Fall Protection Strategies for Mid-West by NCI

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for MBCI, Mid-West by NCI Standing Seam Panels.

Who Is Mid-West by NCI?

A subsidiary of MBCI, Mid-West by NCI is a key player in the metal building industry. But today, our focus shifts to MBCI, a leader in quality standing seam roof systems since 1976. With a reputation built on durability and performance, MBCI has strategically positioned manufacturing facilities and sales offices nationwide, anchored by its headquarters in Houston, Texas. Offering over 90 metal roof and wall panel profiles and a wide range of structural components, trim, and accessories, MBCI is at the forefront of metal building innovation.

Why Do Standing Seam Panels Require Specialized Fall Protection?

Ever wonder why standing seam roofs need  specialized fall protection? It's not just about staying safe up there (though that's important, too!). With many manufacturers and panel profiles, picking the proper fall protection can feel like navigating a maze. That's why we're launching this blog series—so you don't have to get lost in the options.

Due to their unique design, standing seam roofs, like those offered by MBCI, demand specific fall protection systems. The smooth, clip-mounted panels often make it tricky to attach standard anchors. Hence, using products like the SSRA1 Seam Anchors or the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is critical. These systems integrate with standing seam roofs, providing secure attachment points without compromising the panel integrity.

In this series, we'll guide you through the top fall protection products that pair perfectly with MBCI's standing seam and concealed fastener panels, making your job easier and safer. So, let's dive into the details and equip you with the right tools for the job. Now, it's time to do some panel research and discuss fall protection strategies!

Double-Lok™ Metal Roofing

The Double-Lok™ roof panel from MBCI is a versatile, high-performance solution ideal for industrial, commercial, and architectural applications. It shines particularly in retrofit projects, where enhancing energy efficiency and extending the lifespan of existing structures is critical. MBCI has built a reputation for quality and innovation, and the Double-Lok™ panel is no exception. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for MBCI, Mid-West by NCI Double-Lok Standing Seam Panels.

Available in two widths—18 inches and 24 inches—the Double-Lok™ features a trapezoidal leg standing seam design that is mechanically field-seamed to ensure maximum durability and long-term performance. With a rib height of 3 inches and a minimum slope requirement of just ¼:12, this panel offers flexibility to meet the demands of various projects, whether for new builds or retrofits.

The Double-Lok™ panel is available in 22 and 24-gauge thicknesses, providing strength and resilience without sacrificing design flexibility. Whether used for industrial complexes, sleek commercial buildings, or eye-catching architectural projects, the Double-Lok™ roof panel delivers reliable performance and aesthetic appeal.

Fall Protection for Double-Lok™ Metal Roofing

Safety is a priority when working on Double-Lok™ standing seam roofs. This panel's design is fully compatible with several fall protection solutions, ensuring a secure work environment from start to finish.

SSRA1 Seam Clamps:

The SSRA1 Seam Anchor clamps directly onto the standing seam, providing a reliable and non-invasive attachment point for fall protection gear. It's a preferred solution for securing workers with lifelines or lanyards without penetrating the roof surface, keeping the Double-Lok™ panel's weathertight integrity intact.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks:

For jobs requiring additional stability or a temporary platform, the  SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks come into play. These roof jacks mount 10' wooden walk boards, offering workers a stable surface to move on while working at height. This setup improves worker safety and boosts efficiency, minimizing the risk of slips or falls on the smooth metal surface.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates for Horizontal Lifelines:

To cover larger areas on the roof, the  SSRA3 Anchor Plates can be mounted on top of SSRA1 Seam Anchors to install temporary horizontal lifeline systems. These lifelines can extend up to 100', providing continuous fall protection for workers as they move across the roof. This setup is perfect for projects that require movement across a wide area without constantly disconnecting and reconnecting safety equipment.

