Fall Protection Solutions for A and S - MBCI Standing Seam Roofs
Posted by Howie Scarboro - CEO Fall Protection Distributors, LLC on Jan 22nd 2026
See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for A&S Building Systems Standing Seam Panels.
Who Is A&S Building Systems?
Founded in 1958, A&S Building Systems initially operated in Houston, Texas, as a fabricator of grain storage bins before expanding into the design and fabrication of pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMB). In 1992, NCI Building Systems (now Cornerstone Building Brands) acquired A&S, positioning the company as a premier subsidiary alongside industry leaders like MBCI. Today, A&S operates a high-tech manufacturing facility in Caryville, Tennessee, where it produces complex, custom-designed metal building solutions for the industrial, commercial, and community sectors.
As a member of the Cornerstone family, A&S utilizes industry-leading standing seam technology. Their product lineup features high-performance profiles such as BattenLok HS, Double-Lok, and SuperLok. Every A&S roof system provides superior weather-tight performance and accommodates significant thermal movement through advanced "floating" clip systems. Contractors from the Tennessee Valley to across the United States rely on A&S for structural integrity and long-term reliability in demanding environments.
A&S Building Systems Require Non-Penetrating Fall Protection
Preserving the weather-tight integrity of an A&S roof requires safety hardware that respects the panel’s movement. Many A&S standing seam systems use "floating" clips to manage thermal expansion across large spans. Using traditional anchors that penetrate the panel surface violates manufacturer specifications, causes hidden leaks, and voids the roof warranty. To maintain a secure seal, contractors must use specialized, non-penetrating anchors that clamp to the standing seams 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 A&S steel projects, we offer two specialized SSRA1 fastening options:
- Cupped-Tip Stainless Steel Set Screws: Use these exclusively on 22-gauge steel and torque to 90 inch-pounds.
- Nylon-Tipped Set Screws: Use these on 24-gauge steel to achieve certified holding power. Testing proves that nylon tips provide a superior mechanical lock on lighter-gauge steel. These require a torque of 180–200 inch-pounds.
SSRA Expansion Adapters & Specialty Kits
For steel panel applications, the SSRA1 integrates with several modular adapters:
- 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: A long-term maintenance solution using non-penetrating 5-inch riser posts.
For aluminum, copper, or lighter-gauge metal substrates, seam-mounted anchors can cause structural damage; therefore, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the preferred non-penetrating solution and First-Man-Up tool for safe ladder-to-peak transitions.
A&S BattenLok HS Mechanical Panels (SSRA Compatible — 22/24 Gauge Steel)
The BattenLok HS is a premier field-seamed standing-seam roofing system that delivers exceptional durability for commercial, industrial, and architectural projects. This structural panel features a 2-inch tall vertical seam and is available in 12-inch and 16-inch widths. The BattenLok HS requires a minimum pitch of 1/2:12. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for A&S Building Systems 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge BattenLok HS Mechanical Standing Seam Panels.
A&S manufactures these panels from 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel to ensure long-term performance in challenging environments. The system allows for a seamless transition from roof to fascia, maintaining clean architectural lines. Additionally, the BattenLok HS can be field-curved to accommodate unique radius roof designs. This profile builds on the technical legacy of the Steelox LRX and PRX roof panels, combining proven structural performance with modern aesthetic appeal.
Fall Protection Strategy for BattenLok HS
- SSRA1 Seam Anchor: Secure, non-penetrating attachment directly to the 2-inch vertical leg. It offers a certified 5,000-pound anchor point without piercing the metal.
- SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters: These adapters mount to the SSRA1 anchors to support 10-foot wooden walk-boards, creating stable staging areas for materials or tools on sloped surfaces.
- SSRA3 Anchor Plates: When paired with SSRA1 anchors, these plates allow for the installation of temporary horizontal lifelines, providing safe lateral mobility for multiple workers across the roof field.
- Lifeline Compatibility: The 100-foot SSRA HLL kit and 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent kit are compatible.
