Fall Protection Strategies For Una-Clad Standing Seam Panels
Posted by Howie Scarboro - CEO Fall Protection Distributors, LLC on Feb 2nd 2026
See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Una-Clad Elevate Standing Seam Panels.
Who Is Una-Clad?
Una-Clad, now a premier brand under Elevate (the 2022 rebrand of Firestone Building Products), represents a legacy of excellence in the metal roofing industry. Operating under the Holcim umbrella, Elevate continues to push the boundaries of sustainable, innovative roofing. The Una-Clad standing seam line remains a favorite among architects and contractors for its exceptional durability, environmental efficiency, and aesthetic versatility.
Elevate manufactures the Una-Clad series of standing seam panels to meet the most demanding structural requirements. From the wind-resistant, mechanically seamed UC-3 to the ultra-reliable Pittsburgh Locked UC-6, these systems accommodate the most complex architectural visions, including curved and tapered designs. With 21 state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities across North America, Elevate combines global resources with local expertise to deliver world-class metal roofing, insulation, and building envelope solutions.
Why Are Compatible Fall Protection Products Critical for Una-Clad Panels?
Elevate engineers Una-Clad panels with sophisticated concealed fasteners and weathertight seams to ensure long-term performance. However, these advanced designs require specialized safety hardware. Using traditional, penetrating anchors that drill into the metal compromises the roof's structural integrity, creates leak points, and voids the Elevate manufacturer's warranty.
Non-penetrating, compatible anchors provide the only safe solution for Una-Clad systems. These anchors clamp securely to raised seams or roof peaks, preserving the metal surface while providing OSHA-compliant tie-off points. By integrating specialized tools such as horizontal lifelines, walkboard adapters, and steep-slope assist hooks, contractors can ensure maximum mobility and safety without compromising the roof's visual appeal or functionality. Protecting your crew with the proper hardware is an investment in both human life and the longevity of the Una-Clad system.
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 of your Una-Clad panels:
- Cupped-Tip Stainless Steel Set Screws: Use these exclusively on 22-gauge steel panels. Torque them to 90 inch-pounds for a secure 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 grip.
CRITICAL WARNING: 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 Elevate warranty. Always use a calibrated torque wrench for final installation.
The SSRA Component System & Expansion Tools
The SSRA system provides a modular safety platform that adapts to any Una-Clad job site:
- SSRA1 Seam Anchor: The foundation of our system. This patented, non-penetrating anchor provides a 5,000-pound certified tie-off point.
- SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapter: Mounts directly to the SSRA1 to support 10-foot wooden walk-boards. The height is fully adjustable to match the Una-Clad seam profile.
- SSRA3 Anchor Plates: Heavy-duty aluminum spanner plates connecting two SSRA1 anchors for horizontal lifeline interfaces.
- 100-Foot SSRA Temporary HLL Kit: A non-penetrating temporary solution using SSRA1 anchors and SSRA3 plates. Restrict use to roof pitches of 4:12 or less.
- 120-Foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit: Long-term maintenance kit featuring 5-inch galvanized riser posts. Restrict use to roof pitches of 4:12 or less.
- The Ridge Pro Steep Assist: The premier "First-Man-Up" tool for secure steep-slope entry on pitches between 6:12 and 12:12.
UC-3 Mechanical Panel (SSRA Compatible 22/24 ga. Steel)
Elevate engineers the Una-Clad UC-3 as a high-performance, factory-formed double-lock standing seam panel. This system combines a traditional architectural appearance with extreme structural integrity. The mechanical seaming process creates a permanent, weathertight bond, making it the premier choice for projects facing severe wind loads and storm conditions. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Una-Clad Elevate Standing Seam Panels. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Una-Clad Elevate 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge Standing Seam Panels. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Una-Clad Elevate 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge UC-3 Mechanical Standing Seam Panels.
The UC-3 offers incredible design flexibility, as Elevate can curve or taper the panels to fit complex architectural geometries. Fabricated in 22- and 24-gauge steel, as well as .032" and .040" aluminum, the UC-3 comes in standard widths of 12", 16", and 18". To maintain eligibility for the Elevate 30-Year Platinum Warranty, the system requires a minimum slope of 3:12.
Fall Protection Strategy for UC-3 Panels
- Heavy-Gauge Steel (22/24 ga): The SSRA1 Seam Anchor ensures OSHA compliance without breaching the metal surface.
