Fall Protection Strategies For Architectural Building Components/McElroy Metal s Roofs

Fall Protection Strategies For Architectural Building Components/McElroy Metal s Roofs

Posted by Howie Scarboro - CEO Fall Protection Distributors, LLC on Nov 4th 2024

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for McElroy Metal Standing Seam Panels.

McElroy Metal company logo. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

Who Is Architectural Building Components?

McElroy Metal may already be a familiar name for building owners with Architectural Building Components panels. In 2012, McElroy acquired Architectural Building Components, bringing the Houston-based company's expertise and product line under the McElroy umbrella. As McElroy has grown, these original panels have become part of its extensive catalog. McElroy remains committed to supporting these legacy products with robust resources, quality assurance, and compatibility in fall protection solutions.

Founded in 1963 by Thomas E. McElroy, Sr., in Bossier City, Louisiana, McElroy Metal has steadily expanded its reach across the United States, with 14 manufacturing facilities, 29 Service Centers, and 44 Metal Mart locations nationwide. Now employee-owned, McElroy continues to operate as a family-driven company, providing dependable roofing, siding, and building solutions alongside personalized customer support. This unique combination of growth and heritage enables McElroy to offer cutting-edge technology and support for older panel models, ensuring long-term reliability for its customers.

McElroy Metal standing seam roof system. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

Specialized Fall Protection for McElroy Metal Panels

When working with standing seam metal roofs, especially those from older installations by Architectural Building Components, compatible fall protection solutions that safeguard both the roof and the workers are crucial. Each panel's configuration affects which non-penetrating anchors can securely attach without compromising the roof's watertight design. For McElroy's standing seam panels, non-penetrating anchors like the SSRA1 Seam Anchor or the Ridge Pro Steep Assist maintain the structural integrity of the panels while allowing for safe installation and maintenance access.

This blog will review specific McElroy panel profiles (formerly Architectural Building Components designs) and the best fall protection equipment for each. By pairing McElroy's panels with compatible fall protection solutions, building owners can ensure safety and durability, preserving both the roof's functionality and the safety of those working on it.

138T Panel

McElroy Metal 138T panel. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

The McElroy Metal 138T panel, initially offered by Architectural Building Components, is a symmetrical standing seam panel designed for strength and watertight performance. With a seam height of 1-3/8 inches, the 138T panel uses a mechanically seamed cap that reinforces its weather resistance and allows for easy repair if an individual panel needs replacement. Available in 12, 16, and 18-inch widths, the 138T is versatile for commercial and residential projects, installed over solid decking. It suits roof slopes as low as 1/12. They offer it in durable materials, including 22 and 24-gauge steel, aluminum, and copper. This adaptability makes the 138T a strong choice for owners looking to maintain existing Architectural Building Components roofs with McElroy's reliable support. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for McElroy Metal 138T Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for 138T Panel

Steel versions of the 138T panel are compatible with the SSRA1 Seam Anchor, which provides a solid base for additional attachments like the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter and SSRA3 Anchor Plate. The SSRA1 clamps directly to the panel's seam, offering a secure, non-penetrating anchor point that avoids damaging the metal surface. When paired with the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter, the system supports 10-foot walk boards at adjustable heights, allowing for a stable, level workspace across the roof. This ability is critical on steeper roof panels, enabling workers to navigate safely with a minimized risk of slips.

The SSRA3 Anchor Plate expands the fall protection setup by allowing a 100-foot temporary horizontal lifeline to be attached to the SSRA1. This lifeline setup ensures safe, continuous movement across the roof, which is ideal for larger projects where workers require maximum mobility. 

For aluminum or copper 138T panels, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is recommended, particularly for roof slopes between 6/12 and 12/12. This ridge-mounted anchor system is non-invasive, hooking over the roof's ridge and providing a secure tie-off point without drilling or clamping. It's best to consult a safety professional to determine the most appropriate fall protection solution for curved installations.

238T Panel

McElroy Metal 238T panel. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

The 238T panel from McElroy Metal shares the symmetrical, mechanically seamed design of the 138T but with a taller seam height of 2-3/8 inches, improving durability and accommodating diverse applications. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for McElroy Metal 238T Standing Seam Panels.

