Fall Protection Strategies For Architectural Building Components/McElroy Metal s Roofs
Posted by Howie Scarboro - CEO Fall Protection Distributors, LLC on Jan 22nd 2026
See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Architectural Building Components Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Who Is Architectural Building Components?
In 2012, McElroy Metal strategically acquired the Houston-based Architectural Building Components, integrating their specialized symmetrical standing seam technology into one of the nation's most robust product catalogs. Established in 1963 and now a 100 percent employee-owned company, McElroy Metal operates 14 manufacturing facilities and over 70 service centers across the United States.
Headquartered in Bossier City, Louisiana, McElroy is a premier supplier for the commercial, industrial, and residential sectors. Their deep heritage in the Gulf Coast and Southern markets makes them a primary authority on high-wind-uplift and hurricane-resistant building envelopes. Every legacy Architectural Building Components profile is now backed by McElroy's expansive engineering resources, ensuring long-term reliability for builders from Texas to the Atlantic Coast.
McElroy Metal Panels Require Non-Penetrating Fall Protection
Preserving the weather-tight performance of a McElroy roof requires safety equipment that respects the panel's engineering. McElroy systems, particularly the symmetrical 138T and 238T series, are designed to "float" to manage thermal expansion across large spans. Using traditional anchors that penetrate the panel surface is a direct violation of the manufacturer's specifications, leading to hidden leaks and immediate warranty voiding. To maintain a watertight seal, contractors must utilize 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 McElroy Metal steel projects, we offer two specialized SSRA1 fastening options:
- Use Cupped Tip Stainless Steel Set Screws for 22-gauge steel at 90 inch-pounds of torque.
- Use Nylon-Tipped Set Screws for 22-gauge or 24-gauge steel when preserving the paint finish is mandatory, torqued to 180-200 inch-pounds.
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.
McElroy 138T Symmetrical Mechanical Panels (SSRA Compatible — 22/24 Gauge Steel)
The 138T is a symmetrical standing seam panel designed for high-wind performance and easy individual panel replacement. It features a 1.375-inch rib height and widths of 12, 16, and 18 inches. This profile uses a mechanically seamed cap that creates a watertight structural bond. While primarily used in 22- and 24-gauge steel, it is also available in aluminum and copper. The 138T is excellent for roof slopes as low as 1:12. Curved versions require an in-site inspection by a Safety Professional. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Architectural Building Components 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge 138T Symmetrical Mechanical Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Compatible Fall Protection Products for 138T
- For Non-Curved Steel Panels: The SSRA1 Seam Anchor, SSRA2 Roof Jack Adapters, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, the 100-foot SSRA HLL Kit, and the 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL are fully compatible.
- For Aluminum or Copper: Clamping the seam is not recommended. Use The Ridge Pro Steep Assist for peak-anchored protection on 6:12 to 12:12 pitches.
McElroy 238T Symmetrical Mechanical Panels (SSRA Compatible — 22/24 Gauge Steel)
The 238T is the taller version of McElroy's symmetrical mechanical seam, featuring a 2.375-inch rib height. Available in widths of 16-, 18-, and 24 inches, this panel is for industrial and commercial retrofits. Fabricated from 22- and 24-gauge steel, aluminum, or copper, the 238T allows the replacement of any single panel without disturbing the rest of the roof field. It accommodates slopes as low as 1/2:12. Curved versions require an in-site inspection by a Safety Professional. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Architectural Building Components 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge 38T Symmetrical Mechanical Standing Seam Metal Roofing. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Architectural Building Components 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge 238T Symmetrical Mechanical Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Compatible Fall Protection Products for 238T
- For Non-Curved Steel Panels: Use the SSRA1 Seam Anchor as the base for SSRA2 Roof Jack Adapters, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, 100-foot SSRA HLL Kits, and 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLLs.
- For Aluminum or Copper: Avoid seam damage by using The Ridge Pro Steep Assist for a 100 percent tie-off on ridge-mounted systems.
McElroy MasterLok-90 Snaplock Trapezoidal Panels (SSRA Compatible — 22/24 Gauge Steel)
The MasterLok-90 is a structural trapezoidal standing seam panel designed for industrial applications. It features a 3-inch rib height and 24-inch width, providing a secure watertight seal through a snap-together rib design. Fabricated from 22 and 24-gauge steel, it is ideal for low-slope projects down to 1/4:12 where efficiency and durability are required. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Architectural Building Components 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge MasterLok-90 Snaplock Trapezoidal Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Compatible Fall Protection Products for MasterLok-90
- For Steel Panels: The SSRA1 Seam Anchor, SSRA2 Roof Jack Adapters, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, 100-foot SSRA HLL Kit, and 120-foot Permanent HLL are fully compatible.
- Steep Assist: Use The Ridge Pro Steep Assist to provide safe worker access on steeper roofs and maintain a complete tie-off.