- Walking Platforms: Use SSRA2 Adapters for level staging on mechanical ribs.
- Horizontal Mobility: Use the 100-Foot SSRA Temporary Kit or the 120-Foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit (limited to 4:12 pitch or less).
- Aluminum Substrates: Use the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor to secure it over the peak on pitches between 6:12 and 12:12.
CRITICAL NOTE FOR CURVED ROOFS: While Elevate can curve the UC-3 panel for stunning visual effects, these radiused surfaces are incompatible with standard anchors like the SSRA1 and The Ridge Pro. Curved applications require a site-specific safety audit. We strongly recommend consulting a trained fall protection specialist to determine the appropriate specialized equipment for any radiused UC-3 project.
UC-4 Snaplock Panel (SSRA Compatible 22/24 ga. Steel)
Elevate redefines roofing efficiency with the Una-Clad UC-4, a patented self-locking standing seam panel. This innovative system features an integral fastening flange that eliminates the need for traditional clips. The snap-together seam design reduces labor time by up to 30%, making it an ideal choice for high performance at an economic value. Requirements for Elevate's 25-year Medallion or 30-year Platinum warranties require a minimum slope of 3:12. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Una-Clad Elevate 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge UC-4 Snaplock Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for UC-4 Panels
- Heavy-Gauge Steel (22/24 ga): The SSRA1 Seam Anchor remains the trusted choice, preserving the manufacturer's warranty.
- Staging & Access: Use SSRA2 Adapters for a stable, level work surface during installation.
- Horizontal Mobility: Deploy the 100-Foot SSRA Temporary HLL Kit or the 120-Foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit (limited to 4:12 pitch or less).
- Aluminum Substrates: Utilize The Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor for pitches between 6:12 and 12:12.
UC-6 Mechanical Panel (SSRA Compatible 22/24 ga. Steel)
Elevate engineers the Una-Clad UC-6 using the field-proven Pittsburgh Locking seam process. This design facilitates seamless thermal expansion and contraction, resulting in a virtually leakproof roof with exceptional wind uplift ratings. Available in 22- and 24-gauge steel and .032" to .040" aluminum, it maintains structural integrity with architectural flexibility. It qualifies for the Elevate 30-Year Platinum Warranty and requires a minimum slope of 3:12. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Una-Clad Elevate 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge UC-6 Mechanical Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for UC-6 Panels
- Heavy-Gauge Steel (22/24 ga): Use the SSRA1 Seam Anchor for a non-penetrating solution on Pittsburgh Lock seams.
- Staging & Access: Pair the SSRA1 with SSRA2 Adapters to protect the UC-6's pristine finish.
- Horizontal Mobility: Utilize SSRA3 Anchor Plates and either HLL system (limited to 4:12 pitch or less).
- Aluminum Substrates: Deploy The Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor on pitches from 6:12 to 12:12.
UC-14 Snaplock Panel (SSRA Compatible 22/24 ga. Steel)
The Elevate Una-Clad UC-14 balances architectural elegance with practical performance. This snap-together system features a 1-¾-inch-tall continuous interlocking seam that simplifies installation while providing a secure, durable fit. A concealed clip fastening mechanism allows the panels to manage significant thermal movement, preserving the roof's integrity over long spans. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Una-Clad Elevate 22 Gauge and 24 Gauge UC-14 Snaplock Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for UC-14 Panels
- Heavy-Gauge Steel (22/24 ga): The SSRA1 Seam Anchor is the primary choice, providing an OSHA-compliant tie-off point while maintaining the watertight seal.
- Stable Pathways: Navigate the 1-¾-inch seams safely using SSRA2 Adapters for walkboards without drilling into the metal.
- Horizontal Mobility: Install SSRA3 Anchor Plates to support the 100-Foot SSRA Temporary HLL Kit or the 120-Foot Super Anchor Permanent HLL Kit (limited to 4:12 pitch or less).
- Aluminum Substrates: Use The Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor for steep slopes (6:12 to 12:12) to prevent seam damage.
UC-7 Batten Panel (Ridge Pro Only)
Elevate engineers the Una-Clad UC-7 with a snap-on batten aesthetic. This 1-inch-high seam system features a full batten cover, creating bold shadow lines. It excels at both concave and convex radii, allowing the metal to follow the fluid lines of curved roof designs. See the Roof Anchor Compatibility Chart for Una-Clad Elevate UC-7 Batten Standing Seam Panels.