Available in widths of 16, 18, and 24 inches, the 238T is compatible with installation over solid decking and allows for easy individual panel replacement. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for commercial and industrial projects and architectural builds requiring a sleek, weather-resistant profile. The 238T panel is available in steel (22 and 24 gauge), aluminum, and copper and can be installed on roof slopes as low as 1/12.

Fall Protection for 238T Panel

For steel 238T panels, the SSRA1 Seam Anchor provides a reliable, non-penetrating anchor that ensures the roof's structural integrity remains intact. The SSRA1 is a stable base for attaching the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter and SSRA3 Anchor Plate, making the system highly adaptable. The SSRA2 Adapter supports walk boards, creating an adjustable height platform that allows workers to move safely across the roof, even on challenging slopes. This feature reduces the risk of slipping by providing a consistent, level surface, which is crucial for maintaining safety on wider or taller panel configurations like the 238T.

The SSRA3 Anchor Plate attachment expands the fall protection setup by supporting a temporary 100-foot horizontal lifeline. This lifeline provides extensive coverage across larger roof sections, allowing workers safe mobility without frequently repositioning their anchors. For non-steel versions of the 238T, such as aluminum or copper, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is recommended for steep pitches (6/12 to 12/12). This non-penetrating ridge-mounted anchor ensures a secure tie-off point by hooking over the ridge without clamping or drilling. A safety professional should inspect the site for curved panel configurations to determine the optimal fall protection strategy.

RidgeLine IMP Panel

McElroy Metal RidgeLine IMP panel. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

The RidgeLine IMP panel by McElroy Metal combines the 238T panel's standing seam design with advanced insulation, making it ideal for energy efficiency in various climates. This polyisocyanurate insulated panel features the same 2-3/8-inch seam height as the 238T but boasts a wider 42-inch panel. RidgeLine IMP panels provide thickness options of 2.5, 3, 4, 5, and 6 inches, ensuring superior thermal insulation while maintaining the durability of a metal standing seam system. This ability makes them suitable for commercial, industrial, and architectural applications requiring energy savings and weather resilience. These panels endure various environmental conditions, maintain an attractive profile, and are installed directly onto solid decking. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for McElroy Metal RidgeLine IMP Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for RidgeLine IMP

The 238T seam profile on the RidgeLine IMP panel ensures compatibility with the SSRA product line, providing robust, non-penetrating fall protection. The SSRA1 Seam Anchor attaches securely to the seam using twelve set screws, preserving the panel's watertight properties. As the base component, the SSRA1 anchor accommodates additional attachments such as the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter, which provides stable platforms for walk boards on the roof. These SSRA2 adapters adjust to various seam heights, allowing versatility across most standing seam profiles.

Contractors can mount the SSRA3 Anchor Plate atop two SSRA1 anchors to create an anchorage point for a temporary 100-foot horizontal lifeline. This setup offers continuous fall protection across large roof sections, particularly useful for projects requiring safe, widespread access without frequent anchor repositioning. This combination ensures that RidgeLine IMP panels meet high safety standards for insulated standing seam installations, preserving the panel's structure and insulation performance.

Instaloc Panel

McElroy Metal Instaloc panel. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

McElroy Metal's Instaloc panel system features easy installation and strong performance in challenging environments. Featuring a 1-inch snaplock seam and manufactured from 24-gauge steel, the Instaloc panel provides a sleek, low-profile look that combines durability and simplicity. This panel is installed over solid decking and requires a minimum pitch of 3/12. It is suitable for moderate to steep-sloped applications. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for McElroy Metal Instaloc Standing Seam Panels.

Produced in Houston, Texas, Instaloc panels meet stringent fire safety and impact resistance standards, making them ideal for residential and commercial use. The panels come in a 13-inch width with options for striated, plank, and minor rib configurations, all protected by a Kynar 500 (PVDF) coating for enhanced color retention and resistance to the elements.