- The Ridge Pro: For steeper applications with pitches between 6:12 and 12:12, it serves as an essential First-Man-Up tool. It provides a secure tie-off point at the peak, allowing for safe ladder-to-roof transitions.
- Curved Applications: Any project featuring field-curved BattenLok HS panels requires a mandatory on-site inspection by a qualified safety professional before any fall protection equipment is specified or used.
A&S Double-Lok Mechanical Trapezoidal Panels (SSRA Compatible — 22/24 Gauge Steel)
The Double-Lok is a high-performance, structural trapezoidal standing seam roof system specifically for industrial, commercial, and large-scale retrofit applications. Renowned for its ability to enhance energy efficiency and extend the lifespan of large-span structures, the Double-Lok serves as a cornerstone of A&S’s structural lineup. This panel features a 3-inch tall trapezoidal rib and is available in 18-inch and 24-inch widths. It is a mechanically field-seamed system that provides a robust, weather-tight seal on roof slopes as low as 1/4:12. Crafted from 22-gauge or 24-gauge steel, the Double-Lok offers the structural resilience required for demanding environments while maintaining necessary design flexibility. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for A&S Building Systems 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge Double-Lok Mechanical Trapezoidal Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for Double-Lok
- SSRA1 Seam Anchor: This anchor provides a secure, non-penetrating attachment point by clamping directly to the 3-inch trapezoidal rib. It is the essential foundation for any fall arrest system on a Double-Lok roof.
- SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters: These adapters mount to the SSRA1 anchors to support 10-foot-long wooden walkboards, creating a stable, level workspace on sloped trapezoidal roofs.
- SSRA3 Anchor Plates: Workers can mount the SSRA3 Anchor Plate over two SSRA1 anchors to create structural endpoints for temporary horizontal lifelines. This setup enables multiple workers to traverse the wide spans typical of Double-Lok projects while remaining 100 percent tied off.
- Lifeline Compatibility: The 100-foot SSRA HLL kit and 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent kit are compatible.
- The Ridge Pro: For steeper transitions or initial roof entry, it's the premier First-Man-Up tool. It secures to the ridge to protect workers as they move from the ladder to the peak, ensuring a safe start to the workday.
A&S LokSeam Snaplock Panels (SSRA Compatible — 22/24 Gauge Steel)
The LokSeam is a versatile snap-together standing seam system that balances strength and architectural appeal. Featuring a 1.75-inch tall vertical rib, these panels provide a clean, modern look for projects with a minimum roof slope of 3:12. A&S offers LokSeam panels in 12-inch, 16-inch, and 18-inch widths, providing significant installation flexibility across various project types. Depending on the specific requirements, these panels are available in 22-, 24-, and 26-gauge steel. The design allows a seamless transition from the roof to the fascia with a specialized rib cover, ensuring a weather-tight, professional finish without a solid deck. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for A&S Building Systems 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge LokSeam Snaplock Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for LokSeam
- SSRA1 Seam Anchor: This anchor clamps securely to the 1.75-inch vertical rib, providing a non-penetrating anchorage point. It serves as the primary component for fall arrest on LokSeam projects.
- SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters: These adapters attach directly to the SSRA1 anchors to hold 10-foot wooden walk-boards, creating a level and stable staging area on the roof surface.
- SSRA3 Anchor Plates: By connecting two SSRA1 anchors, these plates serve as structural endpoints for temporary horizontal lifelines. This setup is ideal for larger roof fields where workers need lateral mobility.
- The Ridge Pro: For steeper slopes with pitches between 6:12 and 12:12, the Ridge Pro provides a secure tie-off at the peak. This device is the preferred tool for First-Man-Up safety during initial roof access.
- Gauge Restriction: Please note that the SSRA1, SSRA2, and SSRA3 are not compatible with the 26-gauge version of this panel; for 26-gauge applications, the Ridge Pro is the only recommended non-penetrating solution.
