Fall Protection For Star Building Systems Roofs
Posted by Howie Scarboro - CEO Fall Protection Distributors, LLC on Jan 13th 2026
See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Star Building Standing Seam Panels.
Who Is Star Building Systems
Star Building Systems started in 1927 during the Oklahoma oil boom. They began by manufacturing simple tool sheds for oil derrick sites. Today, Star operates as a premier brand under Cornerstone Building Brands. They lead the industry in providing custom-engineered metal building solutions across North America. Star serves the construction market through a massive network of manufacturing facilities. These strategic locations include Oklahoma City, OK; Elizabethtown, KY; and Monticello, IA. This geographic footprint enables Star to deliver high-performance roofing systems across every climate zone in the United States.
Star roofs set the standard for industrial durability. Engineers design these systems to withstand extreme wind uplift in coastal regions and heavy snow loads in the Midwest. However, contractors face a specific challenge with the Star "floating" roof design. These floating standing seam systems allow for significant thermal movement. You must use a safety strategy that works with this mechanical design. Your fall protection must meet modern 2026 OSHA and ANSI safety standards without pinning the panels or voiding the manufacturer's warranty.
The Mechanics of Non-Penetrating Fall Protection
Contractor liability extends beyond worker safety; it includes the long-term performance of the structure. Star Building Systems standing seam roofs utilize a floating design to manage Thermal Expansion. When a safety anchor penetrates the panel, it can "pin" the metal in place. This mistake prevents the panel from sliding through its clips, causing oil-canning, fastener wear, and eventual water intrusion. Furthermore, using penetrating anchors on a new installation will almost certainly void the manufacturer's weathertightness warranty.
Understanding the SSRA Modular System Configurations
To maintain the roof's watertight seal while ensuring 100% tie-off, we utilize a modular American-made system. The SSRA1 Seam Anchor is the primary component. It features a one-piece body with no moving parts, meaning it requires no disassembly or guesswork to fit different seam styles. Its 12-point stainless steel set screw system uses low-torque to protect the panels from structural damage. This feature is critical for avoiding excessive torque (often over 100 ft/lbs), which can crush the seam and damage the protective Kynar coating.
The SSRA1 Seam Anchor provides two distinct fastening options to meet the specific requirements of your Star Building Systems project. Choosing the right screw ensures you maintain the certified tie-off while protecting the panel substrate. Both options utilize our 12-point contact system, which distributes fall arrest forces more evenly than traditional two-piece compression clamps.
Cupped Tip Stainless Steel Screws: These standard fasteners are the go-to choice for industrial and commercial projects using 22-gauge panels. The cupped tip locks onto the seam to create a solid anchor point. You must use a torque wrench to set these at 90 inch-pounds. This setting provides the maximum grip necessary for high-wind zones and heavy-duty fall arrest applications.
Nylon Tipped Set Screws: We recommend nylon-tipped screws for architectural projects or high-end Kynar finishes, such as those found on BattenLok HS panels. The nylon tip compresses against the seam to protect the protective Galvalume layer. You must torque these fasteners to 180-200 inch-pounds. You must inspect your fasteners before every project to ensure they meet OSHA 1926.502 safety standards. While the stainless steel cupped tips maintain their structural "bite" through many cycles, the nylon inserts eventually deform. Replacing these tips every 3 to 5 uses ensures the anchor maintains a 5,000-lb-certified grip on Star Building Systems panels without slipping.
Pro-Tip: Proper set screw torque settings are critical for a successful installation on Star Building Systems roofs. Under-torquing leads to anchor slippage, while over-torquing can harm the panel and the anchor. Always carry a calibrated inch-pound torque wrench to ensure your safety system performs correctly.
Modular Product Configurations
For different job-site needs, the SSRA1 acts as a foundation for various configurations:
- Staging Solutions (SSRA2): The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters mount to the SSRA1 anchors, allowing crews to install level walk-boards. This assembly is essential for safe working platforms on steep slopes without damaging the panels. These unique adapters are adjustable for seam height and roof pitch.
- Temporary Lifelines (SSRA3 & 100' Kit): The SSRA3 Anchor Plate converts the anchor into a horizontal lifeline anchor point. Combined with the 100-foot SSRA HLL Kit, this allows two workers to cover larger roof areas while remaining continuously tied off.
