Roof Anchors and Fall Protection

Roof anchors provide a secure point for fall arrest systems on roofs whether it's for window washing, façade inspection, or roof maintenance. Every building has its own unique challenges, so fall protection safety experts are needed to recommend the correct anchors in each situation.

Roof anchors are required by law if façade work is performed by suspending from the roof. Building owners and window cleaning contractors shall not allow suspended work to be performed unless it has been determined that the building has provided, identified and certified anchorages. Read more about OSHA Regulation 1910.27, The Final Rule.

How do I even begin to understand the world of roof anchors?

 Do you have structural drawings?

• Yes. The drawings will show the structural steel, depth of concrete, and so forth. The drawings give us the information we need to determine the type of anchors to use and where to put them.
• No. If not, our inspection services will find them at the proper county offices or we'll do a site visit and examine the roof in person. Either way, we will determine the attachment points and types of anchors necessary.

What types of anchors should I use? 

• Permanent roof anchors might take longer to install than temporary anchors but once the installation is done, you're all set. Anchors come in different heights and can be arranged individually or in groups for horizontal lifelines. They can be installed into concrete or steel, into the roof or into a structural wall. You can also use what's called a patio anchor. These anchors are hidden beneath the patio pavers of a patio deck and remain out of sight until needed.  
• The anchors we install are 3/4- inch diameter, stainless steel U-bar.

How do anchors get installed?

• Anchors Installed Into Concrete Slab
  At GSS we can install roof anchors into a concrete slab using a Hilti Epoxy-Adhesive attachment. We drill the hole and inject epoxy into it, insert bolts, and then attach the anchors. Super strong; super efficient.
• Anchors Installed Into the Roof Deck

  If the surface isn't concrete, our skilled roofers will open the roof, expose the beam and bolt around the beam. After the anchor and base plate "sandwiching" is completed, the roofer re-installs the insulation and makes everything watertight.

 Can I use temporary anchors?

• We don't recommend installing or using temporary anchors for any window washing services; permanent anchors are really the only safe way to go for that kind of work. If you're doing a temporary roof-servicing job, GSS rents counter-weighted rails and other counter-weighted devices. 

How much weight should the anchors hold?

• As per OSHA regulations, all anchors shall be capable of withstanding a 5K ultimate load, and a working load of 1,000 pounds.

We Know Rooftop Safety! Check out our video for Fall Protection.