A&S SuperLok Mechanical Panels (SSRA Compatible — 22/24 Gauge Steel)
The SuperLok is a high-performance, structural standing seam roofing system featuring a 2-inch seam height. Available in 12-inch and 16-inch widths, the SuperLok accommodates roof slopes as low as 1/2:12. A&S manufactures these panels in 22-, 24-, and 26-gauge steel, offering a variety of thickness options to handle high wind or heavy snow loads while maintaining architectural flexibility. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for A&S Building Systems 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge SuperLok Mechanical Standing Seam Panels
Fall Protection Strategy for SuperLok
- SSRA1 Seam Anchor: This anchor provides a secure, non-destructive attachment by clamping directly to the 2-inch vertical leg. It serves as the primary anchorage point for fall arrest systems on 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel panels.
- SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters: These adapters mount to the SSRA1 anchors to support 10-foot wooden walkboards, providing a stable, level staging area for crews working on sloped SuperLok surfaces.
- SSRA3 Anchor Plates: By connecting two SSRA1 anchors, these spanner plates facilitate the setup of temporary horizontal lifelines. This strategy is essential for large-scale projects where workers require lateral mobility across the roof field.
- Lifeline Compatibility: The 100-foot SSRA HLL kit and 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent kit are compatible.
- The Ridge Pro: For steep-slope applications with pitches between 6:12 and 12:12, the Ridge Pro offers a secure tie-off point at the peak. It is the preferred First-Man-Up tool for safe ladder-to-roof transitions.
- Gauge Restriction: The SSRA1, SSRA2, and SSRA3 are not compatible with the 26-gauge version of this panel. For 26-gauge steel, The Ridge Pro is the only recommended non-penetrating solution.
A&S Ultra-Dek Snaplock Trapezoidal Panels (SSRA Compatible — 22/24 Gauge Steel)
The Ultra-Dek is a cutting-edge, snaplock trapezoidal standing seam roof system designed for high-performance durability. Featuring a 3-inch total seam height, it is available in 18-inch and 24-inch widths. MBCI offers this panel in 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel. With a minimum slope requirement of 1/4:12, the Ultra-Dek is an optimal choice for industrial, commercial, and architectural projects. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for A&S Building Systems 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge Ultra-Dek Snaplock Trapezoidal Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for Ultra-Dek
- SSRA1 Seam Anchor: This anchor serves as the core of the safety system, providing a secure, non-penetrating attachment point by clamping directly to the 3-inch trapezoidal rib.
- SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters: These adapters mount to the SSRA1 anchors to hold 10-foot wooden walk-boards, creating a level and stable workspace on the sloped trapezoidal surface.
- SSRA3 Anchor Plates: By connecting two SSRA1 anchors, these plates allow for the installation of temporary horizontal lifelines. This setup provides essential lateral mobility for multiple workers while ensuring they remain 100 percent tied off.
- The Ridge Pro: For initial roof entry or steeper transitions, it provides a secure tie-off point at the peak. It acts as the premier First-Man-Up tool, protecting the crew during the critical transition from the ladder to the roof field.
Metl-Span CFR Insulated Metal Panels (SSRA Compatible — 22/24 Gauge Steel)
The CFR is an innovative, all-in-one composite insulated metal roof standing seam system that combines superior thermal efficiency with structural performance. The exterior face uses high-tensile 22-gauge or 24-gauge steel with 1/8-inch-deep embossed planks for added strength. These panels offer wide coverage widths of 36 inches and 42 inches and are available in thicknesses ranging from 2 inches to 6 inches, delivering impressive R-values from 17.5 to 52.5. The standing seam exterior provides an exceptional weather-tight seal on roof slopes as low as 1/2:12. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for A&S Building Systems 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge Metl-Span CFR Insulated Metal Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for CFR Panels
- SSRA1 Seam Anchor: This anchor provides a secure, non-penetrating attachment by clamping directly to the standing seam of the CFR panel. It serves as a certified 5,000-pound anchorage point that preserves the weather-tight performance of the insulated system.
- SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters: These adapters mount to the SSRA1 anchors to support 10-foot wooden walk-boards, providing a stable and level staging area for materials or tools on the roof surface.
- The Ridge Pro: For steeper pitches between 6:12 and 12:12, the Ridge Pro serves as the primary First-Man-Up tool. It provides a secure tie-off at the peak, allowing workers to transition safely from the ladder to the roof without attaching hardware to the seams.
- Incompatibility Note: Due to the wide seam spacing of 36 inches or 42 inches, the SSRA3 Anchor Plates and 100-foot SSRA HLL Kit are not compatible with the CFR system. For permanent horizontal lifeline needs, please consult with our technical team.
A&S Craftsman Series – High Batten Panels (Ridge Pro Recommended)
The Craftsman Series is a specialized architectural roofing system featuring a unique two-piece design that separates the pan and batten components. This configuration simplifies installation on complex roof shape, such as transitions between roof slopes, fascia, and soffit, without requiring traditional flashings. As a water-shedding system, the Craftsman Series is for roofs and mansards with a minimum slope of 3:12. It is available in 12-inch and 16.5-inch widths, with 2-inch-high seams. A&S manufactures this profile in 22-, 24-, and 26-gauge steel. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for A&S Building Systems Craftsman Series – High Batten Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for Craftsman High Batten
Because the Craftsman Series uses a snap-on batten cover over a base clip, standard seam-mounted hardware is incompatible with this profile. Clamping to the batten cover can crush the assembly and compromise the weather-tight seal.
- The Ridge Pro: This is the primary non-penetrating solution for the Craftsman Series. It provides a secure, peak-mounted anchorage point for roofs with 6:12 to 12:12 pitches. The Ridge Pro allows for a safe transition from the ladder to the peak, ensuring 100 percent tie-off without attaching hardware to the architectural batten.
A&S Craftsman Series – Small Batten Panels (Ridge Pro Recommended)
The Craftsman Series – Small Batten system combines a clean architectural aesthetic with a functional two-piece design. By separating the pan and batten components, this system simplifies installation in challenging areas such as hips, valleys, and slope transitions. This water-shedding profile is for roofs and mansards with a minimum slope of 3:12. A&S offers this profile in 12-inch and 16-inch widths, available in 22-gauge or 24-gauge steel. The system features a 1-inch tall seam and a concealed clip system that secures the batten while accommodating natural thermal expansion and contraction. This profile is also available for field curving to suit radius roof designs. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for A&S Building Systems Craftsman Series – Small Batten Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for Craftsman Series – Small Batten
The batten-style seam on this profile prevents the use of traditional seam-clamping hardware. Clamping onto the small batten cover risks deforming the metal and compromising the weather-tight seal.
- The Ridge Pro: This ridge-mounted anchor is the primary non-penetrating solution for these panels. It provides a 100 percent tie-off for workers on steep roofs with pitches between 6:12 and 12:12.
- Curved Applications: Field-curved versions of this panel require a mandatory on-site inspection by a qualified safety professional.
A&S Slimline Nailstrip Panel (Ridge Pro Recommended)
The Slimline panel system provides a refined, contemporary aesthetic primarily for residential and light-commercial projects. Featuring a sleek, modern design, this profile requires a minimum roof slope of 3:12. A&S manufactures Slimline panels with 16-inch rib spacing using 26-gauge or 29-gauge steel. This lightweight system is easy to install and serves as an ideal solution for projects seeking to combine modern curb appeal with practical durability. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for A&S Building Systems Slimline Nailstrip Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for Slimline
While the Slimline system offers excellent visual appeal, its 26-gauge and 29-gauge steel construction presents specific limitations for fall protection.
- The Ridge Pro: This is the only recommended non-penetrating fall protection solution for Slimline roofs. It provides a secure anchorage point at the peak for roofs with pitches between 6:12 and 12:12. Because the Ridge Pro attaches to the ridge rather than the panel ribs, it delivers reliable safety without risking structural deformation or damage to the light-gauge steel.
