Fall Protection Strategies For B&B Standing Seam Panels

Fall Protection Strategies For B&B Standing Seam Panels

Posted by Howie Scarboro - CEO Fall Protection Distributors, LLC on Feb 5th 2026

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for B&B Sheet Metal Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

B&B Sheet Metal logo: 5 generations of architectural sheet metal craftsmanship. Image courtesy of www.BBSheetMetal.com

Who Is B&B Sheet Metal?

Located in Long Island City, New York, B&B Sheet Metal has been a cornerstone of architectural sheet metal craftsmanship for over 28 years. This family-owned company serves as a testament to both tradition and innovation, proudly spanning five generations of expertise. They are renowned throughout the New York City metropolitan area and beyond for their ability to produce metal roofing, cladding, and custom fabrications that bring beauty and durability to structures across the region.

What sets B&B apart is its dedication to merging cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of traditional craftsmanship. Operating out of their Long Island City facility, they work with a wide range of premium materials, including copper, zinc, Kynar-coated steel, and aluminum, to create tailored solutions for contractors and architects. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and sustainability has earned them a reputation as leaders in architectural metalwork, consistently delivering high-quality results that exceed expectations.


Why Are Compatible Fall Protection Anchors Critical for B&B Sheet Metal Roofs?

B&B Sheet Metal's roofs provide structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. However, working on these high-performance systems without the proper fall protection anchors is a risk no contractor or worker should take.

Standing seam roofs, a hallmark of B&B's offerings, are celebrated for their watertight, fastener-free construction. However, these features also require specialized fall protection strategies to ensure worker safety and preserve the roof's pristine condition. Because B&B panels often utilize premium materials like copper and zinc, using a penetrating anchor that drills into the surface is not an option, as it would cause permanent damage and void warranties. To maintain OSHA compliance while protecting these architectural investments, we recommend the following specialized components:

  • Standing Seam Roof Anchor (SSRA1): The foundation of the system, designed to clamp securely to standing seams without drilling, ensuring safety while maintaining the roof's watertight seal.
  • SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks: These build on the SSRA1 to provide a stable platform for walkboards, which is essential for creating level work surfaces on sloped B&B roofs.
  • SSRA3 Anchor Plates: These mount to the SSRA1 to create secure tie-off points for temporary horizontal lifelines, facilitating 100% tie-off for multiple workers. These plates are a core component of the 100-Foot SSRA Temporary HLL Kit.
  • 120-Foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit: A permanent, non-penetrating cable system featuring 5-inch galvanized steel riser posts for long-term maintenance access.
  • Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor: The designated solution for nailstrip profiles or steep slopes (6:12 to 12:12) where seam-mounted anchors may not be compatible.

Proper Attachment: Set Screws and Torque Requirements

Your safety and the SSRA1 anchor's certified holding power depend on correct set screw application. We provide specialized fastening options based on the material gauge and type of your B&B panels:

  • Cupped-Tip Stainless Steel Set Screws: Use these exclusively on 22-gauge steel panels. Torque them to 90 inch-pounds for a secure, non-destructive lock.
  • Nylon-Tipped Set Screws: Apply these to 22- or 24-gauge steel panels to achieve certified holding power. Torque them to 180–200 inch-pounds for maximum strength.
  • Maintenance: Treat nylon tips as consumables. Replace them every 3 to 5 uses to ensure they maintain the necessary coefficient of friction.

CRITICAL WARNING: NO IMPACT GUNS

Never use an impact gun to install set screws. Over-torquing with an impact driver will crush the standing seam, damage the anchor hardware, and void the B&B Sheet Metal warranty. Always use a calibrated torque wrench for final installation.


