Fall Protection Strategies For CMG Standing Seam Roofs

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for CMG Coated Metals Group Standing Seam Panels.

Who Is CMG Coated Metals Group?

CMG Coated Metals Group manufactures pre-finished standing seam roof systems backed by nationwide production, consistent quality, and employee-owned accountability.

Coated Metals Group, commonly known as CMG, has built a national reputation in the metal roofing industry since its founding in 1983 by brothers Gary and Scott. What began as a small, family-owned operation has grown into one of the most trusted manufacturers of pre-finished steel roofing products in the United States, with a strong focus on standing seam roof systems for commercial, industrial, and residential projects.

Headquartered in Verona, Wisconsin, CMG operates a nationwide network of manufacturing and distribution facilities. These locations include Madison, Wisconsin; Denver, Colorado; Indianapolis, Indiana; Phoenix, Arizona; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Salt Lake City, Utah; Nashville, Tennessee; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Bozeman, Montana. Each facility uses modern roll-forming and coating equipment to ensure consistent panel quality, dependable lead times, and regional availability for contractors.

CMG's pre-finished steel products feature advanced paint systems backed by some of the most comprehensive warranties in the industry. These finishes play a critical role in long-term performance, especially on standing-seam roofs, where weather-tightness, thermal movement, and appearance must remain consistent over decades of service.

In 2016, CMG transitioned to a 100 percent employee-owned company. This structure reinforces a culture of accountability and pride, with every employee-owner invested in the quality, service, and reputation of the products leaving each facility. That ownership mindset shows up on jobsites as reliable panels, responsive support, and long-term performance.

What Are The Most Compatible Fall Protection Products For CMG Standing Seam Roofs?

CMG standing seam roof panels require fall protection systems that protect workers without interfering with seam performance or panel movement.

Standing seam roof systems manufactured by CMG rely on concealed attachment methods and engineered seam profiles to remain weather-tight over time. Drilling through finished panels for fall protection creates leak paths, restricts thermal expansion, and often voids warranties before the roof even enters service. For that reason, non-penetrating fall protection systems are essential on CMG standing seam roofs.

The fall protection products outlined below secure workers by clamping to the seam or anchoring at the ridge rather than penetrating the panel surface. Each system serves a specific role depending on seam style, panel gauge, roof pitch, and long-term access needs.

Fall Protection Products Used on CMG Standing Seam Roofs

The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor provides a non-penetrating tie-off point by clamping directly to the standing seam rib with non-penetrating set screws.

This design avoids drilling through the panel, prevents seam deformation, and eliminates the risk of damaging concealed clips beneath the metal. When matched correctly to seam shape and panel gauge, the SSRA1 delivers dependable fall protection while preserving roof warranties and long-term performance.

When crews need a stable working surface, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters mount on top of SSRA1 anchors and support walkboards. This setup allows workers to move comfortably on sloped metal roofs without placing unnecessary body weight directly on the panels. The SSRA2 adjusts for seam height and roof pitch, making it well-suited for installation, detailing, and maintenance work.

For applications that require continuous movement across larger roof areas, SSRA3 Anchor Plates mount on top of SSRA1 anchors and provide a rigid attachment point for horizontal lifeline systems. These plates allow multiple workers to remain continuously tied off while working across wide roof spans without relocating anchors every few feet.

For temporary installations or short-term access, the SSRA HLL 100-foot Temporary Horizontal Lifeline Kit provides a complete multi-worker tie-off solution. On buildings that require frequent service access, the Super Anchor 120-foot Permanent Horizontal Lifeline Kit offers a long-term fall protection solution. Permanent lifelines create predictable tie-off locations for future crews, reduce repeated setup and teardown, and help prevent improper temporary anchor use over the life of the roof.

For CMG roof systems where seam-mounted anchors are not compatible, especially with lighter-gauge panels or non-steel substrates, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides an alternative. This ridge-mounted anchor hooks securely over the roof peak using an extension pole, allowing workers to connect a vertical lifeline before stepping onto the metal surface. The Ridge Pro works exceptionally well on roofs with pitches between 6:12 and 12:12 while keeping the roof surface completely free of penetrations.