Fall Protection for Instaloc Panels

The SSRA1 Seam Anchor provides a secure, non-penetrating solution for the Instaloc panel's 1-inch seam. With the SSRA1 as the foundation, additional components like the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter and SSRA3 Anchor Plate enhance its functionality. The SSRA2 allows for adjustable height 10-foot walk boards, giving workers a stable and flexible platform across the roof surface. This adaptability is essential on smaller seams where achieving level footing can be challenging.

For horizontal movement, the SSRA3 Anchor Plate provides a secure attachment for a 100-foot temporary lifeline, ensuring safe access to wide roof sections. For projects on steeper slopes, typically between 6/12 and 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist offers a reliable fall protection alternative. It hooks over the roof ridge without penetrating the metal, allowing safe work on high-pitched Instaloc roofs while preserving the panel's integrity.

MasterLok-90 Panel

McElroy Metal MasterLok-90 panel. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

The McElroy Metal MasterLok-90 panel is a trapezoidal standing seam system crafted for low-slope roofing applications, accommodating pitches as shallow as 1/4:12. With its 3-inch seam height and a 24-inch panel width, the MasterLok-90 provides a secure, watertight seal due to its snap-together design, which simplifies installation without compromising performance. This panel's construction in 22 and 24-gauge steel ensures resilience, making it suitable for demanding commercial and industrial projects. It is versatile for installation over flat decking or open framing. It meets high safety standards, including Class A fire ratings and Class 4 impact resistance for extreme weather durability. The MasterLok-90's quick installation and long-term performance make it an ideal choice for low-slope projects requiring both efficiency and durability. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for McElroy Metal MasterLok-90 Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for MasterLok-90 Panel

For fall protection on steel MasterLok-90 panels, the SSRA1 Seam Anchor, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter, and SSRA3 Anchor Plate create a comprehensive, non-penetrating system that preserves the panel's structural integrity. The SSRA1 clamps securely onto the MasterLok-90's standing seam, creating a reliable anchorage point without any metal penetration, essential for maintaining the roof's watertight seal. The SSRA2 Roof Jack Adapter, designed to attach to the SSRA1, allows for adjustable height walk boards up to 10-feet, providing a stable walking surface along the roof's length. This system enables safe, secure footing for workers, minimizing the risk of slips.

For extended mobility across the roof, the SSRA3 Anchor Plate connects to the SSRA1 anchors to support a 100-foot temporary horizontal lifeline, allowing safe, continuous travel along the roof. We recommend using the Ridge Pro Steep Assist for MasterLok-90 panels made of aluminum or copper when installing them on steeper slopes ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. This ridge-mounted, non-penetrating anchor provides a safe tie-off point without clamping or drilling, preserving the panel's integrity on steep installations.

MasterLok-FS Panel

McElroy Metal MasterLok-FS panel. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

The MasterLok-FS panel is a mechanically seamed alternative to the MasterLok-90, designed with a similar 3-inch seam height and 24-inch width. Like the MasterLok-90, it performs well on low slopes, withstanding pitches as low as 1/4:12, and is suitable for flat decking and open framing. The manufacturer produces the panel using 22- and 24-gauge steel, providing durability and versatility for challenging roofing projects. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for McElroy Metal MasterLok-FS Standing Seam Panels.

Its mechanical seam provides added stability, making it ideal for projects requiring high wind uplift resistance and Class A fire ratings. The MasterLok-FS meets stringent impact resistance standards, providing a durable solution for various commercial and industrial applications.

Fall Protection for MasterLok-FS Panel

The fall protection setup for the MasterLok-FS mirrors that of the MasterLok-90, offering a non-penetrating, robust anchorage solution. The SSRA1 Seam Anchor is the primary anchor, securely attaching to the mechanically seamed MasterLok-FS panel without penetrating the metal. For added functionality, the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter mounts to the SSRA1 anchor, supporting walkboards up to 10-feet at adjustable heights. This setup creates a safe, stable work platform across the roof, essential for maintaining safety and efficiency on larger installations.