- Permanent Lifelines (120' Super Anchor Kit): For long-term facility maintenance, this kit uses five non-penetrating 5-inch riser posts and galvanized steel cable, providing a safety solution that works with the roof's "floating clip" design. OSHA allows horizontal lifeline use on roofs up to 4:12; steeper pitches fall under "Steep Roof" rules and require fixed anchor points.
- Steep Slope Access (The Ridge Pro): On pitches between 6:12 and 12:12, the Ridge Pro serves as the "first-man-up" tool, allowing the worker to secure a ridge anchor before leaving the ladder. The Ridge Pro is an excellent solution for steep-pitch roofs when seam-mounted anchors are not compatible.
Star Building Systems Ultra-Dek - Snaplock Trapezoidal (SSRA Compatible)
The Ultra-Dek is a high-performance, Snaplock trapezoidal standing seam roof system available in 22- or 24- gauge steel. It is excellent for industrial and commercial projects with slopes as low as ¼:12. Available in 18-inch and 24-inch widths with a 3-inch seam height, this panel offers lower installation costs thanks to "snap-together" seams that eliminate the need for mechanical seaming labor. You must carefully select and install fall protection anchors to avoid damaging the snaplock mechanism or interfering with the factory-applied sealant. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Star Building Systems 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge Ultra-Dek - Snaplock Trapezoidal Standing Seam Panels.
Safety Solutions for Ultra-Dek
The SSRA1 Seam Anchor is fully compatible with Ultra-Dek and fits both the 18-inch and 24-inch widths without modification. On these large industrial spans, the 100-foot SSRA HLL Kit is often the most efficient choice, allowing workers to move across wide roof areas safely. This kit includes four SSRA1 anchors, two SSRA3 Anchor Plates, and a 100-foot horizontal lifeline.
If the project requires steeper pitches, the SSRA2 Roof Jacks provide a level work platform for workers. For buildings requiring regular HVAC or gutter maintenance, the 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL is an excellent choice for roofs with a pitch up to 4:12. For any steeper slope sections, the Ridge Pro provides a secure peak-mounted tie-off on 6:12 to 12:12 pitch roofs where HLL kits are not allowed.
Pro-Tip: When installing the SSRA1 on Ultra-Dek, ensure the set screws engage the upper part of the trapezoidal leg of the seam for maximum attachment strength.
Star Building Systems Double-Lok - Mechanical Trapezoidal (SSRA Compatible)
The Double-Lok is a mechanically field-seamed trapezoidal panel designed for maximum weather-tightness and structural integrity. Featuring a 3-inch rib height and manufactured in 22 and 24-gauge steel, this panel is the industry standard for high-wind zones and retrofit applications. Unlike snaplock systems, the Double-Lok ribs are folded together with a mechanical seaming machine, creating a permanent bond. The Double-Lok profile is available in 18 or 24-inch panel widths. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Star Building Systems 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge Double-Lok - Mechanical Trapezoidal Standing Seam Panels.
Safety Solutions for Double-Lok
Because the Double-Lok is a mechanically seamed structural panel, it provides one of the most stable foundations for high-capacity fall protection. The SSRA1 Seam Anchor locks onto the 3-inch-tall rib and accommodates both 18-inch and 24-inch widths. On larger roof spans typical of Double-Lok installations, mobility is your biggest hurdle; the 100-foot SSRA HLL Kit (comprising four SSRA1 anchors and two SSRA3 Anchor Plates) is the most efficient solution. This non-penetrating solution allows your crew to navigate larger roof areas while remaining 100% tied off to a 100-foot horizontal lifeline.
For Double-Lok projects involving steeper pitches, the SSRA2 Roof Jacks transform the roof into a safe workspace by providing level platforms for material staging and foot traffic. If the building requires recurring long-term access for HVAC or gutter maintenance, the 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL is the gold standard for roofs up to a 4:12 pitch.
OSHA classifies anything steeper than 4:12 as a "Steep Roof," and different rules apply. Once the slope reaches 6:12 to 12:12, the Ridge Pro steps in. It provides a secure, ridge-mounted tie-off that protects your team before they ever step onto the panel surface.
Pro-Tip: Traditional compression-style anchors can damage the Double-Lok mechanical seam by squeezing the metal between the plates at high torque settings. The SSRA1's low-torque fasteners prevent crushed seams and hidden water leaks in the roof system.