Ultra-Snap Snap Lock Standing Seam Panel (SSRA Compatible)

The Ultra-Snap panel is a snap-lock standing seam roof system known for fast installation, clean aesthetics, and reliable structural performance.

Ultra-Snap panels use a snap lock seam that eliminates the need for mechanical seaming in the field. This one-piece snap-on design reduces labor time while still delivering strong wind uplift performance. In multiple tested assemblies, Ultra-Snap panels achieve UL Class 90 wind uplift ratings, making them suitable for demanding commercial and architectural applications. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for CMG Coated Metals Group Ultra-Snap Snap Lock 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge Standing Seam Panels.

The panel features a 1.75-inch seam height and concealed expansion clips that allow controlled thermal movement without stressing the panel or fasteners. This design helps maintain straight panel lines while accommodating daily temperature changes. Ultra-Snap panels require a minimum roof slope of 3:12 and perform well across a wide range of architectural roof layouts.

CMG manufactures Ultra-Snap panels in 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel, as well as aluminum. Standard coverage widths include 12, 16, 18, and 22 inches, giving designers flexibility in appearance and panel spacing.

Fall Protection For Ultra-Snap Panels

Fall protection compatibility for Ultra-Snap panels depends on panel material and roof pitch.

For Ultra-Snap panels fabricated from 22-gauge or 24-gauge steel, SSRA seam-mounted fall protection products provide a reliable, non-penetrating solution. The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor clamps directly to the snap-lock seam without drilling holes or deforming the panel. This single worker anchor creates a secure tie-off point while preserving the roof's weather-tight performance and protecting the hidden fasteners beneath the panels.

When crews need stable footing during installation or maintenance work, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters mount on top of SSRA1 anchors and support walkboards. This setup allows workers to maintain a level working surface without placing unnecessary stress on the metal panels, improving both safety and productivity.

For applications that require continuous movement or multi-worker access, SSRA3 Anchor Plates mount on top of SSRA1 anchors and provide a rigid attachment point for temporary horizontal lifeline systems. This configuration allows crews to remain continuously tied off while working across wider roof areas without relocating anchors every few feet.

For short-term projects or temporary roof access, the SSRA HLL 100-foot Temporary Horizontal Lifeline Kit provides a fast, fully contained tie-off system for multi-worker use. It allows teams to set up a defined work zone in minutes and remove it just as easily once the task is complete, all without leaving penetrations or permanent hardware on CMG standing seam panels.

On roofs that see regular foot traffic for maintenance or inspections, the Super Anchor 120-foot Permanent Horizontal Lifeline Kit provides a long-term fall protection strategy. A permanent lifeline establishes consistent tie-off locations for every visit, reduces repeated setup time, and limits the risk of improper temporary anchoring throughout the roof's service life.

For aluminum Ultra-Snap panels, seam-mounted anchorage is not compatible. On roofs with pitches between 6:12 and 12:12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides a ridge-mounted, non-penetrating fall protection solution. This system allows workers to connect a vertical lifeline before stepping onto the metal surface while keeping the panels completely free of penetrations.

Ultra-Span Mechanical Standing Seam Panels (SSRA Compatible)

The Ultra-Span panel system supports projects that demand structural strength, long panel runs, and dependable water control on low-slope roofs.

Ultra-Span is mechanically seamed with a full 2-inch seam height, giving the panel strong spanning capability and excellent resistance to wind and water infiltration. A concealed two-piece clip assembly allows controlled thermal and structural movement while maintaining a UL 90 wind uplift rating, making the system well-suited for demanding commercial and industrial environments. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for CMG Coated Metals Group Ultra-Snap Snap Lock 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge Standing Seam Panels.

CMG produces Ultra-Span panels in 12-inch, 16-inch, 18-inch, and 24-inch widths. Substrate options include 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel, as well as aluminum. This combination of seam height, clip design, and material flexibility makes Ultra-Span a reliable choice for long-span roofs, low-slope applications, and projects that require consistent performance under extreme conditions.

Fall Protection For Ultra-Span Panels

Fall protection compatibility for Ultra-Span panels depends on panel material and roof pitch.

