Fall Protection Strategies For Steel Tile Co Standing Seam Roofs

Fall Protection Strategies For Steel Tile Co Standing Seam Roofs

Posted by Howie Scarboro - CEO Fall Protection Distributors, LLC on Oct 9th 2024

See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Steel Tile Company Standing Seam Panels.

Steel Tile Company logo. Image courtesy of www. SteelTile.com.

Who Is Steel Tile Co?

Steel Tile Co., based in Central Ontario, has been a leader in the metal roofing industry for over thirty years. Family-owned and operated, it's built a reputation for manufacturing high-quality, tile-profiled metal roofing panels that blend aesthetics and durability. Over the years, Steel Tile Co. has become Canada's largest producer of this specialized metal roofing, thanks to its commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

From its modest beginnings, Steel Tile Co. has grown by adapting to the evolving needs of homeowners, contractors, and builders. It offers comprehensive services that include distribution and delivery, ensuring its products reach every corner of Canada. Whether for residential, commercial, or industrial projects, the company's roofing systems withstand Canada's diverse and sometimes extreme weather conditions.

Steel Tile Co.'s story is more than just business growth; it's about family values and a deep understanding of what customers need from their roofs: reliability, beauty, and long-lasting performance. Their dedication to quality has earned them a top spot in the metal roofing industry in Ontario and across the country.

Steel Tile Co standing seam roof. Image courtesy of www.SteelTile.com.

Why Is Compatible Fall Protection So Critical for Steel Tile Co. Roofs?

Now, let's talk about something often overlooked but crucial: fall protection. Whether you're installing, inspecting, or maintaining a roof, keeping everyone safe on Steel Tile Co.'s high-quality roofs isn't just a box to check—it's non-negotiable. But here's the tricky part: not all fall protection systems are compatible with these roofs, and using the wrong setup can do more harm than good. So, why is it so critical?

First, Steel Tile Co.'s standing seam systems will last decades. They're resistant to extreme weather, require minimal maintenance, and—let's face it—look fantastic. But as sleek and sturdy as these roofs are, they're not invincible. You wouldn't want to compromise their integrity by drilling holes into those pristine panels to set up anchors. That's where compatible,  non-penetrating fall protection systems come in. They protect workers while preserving the roof's water-tightness and structural integrity.

We're providing this information because, whether you're a roofing professional or a safety manager, knowing how to protect the workers and the investment in these roofs is essential. You don't just want safety for today—you want it for the roof's life. In this blog, we'll dive into each of Steel Tile Co.'s standing seam panels, explain their unique features, and discuss the best fall protection systems for each, ensuring you get the job done safely and without damaging these premium roofs. Ready? Let's examine the specifics of Steel Tile Co.'s three standing seam panels and how to work safely on them.

Snap Seam Panels

Steel Tile Co Snap Seam profile. Image courtesy of www.SteelTile.com.

Steel Tile Co.'s Snap Seam panels represent the perfect blend of durability and visual appeal. These panels are made from high-quality 24- or 26-gauge steel and are 15 5/8" wide with a 1.5-inch seam height. With a capacity of up to 40 feet, Snap Seam panels offer outstanding weather resistance and energy efficiency. They are designed for longevity, often lasting over 50 years when properly maintained. Another significant benefit is their environmentally conscious design, which is fully recyclable and crafted from recycled materials. Snap Seam panels are also low maintenance, making them a valuable long-term investment. Available in various colors and finishes with an impressive 40-year paint finish warranty. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Steel Tile Company Snap Seam Standing Seam Panels.

The Snap Seam panels are ideal for homeowners or building managers looking for a sustainable roofing solution that combines performance with a sleek, modern aesthetic.

Fall Protection for Snap Seam Panels

When working with 24-gauge steel Snap Seam panels, it's essential to maintain worker safety without compromising the roof's integrity. The SSRA1 Seam Anchor offers a great solution. This non-penetrating anchor attaches firmly to the panel seams, providing a secure point for fall protection systems without damaging the roof. Used alongside the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, this setup allows you to install walk boards across the roof, creating a stable platform for workers to move freely. For larger projects, the SSRA3 Anchor Plates come into play, enabling temporary horizontal lifeline setups. These plates, mounted on the SSRA1 anchors, allow multiple workers to remain securely tied off, ensuring maximum safety.

For 26-gauge Snap Seam panels or when working on roofs with slopes between 6/12 and 12/12, the  Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the best option. This non-invasive fall protection system hooks over the roof peak, providing a secure anchor point for workers without requiring penetration into the roof surface. It ensures a 100% tie-off throughout the project, allowing workers to remain safe while maintaining the integrity of the Snap Seam panels. This method is ideal for steep roofs requiring more specialized fall protection.

With these options, you can maintain worker safety and the long-term performance of Steel Tile Co.'s Snap Seam panels, ensuring the roof remains durable and visually appealing for years.

Mechanical Lock Panels

Steel Tile Co Mechanical Lock profile. Image courtesy of www.SteelTile.com.

Steel Tile Co.'s Mechanical Lock panels offer a modern, durable solution for various construction and renovation projects. These standing seam panels are 24- or 26-gauge steel, with a 15 3/4" panel width and a seam height of 1.5 inches. They span lengths up to 40 feet and are compatible with roofs with a slope of at least 3:12. With proper maintenance, these panels can last over 50 years, making them a top choice for durability and sustainability. They also contribute to energy efficiency, helping to lower cooling costs by reflecting heat. Additionally, the panels are fully recyclable, aligning with eco-friendly building standards. Available in various colors and finishes, each panel is backed by a 40-year paint finish warranty, ensuring both beauty and performance for the long term. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Steel Tile Company Mechanical Lock Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for Mechanical Lock Panels

Fall protection is crucial to maintaining worker safety and roof integrity for 24-gauge steel mechanical lock panels. The SSRA1 Seam Anchors are a vital solution, offering non-penetrating attachment points that clamp directly onto the seams. Combining these anchors with the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks allows you to safely install walk boards across the roof, creating a stable and secure platform for workers to move about. The SSRA3 Anchor Plates further enhance safety by setting temporary horizontal lifelines, allowing multiple workers to remain tied off without compromising the panel seams.

