Fall Protection Strategies for AllMetal Standing Seam Roofs

Fall Protection Strategies for AllMetal Standing Seam Roofs

Posted by Howie Scarboro - CEO Fall Protection Distributors, LLC on Apr 14th 2025

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for AllMetal Roofing & Siding Standing Seam Panels.

Who Is AllMetal Roofing & Siding?

With more than 35 years of experience serving the Southeast, AllMetal Roofing & Siding has become a trusted name in the world of metal construction. Headquartered in Cowarts, Alabama, with additional operations in Panama City, Florida, the company has built its reputation on two core principles: delivering high-quality metal roofing and siding systems and cutting out the middleman to keep costs low and customer satisfaction high.

From the beginning, AllMetal focused on manufacturing its products in-house to ensure precision and consistency. Today, their state-of-the-art facilities produce metal panels, trim, and complete building kits for residential and commercial use. Every product is made from American steel using CNC technology, and the company stands behind its work with durable finishes, a 40-year paint warranty, and a strong commitment to customer service.

Their offerings go beyond basic panels. AllMetal supplies a full range of building solutions—from energy-efficient roofing systems to complete pole barn kits, complete with blueprints and materials. Their panels are available in various colors, styles, and gauges, making them a versatile option for contractors, DIY builders, and architects throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and neighboring states.

Fast lead times, direct-to-consumer pricing, and knowledgeable support make AllMetal a go-to partner for anyone building in the South's challenging climate. Whether it's heat, humidity, or hurricane-force winds, their products last and install smoothly with the proper preparation and tools.

Why Compatible Fall Protection Anchors Matter for Standing Seam Roofs

Fall protection has become even more critical with the rise of standing seam metal roofing in residential, commercial, and agricultural markets. These roofs feature raised seams that conceal fasteners and allow for thermal movement, which is great for performance but tricky when anchoring safety equipment.

Many traditional fall protection systems rely on drilling or penetrating the roof surface, which can void warranties, compromise weatherproofing, or even deform the seam. That's why specialized, non-penetrating anchors are essential. The right fall protection anchor will clamp securely onto the standing seam without causing damage while still meeting OSHA and ANSI safety requirements.

For contractors, roofers, and maintenance crews working on AllMetal standing seam roofs, choosing compatible fall protection gear isn't just a matter of convenience—it's a matter of safety and long-term roof integrity. In the following sections, we'll explore the specific panel profiles offered by AllMetal and identify the most reliable anchoring systems for each one. Whether planning a new installation or preparing for roof work on an existing structure, this guide will help you learn about safe fall protection methods.

1-Inch Standing Seam Nailstrip Panel

AllMetal Roofing & Siding manufactures a 1" Standing Seam Nailstrip Panel that offers a clean finish and simple installation for residential and light commercial applications. This panel is available in 12" and 16" widths and can be made of 26—or 24-gauge steel. The Nailstrip design allows direct fastening through the male leg without needing clips. It is a go-to option for fast installs with minimal tools. It's especially popular for contractors looking for a cost-effective standing seam solution with a sleek appearance. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for AllMetal Roofing & Siding 1-Inch Nailstrip Standing Seam Panels.

Thanks to its consistent profile and quality control, this panel is compatible with several industry-standard fall protection systems.

Fall Protection for 1-inch Standing Seam Panels

When working on 24 gauge steel versions of this Nailstrip panel, contractors can safely use the full SSRA system lineup to create a temporary, completely non-penetrating fall protection setup.

The SSRA1 Seam Anchor is the foundation of this system. It clamps directly onto the raised seam without puncturing the panel, using patented, non-penetrating set screws to hold fast under load. This anchor is built from solid aluminum and fits over 500 different panel types, including the 1" Nailstrip profile from AllMetal.

When paired with the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters, the SSRA1 anchor transforms into a support structure for 10-foot wooden walkboards. These walkboards give workers stable footing on steep or slick roof surfaces, dramatically reducing the risk of slips or missteps. The SSRA2 units mount directly to the SSRA1 base and include adjustable channels to accommodate slight seam height differences or slopes.

For jobs that require mobility across the entire roof surface—such as panel installation or repairs—workers can mount a 100-foot horizontal lifeline system using the SSRA3 Anchor Plates. These plates mount securely onto the SSRA1 anchors and serve as tie-off points for temporary 100-foot horizontal lifeline systems. This setup allows multiple workers to move laterally along the roof ridge while remaining entirely tied off.