Star Building Systems SuperLok - Mechanical Panel (SSRA Compatible)
The SuperLok system features a 2-inch-tall vertical rib and is field-seamed with a mechanical seamer. It can be installed directly over purlins or bar joists, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of building types. Available in widths of 12 and 16 inches, and can be ordered in 22, 24, or 26-gauge steel. This panel profile is safe for use on slopes as low as 1/2:12. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Star Building Systems 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge SuperLok - Mechanical Standing Seam Panels.
Safety Solutions for SuperLok
The 2-inch vertical leg of the SuperLok panel requires a precision fit to maintain the rib's structural integrity. The SSRA component system offers several fall protection solutions for contractors working on standing seam roofs.
- SSRA1 Seam Anchor: The solid, one-piece body of the SSRA1 is the ideal "set it and lock it" foundation for the SuperLok rib. It provides a 5,000-lb certified tie-off using 12 low-torque set screws that grip the rib without the crushing force associated with heavy compression clamps.
- SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks: Navigating steep 12-inch or 16-inch SuperLok panels can be dangerous. By mounting SSRA2 adapters to your anchors, you can stage 10-foot walk-boards to create a level work surface that protects both the crew and the panel's Kynar coating.
- SSRA3 Anchor Plates: These high-strength aluminum adapters convert individual SSRA1 anchors into robust lifeline end points. They are essential for distributing fall arrest forces across multiple SuperLok seams.
- 100-foot SSRA HLL Kit: For temporary projects on SuperLok roofs with a 4:12 pitch or less, this kit provides 100 feet of continuous mobility, allowing a two-person crew to cover larger roof areas while staying 100% tied off.
- 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL: For long-term maintenance access, this permanent galvanized steel cable system is the best choice. It utilizes non-penetrating 5-inch riser posts that keep the cable clear of the vertical ribs.
- The Ridge Pro Steep Assist: When a SuperLok roof exceeds a 4:12 pitch (up to 12:12), OSHA and ANSI standards restrict the use of HLLs. The Ridge Pro provides the necessary peak-mounted anchor for secure ridge access.
Pro-Tip: Using a combination of the SSRA1 anchors, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, and a horizontal lifeline keeps the walking area clear of tripping hazards.
Star Building Systems BattenLok HS - Mechanical Panel (SSRA Compatible)
The BattenLok HS (High Strength) is a 2-inch-tall vertical leg system that is compatible with slopes as low as ½:12. It is engineered to withstand extreme weather and crafted from 22- or 24-gauge steel. The BattenLok HS is a structural panel, meaning it contributes to the building's overall stability. Its design provides the architectural appeal of a vertical leg with the structural performance of a trapezoid seam. You can order BattenLok HS panels in 12-inch and 16-inch widths to meet your specific project requirements. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Star Building Systems 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge BattenLok HS - Mechanical Standing Seam Panels.
Safety Solutions for BattenLok HS
The BattenLok HS is a structural powerhouse, but its 2-inch vertical rib requires a safety system that matches its durability without compromising Thermal Expansion. The foundation is the SSRA1 Seam Anchor, which locks down with 12 low-torque set screws to provide a certified 5,000-lb anchor point. To manage steep architectural slopes, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks support 10-foot walk-boards. For maximum worker mobility, SSRA3 Anchor Plates serve as the end points for lifeline systems, distributing fall arrest energy across multiple seams.
For temporary installations with a pitch up to 4:12, the 100-foot SSRA HLL Kit is the most efficient configuration. For facilities requiring long-term maintenance, the 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL utilizes non-penetrating 5-inch riser posts. Finally, for steep slope applications between 6:12 and 12:12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides peak-mounted fall protection, allowing the "first-man-up" to be 100% tied off before leaving the ladder.
Pro-Tip: Using the SSRA1 with Nylon-Tipped Set Screws is a "best practice" to ensure a solid anchor point while avoiding panel penetrations.