Fall Protection Strategy for UC-7 Panels
- Anchor Incompatibility: The UC-7's full batten cover makes it incompatible with seam-mounted anchors like the SSRA1.
- Primary Solution: For straight installations, use The Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor on pitches from 6:12 to 12:12.
- Softer Materials: The Ridge Pro is the safest choice for aluminum and copper substrates.
CRITICAL NOTE FOR CURVED ROOFS: While the UC-7 is famous for its radiused capabilities, these curved surfaces are incompatible with standard fall protection products like The Ridge Pro and SSRA anchors. Curved roof systems require a site-specific safety inspection by a trained professional to determine the specialized equipment necessary to protect workers without damaging the architectural design.
The American-Made Advantage
In a market flooded with unbranded, generic "look-alike" imports, choosing the right anchorage system is a defining moment for your company's safety culture. Using unverified hardware on a premium Elevate roof creates unnecessary legal and financial risks. If an accident occurs, "self-certified" claims from anonymous overseas manufacturers often fall apart under the gaze of OSHA inspectors or legal counsel.
When you choose the SSRA system, you are choosing American-made reliability. We engineer, build, and test our equipment right here in the USA to exceed OSHA 1926.502 and ANSI Z359.18 standards. We don't just provide a product; we offer a transparent paper trail of compliance and a dedicated domestic support team.
Standing Seam Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For 22 Gauge Una-Clad/Elevate
| UC-3 (22 Ga.) | UC-4 (22 Ga.) | UC-6 (22 Ga.) | UC-14 (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 |
Standing Seam Roof Anchor Panel Compatibility For 24 Gauge Una-Clad/Elevate
| UC-3 (24 Ga.) | UC-4 (24 Ga.) | UC-6 (24 Ga.) | UC-14 (24 Ga.) | UC-7 Batten | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SSRA 1 |
NO | NO | NO | NO | NO |
| SSRA1 Nylon Tip |
YES | YES | YES | YES | NO |
| SSRA2 Roof Jack |
YES | YES | YES | YES | NO |
| SSRA3 Anchor Plate |
YES | YES | YES | YES | NO |
| The Ridge Pro |
YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
Contact Us For Fall Protection Advice
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
Set Up Protective Barriers for Work Zones Defining safe zones with guardrails or warning lines is essential on large or low-slope roofs. These barriers help workers stay aware of edges and prevent accidents, creating a safer and more focused work environment.
Promote a Culture of Safety Building a workplace safety culture starts with open discussions about potential risks. Regular training sessions and teamwork encourage everyone to take ownership of maintaining a secure environment, significantly reducing accidents.
Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear Providing well-fitting, OSHA-compliant harnesses, lanyards, and fall arrest systems is non-negotiable. Reliable and comfortable gear boosts worker confidence and ensures consistent use, reducing risks across the job site.
Use Specialized Anchor Systems for Standing Seam Roofs Clamp-on, non-penetrating anchor systems protect standing seam roofs and workers simultaneously. These systems avoid roof damage while offering dependable tie-off points for enhanced safety.
Ensure Proper Footwear for Stability Proper footwear can help minimize slips and falls on metal roofs. Durable, non-slip shoes designed for metal surfaces improve grip and provide confidence, even in wet or steep conditions.
Develop OSHA-Compliant Safety Plans A comprehensive safety plan is key to a successful roofing project. Clearly defined fall protection strategies, emergency protocols, and rescue procedures ensure workers can appropriately react during emergencies.
Install Permanent Roof Anchor Systems Permanent roof anchors are invaluable for properties that require regular maintenance. They offer reliable tie-off points, making safety procedures quicker and easier to implement.
Ensure Stable Access Points A stable ladder setup is the foundation of safe roof access. Always place ladders on level ground and follow the 4-to-1 rule to minimize slips and ensure secure transitions to and from the roof.
Encourage the Use of Trauma Straps Trauma straps can save lives during a fall incident. These devices relieve suspension pressure and promote circulation, making them essential to fall preparedness. Training workers to use them effectively is crucial.
Consult Experts for Curved Metal Panels Curved roofs present unique safety challenges that standard systems may not address. Working with fall protection professionals ensures you choose the most appropriate solutions for worker safety and roof integrity.