For 26-gauge steel, we recommend using the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor instead. This device hooks over the ridge of any roof with a 6/12 to 12/12 pitch. It provides a stable, OSHA-compliant tie-off point, providing 100% tie-off from the ladder to the roof. This advantage is perfect for lighter-gauge metal systems where seam-mounted anchors are inappropriate.

Whether walking panels, staging equipment, or conducting a quick inspection, choosing the right fall protection system for AllMetal's 1" Standing Seam Nailstrip panel preserves worker safety and roof integrity. And that's a win from every angle.

1-3/4-Inch Standing Seam Snaplock Panel

The 1-3/4" Snap-Loc Standing Seam Panel from AllMetal Roofing & Siding offers a blend of structural performance and visual appeal. Manufactured in 14", 16", and 18" widths and available in both 26 and 24 gauge steel, this panel is ideal for residential and light commercial projects where aesthetics, weather resistance, and ease of installation are top priorities. The Snaplock design eliminates mechanical seaming, allowing the panel to snap into place over hidden fasteners while still providing a strong, watertight connection. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for AllMetal Roofing & Siding 1-3/4-Inch Snaplock Standing Seam Panels.

This profile's uniformity and seam height make it suitable for specific fall protection anchors that can clamp securely without piercing the roof material—preserving both the panel's finish and the building envelope.

Fall Protection for 1-3/4-Inch Standing Seam Panels

On 24-gauge steel panels, all SSRA products are compatible with a non-penetrating, OSHA-compliant fall protection setup that minimizes risk and maximizes efficiency on the roof.

The SSRA1 Seam Anchor clamps directly onto the raised seam, using hardened set screws to grip the panel without damaging it. This anchor body is solid aluminum. It features a patented shape that conforms to most standing seam profiles—including the 1-3/4" Snap-Loc panel—making it one of the most versatile anchors on the market.

The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters mount onto the SSRA1 anchors to support 10-foot wooden walkboards, providing stable, level walkways for workers across steep or slippery metal surfaces. These adapters include slotted channels that can be adjusted for different seam heights or pitches, allowing for a customized and level working platform across the roof.

Workers can install the SSRA3 Anchor Plates on top of the SSRA1 anchors to enable horizontal movement while remaining tied off. These plates act as endpoints for 100-foot temporary horizontal lifelines, allowing multiple workers to navigate the roof ridge or panel runs without disconnecting from their fall arrest system.

For panels made from 26 gauge steel or other substrates like aluminum or copper, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is the preferred fall protection solution. This anchor system hooks over the peak of 6/12 to 12/12 roofs, giving the user a secure and stable tie-off point from the ladder to the roof's highest point and back down again. It's lightweight, easy to set up, and doesn't rely on seam clamping—making it ideal for thinner or softer metal roofing materials.

With the right anchoring system, contractors and maintenance crews can confidently work on AllMetal's 1-3/4" Snap-Loc panels.

1-1/2-Inch Mechanical Lock Standing Seam Panel

The 1-1/2" Mechanical Lock Standing Seam Panel from AllMetal Roofing & Siding is a Florida-exclusive offering crafted from .032 and .040 gauge aluminum. This panel is roll-formed in a consistent 16" width. It features a mechanically seamed profile that delivers exceptional strength and weathertight performance, even under harsh coastal conditions. Designed with durability in mind, this panel is ideal for high-end residential or commercial builds along the Gulf Coast, where aluminum's corrosion resistance is essential. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for AllMetal Roofing & Siding 1-1/2-Inch Mechanical Lock Standing Seam Panels.

The mechanical lock seam adds structural integrity and is often chosen for projects exposed to high wind uplift, heavy rains, or salt air—making this a panel built for resilience. At the same time, the aluminum substrate offers excellent longevity but limits compatibility with many traditional fall protection anchors.

Fall Protection for 1-1/2-Inch Mechanical Lock Panels

Because aluminum panels are more pliable than steel and prone to deformation under high clamping pressure, the SSRA1 Seam Anchor and related SSRA products are incompatible with this profile. Seam-mounted anchors that rely on set screws can damage or crush the seam, compromising both the safety and the integrity of the panel system.

For safe and compliant fall protection on roofs featuring this panel, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is the best choice when the pitch falls between 6/12 and 12/12. This ridge-mounted system allows workers to remain tied off from the moment they step onto the roof until the moment they leave. The Ridge Pro doesn't rely on seam engagement; instead, it uses a padded base and roof peak placement to provide secure anchorage without penetrating or clamping the panel.