B1300 Mechanical Lock Panels (SSRA Compatible 22/24 ga. Steel)

Architectural profile for B&B Sheet Metal B1300 mechanical lock panels. Image courtesy of www.BBSheetMetal.com

The B1300 Mechanical Lock Panels, part of the Traditional Series, offer a timeless aesthetic and contemporary durability. B&B designs these panels for versatility, enabling them to handle a range of applications from low-slope roofs to tapered and curved designs. These panels serve as an excellent choice for restoration projects and new builds alike. B&B offers these panels in 22- or 24-gauge steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc substrates, with seam heights of 1 inch or 1.5 inches. Advanced manufacturing techniques enable tapered panels up to 26 feet long, with customizable widths and high-performance Kynar finishes. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for B&B Sheet Metal 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge B1300 Mechanical Lock Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Fall Protection for B1300 Mechanical Lock Panels

  • SSRA1 Seam Anchor: Provides a certified, non-penetrating tie-off point for 22/24 ga. steel.
  • SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks: Mounts to the SSRA1 to support 10-foot walkboards for stable staging.
  • SSRA3 Anchor Plate: Integrates with the SSRA1 to facilitate horizontal lifeline attachment.
  • 100-Foot SSRA Temporary HLL Kit: Provides the primary solution for multi-worker mobility across the B1300 roofline.
  • 120-Foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit: Offers a permanent cable system for long-term steel roof maintenance.
  • Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor: The designated solution for non-steel substrates or 6:12 to 12:12 slopes.

CURVED ROOF WARNING

Specialized expert guidance ensures you achieve the architectural vision without compromising the structural safety of the tie-off system on curved B1300 systems. Always consult a trained safety professional to evaluate curved structures before installation.


B-1500 Snaplock Panels (SSRA Compatible 22/24 ga. Steel)

B-1500 snaplock architectural metal roof panel with concealed fasteners. Image courtesy of www.BBSheetMetal.com

The B-1500 Metal Roof Panel creates a sleek, smooth appearance with minimal shadowing. The snaplock design with concealed clips simplifies installation for light commercial and residential projects. These panels shine in architectural detailing on sloped roofs, fascias, and mansards. B&B manufactures these panels in 22- or 24-gauge steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc, with 1-inch or 1.5-inch high standing seams. Rigorous testing ensures these panels meet ASTM air and water resistance, Class A fire ratings, and UL 580 Class 90 wind uplift certifications. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for B&B Sheet Metal 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge B-1500 Snaplock Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Fall Protection for B-1500 Metal Roof Panels

  • SSRA1 Seam Anchor: Provides a certified non-penetrating tie-off point for 22- and 24-gauge steel snaplock seams.
  • SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks: Creates level work platforms for inspections and installations.
  • SSRA3 Anchor Plate: Facilitates the secure temporary installation of horizontal lifelines.
  • 100-Foot SSRA Temporary HLL Kit: Ensures 100% tie-off for teams traversing B-1500 roofs.
  • 120-Foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit: Provides a permanent non-penetrating cable system for ongoing facility access.
  • Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor: The designated solution for aluminum/copper substrates or steep slopes.

BB-S3000 T-Seam Panels (SSRA Compatible 22/24 ga. Steel)

B&B Sheet Metal BB-S3000 T-Seam structural industrial roofing panel. Image courtesy of www.BBSheetMetal.com

The BB-S3000 T-Seam panel is for the most demanding architectural and industrial applications. Its nominal 3-inch deep structural seam delivers exceptional spanning capabilities for heavy industrial buildings and large-scale structures. B&B purpose-builds this system for low-slope applications with pitches less than 3 inches per foot. This panel excels in projects requiring long runs and wide spans. B&B offers this panel in 22- or 24-gauge steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc substrates, with panel widths of 14, 16, 18, or 20 inches. Mechanical seaming enhances weather resistance, providing a tight, secure fit. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for B&B Sheet Metal 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge BB-S3000 T-Seam Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Fall Protection for BB-S3000 T-Seam Panels

  • SSRA1 Seam Anchor: Clamps to the 3-inch structural T-Seam without puncturing the metal.
  • SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks: Support walkboards to provide level walking surfaces on steep roof projects.
  • SSRA3 Anchor Plate: Creates the integration point for temporary horizontal lifeline systems.
  • 100-Foot SSRA Temporary HLL Kit: Allows rapid deployment of multi-worker safety lines on wide-span roofs.
  • 120-Foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit: Provides a permanent cable system for long-term industrial maintenance.
  • Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor: Offers the alternative solution for non-steel substrates.