For Ultra-Span panels fabricated from 22-gauge or 24-gauge steel, SSRA seam-mounted fall protection products provide a reliable, non-penetrating solution. The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor clamps directly to the mechanically seamed rib without drilling holes or deforming the panel, creating a secure tie-off point while preserving the roof's structural integrity and weather-tight seal.

When crews need stable footing during installation or service work, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters mount on top of SSRA1 anchors and support walkboards. This setup allows workers to maintain a level working surface while moving safely across long roof spans. For applications that require continuous movement or multi-worker access, SSRA3 Anchor Plates mount on top of SSRA1 anchors and provide a rigid attachment point for temporary horizontal lifeline systems.

For short-term projects or temporary access, the SSRA HLL 100-foot Temporary Horizontal Lifeline Kit allows multiple workers to remain tied off while moving efficiently across the roof. On buildings that require ongoing maintenance access, the Super Anchor 120-foot Permanent Horizontal Lifeline Kit provides a long-term solution that establishes consistent tie-off locations and reduces repeated setup over the life of the roof.

For aluminum Ultra-Span panels, seam-mounted anchorage is not compatible. On roofs with pitches between 6:12 and 12:12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides a ridge-mounted, non-penetrating tie-off option. This system allows workers to connect a vertical lifeline before stepping onto the metal surface while keeping the aluminum panels free of penetrations and surface damage.

Ultra-Seam Mechanical Standing Seam Panels (SSRA Compatible)

The Ultra-Seam panel system represents the traditional standard for mechanically seamed standing seam roofing.

Ultra-Seam uses a mechanically seamed, double-locked profile that delivers exceptional resistance to air and water infiltration. This seam configuration creates one of the most secure standing seam roof systems available, making it a trusted choice for projects where long-term weather-tight performance is non-negotiable. The mechanical seaming process tightly locks the panels together, allowing the system to perform reliably on shallow-slope roofs where other profiles may struggle. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for CMG Coated Metals Group Ultra-Snap Snap Lock 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge Standing Seam Panels.

Ultra-Seam panels install over a solid substrate with a minimum underlayment of 30-pound felt. The system carries a UL 90 wind uplift rating across multiple assemblies, supporting use in high-wind and severe-weather environments. CMG manufactures Ultra-Seam panels in 22-gauge and 24-gauge steel, as well as aluminum, with panel widths of 12, 16, 18, and 24 inches. This range of materials and widths makes Ultra-Seam adaptable across commercial, institutional, and architectural roofing applications.

Fall Protection For Ultra-Seam Panels

For Ultra-Seam panels fabricated from 22-gauge or 24-gauge steel, SSRA seam-mounted fall protection products provide a reliable, non-penetrating solution.

The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor clamps directly to the mechanically seamed rib without drilling holes or deforming the panel. This connection creates a secure tie-off point while preserving the roof's watertight integrity and protecting the concealed seam assembly beneath the surface.

When crews need stable footing during installation or maintenance work, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters mount on top of SSRA1 anchors and support walkboards. This setup allows workers to maintain a level working surface without placing unnecessary stress on the panels. For projects that require continuous movement or multiple workers on the roof, SSRA3 Anchor Plates mount atop SSRA1 anchors and provide a rigid attachment point for horizontal lifeline systems.

For short-term installations or temporary access, the SSRA HLL 100-foot Temporary Horizontal Lifeline Kit allows multiple workers to remain tied off while moving efficiently across the roof. On buildings that require frequent service access or long-term maintenance, the Super Anchor 120-foot Permanent Horizontal Lifeline Kit provides a durable solution that establishes consistent tie-off locations and reduces repeated setup over the life of the roof.

For aluminum Ultra-Seam panels, seam-mounted anchorage is not compatible. On roofs with pitches between 6:12 and 12:12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides a ridge-mounted, non-penetrating tie-off option. This system allows workers to connect a vertical lifeline before stepping onto the metal surface while keeping the aluminum panels free of penetrations and surface damage. The Ridge Pro works exceptionally well for temporary construction access and routine maintenance on steeper roof slopes.

