Which Anchor Point System Do You Need?
Choosing the right anchor point is crucial for creating an effective height safety system that properly protects workers from falls and other hazards while working at heights. The wrong type of anchor point can lead to accidents, injuries and death so it is essential to select an anchor that is specifically designed for your use case.
Regulatory compliance is also an important aspect to consider when choosing a roof anchor point. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and penalties for the employer and building owner. It’s essential to use an anchor point that has been tested and approved by a trained professional to ensure that the anchor point is in compliance with the relevant industry standards and regulations.
When choosing a roof anchor point, it is important to consider the following aspects:
- Type of Anchor Point: It’s essential to understand the two main types of anchor points: fall arrest anchors and abseil anchors. Fall arrest anchors are suitable for use in both fall arrest and fall restraint systems, while abseil anchors are designed specifically for abseil or rope access work.
- Weight capacity: The weight capacity of the anchor point is also an important aspect to consider. The anchor point must be able to support the weight of the worker, tools, and equipment.
- Roof Surface: it’s important to consider the type of anchor point and mount needed based on the surface it will be mounted on. Roof anchor points come in various designs to suit surfaces such as steel, corrugated, span, concrete, tile, truss or steel purlin mount.
- Risk Assessment: Always use a fall protection system that is appropriate for the task and the worker’s level of experience while minimising risk in accordance with the hierarchy of control measures.
- Compliance: It is essential that the roof anchor point is in compliance with all relevant Australian standards and regulations. This includes its intended use, the design of the safety system and proper certification by a trained professional.
Types of Roof Anchor Points
Permanent Roof Safety Anchor Points
Permanent roof safety anchor points are a cost-effective and easy-to-install solution commonly used in roof-top height safety systems. These anchor points are ideal for clients who need regular access for operations such as HVAC maintenance, skylight cleaning, solar panel care, gutter repairs, or access for contractors.
Permanently mounted fall restraint anchor point systems allow workers to safely work along the fall edge while being securely restrained by a tether and harness. Permanently mounted fall arrest anchor point systems can withstand the forces of arresting a fall and can be certified for use in abseil or rope access work.
One of the major advantages of a permanently mounted roof anchor system is that it minimises the potential for misuse and system failure that can occur with temporary roof anchor points. Permanent anchor point systems are designed to provide proper coverage of the work area while maximizing ease of use and worker safety. They also have a lower associated risk and therefore provide peace of mind for employers and building owners.
Anchor Safe’s installation professionals have been extensively trained in anchor point mounting solutions that comply with AS/NZS 1891 – Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices. As part of the installation, Anchor Safe provides installation certificates and manuals as required by AS/NZS 5532.
Temporary Roof Anchor Points
Temporary roof anchor points are a convenient solution for workers who need to access roofs for one-time or occasional tasks. They allow for flexibility and can be attached to a wide range of surfaces, making them suitable for a variety of roof types. These anchors are easy to install and can be removed after use, making them an ideal choice for projects that don’t require a permanent anchor point.
When using temporary roof anchor points, it is important to select and install them properly. The anchors should be installed by qualified and experienced professionals who are familiar with the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s worth noting that temporary roof anchor points are not suitable for abseil and regular maintenance or ongoing work, instead a permanent anchor point system or other fall restraint systems such as guardrails and walkways are recommended.
Surface Mount Roof Anchor Points
Surface Mount Anchor Points are a popular choice for metal roof areas. They are easy to install and can be attached to most metal roofs. These anchor points are versatile and are mounted directly to the rooftop by using 2 x 14G Stainless Screws into the substructure and 8 x 8mm Bulb Tite Rivets into the roof membrane. They provide a secure attachment point for fall protection systems, making it easy and safe to work on the roof.
Concrete Mount Roof Anchor Points
Concrete Mount Roof Anchor Points are designed to be securely fixed into concrete surfaces, either through chemical fix or a torque anchor. They are more subtle in apperance compared to other mounts and are commonly used on concrete-roofed high-rise buildings for abseil use or fall arrest/restraint. These anchor points are strong and durable, providing a reliable attachment point for fall protection systems. They are suitable for both fall arrest and fall restraint systems and can withstand the forces of arresting a fall.
Roof Anchor Points for Tiled Roofs
Tile roof anchor points are a convenient solution for providing safe access on tiled roofs. They are easy to install, unobtrusive and can be fixed to timber rafters without drilling holes in the tiles or causing any waterproofing issues. These specialised roof anchor points incorporate unique energy-absorbing properties to ensure safety.
Anchor Safe supplies tile roof anchor points that are a one-piece profiled unit with mounting compatibility to suit most timber truss/tiled roof constructions. These anchor points can also be powder coated to blend in with the surroundings, maintaining the aesthetics of the building.
Which Anchor Point System Do You Need?
Height safety is a serious matter, and no one takes it more seriously than the team at Anchor Safe. To ensure you get the right anchor points for your worksite and application, we will send a consultant to inspect your property and area of work to tailor your requirements perfectly. Once our anchors are installed, you and your professionals can be on the roof, working at height in complete safety, knowing both you and them are in excellent hands.
We advise, design and install a range of anchor point systems in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Albury and the surrounding areas. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide the best solution possible that’s cost-effective and backed by our 10-year product and installation warranty.