The SSRA3 Anchor Plate attaches to two SSRA1 anchors to ensure mobility, providing a secure connection point for a temporary 100-foot horizontal lifeline. This lifeline setup allows safe movement along the roof without requiring frequent reattachment, an advantage for extensive roofing projects. We recommend using the Ridge Pro Steep Assist for installations with aluminum or copper MasterLok-FS panels on steeper slopes (6/12 to 12/12). This ridge-mounted, non-penetrating anchor solution maintains the panel's structure while providing additional support. This setup combines safety and structural integrity, ensuring reliable fall protection across various MasterLok-FS roofing projects.

Maxima Panels

McElroy Metal Maxima panel. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

The Maxima series by McElroy Metal is an adaptable standing seam system offering architects and builders three unique profiles: Maxima, Maxima 1.5, and Maxima ADV. These profiles provide various options for seam heights, ranging from 1.5 to 3 inches, with panel widths of 12, 16, 18, and 24 inches. This versatility allows users to select the profile that best meets aesthetic and structural needs. The Maxima series is designed for low-slope installations and accommodates minimum slopes as low as 1/4:12, making it suitable for various roofing applications, including commercial, industrial, and architectural projects. Maxima panels are compatible with solid decks or open framing and undergo rigorous testing for fire safety, wind uplift, impact resistance, and water infiltration, ensuring Class A fire ratings and Class 4 impact resistance. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for McElroy Metal Maxima Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for Maxima Series Panels

To safely install and maintain Maxima panels, which are available in 22- and 24-gauge steel, we recommend a comprehensive fall protection system using the SSRA product line. The SSRA1 Seam Anchor is the foundation of this setup, securely clamping to the standing seams without penetrating the metal. This feature preserves the panel's integrity while providing a solid anchor point for fall arrest systems. The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter mounts onto the SSRA1, enabling the attachment of 10-foot walk boards. This setup allows workers to move safely across the roof with a level work surface, essential for inspections and maintenance.

The SSRA3 Anchor Plate adds another layer of safety by enabling the use of a 100-foot temporary horizontal lifeline. When mounted on two SSRA1 anchors, it allows multiple workers to move along the roof with continuous fall protection, making it ideal for larger installations. For steep slopes or non-steel versions of Maxima panels, such as aluminum or copper, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist offers a ridge-mounted, non-penetrating anchor that provides reliable support on pitches from 6/12 to 12/12. We do not recommend using seam-mounted clamps for curved Maxima panels because they may cause performance issues. A trained safety professional should determine the most suitable fall protection strategy to ensure safety and roof integrity.

Medallion I Panel

McElroy Metal Medallion I panel. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

McElroy Metal Medallion I batten cover. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

McElroy Metal's Medallion I panel features a distinctive batten seam design that combines a narrow batten cap over adjoining panels for a sleek architectural finish. This 1-inch seam height panel is available in widths of 12, 16, and 18 inches, offering flexibility for residential and commercial applications. Built to meet stringent industry standards, the Medallion I panel achieves Class A fire ratings and Class 4 impact resistance, making it suitable for various climates and environments. This panel provides a strong, visually appealing roofing solution installed over solid decking. Additionally, curved options of the Medallion I panel are available, though these require specialized fall protection solutions. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for McElroy Metal Medallion I Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for Medallion I Panel

Due to the Medallion I's batten cap design, traditional seam-mounted fall protection devices like the SSRA1 Seam Anchor, SSRA2 Roof Jack Adapter, and SSRA3 Anchor Plate are incompatible with this panel. However, for steep slopes (6/12 to 12/12), the Ridge Pro Steep Assist offers a reliable, non-penetrating fall protection solution. This anchor hooks securely over the roof ridge without compromising the batten design, providing a safe tie-off point for short-term maintenance or inspection tasks. Quick to install and remove, the Ridge Pro is ideal for temporary applications where preserving the roof's integrity is paramount.

To determine the best fall protection approach, a safety professional should evaluate the job site for curved Medallion I panels, which present additional challenges. This process ensures worker safety and maintains the roof's structural integrity, especially on unique architectural applications.

