Working high in the air is always a bit of a risky proposition, which is why the greatest safety measures must be taken to prevent any tragedies from occurring. One of the most important pieces of safety equipment is the roof anchor which is used as a point of securement or suspension for a fall protection system like a horizontal lifeline system, or a fall arrest system like a suspended window washing system.
Today’s roof anchors are constructed of galvanized steel, and the base is designed for permanent roof anchor installation that can be used for years to come. Depending on their purpose and placement, permanent roof anchors can be referred to by several different names, but they’re all the same piece of equipment. Roof anchors are essential for securing fall protection systems and ensuring worker safety when they are working at heights. Permanent roof anchors offer a variety of different mounting options, like concrete casting or direct bolting, and are welded to the embedded plates to match your building’s structure.
The following are some of the most used roof anchor systems:
U-Bar Anchors – U-bar anchors range from a basic metal bar welded into a “U” shape to a full anchor that features reinforcing beams. The tie-off, or anchorage point varies, with some companies using a swivel, fixed “U-bars” or “eyelets”, or head U-bars that point horizontally to the pier and can swivel. They are typically used as rooftop fall protection systems.
Vertical Steel Pier Anchors – These are the most commonly used anchors, the various models are differentiated by the shape of their bases and are customized according to the roof’s structure. These are the types of anchors most often used for suspended maintenance and window washing, as well as rooftop fall protection.
Soffit Anchors – These permanent roof anchors are installed on the underside of a structure, for example, a terrace, balcony, overhang, or the soffit that gives it its name.
Wall Anchors – The wall anchor model is different from other standard roof anchor models in that it is usually installed onto the side of a wall. They are most often used for fall protection systems.
Fall Arrest Anchors – This explicitly refers to anchor points that are used for suspension lines that window washers and other facade maintenance personnel use when going down the side of a building to prevent falls.
Fabricated Posts – These non-permanent anchor solutions come in an intermediate, corner, single point, or end anchorage, and are available in a range of heights. They are very fast and easy to install and require very little maintenance, making them excellent investments. The mounting options are customizable, you can use welding posts with no base plate, backer plates, welding options, casting in concrete, or direct bolting. These anchors go where you need them and are extremely versatile solutions.
The people who lower themselves over the side of a building are heroically brave, risking life and limb to do an honest day’s work. They can take that chance knowing that they are being held safe and secure by roof anchors, and really, they have nothing to fear!
