Fall Protection Strategies for GNMC Roofs

Who Is GNMC (Great Northern Metal Company)?

Great Northern Metal Company (GNMC) was founded in 2019 by Jesse and Rainor Kjelsrud alongside longtime friend Jason Kostelecky. GNMC was born to create a better metal roofing and siding supplier in Montana's Gallatin Valley. In 2020, the team welcomed Thain Cook as a co-owner to further their mission of offering quality materials and service without compromise.

The founding team brings decades of experience in steel, aluminum, and construction. GNMC takes pride in offering real solutions to real challenges. They have built a reputation for being approachable, knowledgeable, and relentless in customer service.

GNMC delivers for projects ranging from commercial buildings designed for Montana winters to high-end residential projects requiring custom accents. When you bring your ideas to GNMC, you are talking to people who understand what it takes to build something that lasts. Their mission is simple: deliver high-performance products with down-to-earth service.

Why Compatible Fall Protection Equipment Matters for Standing Seam Roofs

Compatible fall-protection systems are a core part of protecting your roof investment. Standing-seam roofs offer a clean look with profound structural benefits. Their raised seams and concealed fasteners provide watertight protection against wind, rain, and snow. However, working on these sleek surfaces requires specialized equipment to avoid damage.

Traditional anchors often require drilling, which can lead to leaks, rust, or voided warranties. The solution is to use non-penetrating anchors designed specifically for seam-mounted systems. These anchors clamp onto the ribs to provide a secure tie-off point without drilling holes.

Montana's rugged climate increases the stakes. Between slick, snow-covered roofs and steep pitches, there is no margin for error. Using the wrong anchor can damage panels and create unsafe conditions.

The following products provide the primary safety solutions for these systems:

• The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor serves as the primary solution for GNMC steel panels. This anchor provides a certified 5,000-pound tie-off point with 12 non-penetrating set screws.
• The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters allow you to expand the system to support 10-foot wooden walkboards for stable footing on steep slopes.
• The SSRA3 Anchor Plates convert the anchors into connection points for horizontal lifelines.
• The SSRA HLL 100-foot Temporary HLL Kit allows multiple workers to move safely across the roof with continuous tie-off.
• The 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit offers a galvanized-steel-cable solution for permanent maintenance requirements without roof penetrations.
• The Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the most effective solution for steep roof slopes between 6:12 and 12:12. It hooks securely over the roof peak without clamps.

Proper Attachment: Set Screws and Torque Requirements

Worker safety and the holding power of the SSRA1 anchor depend entirely on correct set-screw application based on the material gauge of your GNMC 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-penetrating lock.
• Nylon-Tipped Set-Screws: Apply these to 22-gauge 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 maintain the required coefficient of friction.

GNMC TruSnap 1.75-Inch Snaplock (SSRA Compatible 22/24 ga. Steel)

The GNMC 1.75-inch Snaplock panel blends architectural appeal with rugged performance. This panel features a 1.75-inch tall snaplock seam and is available in 18-inch widths for steel. The panels are 22-gauge or 24-gauge steel or .040 aluminum. This profile performs well on roof slopes as low as 2:12. It carries certifications including UL 90 uplift resistance and Florida Building Code approval. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for GNMC (Great Northern Metal Company) 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge TruSnap 1.75-Inch Snaplock Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for GNMC 1.75-inch Snaplock

The GNMC 1.75-inch Snaplock is compatible with the full SSRA product line for 22-gauge or 24-gauge steel panels.

• The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor clamps directly onto the raised seam to preserve the weatherproof design.
• Workers can add the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters to support 10-foot wooden walkboards.
• The SSRA3 Anchor Plates convert the anchors into endpoints for the SSRA HLL Temporary HLL Kit.
• For permanent maintenance, the 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit provides a zero-penetration cable solution.
• The Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the preferred solution for aluminum or other substrates on slopes between 6:12 and 12:12.