Ultra-Flange 1.0 Nailstrip Standing Seam Panels (Ridge Pro Only)

The Ultra-Flange 1.0 panel is a nailstrip standing seam system built for efficient installation and clean architectural results on residential and light commercial roofs.

Ultra-Flange 1.0 features a one-piece, clipless design with concealed fasteners, streamlining installation and reducing labor time. By eliminating separate clips and mechanical seaming, this panel allows crews to move quickly while still delivering the finished appearance expected from standing seam roofing. The simplified attachment method makes Ultra-Flange 1.0 especially popular for mansards, canopies, and other architectural details where speed and consistency matter. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for CMG Coated Metals Group Ultra-Flange 1.0 Nailstrip Standing Seam Panels.

This panel features a 1-inch seam height and installs over a solid substrate with a minimum roof slope of 3:12. CMG manufactures the Ultra-Flange 1.0 in 24-gauge and 26-gauge steel, with available panel widths of 12, 16, 18, and 24 inches. The lighter-gauge options and nailstrip seam design make it a cost-effective solution while still delivering dependable performance for its intended applications.

Fall Protection For Ultra-Flange 1.0 Panels

Fall protection for Ultra-Flange 1.0 panels is limited to ridge-mounted systems due to the nailstrip seam design.

The nailstrip seam used on the Ultra-Flange 1.0 panel does not provide a suitable clamping surface for seam-mounted fall protection anchors. Products that clamp to standing seams, including SSRA anchors, are not compatible with this panel profile and should not be used.

For Ultra-Flange 1.0 roof installations with pitches between 6:12 and 12:12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides the most appropriate non-penetrating fall protection solution. This ridge-mounted anchor hooks securely over the roof peak using an extension pole, allowing workers to connect a vertical lifeline before stepping onto the metal surface.

The Ridge Pro Steep Assist suits temporary access during installation, inspection, or maintenance work. It preserves the integrity of the Ultra-Flange 1.0 panel system. For any roof conditions outside this pitch range or involving complex layouts, a trained fall protection professional should evaluate the project before work begins.

Ultra-Flange 1.5 Nailstrip Standing Seam Panels (Ridge Pro Only)

The Ultra-Flange 1.5 panel builds on the simplicity of the Ultra-Flange series while offering a taller seam for added visual definition on residential and light commercial roofs.

Ultra-Flange 1.5 features a 1.5-inch nailstrip seam that delivers a sharper architectural appearance while preserving the fast, efficient installation contractors expect from a clip-less system. This one-piece panel design uses concealed fasteners and eliminates the need for separate clips or mechanical seaming, allowing crews to move quickly without sacrificing finish quality. The simplified attachment method makes Ultra-Flange 1.5 a strong option for projects where speed, consistency, and clean lines matter. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for CMG Coated Metals Group Ultra-Flange 1.5 Nailstrip Standing Seam Panels.

This panel installs over a solid substrate with a minimum roof slope of 3:12. CMG manufactures the Ultra-Flange 1.5 in 24-gauge and 26-gauge steel, with available panel widths of 12 inches, 16 inches, 18 inches, and 24 inches. The lighter-gauge construction and nailstrip seam make it well-suited for residential roofs, light commercial buildings, and architectural features such as canopies and accent roof sections.

Fall Protection For Ultra-Flange 1.5 Panels

Fall protection for Ultra-Flange 1.5 panels is limited to ridge-mounted systems due to the nailstrip seam design.

The nailstrip seam used on the Ultra-Flange 1.5 panel does not provide a suitable clamping surface for seam-mounted fall protection anchors. Products that clamp to standing seams, including SSRA anchors, are not compatible with this panel profile and should not be used.

For Ultra-Flange 1.5 roof installations with pitches between 6:12 and 12:12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist provides the most appropriate non-penetrating fall protection solution. This ridge-mounted anchor hooks securely over the roof peak using an extension pole, allowing workers to connect a vertical lifeline before stepping onto the metal surface.

The Ridge Pro Steep Assist works well for temporary access during installation, inspection, and maintenance work while preserving the integrity of the Ultra-Flange 1.5 panel system. For any roof conditions outside this pitch range or involving complex roof geometry, a trained fall protection professional should evaluate the project before work begins.