Lightweight, portable, and fast to deploy, the Ridge Pro is a valuable solution for working on aluminum standing seam systems where traditional anchors just won't cut it. It's an ideal match for maintenance tasks, inspections, and installation work, ensuring worker safety and panel preservation.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility Chart For AllMetal Roofing

  Nailstrip Panel
24 ga.
Snaplock Panel
24 ga.
Mechanical Lock
Aluminum

SSRA 1

SSRA_1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor

YES YES NO

SSRA1 Nylon Tip

SSRA_1 Anchor Nylon Tip Standing Seam Roof Anchor

YES YES NO

SSRA2 Roof Jack

SSRA_2 Roof Jack Adapter

YES YES NO

SSRA3 Anchor Plate

SSRA_3 Anchor Plate

YES YES NO

The Ridge Pro

Ridge Pro Roof Anchor

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 Tips For Standing Seam Roofs

Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear

Putting someone on a roof without proper gear is like sending a firefighter into a blaze with a garden hose. Harnesses, lanyards, and SRLs aren't just accessories—they're the first and last lines of defense. Go beyond the basics with equipment that fits well, performs under pressure, and meets OSHA standards. Comfortable, top-tier gear protects workers from injury and encourages consistent use. A harness that fits right and feels right is far more likely to be worn right.

Use Specialized Anchor Systems for Standing Seam Roofs

Not all roofs follow the same rules—and standing seam panels require a specific game plan. Penetrating anchors may seem quick, but they can destroy seam integrity, void warranties, and create future leak points. Seam-mounted anchors that clamp without puncturing the panels offer a secure, damage-free alternative. The right anchor doesn't just save lives—it preserves the roof and saves money on future repairs.

Encourage the Use of Trauma Straps

A fall isn't over when the fall stops. Suspension trauma can take hold in minutes, cutting off circulation and leading to serious health issues—or worse. Trauma relief straps let a suspended worker support their weight and maintain blood flow until help arrives. Training every crew member to deploy them is as important as issuing them. It's a small tool that can make a life-saving difference.

Prioritize Ladder Safety Training

Ladders are so common on job sites that it's easy to overlook their dangers. One wrong step, one unsecured base, and a routine climb becomes an emergency. Teach your team to recognize ladder angles, secure footing, and follow the 4-to-1 rule without hesitation. An adequately set ladder is more than just access—it's the first step in staying safe before boots even touch the roof.

Develop OSHA-Compliant Safety Plans

Think of a safety plan as the blueprint for staying alive. An effective plan isn't just a binder collecting dust—it's an active part of your job site. Include everything from hazard identification and fall prevention procedures to emergency response tactics. Review it, update it, and ensure every worker understands their role. A crew that knows the plan reacts quickly and works confidently.

Promote a Culture of Safety

Safety isn't a poster on the wall—it's the conversations you have every day. From pre-job briefings to post-shift debriefs a safety culture is built on communication and mutual responsibility. Encourage your crew to speak up when something doesn't look right, share close calls, and look out for one another. When safety becomes second nature, productivity and morale go up, and accidents go down.

Install Permanent Roof Anchor Systems

If you're accessing the same roof more than once, temporary anchors won't cut it. Permanent anchor points give maintenance teams and inspectors a reliable tie-off location whenever they're on the job. They're discreet, weather-resistant, and engineered for repeated use—making them a must for commercial buildings, schools, and high-traffic roofs. Install once and protect for decades.

Set Up Protective Guardrail Barriers for Work Zones

Open roof edges demand more than caution—they need clear, visible, and secure boundaries. Guardrails act as physical reminders and protection against accidental falls. Especially useful on flat or low-slope commercial roofs, they let crews work freely within a safe perimeter. Combine them with warning lines for maximum visibility and peace of mind on every edge.

Ensure Proper Footwear for Stability

Metal roofs and smooth soles don't mix. Traction is everything when working at height, especially on sloped, slick, or wet panels. Quality roofing boots with slip-resistant soles and sturdy ankle support reduce fatigue and help workers maintain balance. Better grip means fewer slips—and fewer slips mean more jobs finished without incident.

Consult Experts for Curved Metal Panels

Curved roofs may look stunning, but they complicate fall protection planning. Many anchors that perform well on flat or straight panels fail to work correctly on radiused seams or sloped curves. That's when it's time to bring in the pros. A qualified safety expert can recommend solutions that meet both OSHA standards and the structural needs of curved systems—because guessing isn't a safe strategy when the edge is curved and steep.

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.