McElroy MasterLok-FS Mechanical Trapezoidal Panels (SSRA Compatible — 22/24 Gauge Steel)
The MasterLok-FS is a field-seamed version of the structural trapezoidal system. It features the same 3-inch rib height but requires mechanical seaming to create a structural bond. Primarily available in 22- and 24-gauge steel, it offers maximum wind-uplift resistance for commercial roofs in high-wind regions, even on slopes as low as 1/4:12. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Architectural Building Components 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge MasterLok-FS Mechanical Trapezoidal Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Compatible Fall Protection Products for MasterLok-FS
- For Steel Panels: Full compatibility with the SSRA1 Seam Anchor, SSRA2 Roof Jack Adapters, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, 100-foot HLL Kit, and 120-foot Permanent HLL.
- Ridge Access: Use The Ridge Pro Steep Assist for safe transition from the ladder to the peak without attaching to the seams.
McElroy RidgeLine IMP Insulated Panels (SSRA Compatible — 22/24 Gauge Steel)
The RidgeLine IMP combines a 2-inch symmetrical standing seam with an insulated metal panel core. It features a 42-inch panel width and is available in thicknesses ranging from 2.5 to 6 inches. Fabricated from 22-, 24-, or 26-gauge steel, it requires a minimum roof pitch of 1/2:12. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Architectural Building Components 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge RidgeLine IMP Insulated Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Compatible Fall Protection Products for RidgeLine IMP
- For Steel Panels: The SSRA1 Seam Anchor and SSRA2 Roof Jack Adapters are compatible. For permanent setups, use the 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL.
- Note: SSRA3 Anchor Plates are not compatible due to the 42-inch seam spacing.
- Peak Safety: The Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the recommended tool for a 100 percent tie-off on steep sections.
McElroy Maxima Structural Mechanical Panels (SSRA Compatible — 22/24 Gauge Steel)
The Maxima series is a vertical-leg mechanical seam profile with rib heights of 1.5, 2, or 3 inches. These panels offer superior weather resistance on slopes as low as 1/2:12 and are available in 22- or 24-gauge steel or aluminum. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Architectural Building Components 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge Maxima Structural Mechanical Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Compatible Fall Protection Products for Maxima
- For 22/24 Gauge Steel: The SSRA1 Seam Anchor, SSRA2 Roof Jack Adapters, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, 100-foot HLL Kit, and 120-foot Permanent HLL are all compatible.
- For Aluminum: Use The Ridge Pro Steep Assist to provide ridge-mounted protection and prevent damage to the softer seams.
McElroy Medallion-Lok Snaplock Panels (SSRA Compatible — 24 Gauge Steel Only)
The Medallion-Lok is an architectural snap-together profile with a 1.75-inch rib height. Designed for high-end residential and custom commercial applications, it provides a clean, continuous visual line. Available in 12, 16, and 18-inch widths, Medallion-Lok panels are suitable for roofs with slopes of at least 3/12. It is available in 24-gauge steel or aluminum. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Architectural Building Components Medallion-Lok Snaplock Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Compatible Fall Protection Products for Medallion-Lok
- For 24 Gauge Steel: The SSRA1 Seam Anchor, SSRA2 Roof Jack Adapters, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, 100-foot HLL Kit, and 120-foot Permanent HLL are fully compatible.
- For Aluminum: Deploy The Ridge Pro Steep Assist for ridge-anchored safety on steep pitches.
McElroy Instaloc Snaplock Panels (SSRA Compatible — 24 Gauge Steel)
The Instaloc is a sleek architectural roofing system featuring a 1-inch snaplock seam and a standard 13-inch panel width. Manufactured from 24-gauge steel, it is suitable for roof slopes as low as 3:12. The Instaloc's low-profile snaplock design combines a modern aesthetic with reliable structural durability. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Architectural Building Components Instaloc Snaplock Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Fall Protection Strategy for Instaloc
Despite its low-profile seam shape, the 24-gauge steel Instaloc is fully compatible with the entire SSRA product line.
- SSRA1 Seam Anchor: Provides a secure, non-penetrating anchorage point by clamping directly to the 1-inch snaplock rib.
- SSRA2 Roof Jack Adapters: Mount to anchors to support 10-foot walkboards.
- SSRA3 Anchor Plates: Joins two anchors to facilitate endpoints for horizontal lifelines.
- 100-foot SSRA HLL Kit: Delivers lateral mobility for two workers.
- 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL: The ideal multi-span solution for permanent maintenance.
- The Ridge Pro: Recommended for 100% tie-off during initial roof entry on 6:12 to 12:12 pitch roofs.
- Compatibility Note: Always perform a test fit with the SSRA1 on the specific snaplock rib before beginning work.
McElroy Metal Medallion I Batten-Cap Panels (Ridge Pro Only)
The Medallion I is a specialized architectural roofing system featuring a complete batten cover seam design. Featuring a 1-inch rib height, it is available in standard widths of 12, 16, and 18 inches in 24-gauge steel. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Architectural Building Components Medallion I Batten-Cap Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Fall Protection Strategy for Medallion I
Because the Medallion I uses a full batten cover that snaps over the base clips, standard non-penetrating seam-mounted anchors are not compatible. Attempting to clamp onto the batten cover can crush the assembly.
- The Ridge Pro: This is the only recommended non-penetrating solution for Medallion I panels. By securing directly to the roof peak, the Ridge Pro provides complete protection on roofs with pitches of 6:12 to 12:12.
