gravitec for OSHA/ANSI certifications, the SSRA1 proved to be the industry's lightest, most robust, and most universal-fit anchor point for standing seam roofs. Fall Protection Distributors, L.L.C. was born in 2015, shaping the future of fall protection and instilling confidence in the industry.