Fall Protection For Star Building Systems Roofs

Fall Protection For Star Building Systems Roofs

Posted by Howie Scarboro - CEO Fall Protection Distributors, LLC on Oct 28th 2024

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Star Building Systems Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Star Building Systems company logo. Image courtesy of www.StarBuildings.com.

Who Is Star Building Systems?

Star Building Systems is a custom-engineered metal building manufacturer with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1927. The company was born during the Oklahoma oil boom, initially producing small tool sheds for oil derrick sites. Over the decades, Star has grown into a leading name in the metal building industry, providing high-quality, custom-engineered commercial and industrial construction solutions. Throughout its history, Star has continuously evolved, supplying buildings for various industries, including aircraft hangars during World War II, and today offers a range of cutting-edge building systems.

Star Building Systems standing seam roof. Image courtesy of www.StarBuildings.com.

Now a part of Cornerstone Building Brands, Star Building Systems is supported by one of North America's largest manufacturers of exterior building products. With a commitment to innovation and quality, Star delivers customizable metal building systems with long-term durability. Their customer-centric approach gives builders the tools, training, and support necessary to succeed in their local markets while maintaining a nationwide presence.

Why Are Compatible Fall Protection Anchors Important for Star Building Roofs?

Selecting the right fall protection system is vital when working on Star Building Systems' standing seam roofs. These roofs are known for durability and sleek aesthetics, with concealed fasteners that make them highly effective at resisting weather conditions. However, these design features also mean that traditional fall protection systems, which require drilling or penetrating the roof, can damage its integrity and compromise performance.

The best solution for Star Building Systems' roofs involves using non-penetrating fall protection systems that maintain the roof's watertight seal and structural integrity. Products like seam clamps or adjustable roof jacks provide secure attachment points without the need to pierce the roof surface. By choosing the correct fall protection anchors, you safeguard your workforce and preserve the quality and performance of Star Building Systems' standing seam panels. In the next section, we'll explore Star's four standing seam profiles and discuss the best fall protection solutions for each.

Ultra-Dek Panels: Durability and Innovation Combined

Star Building Systems Ultra-Dek panel. Image courtesy of www.StarBuildings.com.

Ultra-Dek by Star Building Systems is a cutting-edge, snap-together roof system that stands out for its durability and performance. It is a trapezoidal standing seam and has passed rigorous tests for air leakage and water penetration, earning approvals that reflect its superior quality. Available in 18-inch and 24-inch widths, with a seam height of 3 inches, this versatile panel system meets the needs of diverse construction projects, from industrial and commercial to architectural applications. Ultra-Dek comes in 22- and 24-gauge thicknesses, providing the right balance between strength and flexibility for any job. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Star Building Systems Ultra-Dek Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Star Building Systems Ultra-Dek panel profile. Image courtesy of www.StarBuildings.com.

Ultra-Dek performs well on roofs with a minimum slope requirement of ¼:12, making it an excellent choice for low-slope and large-scale roofing applications. With its unique upper rib shape where the panels seam together, Ultra-Dek sets itself apart from other standing seam systems like the Double-Lok panel, emphasizing innovation and top-tier design.

Fall Protection for Ultra-Dek Panels: Safety Without Compromise

When working on Ultra-Dek roofs, choosing the proper fall protection equipment is essential to maintain worker safety and the roof's structural integrity. Non-penetrating systems, such as the SSRA1 Seam Anchors, are ideal for these panels. These seam clamps attach securely to the standing seams without puncturing the surface, providing safe and reliable attachment points for fall protection gear.

For jobs that require workers to move across the roof, the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks work seamlessly with the SSRA1 anchors. These roof jacks allow the installation of 10' walk boards, creating a stable platform for workers to transport materials and tools without slipping on the smooth metal surface. By ensuring mobility and safety, the SSRA2 roof jacks contribute to greater efficiency on the job site.

For larger projects, the SSRA3 Anchor Plates can be mounted on the SSRA1 anchors, allowing for the installation of temporary horizontal lifelines. This setup enables workers to move freely across the roof without constantly disconnecting and reconnecting their safety equipment. It is ideal for extensive roofing projects where multiple workers need secure and continuous fall protection.

If your project involves steep roofs, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the perfect solution for slopes between 6/12 and 12/12. This non-penetrating system hooks over the roof peak, providing 100% tie-off for workers without attaching directly to the seams. It's an excellent option for ensuring safety on challenging, sloped roof sections.

With Ultra-Dek's compatibility with a range of fall protection products—including the SSRA1 Seam Anchors, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, and Ridge Pro Steep Assist—you can protect both workers and the roof itself. This seamless integration of safety solutions ensures that Ultra-Dek roofing systems perform optimally, safeguarding both the project and its workers.

Double-Lok Panels: Performance and Versatility for Any Project

Star Building Systems Double-Lok panel. Image courtesy of www.StarBuildings.com.