RidgePro Steep Assist Anchor:

For steeper sections of the roof (6/12 pitch or more), the  RidgePro Steep Assist Anchor offers additional safety. This system provides reliable anchorage for workers on inclined surfaces, offering added security on challenging slopes. The RidgePro is ideal for jobs where the slope presents added risks and requires specialized fall protection solutions.

A Seamless Fall Protection System

Combining these fall protection solutions allows you to create a comprehensive safety setup that keeps workers secure throughout the job. The SSRA1 Seam Clamps anchor workers to the roof, while the SSRA2 Roof Jacks and wooden walkboards provide stability. The SSRA3 Anchor Plates and horizontal lifeline extend fall protection coverage, and the RidgePro  Steep Assist anchor offers specialized safety for steep slopes.

Together, these systems ensure that fall protection on Double-Lok™ roofs is robust, compliant, and practical, allowing workers to complete their tasks with confidence and security.

SuperLok® Metal Roofing

The SuperLok® roof system represents the pinnacle of strength and resilience, engineered to tackle even the most extreme weather conditions. Its slender 2-inch vertical rib design offers exceptional resistance to uplift forces. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for MBCI, Mid-West by NCI SuperLok Standing Seam Panels.

Available in widths of 12 inches and 16 inches, SuperLok® is a very versatile design. With a minimum slope requirement of just ½:12, this panel can handle various applications. It can be installed directly over purlins or bar joists, eliminating the need for a solid substructure and making the installation process more efficient. The panel is available in 22, 24, and 26-gauge thickness options, balancing durability with design flexibility.

Whether you're dealing with harsh winds, heavy snow loads, or demanding climates, SuperLok® panels provide unmatched protection, ensuring your structure remains secure.

Fall Protection for SuperLok® Metal Roofing

Working on SuperLok® requires specialized fall protection systems like any standing seam panel. Here's how you can ensure a safe and compliant worksite with the right combination of fall protection products:

SSRA1 Seam Clamps

The  SSRA1 Seam Anchor is ideal for creating secure tie-off points on SuperLok® roofs. This non-penetrating clamp attaches directly to the standing seam, providing a safe anchorage point without compromising the roof's integrity. Whether you're installing lifelines, lanyards, or retractable systems, the SSRA1 ensures reliable fall protection for workers at all times.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks

Need a stable platform for your crew? The  SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks enable installing 10' wooden walk boards between anchors. This setup gives workers a secure, stable platform to walk on, reducing the risk of slipping on the metal surface while boosting productivity by allowing them to quickly transport materials and tools across the roof.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates for Horizontal Lifelines

When working on larger sections of the roof, horizontal lifelines become essential. The SSRA3 Anchor Plates can be mounted on the SSRA1 Seam Clamps, creating anchor points for a  temporary horizontal lifeline system. This system allows workers to move freely along the roof without disconnecting and re-tie their safety harnesses frequently, covering distances of up to 100 feet with continuous fall protection.

RidgePro Steep Assist Anchor

For areas of the roof with steeper slopes, the RidgePro Steep Assist Anchor offers an additional layer of security. Designed for roof pitches from 6/12 to 12/12, this anchor provides secure tie-off points on inclines, ensuring workers have the safety they need while navigating challenging roof sections.

Building a Comprehensive Safety System

Integrating these fall protection solutions allows you to create a fully compliant and effective safety system on SuperLok® metal roofs. The SSRA1 Seam Clamps offer dependable tie-off points, while the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks and wooden walkboards enhance mobility and stability. The SSRA3 Anchor Plates, combined with horizontal lifelines, ensure workers can move across the roof safely, and the RidgePro Steep Assist Anchor provides additional support on steep pitches.

Combining all these elements creates a robust fall protection strategy that keeps workers secure and efficient while meeting the highest safety standards.