GNMC 1-Inch Mechanical Lock Panel (SSRA Compatible 22/24 ga. Steel)

The GNMC 1-inch Mechanical Lock panel offers a clean and low-profile aesthetic. This profile is for low-slope applications with a pitch of 3:12 or greater. It is available in 22, 24, and 26-gauge steel. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for GNMC (Great Northern Metal Company) 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge 1-Inch Mechanical Lock Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for Mechanical Lock 1-Inch

When installed in 22-gauge or 24-gauge steel, this panel is fully compatible with the SSRA system.

• The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor clamps securely to the 1-inch raised rib.
• Workers can mount the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters to create a walkable platform with 10-foot wooden walkboards.
• The SSRA3 Anchor Plates support the SSRA HLL Temporary HLL Kit for multiple workers.
• The 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit is available for permanent, non-penetrating cable safety.
• For aluminum or lighter steel gauges, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the best solution for 6:12- to 12:12-pitched roofs.

GNMC 1.5-Inch Mechanical Lock Panel (SSRA Compatible 22/24 ga. Steel)

The GNMC 1.5-inch Mechanical Lock panel offers a bold and defined look. This mechanically-seamed system provides watertight protection for commercial and industrial projects. It has a 1.5-inch rib height and is available in 22-gauge or 24-gauge steel or aluminum. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for GNMC (Great Northern Metal Company) 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge 1.5-Inch Mechanical Lock Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for Mechanical Lock 1.5-Inch

When formed from 22-gauge or 24-gauge steel, this panel is fully compatible with the SSRA non-penetrating system.

• The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor creates a reliable tie-off point without drilling.
• Workers can add the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters to support 10-foot walkboards.
• The SSRA3 Anchor Plates handle the SSRA HLL Temporary HLL Kit for multi-worker mobility.
• The 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit protects maintenance workers with a permanent cable system.
• The Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the recommended tie-off solution for aluminum or lighter-gauge steel.

GNMC Mechanical Lock 2-inch (SSRA Compatible 22/24 ga. Steel)

The GNMC 2-inch Mechanical Lock panel is a heavy-duty and commercial-grade system. This panel excels in low-slope applications with a full 2-inch rib height. It is available in 22, 24, or 26-gauge steel or .040 aluminum. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for GNMC (Great Northern Metal Company) 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge Mechanical Lock 2-inch Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for Mechanical Lock 2-Inch

For installations using 22-gauge or 24-gauge steel, this panel is fully compatible with the SSRA system.

• The SSRA1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor provides a strong anchorage point on the 2-inch raised seam.
• Workers can mount the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters to support 10-foot wooden walkboards.
• Workers can mount SSRA3 Anchor Plates to SSRA1 seam anchors to support the SSRA HLL Temporary HLL Kit.
• The 120-foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit is available for zero-penetration, permanent cable safety.
• The Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the ideal solution for aluminum or other substrates on pitches ranging from 6:12 to 12:12.

GNMC Snap Batten Panel (Ridge Pro Only)

The GNMC Snap Batten panel brings the charm of board-and-batten aesthetics to modern roofing. This panel requires a separate batten cap that snaps over clips between panels. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for GNMC (Great Northern Metal Company) Snap Batten Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for Snap Batten

The raised batten-style seam creates a box shape that is incompatible with SSRA1 Seam Anchors.

The Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the best fall-protection solution for pitches between 6:12 and 12:12. It hooks over the ridge and provides an immediate tie-off point without causing panel damage.

GNMC 1-Inch Nailstrip Panel (Ridge Pro Only)

The GNMC 1-inch Nailstrip panel offers a clean appearance with easy installation. This system uses 22-, 24-, or 26-gauge steel and performs well on slopes of 3:12 or greater. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for GNMC (Great Northern Metal Company) 1-Inch Nailstrip Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for GNMC 1-Inch Nailstrip

This panel does not provide the structural requirement for seam-mounted clamping. The Ridge Pro Steep Assist is an excellent choice for roof pitches between 6:12 and 12:12. It hooks securely over the ridge to offer a dependable tie-off point without tools or fasteners.

Avoiding Liability From Untested Imports

Choosing high-quality, American-made equipment is an investment in both safety and long-term value. While global marketplaces offer inexpensive alternatives, they often lack the verifiable third-party testing required to meet strict OSHA 1926.502 and ANSI Z359.18 standards.