The Double-Lok™ roof panel is perfect for various applications, offering versatility and exceptional performance, especially for retrofit projects. Whether you're working on industrial complexes, commercial buildings, or architectural installations, the Double-Lok™ panel enhances energy efficiency while extending the lifespan of the structures it protects. Available in 18-inch and 24-inch widths, this panel features a trapezoidal leg standing seam design that is mechanically field-seamed, ensuring long-term durability and weather resistance. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Star Building Systems Double-Lok Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Star Building Systems Double-Lok panel profile. Image courtesy of www.StarBuildings.com.

With a rib height of 3 inches and a minimum slope requirement of ¼:12, the Double-Lok™ panel provides flexibility across various project types. Available in 22- and 24-gauge thicknesses, it offers the resilience needed for demanding environments without sacrificing design flexibility. Whether it's a new build or a retrofit, Double-Lok™ represents excellence in roofing solutions.

Fall Protection for Double-Lok Panels: Secure Solutions Without Compromise

When working on Double-Lok™ roofs, proper fall protection is critical to maintaining worker safety and the roof's structural integrity. Non-penetrating systems such as the SSRA1 Seam Anchors are perfect for these panels. The SSRA1 clamps directly to the standing seams, providing a secure attachment point for fall protection gear without drilling into the roof. This approach ensures the roof remains watertight while workers stay safe.

The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks work seamlessly with the SSRA1 anchors for projects requiring mobility across the roof. These roof jacks allow for the installation of 10' walk boards, giving workers a stable platform to walk on as they move around the roof. This system minimizes slipping risks and increases productivity by allowing workers to carry tools and materials safely across the surface.

The SSRA3 Anchor Plates are ideal for larger projects requiring multiple workers. These plates, mounted on the SSRA1 anchors, allow for the setup of temporary horizontal lifelines. This system enables workers to move freely across the roof while remaining safely tethered, providing continuous fall protection throughout the project.

For steeper roof sections with slopes between 6/12 and 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the perfect solution. This non-penetrating system hooks over the roof peak, providing a secure tie-off point without the need to attach directly to the seams.

By combining these fall protection systems, you ensure both worker safety and the long-term performance of the Double-Lok™ panel. Non-penetrating solutions such as the SSRA1, SSRA2, SSRA3, and Ridge Pro Steep Assist allow you to protect the roof and its workers, ensuring a successful and secure roofing project.

SuperLok Panels: Built for Strength and Resilience

Star Building Systems SuperLok panel. Image courtesy of www.StarBuildings.com.

The SuperLok® roof system can handle the harshest weather conditions with strength and precision. Featuring a slender 2-inch tall vertical rib, SuperLok® provides exceptional resistance against uplift forces, making it one of the most durable options. Whether dealing with high winds or heavy snow loads, SuperLok® safeguards your structure with confidence. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Star Building Systems SuperLok Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Star Building Systems SuperLok panel profile. Image courtesy of www.StarBuildings.com.

Available in 12-inch and 16-inch widths, SuperLok® is versatile enough for demanding projects, with a minimum slope requirement of ½:12. The system can be installed directly over purlins or bar joists, eliminating the need for a solid substructure, which simplifies the installation process. Available in 22, 24, and 26-gauge thicknesses, SuperLok® combines durability with design flexibility, allowing it to adapt to a wide range of building types.

Fall Protection for SuperLok Panels: Safe and Secure Installation

Proper fall protection equipment is essential when working on SuperLok® roofs, protecting workers and the roof itself. For 22—and 24-gauge steel panels, non-penetrating solutions such as the SSRA1 Seam Anchors provide secure attachment points without damaging the roof's integrity. These seam clamps lock onto the panel seams, offering a safe and reliable anchor point for personal fall arrest systems (PFAS).

The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks work with the SSRA1 anchors to provide even more safety. By installing 10' walk boards between these roof jacks, workers gain a stable platform to navigate the roof surface. This system not only enhances worker safety but also helps improve efficiency on the job site by making it easier to transport tools and materials.

For larger projects, the SSRA3 Anchor Plates can be mounted on top of the SSRA1 Seam Anchors, enabling the installation of temporary horizontal lifelines. Multiple workers can work with maximum mobility on large roof areas while maintaining tie-offs.

For 26-gauge steel panels or sloped roofs, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is a must. This non-penetrating fall protection system hooks over the roof peak, providing 100% tie-off for workers on roof slopes between 6/12 and 12/12. The Ridge Pro ensures safety on steeper roofs without attaching to the seams, maintaining the roof's structural integrity while keeping workers secure.

With SuperLok®'s compatibility with a wide range of fall protection products—including the SSRA1 Seam Anchors, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, and Ridge Pro Steep Assist—you can ensure the safety of your crew and the long-term durability of the roof itself. By integrating these safety solutions, SuperLok® continues to deliver exceptional performance and peace of mind on every job.