Shielding Your Firm from Liability: The Risk of Generic Hardware
An A&S roofing system represents a significant capital investment in structural engineering and thermal efficiency. Your fall protection hardware should reflect that same level of professionalism. Utilizing unbranded, imported, or generic anchors creates a massive legal and financial 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, or certified test reports, it is an unacceptable liability that has no place on a professional job site.
Standing Seam Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For 22 Gauge A&S Building Systems
| BattenLok HS (22 Ga.) | Double-Lok (22 Ga.) | LokSeam (22 Ga.) | SuperLok (22 Ga,) | Ultra-Dek (22 Ga.) | CFR (22 Ga.) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SSRA 1 |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
SSRA1 Nylon Tip |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
SSRA2 Roof Jack |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
SSRA3 Anchor Plate |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
The Ridge Pro |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
Standing Seam Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For 24 Gauge A&S Building Systems
| BattenLok HS (24 Ga.) | Double-Lok (24 Ga.) | LokSeam (24 Ga.) | SuperLok (24 Ga,) | Ultra-Dek (24 Ga.) | CFR (24 Ga.) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SSRA 1 |
NO | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO |
| SSRA1 Nylon Tip |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| SSRA2 Roof Jack |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| SSRA3 Anchor Plate |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| The Ridge Pro |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
Standing Seam Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For 24 Gauge A&S Building Systems Cont.
| Craftsman High Batten | Craftsman Small Batten | Slimline Nailstrip Panel | |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSRA 1 |
NO | NO | NO |
| SSRA1 Nylon Tip |
NO | NO | NO |
| SSRA2 Roof Jack |
NO | NO | NO |
| SSRA3 Anchor Plate |
NO | NO | NO |
| The Ridge Pro |
YES | YES | YES |
Professional Guidance for Standing Seam Safety
For expert advice on selecting the appropriate fall protection system for your A&S or Metl-Span roof 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 Critical Safety Rules for A&S and MBCI Projects
- Protect First-Man-Up Workers: On pitches between 6:12 and 12:12, ensure workers use The Ridge Pro before stepping onto the panel surface. This tool protects the worker during the critical transition from the ladder to the peak.
- Conduct Daily Torque Verification: Users must verify set-screw torque before each attachment to confirm that the anchors meet required specifications and that no tampering or improper installation has occurred.
- Eliminate Clip-Location Guesswork: Traditional anchors require you to find hidden clips beneath the panel for a secure hold. The SSRA1 secures directly to the seam itself, providing a certified 5,000-pound anchor point regardless of clip location.
- Reject Uncertified Anchors: Do not risk your company's future on unbranded anchors. If a device lacks a verifiable third-party test report for compliance with OSHA 1926.502, it poses a liability risk that could cost you $100,000 in fines.
- Minimize the Pendulum Risk: Always account for dynamic sag. Limit the work area to a 30-degree arc from the anchor point to prevent dangerous swing falls that could result in collisions with the ground or the building.
- Thermal Expansion Is Critical: A&S panels expand and contract with temperature changes. Only use non-penetrating seam clamps that allow for this natural movement, preventing buckling or "oil-canning" of the steel.
- Avoid Metal Incompatibility: Galvanic corrosion can cause a roof to fail. Ensure you use only Stainless Steel set screws on steel panels to prevent galvanic reactions that cause rust and structural weakness.
- Prepare for Rescue: Fall arrest is only half the battle. Equip all harnesses with trauma relief straps to prevent suspension trauma while workers wait for rescue teams.
- Prioritize Low-Torque Anchor Designs: High-torque, two-piece clamps can easily crush a standing seam, voiding the panel warranty. The SSRA1 low-torque design requires only 90 inch-pounds (for 22-gauge) to achieve a full-strength, non-destructive lock.
- Verify Material Gauge: Before installation, confirm the metal thickness. Many architectural profiles, like Slimline or LokSeam, may be provided in 26-gauge or thinner, which are not compatible with seam-mounted anchors and require ridge-mounted protection instead.
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 about fall protection compatibility.