Standing Seam Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For 22 Gauge Coated Metals Group (CMG)

 

Standing Seam Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For 24 Gauge Coated Metals Group (CMG)

 

Contact Us for Expert Standing Seam Fall Protection Advice

For expert guidance on standing seam roof anchors, lifeline kits, and fall protection systems that protect both your crew and your panels, contact us today at 863-703-4522 or visit www.StandingSeamRoofAnchor.com. Our safety specialists can help you match the right non-penetrating anchor to your specific roof profile and slope. Let's make your next metal roofing project safe, compliant, and built to last. For continued learning, download OSHA's 48-page Fall Protection Manual and our free Anchor Inspection Form once you've selected the ideal anchors for your roof system. Together, we'll help you stay ahead of OSHA standards while preserving your roof's weather-tight seal.

Safety Tips For Standing Seam Roofs

Promote a Culture of Safety

Strong safety programs start with conversation, not paperwork. When crews routinely discuss weather changes, access challenges, and fall hazards before work begins, minor issues get addressed before they turn into incidents. Making safety part of the daily rhythm creates a jobsite where workers look out for one another and problems rarely catch anyone by surprise.

Prioritize Ladder Safety Training

The most dangerous part of many roofing jobs happens before anyone reaches the panels. Poor ladder angle, unstable ground, unsecured ladder tops, or rushed climbs can turn roof access into a high-risk moment. Reinforcing proper ladder setup, stabilizing the base, securing the top, and maintaining three points of contact dramatically reduces preventable injuries.

Use Specialized Anchor Systems for Standing Seam Roofs

Standing seam roofs move by design. Temperature swings cause panels to expand and contract, which means anchorage must work with that movement, not against it. Non-penetrating anchors, specifically designed for standing seam profiles, protect the roof system while providing workers with dependable tie-off points without crushing seams or damaging hidden clips.

Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear

Properly fitting safety gear changes how workers move on metal roofs. Harnesses that sit correctly and SRLs that pay out smoothly allow crews to focus on balance and footing instead of worrying about equipment performance. OSHA's 2025 guidance made it a clear requirement, and failing to comply exposes workers to real danger.

Develop OSHA-Compliant Safety Plans

A solid safety plan keeps everyone operating from the same playbook. It outlines anchor and lifeline location, where walkboards belong, and who handles rescue if something goes wrong. When site conditions change, updating the plan keeps crews aligned and avoids confusion when seconds matter.

Ensure Proper Footwear for Stability

Metal roof traction can change without warning. Morning moisture, fine dust, or temperature swings can quickly turn panels slick. Footwear with aggressive tread, firm ankle support, and stable soles helps workers stay upright while carrying tools or transitioning across sloped roof areas. Good boots reduce slips before fall protection ever needs to engage.

Set Up Protective Guardrail Barriers for Work Zones

Guardrails create clear physical boundaries that workers instinctively respect. Around skylights, roof edges, and equipment clusters, guardrails limit access to high-risk areas and provide constant, passive protection. By removing guesswork, crews can stay focused on their work instead of constantly scanning for fall hazards.

Install Permanent Roof Anchor Systems

Some roofs see repeated foot traffic for HVAC service, solar maintenance, or routine inspections. Permanent anchor systems give every crew the same reliable tie-off points on every visit. They reduce setup time, limit wear from repeated temporary installations, and create safer long-term access for the life of the building.

Encourage the Use of Trauma Straps

Once a fall arrest system engages, suspension trauma becomes the next concern. Trauma straps give a suspended worker a way to stand in their harness and keep blood circulating while rescue is underway. They are lightweight, affordable, and easy to carry, yet they can make the difference between survival and serious injury.

Consult Experts for Curved Metal Panels

Curved standing seam roofs introduce challenges that standard anchorage cannot always address. A fall protection professional experienced with curved systems can evaluate the roof and recommend equipment that truly works with the panel design. That upfront expertise protects workers, preserves the roof system, and prevents costly mistakes before work even begins.

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 regarding fall protection compatibility with their products and to address any potential warranty issues that may arise after installing our products.