Fall Protection For Metl-Span Standing Seam Roofs

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metl-Span Standing Seam Panels.

Who Is Metl-Span?

Metl-Span, now part of Nucor Corporation, has been a leader in the insulated metal panel industry since its inception in 1968. Over the past five decades, Metl-Span has consistently innovated in the research, design, production, and sales of top-notch insulated metal panels and building materials. In 2021, Metl-Span joined the Nucor family following Nucor's acquisition of Cornerstone Building Brands' insulated metal panels business, which included Metl-Span and CENTRIA. This merger resulted in the creation of Nucor's Insulated Panel Group, further enhancing their product offerings with the inclusion of TrueCore.

Today, Metl-Span is a premier North American manufacturer of insulated metal panels for commercial and industrial uses. Their commitment to quality and innovation has made them a go-to provider for high-performance building envelope solutions. With eight manufacturing facilities across the United States and Canada, Metl-Span efficiently produces and distributes various products, maintaining a strong focus on customer service. This dedication to excellence has earned them the trust of architects, designers, and builders in the architectural, commercial, and industrial sectors. Their product line, which includes CFR-insulated metal panels, is renowned for its superior insulation properties and energy efficiency, making it a top choice for various building types.

What Is The Most Compatible Fall Protection For Metl-Span CFR Roofs?

Selecting the appropriate fall protection for Metl-Span CFR roofs is vital for safeguarding worker safety and preserving the structural integrity of the roofing system. Proper fall protection ensures that workers can carry out their tasks securely and efficiently, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing overall productivity. This article provides comprehensive information on the most compatible fall protection products for CFR panels, aiming to educate contractors, building owners, and safety managers about the best practices and equipment to use.

Metl-Span's CFR panels are efficient and durable. However, they require specialized fall protection solutions to ensure a safe working environment. Understanding the unique characteristics of CFR panels and the specific requirements for fall protection is essential for maintaining worker safety and the roof's longevity.

You can significantly mitigate the risks associated with working at heights by choosing the proper fall protection equipment, such as the SSRA1, SSRA2, and SSRA3 products, along with the Ridge Pro Steep Assist. These products work seamlessly with the 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel panels of Metl-Span's CFR roofing system. The SSRA products offer secure anchorage without penetrating the roof, preserving its integrity while providing reliable fall protection. The Ridge Pro Steep Assist is particularly suitable for steep slopes, offering a secure attachment point and ensuring worker safety on inclined surfaces.

Implementing these recommended fall protection systems not only protects workers but also helps maintain the performance and lifespan of the roofing system. Ensuring that the proper safety measures are in place can prevent costly damage and repairs and, more importantly, save lives. This article serves as a guide to help you make informed decisions about fall protection, emphasizing the importance of using compatible and high-quality equipment for Metl-Span CFR roofs.

CFR Insulated Panels

Metl-Span's CFR insulated metal roof panel is an innovative composite panel that combines robust interior and exterior faces with a foam core. The panel features 1/8" deep embossed planks and can be installed on roof slopes as low as 1/2:12. The CFR panel's design includes factory-cut notching and swaged ends, which reduce installation time by eliminating the need for additional labor. Factory-installed backer plates at the endlaps negate the necessity for pre-drilling for special fasteners. This design not only ensures superior weather-tight performance but also enhances the overall durability of the roof system. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Metl-Span CFR Insulated Standing Seam Panels.

The CFR panels are suitable for roofing applications where temperature control and longevity are essential, such as in coolers, freezers, food processing, and dry goods warehouses. The panel's ability to function effectively in these demanding environments highlights its versatility and performance. The CFR panels come in 36" and 42" coverage widths and offer a range of thermal values. For instance, a 2" panel provides an R-value of 17.5. In contrast, a 6" panel offers an R-value of 52.5, demonstrating excellent energy efficiency.

Fall Protection for Metl-Span CFR Panels

For steel CFR panels, using the proper fall protection products is essential to ensure worker safety and maintain the roofing system's integrity. These panels' recommended fall protection products include the SSRA1, SSRA2, and SSRA3.