Medallion II Panel

McElroy Metal Medallion II panel. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

The McElroy Metal Medallion II panel is a wider batten seam roofing system designed for structural and architectural applications that demand a strong visual impact. This panel retains the sleek 1-inch seam height of the Medallion I. Still, it features a more prominent batten cap, adding depth and dimension to the roofline. Available in widths of 12, 16, and 18 inches, the Medallion II panel is ideal for projects where aesthetics are paramount, such as commercial or upscale residential buildings. Medallion II panels are installed over solid decking and tested to meet stringent industry standards, boasting Class A fire ratings and Class 4 impact resistance, making them durable enough to withstand severe weather conditions. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for McElroy Metal Medallion II Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for Medallion II Panel

Due to the wide batten cap design, the Medallion II panel is incompatible with standard seam-mounted fall protection products like the SSRA1 Seam Anchor, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter, or SSRA3 Anchor Plate. These anchors typically rely on clamping onto standing seams. They are unsuitable for batten-style systems, as they can compromise the roof's structure or watertight properties. Instead, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides a non-invasive fall protection solution for the Medallion II.

This ridge-mounted anchor hooks securely over the roof's ridge without penetrating or damaging the panel, making it ideal for steep roof pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. The Ridge Pro Steep Assist is quick to install and remove, offering a reliable temporary anchor point for inspections or short-term maintenance.

Medallion-Lok Snaplock Panels

McElroy Metal Medallion-Lok panel. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

The Medallion-Lok panel series by McElroy Metal features a 1.75-inch standing seam height with a snaplock seam design, facilitating a fast, straightforward installation. Hidden clips keep the panels securely fastened, eliminating the need for on-site seaming. Available in 12, 16, and 18-inch widths, Medallion-Lok panels are suitable for roofs with slopes of at least 3/12, ensuring effective water drainage. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for McElroy Metal Medallion-Lok Standing Seam Panels.

Manufactured at multiple facilities nationwide, including Clinton, IL, and Peachtree City, GA, these panels undergo rigorous testing to meet high standards, including Class A fire ratings and Class 4 impact resistance. Regulatory approvals, such as Florida State and ICC-ES Approval, further attest to the Medallion-Lok's reliability and performance. The series is well-suited for commercial buildings and larger residential projects, where durability and ease of installation are essential.

Install Medallion-Lok panels over solid decking or open framing for versatile use. Factory-formed eave notches, available upon request, allow for precise alignment and fit and enhance installation efficiency.

Fall Protection for Medallion-Lok Snaplock Panels

For fall protection on 22 and 24-gauge steel Medallion-Lok panels, the SSRA1 Seam Anchor provides a secure, non-penetrating attachment point that maintains the roof's structural integrity. The SSRA1 is a base for additional attachments, such as the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter, which supports 10-foot walk boards for safe and stable movement across the roof during installation or maintenance. The SSRA3 Anchor Plate, compatible with the SSRA1, enables the setup of a 100-foot temporary horizontal lifeline, allowing workers to move safely along the roof without frequently reattaching their anchor points. This configuration is ideal for large roofing projects requiring extended movement and stability.

For aluminum Medallion-Lok panels installed on steeper slopes (6/12 to 12/12), the Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides an effective alternative. This anchor hooks over the ridge, offering secure fall protection without seam clamping or penetration, preserving the roof's appearance and functionality. The Ridge Pro Steep Assist is especially useful for temporary tasks like inspections or maintenance on high-pitched roofs.

Meridian Snaplock Panels

McElroy Metal Meridian Snaplock panel. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

McElroy Metal's Meridian Snaplock panels are versatile solutions for both commercial and residential projects. The Meridian panels can be directly fastened to the decking, featuring a hidden nail flange. At the same time, the snaplock design conceals the fasteners under the next panel. This hidden fastening system accelerates installation, reducing labor costs and providing a smooth, uninterrupted roof surface. Meridian panels come in 12 and 16-inch widths and are made from 24 or 26-gauge steel with a 1-inch seam height. For optimal drainage, Meridian panels require a minimum roof slope of 3/12. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for McElroy Metal Meridian Snaplock Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for Meridian Snaplock Panels

The SSRA1 Seam Anchors are compatible with 24-gauge Meridian Snaplock panels, offering a non-penetrating solution that secures the fall protection system without compromising the roof's structural integrity. The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter and SSRA3 Anchor Plate can be mounted on the SSRA1 anchors, allowing for the attachment of walk boards and 100-foot temporary horizontal lifelines, making it ideal for large-scale roof work.