Ultra-Dek® Metal Roofing

Introducing Ultra-Dek®, a snap-together roof system that raises the bar for performance and durability. Its trapezoidal leg standing seam design has been rigorously tested for air leakage and water penetration, earning approvals that highlight its high-quality construction. Ultra-Dek® is an excellent choice for projects where weather-tightness is a priority. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for MBCI, Mid-West by NCI Ultra-Dek Standing Seam Panels.

Available in widths of 18 inches and 24 inches and with a total seam height of 3 inches, Ultra-Dek® meets the diverse demands of industrial, commercial, and architectural applications. Its versatility doesn't end with its dimensions—the panel is available in 22 and 24-gauge thicknesses, allowing it to adapt to various project specifications.

With a minimum slope requirement of just ¼:12, Ultra-Dek® is optimal for a wide range of roofing applications. While similar in size to MBCI's Double-Lok® panel, Ultra-Dek® differentiates itself with a unique upper rib shape where the panels snap together, ensuring a streamlined installation and a secure seal. This innovation exemplifies MBCI's commitment to practicality and performance in roof design.

Fall Protection for Ultra-Dek® Metal Roofing

Like all standing seam roofs, Ultra-Dek® requires specialized fall protection to ensure a safe working environment. Here's how to use the right combination of fall protection products to secure your job site.

SSRA1 Seam Clamps

The SSRA1 Seam Clamps offer a secure, non-invasive anchorage solution for workers operating on Ultra-Dek® roofs. By attaching directly to the standing seam without penetrating the roof surface, these clamps ensure safety without compromising the roof's integrity. They provide a solid tie-off point for lanyards or retractable lifelines, ensuring workers remain anchored as they move across the roof.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks

For increased safety and ease of movement, the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks allow for the installation of 10' wooden walk boards across the roof. These walk boards provide a stable platform, reducing the risk of slips and falls and enabling workers to carry tools and materials more efficiently. Combining this system with SSRA1 Seam Clamps ensures that workers have a secure and steady surface to work on, even on larger or more complex projects.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates for Horizontal Lifelines

When covering large areas of the roof, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, in conjunction with SSRA1 Seam Clamps, are essential for setting up temporary horizontal lifeline systems. These lifelines can extend up to 100 feet, allowing workers to move freely along the roof without needing to constantly detach and reattach their safety gear. This system is especially useful for projects where extensive roof access is required.

RidgePro Steep Assist Anchor

The RidgePro Steep Assist Anchor provides additional fall protection for steeper roof section projects. This system is designed for roofs with pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12, offering secure tie-off points in more challenging areas. Whether workers navigate steep slopes or other difficult roof sections, the RidgePro ensures they remain safely anchored.

Creating a Comprehensive Safety System for Ultra-Dek® Roofs

Integrating these fall protection solutions allows you to create a complete and compliant safety system for your Ultra-Dek® roof installation. The SSRA1 Seam Clamps are your primary anchor points, while the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks and wooden walkboards provide stability. The SSRA3 Anchor Plates and horizontal lifeline systems offer extended fall protection coverage, and the RidgePro Steep Assist ensures safety on steeper roof sections.

Together, these components ensure that your workers can safely and efficiently perform their tasks, no matter the project's complexity. By combining Ultra-Dek®'s cutting-edge design with the proper fall protection measures, you can guarantee both the success and safety of your roofing projects.

BattenLok® HS Roof System

The BattenLok® HS roof system is a prime example of durability and adaptability in the standing seam metal roofing field. This system features a robust 2-inch vertical seam that offers outstanding application performance. Available in widths of 12 and 16 inches and with a minimum slope requirement of ½:12, the BattenLok® HS system provides the versatility needed to meet the demands of diverse architectural and commercial projects. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for MBCI, Mid-West by NCI BattenLok Standing Seam Panels.

Crafted from 22 or 24-gauge steel, BattenLok® HS ensures long-lasting durability without sacrificing design flexibility. It installs directly over purlins or bar joists, offering efficiency during installation while maintaining structural integrity. Inspired by the Steelox LRX and PRX roof panels, this system can seamlessly transition from roof to fascia, adding aesthetic appeal to any project.