For 26-gauge panels or roofs with steeper slopes ranging from 6/12 to 12/12, the Ridge Pro  Steep Assist is the go-to solution. This system hooks over the roof peak, providing secure anchor points without penetrating the roof itself. It ensures that workers remain 100% tied off while preserving the roof's integrity, making it an ideal choice for steep roof applications.

Choosing the appropriate fall protection systems for Steel Tile Co.'s Mechanical Lock panels protects your crew and the roof's long-term durability, ensuring your project remains safe and sustainable.

Nail Strip Panels

Steel Tile Co Nail Strip profile. Image courtesy of www.SteelTile.com.

The Nailstrip metal roofing system from Steel Tile Co. offers a sleek, modern option for residential and commercial projects. These panels, crafted from 24- or 26-gauge steel, come in 16" widths and feature a 1.5-inch seam height, making them ideal for roofs with a minimum slope of 3:12. Capable of spanning up to 40 feet; nailstrip panels provide versatility and reliability. The durable PVDF paint finish ensures the roof maintains its appearance and resists the elements for decades. Nailstrip panels offer superior weather protection, improved energy efficiency, and minimal maintenance requirements. This system provides excellent long-term value with a potential lifespan exceeding 50 years when properly maintained. Plus, the eco-friendly design, made from fully recyclable materials, makes these panels an excellent choice for environmentally conscious projects. Available in various colors and finishes, Nailstrip panels come with a 40-year paint warranty, ensuring a lasting aesthetic and protective performance. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Steel Tile Company Nail Strip Standing Seam Panels.

Fall Protection for Nailstrip Panels

Regarding 24-gauge steel Nailstrip panels, fall protection is critical to maintaining the roof's longevity while keeping workers safe. The SSRA1 Seam Anchors provide a reliable, non-penetrating attachment to the panel seams. These anchors secure fall protection systems without compromising the roof's surface. The SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks can be used alongside the anchors to safely install walk boards, creating stable pathways for workers across the roof. Additionally, the SSRA3 Anchor Plates allow for the setup of temporary horizontal lifelines, providing multiple workers with secure tie-off points as they navigate the roof.

For 26-gauge panels or roofs with slopes between 6/12 and 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist is the most suitable option. This system hooks over the roof peak, offering a secure fall protection anchor without penetrating the roof. It keeps workers 100% tied off while preserving the roof's aesthetic and structural integrity, making it a valuable tool for steeper applications.

By utilizing the correct fall protection systems for Steel Tile's Nailstrip panels, you ensure both worker safety and the long-term durability of the roof, ensuring that your project remains protected from accidents and weather.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility Chart For Steel Tile Company

 

Snap Seam Panels
22-24 Gauge

Mechanical Lock Panels
22-24 Gauge

Nail Strip Panels
22-24 Gauge

SSRA 1

SSRA_1 Standing Seam Roof Anchor

YES YES YES

SSRA1 Nylon Tip

SSRA_1 Anchor Nylon Tip Standing Seam Roof Anchor

YES YES YES

SSRA2 Roof Jack

SSRA_2 Roof Jack Adapter

YES YES YES

SSRA3 Anchor Plate

SSRA_3 Anchor Plate

YES YES YES

The Ridge Pro

Ridge Pro Roof Anchor

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  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 Anchor Inspection Form.

Safety Guidelines for Standing Seam Roofs

Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear

Always provide workers with top-tier full-body harnesses and shock-absorbing lanyards. These critical tools reduce the force of a fall and significantly lower the risk of serious injuries.

Encourage Regular Use of Trauma Straps

Ensure workers consistently use trauma straps with their harnesses and receive thorough training on their proper use. Trauma straps are crucial for reducing the risks of suspension trauma after a fall.

Take Precautions for Curved Metal Panels

Avoid standard seam-mounted anchors when working on curved metal panels. Consult a safety professional to determine the most effective fall protection solution for these unique surfaces.

Wear Appropriate Footwear

Ensure workers wear non-slip shoes designed for metal roofs, especially when working in wet conditions. By acquiring the best safety equipment available, workers can significantly minimize the risk of slips and falls.

Utilize Specialized Roof Anchor Systems

Use roof anchors specifically designed for standing seam roofs and always follow manufacturer guidelines. Avoid anchor systems that require locating hidden panel clips to prevent compromising the roof structure.

Secure Work Areas with Protective Barriers

Install guardrails or warning lines on low-slope roofs to create safe zones. These protective barriers help reduce the risk of falls by clearly marking work areas and providing additional safety measures.

Ensure Stable Access Points

Properly set up ladders and scaffolding, ensuring they are stable and obstacle-free. Provide OSHA-approved ladder safety training to workers, including the 4-to-1 rule for safe ladder placement.

Foster a Safety-First Workplace Culture

Build a safety-first culture through regular equipment inspections and ongoing safety training. Encouraging a proactive mindset helps prevent accidents and ensures a high workplace safety standard.

Establish OSHA-Compliant Safety Plans

Before any project begins, develop a safety plan that complies with OSHA standards. Include rescue procedures to protect workers in emergencies and ensure everyone knows their roles during an incident.

Implement Permanent Roof Anchor Systems

Install permanent roof anchor systems to ensure long-term safety during future maintenance or inspections. These systems provide reliable tie-off points for workers and contribute to a safer working environment on roofing jobs.

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.

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.