BattenLok Panels: Durability and Versatility in Standing Seam Roofing

Star Building Systems BattenLok panel. Image courtesy of www.StarBuildings.com.

The BattenLok® HS roof system is highly durable and adaptable for field-seamed standing seam roofing. The BattenLok HS panel features a 2-inch high seam. It is available in 12-inch and 16-inch widths, making it suitable for various project needs. With a minimum slope requirement of ½:12, BattenLok® can easily handle diverse roofing applications. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Star Building Systems BattenLok Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Star Building Systems BattenLok panel profile. Image courtesy of www.StarBuildings.com.

Crafted with 22- and 24-gauge thickness options, BattenLok® strikes a balance between durability and design versatility, ensuring long-lasting performance without compromising aesthetic goals.

Fall Protection for BattenLok Panels: Non-Penetrating Solutions for Worker Safety

Regarding safety on BattenLok® roofs, using non-penetrating fall protection systems is critical for worker protection and preserving the roof's integrity. The SSRA1 Seam Anchors provide a secure attachment point for fall protection gear without needing to drill into the panels, keeping the roof intact and leak-free.

The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks are the perfect complement for projects requiring additional mobility across the roof. These roof jacks allow for installing 10' walk boards, giving workers a stable platform to move around on the roof. This setup increases safety and efficiency by reducing the risk of slips while improving access to tools and materials.

Larger roofing projects often require more extensive safety measures, and the SSRA3 Anchor Plates enable temporary horizontal lifelines when used with SSRA1 Seam Anchors. This system allows multiple workers to remain safely tethered while moving freely across the roof, providing continuous fall protection.

The Ridge Pro Steep Assist is ideal for steeper roof sections for pitches between 6/12 and 12/12. This system hooks securely over the roof peak, offering 100% tie-off for workers without seam attachments, ensuring safety and roof preservation.

By integrating these fall protection solutions, the BattenLok® HS system ensures the crew's safety and preserves the roof's long-term performance. Non-penetrating systems such as the SSRA1, SSRA2, SSRA3, and Ridge Pro Steep Assist make for a comprehensive, reliable safety plan that keeps workers secure and the roof pristine.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility Chart For Star Building Systems

 

Ultra-Dek Panel
22-24 Gauge

Double-Lok Panel
22-24 Gauge

SuperLok Panel
22-24 Gauge

BattenLok Panel
22-24 Gauge

SSRA 1

SSRA_1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor

YES YES YES YES

SSRA1 Nylon Tip

SSRA_1 Anchor Nylon Tip Standing Seam Roof Anchor

YES YES YES YES

SSRA2 Roof Jack

SSRA_2 Roof Jack Adapter

YES YES YES YES

SSRA3 Anchor Plate

SSRA_3 Anchor Plate

YES YES YES YES

The Ridge Pro

Ridge Pro Roof Anchor

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

Equip workers with top-tier safety equipment

Outfitting your team with reliable safety gear, such as full-body harnesses and shock-absorbing lanyards, is crucial. High-quality equipment minimizes the risk of severe injuries by minimizing impact during a fall.

Ensure safe access at all times

Setting up ladders and scaffolding correctly is critical to maintaining worker safety. Train employees on ladder use and always adhere to OSHA's 4-to-1 ratio rule for stability when working at heights.

Establish protective barriers in work zones

Using barriers such as guardrails or warning lines on low-slope roofs helps create clear boundaries. This step ensures workers understand which areas to approach cautiously, reducing fall risks.

Emphasize a culture of safety

Conduct regular equipment checks and safety training to promote a proactive approach to safety. Reinforcing the importance of vigilance helps create a safer work environment for everyone on site.

Choose the suitable anchor systems for the job

When working on standing seam roofs, selecting roof anchors specifically for this type of roofing is essential. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and avoid anchor systems that might interfere with hidden roof clips.

Take extra steps for curved metal roof safety

Curved metal roofs pose unique challenges, making standard seam-mounted anchors unsuitable. It's best to consult safety professionals to create a custom fall protection plan tailored to the specific roof design.

Train workers on using trauma straps

Ensure that all workers are equipped with trauma straps to prevent suspension trauma. Proper training on these straps is vital, mainly when workers could be suspended for extended periods after a fall.

Install permanent roof anchors for ongoing safety

For roofs that require frequent inspections or maintenance, permanent roof anchors offer reliable, long-term safety. These anchors are a secure tie-off point for future work, ensuring ongoing protection.

Develop a comprehensive OSHA-compliant safety plan

Before starting any job, always prepare a detailed safety plan that complies with OSHA standards. This plan should include clear emergency fall protection measures and rescue protocols.

Wear proper footwear for roofing

Make sure workers wear shoes with non-slip soles specifically for roofing tasks. Proper footwear provides better grip and stability and helps prevent slips and falls, especially on smooth or wet metal surfaces.

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.