- Seam Protection: Using a peak-mounted system avoids any attachment to the architectural seams, protecting the roof's integrity.
McElroy Metal Medallion II Batten-Cap Panels (Ridge Pro Only)
The Medallion II profile is a wider batten seam roofing system designed for structural and architectural applications. It retains the 1-inch rib height but features a bolder profile with a much broader batten cover. This profile is manufactured from 24-gauge steel and is available in coverage widths of 12, 16, and 18 inches. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Architectural Building Components Medallion II Batten-Cap Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Fall Protection Strategy for Medallion II
The prominent batten cap of the Medallion II prevents the use of any seam-clamping hardware. Contractors must utilize The Ridge Pro Steep Assist to ensure worker safety.
- Ridge Anchorage: This ridge-mounted system provides a secure anchorage point at the peak for inspection tasks.
- Pitch Range: This solution is certified for use on roofs with a 6:12 to 12:12 pitch.
McElroy Meridian Nailstrip Panels (Ridge Pro Only)
The Meridian is an economical architectural snap-together panel with a 1-inch rib height. These panels can be directly fastened to the decking via a hidden nail flange. Meridian panels are available in 12- and 16-inch widths and are made from 24- or 26-gauge steel. For optimal drainage, they require a minimum roof slope of 3/12. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Architectural Building Components Meridian Nailstrip Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Compatible Fall Protection Products for Meridian
- Primary Solution: Seam clamping is not permitted. Use The Ridge Pro Steep Assist for a 100 percent tie-off on pitches between 6:12 and 12:12.
Mirage II Panels (Ridge Pro Only)
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, it is available in 16-inch widths and crafted from 24-gauge steel. It is suitable for slopes as low as 1/4:12. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Architectural Building Components Mirage II Standing Seam Metal Roofing.
Compatible Fall Protection For Mirage Panels
- Primary Solution: The Ridge Pro is the best fall protection anchor for Mirage panels. This method avoids attachment to the unusual seam profile and instead attaches to the roof ridge.
Specialized Fall Protection for Curved McElroy Metal Projects
Several McElroy Metal profiles, including the 138T, 238T, Maxima, and the Medallion I and II series, can be field-curved or factory-curved. On a curved or radius roof, the panel profile changes how gravitational and dynamic forces pull on an anchor point during a fall. Falling on a convex surface creates dangerous side-loading or "roll-out" forces. Traditional seam-clamping hardware lacks specific testing to handle these forces in a standard orientation.
A qualified safety professional or engineer must perform an on-site inspection of all curved, serpentine, or convex roof designs before any fall protection equipment is specified or deployed.
Standing Seam Panel Compatibility For 22 Gauge Architectural Building Components
| McElroy-138T (22 Ga.) | McElroy-238T (22 Ga.) | MasterLok 90 (22 Ga.) | MasterLok-FS (22 Ga.) | RidgeLine (22 Ga.) | Maxima (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 |
Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For 24 Gauge Architectural Building Components Cont.
| McElroy-138T (24 Ga.) | McElroy-238T (24 Ga.) | MasterLok 90 (24 Ga.) | MasterLok-FS (24 Ga.) | RidgeLine (24 Ga.) | Maxima (24 Ga.) | Medallion-Lok (24 Ga.) | Instaloc (24 Ga.) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SSRA 1 |
NO | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO |
| SSRA1 Nylon Tip |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| SSRA2 Roof Jack |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| SSRA3 Anchor Plate |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| The Ridge Pro |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
Standing Seam Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For Architectural Building Components
| Medallion I Batten-Cap | Medallion II Batten-Cap | Mirage II | Meridian Nailstrip | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SSRA 1 |
NO | NO | NO | NO |
| SSRA1 Nylon Tip |
NO | NO | NO | NO |
| SSRA2 Roof Jack |
NO | NO | NO | NO |
| SSRA3 Anchor Plate |
NO | NO | NO | NO |
| The Ridge Pro |
YES | YES | YES | YES |
Shielding Your Firm from Liability: The Risk of Generic Hardware
A McElroy Metal roofing system represents a high-end engineering investment; your fall protection hardware should mirror that level of professionalism. Utilizing unbranded, imported, or generic anchors creates a massive legal 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 staff, or certified test reports, it is an unacceptable liability that has no place on a McElroy job site.
Professional Guidance for Standing Seam Safety
For expert advice on selecting the appropriate fall protection system for your McElroy Metal 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 interactive Anchor Inspection Form.
10 Critical Safety Rules for McElroy Metal Roofing 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 transition from the ladder to the peak.
- Conduct Torque Verification: Set-screw tension can shift with use. Users must verify set-screw torque before each attachment at the beginning of the work day 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 rib 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: McElroy panels expand and contract with temperature changes. Only use non-penetrating seam clamps that allow for this natural movement, preventing 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 McElroy 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 to achieve a full-strength, non-destructive lock.
- Consult Safety Professionals for Specialized Shapes: Architectural McElroy projects often feature curved rooflines. Safety professionals must complete a mandatory on-site inspection of these specialized profiles before any crew develops fall protection plans.
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.