BB-S2500 Mechanical Panels (SSRA Compatible 22/24 ga. Steel)

BB-S2500 mechanical seam structural roofing panel profile view. Image courtesy of www.BBSheetMetal.com

The BB-S2500 metal roof panel stands out as a resilient 2-inch mechanically seamed structural system built for demanding pre-engineered building projects. B&B designs this panel to combine heavy-duty interlock clips with advanced seam styles that accommodate thermal expansion and contraction. This system offers three flexible seam options: 45°, 90°, and 180 °. B&B produces these panels in 22- or 24-gauge steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc, with panel widths of 12 or 18 inches. This system excels on shallow slopes of less than 3:12 and carries UL 580 Class 90 and FM standard certifications. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for B&B Sheet Metal 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge BB-S2500 Mechanical Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Fall Protection for BB-S2500 Panels

  • SSRA1 Seam Anchor: Provides a non-penetrating seam anchor for most mechanical seams.
  • SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks: Creates stable work platforms and staging areas on structural roof systems.
  • SSRA3 Anchor Plate: Facilitates secure horizontal lifeline configuration.
  • 100-Foot SSRA Temporary HLL Kit: Ensures temporary multi-worker mobility for expansive steel projects.
  • 120-Foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit: Offers a permanent cable safety solution for ongoing building maintenance.
  • Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor: Serves as the designated solution for non-steel materials or 6:12 to 12:12 pitches.

BB-S2400 Mechanical Panels (SSRA Compatible 22/24 ga. Steel)

B&B Sheet Metal BB-S2400 curved architectural roofing panel profile. Image courtesy of www.BBSheetMetal.com

The BB-S2400 panel system offers a unique combination of strength and architectural elegance for mansard and fascia applications. This 2-inch mechanically seamed panel utilizes single-lock and double-lock configurations to enhance spanning capabilities and structural performance. B&B manufactures this system in 22- and 24-gauge steel as well as aluminum, copper, and zinc. This versatile panel allows for radius designs, making it a preferred choice for curved architectural projects. It meets rigorous ASTM water and air standards and complies with UL 580 Class 90 standards. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for B&B Sheet Metal 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge BB-S2400 Mechanical Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Fall Protection for BB-S2400 Panels

  • SSRA1 Seam Anchor: Provides certified attachment for single and double-lock seams on 22/24 ga. steel.
  • SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack: Supports walkboards for safe navigation on steep metal roof systems.
  • SSRA3 Anchor Plate: Creates the backbone for temporary horizontal lifeline systems.
  • 100-Foot SSRA Temporary HLL Kit: Delivers comprehensive multi-worker safety for radius roofing projects.
  • 120-Foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit: Provides long-term lifeline access for larger commercial roofs.
  • Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor: Offers the ridge-mounted solution for non-steel roofs.

BB-S2000 Snaplock Panels (SSRA Compatible 22/24 ga. Steel)

BB-S2000 Miami-Dade approved architectural metal roof panel. Image courtesy of www.BBSheetMetal.com

The BB-S2000 roof panel system combines architectural appeal with structural strength. This modern, narrow-seam panel delivers a sleek appearance while ensuring robust performance under strict building standards. B&B produces these panels in 22- or 24-gauge steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc. This system accommodates low-slope roofs with a minimum requirement of 3/12. These panels meet Miami-Dade and Florida Product Approval standards and carry a Class A fire rating. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for B&B Sheet Metal 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge BB-S2000 Snaplockl Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Fall Protection for BB-S2000 Panels

  • SSRA1 Seam Anchor: Clamps securely to snaplock seams without piercing the metal.
  • SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks: Build level work platforms for steep-slope roofing tasks.
  • SSRA3 Anchor Plate: Enables multi-worker simultaneous operations via horizontal lifelines.
  • 100-Foot SSRA Temporary HLL Kit: Ensures 100% tie-off compliance for workers on structural projects.
  • 120-Foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit: Provides permanent cable protection for ongoing facility access.
  • Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor: Offers the peak-mounted alternative for non-steel substrates.