One standout feature of the BattenLok® HS system is its field-curving capability, which allows for the creation of unique architectural elements.

Fall Protection for BattenLok® HS Metal Roofing

Fall protection is critical to job site safety when working on BattenLok® HS standing seam roofs. Fortunately, BattenLok® HS panels are compatible with various specialized fall protection systems, keeping workers secure while ensuring ease of movement across the roof.

SSRA1 Seam Clamps

The SSRA1 Seam Clamps provide a reliable, non-penetrating anchor point by securely clamping onto the standing seam without penetrating the roof surface. Workers can confidently move along the roof with these seam anchors and compatible adapter plates.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks

The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks offer a practical solution for increasing stability and safety on the roof. These roof jacks allow for installing 10' wooden walk boards, creating a stable surface that workers can use to navigate the roof safely. The walk boards enhance safety and productivity by reducing the risk of slipping on metal surfaces.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates for Horizontal Lifelines

For projects requiring extensive roof access, the SSRA3 Anchor Plates are used to set up temporary horizontal lifelines. These anchor plates work with the SSRA1 Seam Clamps to create a lifeline system stretching up to 100 feet, providing continuous fall protection. Workers can move across large areas of the roof without disconnecting and reconnecting their harnesses, ensuring safety and efficiency.

RidgePro Steep Assist Anchor

For roof sections with steeper pitches, the RidgePro Steep Assist Anchor offers additional safety. This anchor provides reliable tie-off points on slopes between 6/12 and 12/12, ensuring workers have the security they need while navigating challenging roof angles. It's essential for projects involving steep or complex roof designs.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility Chart For Mid-West by NCI

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.

Safety Tips For Standing Seam Roofs

Consult Experts for Curved Metal Panels

Avoid using seam-mounted anchors when working with curved metal panels. Instead, seek advice from a certified safety expert to evaluate the worksite and develop a custom safety strategy that addresses the specific challenges of curved roofs.

Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear

Provide workers with high-quality full-body harnesses and shock-absorbing lanyards. These essential safety tools reduce the impact of falls and minimize the likelihood of severe injuries during roofing projects.

Ensure Proper Footwear for Stability

Make sure workers wear non-slip footwear designed for stability on slick metal surfaces. For added safety, avoid working on roofs when they are wet, as appropriate footwear is a critical factor in accident prevention.

Install Permanent Roof Anchor Systems

To enhance long-term safety, install permanent roof anchors that remain in place for future maintenance work. These systems provide continuous fall protection for workers during inspections and repairs.

Set Up Protective Barriers for Work Zones

Designate work areas on low-slope roofs using protective barriers such as guardrails or warning lines. These barriers help prevent falls and ensure a safer working environment.

Use Specialized Anchor Systems for Standing Seam Roofs

Select and use anchor systems specifically designed for standing seam roofs. Carefully follow the manufacturer's installation instructions, and avoid placing anchors over hidden clips, which can be hard to locate, particularly on older roofs.

Promote a Culture of Safety

Cultivate a strong safety culture by ensuring workers regularly inspect all safety equipment. Frequent safety training sessions are another great way to promote workplace safety awareness.

Develop OSHA-Compliant Safety Plans

Before beginning any roofing project, always create a comprehensive safety plan that aligns with OSHA guidelines. This plan should also include a detailed rescue strategy to ensure workers remain safe throughout the project.

Ensure Stable Access Points

Ensure that you set up ladders and scaffolding correctly, making them stable and free of obstructions. Train workers on ladder safety, ensuring they understand and follow the OSHA-recommended 4-to-1 rule for ladder placement.

Encourage the Use of Trauma Straps

Make trauma straps a standard part of fall protection gear and provide regular training on their use. These straps are crucial in reducing the risks of suspension trauma after a fall.

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.