The SSRA system eliminates uncertainty through the transparency of domestic engineering. We manufacture and certify every component in the United States, providing our customers with documented compliance rather than empty promises. To ensure your crew has total peace of mind, you can review our official SSRA test reports to see the data for yourself.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For 24 Ga. GNMC

	TruSnap (24 Ga.)	Mechanical Lock 1-Inch (24 Ga.)	Mechanical Lock 1.5-Inch (24 Ga.)	Mechanical Lock 2-Inch (24 Ga.)	Snap-Batten	Nailstrip
SSRA 1	NO	NO	NO	NO	NO	NO
SSRA1 Nylon Tip	YES	YES	YES	YES	NO	NO
SSRA2 Roof Jack	YES	YES	YES	YES	NO	NO
SSRA3 Anchor Plate	YES	YES	YES	YES	NO	NO
The Ridge Pro	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES

Standing Seam Metal Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For 22 Ga. GNMC

	TruSnap (22 Ga.)	Mechanical Lock 1-Inch (22 Ga.)	Mechanical Lock 1.5-Inch (22 Ga.)	Mechanical Lock 2-Inch (22 Ga.)
SSRA 1	YES	YES	YES	YES
SSRA1 Nylon Tip	YES	YES	YES	YES
SSRA2 Roof Jack	YES	YES	YES	YES
SSRA3 Anchor Plate	YES	YES	YES	YES
The Ridge Pro	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

Develop OSHA-Compliant Safety Plans Every job site should have a safety plan outlining site-specific hazards and fall-protection strategies. These plans help align crews and ensure regulatory compliance. A solid plan provides structure and a foundation for safer operations from day one.

Promote a Culture of Safety Safety is about habits, not just equipment. A strong safety culture begins with open communication and routine hazard discussions. When safety is a shared responsibility, crews work more efficiently and lead to a more focused job site.

Consult Experts for Curved Metal Panels Curved metal roofing systems offer unique design advantages but require specialized fall protection. Most standard anchors are not rated for curved surfaces and may not seat securely. You should consult with fall-protection specialists who can recommend the proper anchors before stepping onto a radiused roof.

Prioritize Ladder Safety Training Many accidents happen before a worker ever sets foot on the roof. Proper ladder setup is essential. The 4-to-1 angle rule and maintaining three points of contact are the best advice for avoiding the most common ladder accidents. Regular training reinforces these fundamentals and helps reduce common injuries.

Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear Safety gear should be comfortable and regularly inspected. Harnesses and lifelines that meet OSHA standards are only effective when properly adjusted. Quality equipment helps boost worker confidence and reduce the temptation to bypass safety protocols.

Set Up Protective Guardrail Barriers for Work Zones Guardrails offer an effective way to reduce fall risk in high-traffic areas. These systems create visual and physical barriers around skylights and roof edges. This solution reduces dependence on personal fall-arrest gear and helps define safer working boundaries.

Encourage the Use of Trauma Straps A fall-arrest system stops the fall, but trauma straps help manage what happens next. These straps reduce the risk of suspension trauma by allowing suspended workers to relieve leg pressure. Every harness should have them, and workers must know how to use them.

Install Permanent Roof Anchor Systems Permanent anchors provide a code-compliant solution for buildings with ongoing maintenance. These fixed points offer instant tie-off for technicians. They are ideal for commercial facilities with solar panels or HVAC systems and ensure year-round safe roof access.

Use Specialized Anchor Systems for Standing-Seam Roofs Standing-seam roofs are durable, but not all anchors are up to the task. Non-penetrating seam anchors clamp directly to the panel without drilling. This strategy preserves waterproofing and structural integrity. Seam-compatible anchors keep both workers and roofs protected.

Ensure Proper Footwear for Stability Footwear is a critical first line of defense. Roofing crews need boots with strong traction and slip-resistant soles to move confidently across sloped panels. Proper footwear minimizes fatigue and helps reduce the risk of slips in less-than-ideal weather conditions.