Standing Seam Anchor Panel Compatibility For 22 Gauge Star Building Systems Panels
| Ultra-Dek (22 Ga.) | Double-Lok (22 Ga.) | SuperLok (22 Ga.) | BattenLok HS (22 Ga.) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
SSRA 1 |
YES | YES | YES | YES |
SSRA1 Nylon Tip |
YES | YES | YES | YES |
SSRA2 Roof Jack |
YES | YES | YES | YES |
SSRA3 Anchor Plate |
YES | YES | YES | YES |
The Ridge Pro |
YES | YES | YES | YES |
Standing Seam Anchor Panel Compatibility For 24 Gauge Star Building Systems Panels
| Ultra-Dek (24 Ga.) | Double-Lok (24 Ga.) | SuperLok (24 Ga.) | BattenLok HS (24 Ga.) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SSRA 1 |
NO | NO | NO | NO |
| SSRA1 Nylon Tip |
YES | YES | YES | YES |
| SSRA2 Roof Jack |
YES | YES | YES | YES |
| SSRA3 Anchor Plate |
YES | YES | YES | YES |
| The Ridge Pro |
YES | YES | YES | YES |
Expert Advice and Resources
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 accessible Anchor Inspection Form. Check your Panel Compatibility to see if it is ideal for SSRA products.
10 Essential Safety & Risk Management Tips for Star Building Systems Projects
1. Reject Unverified Imports to Reduce Liability
Cheap imported anchors often lack verified testing certifications. Under OSHA 1926.502(d)(15), anchorages for personal fall arrest systems must support at least 5,000 lbs per worker. The American-made SSRA1 Seam Anchor has been 3rd-party tested to meet ANSI and OSHA standards.
2. Prioritize Low-Torque Fasteners to Prevent Seam Failure
Avoid high-torque "compression" clamps that require over 100 lbs of force. Excessive torque can crush the mechanical fold of Star SuperLok or Double-Lok ribs. The SSRA1 utilizes a 12-point set screw system requiring only 7.5 ft-lbs of torque, preserving seam integrity.
3. Mandate "First-Man-Up" Ridge Protection
The transition from a ladder to a steep metal roof deck is a high-risk moment. For Star BattenLok HS roofs with pitches of 6:12 or greater, use The Ridge Pro Steep Assist. By securing a ridge anchor before leaving the ladder, you satisfy OSHA 1926.501(b)(11) requirements.
4. The SSRA1 Advantage: No More Searching for Hidden Clips
Unlike older compression-style anchors that require workers to mount the device directly over a hidden roof clip, the SSRA1 eliminates this impossible task. Because you cannot see the clips underneath existing Star Building Systems panels, you shouldn't have to guess where they are. The SSRA1 secures safely to 95% of today's standing seam profiles using its own 12-point set screw system. This one-piece, American-made design allows authorized users to "set it and lock it", ensuring a certified 5,000-lb anchor point without the frustration of hunting for hidden structural components.
5. Calculate Dynamic Sag on Large Industrial Spans
When deploying a 100-foot SSRA HLL Kit, you must account for "Dynamic Sag" as defined in ANSI Z359.6. Calculate the total fall distance (Free Fall + Deceleration + Sag + Safety Factor) to ensure a worker won't strike lower structures.
6. Prevent Galvanic Corrosion on Kynar Finishes
Star Building Systems utilizes premium Galvalume and Kynar 500 coatings. Using hardware made from inferior metals can cause galvanic reactions. The SSRA1 features 100% stainless steel set screws to ensure your safety installation doesn't cause roof failure.
7. Respect Thermal Expansion & Contraction
Star's "floating" roofs expand and contract as temperatures change throughout the day. Use only non-penetrating clamps, such as the SSRA1, to allow this panel movement without stressing the seams.
8. Implement Daily Torque Verification
Extreme temperature swings can affect fastener tension. As part of your daily safety inspection (required by OSHA 1926.502), use a torque wrench to verify that SSRA1 set screws remain at their proper torque setting.
9. Prevent Suspension Trauma with Trauma Straps
After a fall arrest, a suspended worker is at risk for suspension trauma. Contractors and safety managers often overlook the post-fall phase of a rescue. By providing trauma straps and proper training, workers can stand up in their harnesses while suspended after a fall. This action relieves the pressure on the femoral arteries. It prevents suspension trauma during the rescue team's rescue procedures.
10. Target the "Vertical Leg" on Trapezoidal Ribs
When installing on a trapezoidal rib, set screws will properly engage the upper portion of the seam for a solid attachment for worker tie-offs.
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. Customers are strongly encouraged to contact the roof panel manufacturer directly for inquiries regarding fall protection compatibility.