B1101 Panels (Ridge Pro Only)

B&B Sheet Metal B1101 architectural snaplock roofing panel. Image courtesy of www.BBSheetMetal.com

The B1101 metal roof panel serves as a prime example of efficiency meeting elegance. B&B designs this architectural roofing system with concealed clips and fasteners to ensure a clean and polished appearance without visible hardware. The narrow snaplock seam eliminates the need for mechanical seaming or additional seam caps, making installation straightforward and cost-effective. This panel functions perfectly on sloped roofs, fascias, and mansards, blending functionality with high-end aesthetic appeal. B&B offers the B1101 in 22- or 24-gauge steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc substrates. This durable panel meets UL 580 Class 90 requirements, aligns with strict Florida building codes, and maintains a Class A fire rating. Its design flexibility enables architects to create visually striking roofs for light commercial and residential projects without compromising long-term performance. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for B&B Sheet Metal B1101 narrow snaplock Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Fall Protection for B1101 Panels

  • Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor: This anchor serves as the primary non-penetrating tie-off solution for B1101 panels. It securely hooks over the roof peak to provide a stable tie-off point for roof pitches between 6:12 and 12:12.
  • Ridge Pro: This ridge anchor ensures 100% compliance with fall protection requirements without compromising panel integrity. The lightweight, portable design of the Ridge Pro enables rapid transport and setup, saving valuable time on the job site while maintaining the highest safety standards.

Batten Seam Panels (Ridge Pro Only)

Traditional B&B Sheet Metal batten seam roofing system profile. Image courtesy of www.BBSheetMetal.com

Batten seam roofing from B&B Sheet Metal serves as a testament to traditional craftsmanship and versatile design. This design secures the roofing while offering a variety of architectural expressions. B&B offers these panels with 1.5-inch-high seams and panel widths of 14 or 20 inches. B&B manufactures these roofs in copper, zinc, aluminum, and 22- or 24-gauge. materials. Kynar-coated steel. Their advanced production facilities can taper panels up to 26 feet long and create custom starter and finish pieces to enhance installation quality. These panels meet rigorous ASTM standards for weather resistance and strength and come with weather-tightness warranties for both modern and historic structures. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for B&B Sheet Metal Batten Seam Standing Seam Metal Roofing.

Fall Protection for Batten Seam Metal Roofs

  • Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor: This non-penetrating anchor hooks securely over the roof peak to provide a dedicated tie-off point for slopes ranging from 6:12 to 12:12. The Ridge Pro ensures 100% tie-off compliance while preserving the structural and aesthetic integrity of the batten seam panels. This lightweight tool allows workers to maintain safety on steep pitches without puncturing the specialized metal substrates, such as copper or zinc.

American Engineering Vs. "Bargain" Imports

When you install high-performance B&B Sheet Metal systems, your choice of fall protection reflects your commitment to quality. The market increasingly features unbranded, imported fall protection anchors that mimic the appearance of certified American hardware. While these "bargain" alternatives promise a universal fit and lower costs, they often lack the verifiable, third-party engineering documentation required to satisfy OSHA 1926.502 and ANSI Z359.18 standards.

By designing, testing, and manufacturing every component in America, SSRA anchors shield your business from the liabilities associated with non-compliant hardware. Quality fall protection preserves the roof's architectural integrity and ensures that every worker returns home safely.