The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor attaches to the seam with 12 set screws without penetrating the roof. This anchor provides a secure point for fall protection systems, ensuring that the roof's integrity remains intact while offering a reliable safety solution for workers.

The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter works seamlessly with the SSRA1. This adapter supports 10' walkboards without penetrating the roof, providing a stable and safe working surface. It adjusts to different seam heights, making it versatile for various projects.

The SSRA3 Anchor Plates work best with the Malta Dynamics HLL3001 Horizontal Lifeline System. This setup provides a robust temporary horizontal lifeline solution for up to two workers, enhancing mobility and safety on the roof. The SSRA3 Anchor Plates offer a solid foundation for the horizontal lifeline, ensuring workers can safely perform their tasks.

For roofs with pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is an alternative option. This anchor hooks securely over the ridge, creating a stable anchorage point that ensures workers remain tied off while navigating steep slopes. The Ridge Pro Steep Assist system is particularly effective for high-risk tasks, providing stability and safety.

Using these recommended fall protection systems ensures a safe working environment while maintaining the structural integrity and performance of Metl-Span's CFR panels. These measures protect workers and the roofing system, ensuring long-lasting and reliable roofing solutions. Choosing the appropriate fall protection equipment can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and enhance overall safety and efficiency on the job site. 

Standing Seam Metal Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility Chart For Metl-Span

Contact Us To Discuss Your Project

We'd love to learn more about your project! Call us at 863-703-4522 to discuss your requirements, or visit our website at www.StandingSeamRoofAnchor.com for more information. For further details on fall protection, consult OSHA's 48-page manual.

General Safety Guidelines for Standing Seam Roofs

Ensure Stable Access Points

Properly position ladders and scaffolding, making sure they are obstacle-free. Provide comprehensive OSHA-compliant ladder training for workers and adhere to the 4-1 rule for ladder positioning to ensure stability and safety.

Utilize Specialized Roof Anchor Systems 

Use roof anchor systems specifically designed for standing seam roofs. Follow the manufacturer's proper sizing and installation guidelines to ensure accurate seam placement and torque settings. Avoid seam anchors that need attachment over clips, as locating clips on existing roofs can be challenging.

Develop a Comprehensive OSHA Safety Plan

Before beginning work, the safety manager or project manager should create an OSHA-compliant safety plan. This plan must include a detailed rescue strategy to protect workers in the event of an accident.

Encourage the Use of Trauma Straps

Encourage workers to use trauma straps on their harnesses and provide regular training on their proper use. Trauma straps are crucial for preventing severe injuries or fatalities after a fall by reducing suspension trauma.

Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear

Provide workers with premium full-body harnesses and shock-absorbing lanyards. These items significantly reduce impact loads during falls, minimizing the risk of serious injuries or fatalities.

Foster a Safety-Conscious Workplace

Promote regular equipment inspections and continuous training sessions to maintain a safety-first environment. A strong safety culture helps uphold high standards and reduces the likelihood of accidents.

Take Precautions for Curved Panels 

Avoid using seam-mounted anchors on curved metal panels. For curved roof systems, have a trained safety professional conduct site inspections and develop a comprehensive safety strategy tailored to the specific challenges of curved surfaces.

Wear Appropriate Footwear

Ensure workers wear non-slip shoes for smooth metal roof systems and avoid working on wet roofs. Proper footwear improves stability and reduces the risk of slips and falls.

Invest in Permanent Roof Anchor Systems 

Consider installing permanent roof anchor systems that remain in place to facilitate future roof work and inspections. Permanent systems enhance long-term safety measures and provide ongoing protection.

Establish Secure Work Zones

Install guardrails, warning lines, or other barriers on low-slope roofs to prevent falls and create secure work zones. These measures help ensure a safer environment and reduce the risk of accidents.

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, as well as to address any potential warranty issues that may arise following the installation of our products.