We recommend using alternative fall protection for 26-gauge Meridian panels. The Ridge Pro Steep Assist accommodates roof pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. This ridge-mounted anchor provides a secure tie-off without clamping onto the seams, preserving the panel's finish and watertightness.

Mirage II Panels

McElroy Metal Mirage II panel. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

McElroy's Mirage II panel is a durable snaplock standing seam system for low-slope roofs. With a 1.75-inch seam height and an 8-inch on-center rib design, the Mirage II panel is available in 16-inch widths and crafted from 24-gauge steel. It is suitable for slopes as low as 1/4:12. These panels are typically installed over solid decking or structural supports, offering excellent performance in commercial and residential roofing applications. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for McElroy Metal Mirage II Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for Mirage II Panels

The Mirage II panel's unique seam profile is incompatible with standard SSRA fall protection devices, including the SSRA1 Seam Anchor, SSRA2 Roof Jack Adapter, and SSRA3 Anchor Plate. Experts recommend the Ridge Pro Steep Assist for Mirage II roofs with pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. This ridge-mounted anchor provides reliable fall protection without clamping onto the seam, which preserves the roof's integrity.

Trap-Tee Panels

McElroy Metal Trap-Tee panel. Image courtesy of www.McElroyMetal.com.

McElroy's Trap-Tee panel is a trapezoidal standing seam system with a 2.75-inch tall seam, ideal for low-slope roofs down to 1/4:12. This panel is site-formed and mechanically seamed, which reduces the risk of leaks, boosts wind uplift resistance, and facilitates repairs. Available in widths of 18 and 24 inches, Trap-Tee panels are manufactured in Houston, TX, and offered in 20, 22, and 24-gauge steel, making them a reliable choice for long-term performance with a projected lifespan of up to 60 years. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for McElroy Metal Trap-Tee Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for Trap-Tee Panels

Trap-Tee panels are compatible with the full range of SSRA fall protection products. The SSRA1 Seam Anchor provides a non-penetrating attachment to the seam. At the same time, the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter and SSRA3 Anchor Plate enable the use of 10-foot walk boards and 100-foot horizontal lifelines, ensuring worker safety across large roof areas. Alternatively, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist can be used for fall protection on steeper roof pitches (6/12 to 12/12), providing a secure, ridge-mounted solution that avoids roof penetration.

Ensuring Worker Safety on McElroy Standing Seam Metal Panels

In the dynamic world of construction and roofing, worker safety remains a top priority. As the industry advances, so do the techniques and tools designed to safeguard those working on rooftops. McElroy Metal is a leader in this evolution, offering a comprehensive range of standing seam panels crafted for durability, performance, and safety.

Exploring McElroy Metal's panel options has revealed the innovative designs that define each series. The symmetrical seams of the 138T and 238T panels, the efficiency of the Instaloc snaplock system, and the unique features of the Medallion and Meridian panels all highlight McElroy Metal's commitment to quality and versatile roofing solutions. Each panel is tested and approved for industry standards, ensuring it withstands the elements while providing structural integrity and long-lasting performance.

Safety is essential to any roofing project, so choosing the proper fall protection for each panel series is crucial. We've outlined compatible systems for McElroy's panels, including SSRA1 Seam Anchors, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, and SSRA3 Anchor Plates for non-penetrating, secure attachments on steel standing seams. For aluminum, copper, and steeper roof configurations, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides a reliable alternative, allowing safe, ridge-mounted anchorage without compromising the roof's structure.

Contractors and builders can ensure a safe and productive work environment by aligning McElroy Metal's panel designs with appropriate fall protection solutions. With options tailored to specific panel types and roof conditions, these safety systems uphold McElroy Metal's dedication to excellence and reliability. As roofing continues to evolve, so does the commitment to safety, ensuring that workers can complete their jobs efficiently while staying protected.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility Chart For Merchant and Evans

 

138T Panel
22-24 Ga.