Standing Seam Roof Anchor Compatibility for 22 Gauge B&B Sheet Metal Panels

  B1300 (22 Ga.) B-1500 (22 Ga.) BB-S2500 (22 Ga.) BB-S3000 (22 Ga.) BB-S2400 (22 Ga.) BB-S2000 (22 Ga.) B1101 SnapLock
SSRA 1
SSRA_1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor
YES YES YES YES YES YES NO
SSRA1 Nylon Tip
SSRA_1 Anchor Nylon Tip Standing Seam Roof Anchor
YES YES YES YES YES YES NO
SSRA2 Roof Jack
SSRA_2 Roof Jack Adapter
YES YES YES YES YES YES NO
SSRA3 Anchor Plate
SSRA_3 Anchor Plate
YES YES YES YES YES YES NO
The Ridge Pro
Ridge Pro Roof Anchor
YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

 

Standing Seam Roof Anchor Compatibility for 24 Gauge B&B Sheet Metal Panels

  B1300 (24 Ga.) B-1500 (24 Ga.) BB-S2500 (24 Ga.) BB-S3000 (24 Ga.) BB-S2400 (24 Ga.) BB-S2000 (24 Ga.) Batten Seam
SSRA 1
SSRA_1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor
NO NO NO NO NO NO NO
SSRA1 Nylon Tip
SSRA_1 Anchor Nylon Tip Standing Seam Roof Anchor
YES YES YES YES YES YES NO
SSRA2 Roof Jack
SSRA_2 Roof Jack Adapter
YES YES YES YES YES YES NO
SSRA3 Anchor Plate
SSRA_3 Anchor Plate
YES YES YES YES YES YES NO
The Ridge Pro
Ridge Pro Roof Anchor
YES 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 visit 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

  1. Promote a Culture of Safety: A workplace that prioritizes safety creates a foundation for success. Encourage open dialogue about hazards, schedule regular safety check-ins, and make it easy for workers to report concerns. When safety becomes a shared responsibility, teams work smarter, accidents decrease, and everyone feels more confident.
  2. Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear: The right gear isn't just a requirement; it's a game-changer. Well-fitted harnesses, durable lanyards, and OSHA-approved fall arrest systems do more than comply with regulations—they protect lives. Providing premium-quality safety equipment boosts worker confidence and significantly reduces the chance of accidents.
  3. Use Specialized Anchor Systems for Standing Seam Roofs: Not all anchors are created equal. Standing seam roofs demand non-penetrating systems that clamp securely to seams without drilling. These purpose-built anchors protect the roof's watertight design while offering dependable tie-off points.
  4. Set Up Protective Guardrail Barriers for Work Zones: Clear boundaries save lives. Guardrails and warning lines aren't just markers but barriers against danger. By clearly defining work zones, these safety measures help workers focus on their tasks while avoiding hazardous edges.
  5. Develop OSHA-Compliant Safety Plans: A solid safety plan is the backbone of every successful project. Tailored to meet OSHA standards, these plans should outline fall-prevention strategies, emergency response procedures, and rescue protocols.
  6. Prioritize Ladder Safety Training: Ladders are critical tools—but only when used correctly. Train workers to place ladders on stable surfaces and follow the 4-to-1 base-to-height ratio rule. Proper ladder setup turns ladders from hazards into assets.
  7. Ensure Proper Footwear for Stability: Proper footwear is a worker's first defense on a slippery roof. Slip-resistant metal roofing boots provide unmatched traction, even on steep or wet surfaces. Stable footing gives workers the confidence to move safely.
  8. Install Permanent Roof Anchor Systems: Frequent roof-access calls require a permanent solution. Roof anchors designed for long-term use provide consistent tie-off points, streamlining maintenance and inspection tasks. Permanent systems ensure safety while reducing setup time.
  9. Encourage the Use of Trauma Straps: Trauma straps aren't just accessories; they're lifelines in critical moments. These tools help prevent suspension trauma during a fall by relieving leg pressure and improving circulation.
  10. Consult Experts for Curved Metal Panels: Curved roofs bring architectural elegance but also unique safety challenges. When dealing with these designs, consult experienced professionals who understand the intricacies of fall protection for curved surfaces.

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 with their products and to address any potential warranty issues that may arise after 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.