238T Panel
22-24 Ga.

RidgeLine IMP
22-24 Ga.

Instaloc Panel
22-24 Ga.

MasterLok-90
22-24 Ga.

MasterLok-FS
22-24 Ga.

Maxima Panel
22-24 Ga.

SSRA 1

SSRA_1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

SSRA1 Nylon Tip

SSRA_1 Anchor Nylon Tip Standing Seam Roof Anchor

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

SSRA2 Roof Jack

SSRA_2 Roof Jack Adapter

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

SSRA3 Anchor Plate

SSRA_3 Anchor Plate

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

The Ridge Pro

Ridge Pro Roof Anchor

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

Anchor Panel Compatibility Chart Continued

 

Medallion I
Batten Seam

Medallion II
Batten Seam

Medallion-Lok
22-24 Ga.

Meridian
22-24 Ga.

Mirage II
SnapLock

Trap-Tee
22-24 Ga.

SSRA 1

SSRA_1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor

NO NO YES YES NO YES

SSRA1 Nylon Tip

SSRA_1 Anchor Nylon Tip Standing Seam Roof Anchor

NO NO YES YES NO YES

SSRA2 Roof Jack

SSRA_2 Roof Jack Adapter

NO NO YES YES NO YES

SSRA3 Anchor Plate

SSRA_3 Anchor Plate

NO NO YES YES NO YES

The Ridge Pro

Ridge Pro Roof Anchor

YES YES 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.

Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear

Outfitting your team with durable, comfortable harnesses and shock-absorbing lanyards promotes consistent use, which is essential for fall protection. Quality gear minimizes the risk of severe injuries, ensuring reliable safety when working on metal roofs.

Ensure Stable Access Points

Creating stability begins with solid, level access points for ladders and scaffolding. To prevent slips and accidents during roof access, follow the 4-to-1 ladder rule—placing the base one foot out for every four feet up.

Develop OSHA-Compliant Safety Plans

A solid safety plan that complies with OSHA guidelines helps establish emergency procedures and fall protection measures. This proactive step prepares the team for potential incidents, enhancing safety and efficiency on-site.

Set Up Protective Barriers for Work Zones

Guardrails and warning lines establish clear boundaries for larger roofs or low-slope projects, reducing risks around high-traffic or hazardous areas. These barriers help keep crews focused on safety, even on expansive or crowded job sites.

Use Specialized Anchor Systems for Standing Seam Roofs

Use clamp-on anchors for standing seam panels to avoid puncturing or damaging the roof. Specialized anchors, such as seam clamps, preserve the integrity of standing seam panels, preventing leaks or corrosion that may arise from roof penetrations. Avoid using any seam anchor that requires mounting over hidden clips. These clips are nearly impossible to locate on existing roofs.

Ensure Proper Footwear for Stability

Encourage workers to wear non-slip, roofing-specific shoes to reduce the risk of slips, especially on wet or icy metal surfaces. Proper footwear ensures better traction and enhances safety, particularly on sloped or standing seam roofs.

Install Permanent Roof Anchor Systems

For buildings requiring frequent maintenance, permanent roof anchors provide an efficient, secure tie-off point for ongoing work. These fixed anchors streamline maintenance and improve safety, making them a smart choice for commercial property.

Promote a Culture of Safety

Fostering a proactive safety culture through regular training and inspections creates a vigilant work environment. Emphasizing hazard awareness and open communication helps crews complete projects safely and efficiently.

Encourage the Use of Trauma Straps

Trauma straps are critical in reducing the risk of suspension trauma following a fall. Ensure workers know how to deploy these straps, which provide relief and restore circulation until help arrives.

Consult Experts for Curved Metal Panels

Curved metal roofs require specialized fall protection strategies, as standard seam anchors may not secure properly. A safety professional can provide a tailored fall protection plan, ensuring worker safety and integrity on unique roof designs.

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.