FOR SECURING AND WORK POSITIONING
Roof anchor points are permanent fixed attachment points installed on a roof structure for personal fall protection. Workers connect their harness via a lanyard to the anchor before approaching a fall hazard – the anchor carries the full load if a fall occurs. XSPlatforms supplies anchor points for both flat roofs (membrane, ballasted, standing seam) and pitched roofs up to 15 degrees, all certified to OSHA 1926.502, ANSI Z359.6, EN 795 Type A, and CSA Z259.16. The product family includes three base plates (XSBase, XSMD, XTrusion) that accept the same attachment hardware – one specification covers the whole site.
XSPlatforms offers anchor solutions for both flat and slightly sloping roofs (up to 15°). XSPlatforms fall protection systems for roofs provides a selection of three different roof base plates: the XSBase plate, XSMD, and XTrusion. Each of the base plates below is designed for certain types of roofs and can be combined with various attachment points to create a single roof anchor point. By using fall protection PPE, the user can secure themselves to the anchor point.
Designed and approved to meet the following standards:
About Fall Arrest and Fall Restraint systems: How do they work?
An XSPlatforms roof anchor point can be configured for either fall arrest or fall restraint:
- Fall arrest: the worker is allowed to reach the fall hazard but is stopped mid-fall by the anchor + lanyard + energy absorber. Used when work requires reaching the edge or beyond. Configuration: shock-absorbing lanyard, full-body harness, certified energy absorber, OSHA-compliant anchor (5,000 lb capacity).
- Fall restraint: the lanyard length is sized so the worker physically cannot reach the unprotected edge. The fall is prevented before it begins. Configuration: shorter, non-shock-absorbing lanyard, anchor sized for restraint loads only. Under the OSHA 1926.502 / ISO 45001 hierarchy of controls, restraint is preferred over arrest where geometry allows it – preventing a fall eliminates suspension-trauma risk during rescue.
Fall Protection Anchor Points for Fall Restraint systems
This fall protection principle is a proactive measure. It prevents the user from ever being in a situation where a fall could occur. The system effectively confines the user to a safe zone, thereby preventing them from getting too close to the edge or a hazardous fall area.
Fall restraint tasks are performed using a fall protection harness, a safety line, which may or may not be of fixed length, and an anchor point. Since the risk of falling is entirely eliminated, the worker’s mobility is somewhat restricted.
Fall Protection Anchor Points for Fall Arrest systems
In this scenario, the anchor point serves as a fall arrest system that ensures the fall is stopped once it occurs. The anchor point prevents the user from hitting the ground or any obstacles.
Such a fall arrest system is used in combination with a fall protection harness, a fall arrest device or lanyard with an energy absorber, and the anchor point itself.
This combination not only protects against the fall itself but also limits the fall distance. The energy absorber absorbs the impact of the fall by dissipating the forces. While it cannot prevent serious injuries, it can minimize their severity.
Fall Protection Anchor Points for Fall Arrest systems
U.S. roof anchor points used for personal fall arrest must comply with OSHA 29 CFR 1926.502(d)(15) (construction) and the 29 CFR 1910.140 anchorage requirements (general industry). The key requirements:
- Anchorage strength – 5,000 lb (22.2 kN) per attached worker, OR designed as part of a complete fall arrest system with safety factor of at least 2 supervised by a qualified person.
- Anchorage location – independent of any anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms.
- Worker arrest forces – limited to 1,800 lb (8 kN) on the worker (this is achieved by the lanyard’s energy absorber, not the anchor itself).
- System design – must be designed and installed under the supervision of a qualified person.
- Inspection – documented annual inspection plus pre-use visual inspection.
XSPlatforms anchor points are tested and certified to all of the above plus EN 795 Type A (Europe), ANSI Z359.6 (component design), CSA Z259.16 (Canada), and AS/NZS 1891 (Australia/New Zealand).
How many anchor points do you need? – sizing the system
nchor count is driven by roof geometry, work pattern, and lanyard reach. As a planning rule of thumb:
- One anchor per 60-100 sqm of working area, with the upper end (100 sqm/anchor) for low-frequency maintenance roofs and the lower end (60 sqm/anchor) for high-traffic work zones.
- One additional anchor at every dead-end or corner where a worker would otherwise need to relocate tie-off (relocation is the highest-risk procedural moment).
- One anchor at the centre of any large work zone more than 5 m from the perimeter, to give the worker a fall-arrest envelope without swing.
For a typical 500 sqm commercial flat roof with HVAC, parapet, and skylight clusters, plan 6-10 anchors plus any horizontal lifeline runs. For larger or geometrically complex roofs, the XSPlatforms ODIN calculation tool models the required count, lanyard length, and swing-fall envelope.
Choosing the right base plate: XSBase, XSMD, XTrusion
SINGLE ANCHOR POINTS FOR ANY ROOF TYPE
XSPlatforms roof anchor points utilize one of three types of base plates, each specifically designed for a variety of roofing materials. Despite their differences, all base plates can be combined with the same modular fall protection components. These components create an anchor point or serve as the foundation for XSLinked or Linked Pro lifeline systems. All XSPlatforms anchor points and lifeline systems are certified and comply with international standards and regulations, including relevant European and American safety legislations.
XSBASE PLATE
The XSBase plate is the foundation plate from XSPlatforms. This aluminum roof base plate can be installed on a wide range of roofing materials, including concrete, concrete channel slabs, TT concrete sections, wood, and deep-profile roofs.
A unique feature of the XSBase plate is that it requires only a single fixation. This ensures a short installation time and minimizes the risk of roof leaks.
XSMD
The XSMD is a stainless steel plate suitable for metal roofs. The XSMD base plate has proven effective as a fall protection system for anchor points and lifeline systems in industrial settings, production lines, and warehouses.
The XSMD is secured with 12 blind rivets on trapezoidal cold roofing materials and steel sandwich panels.
XTRUSION
The XTrusion is an elegant aluminum base plate used in both traditional and modern architecture. It clamps securely using specific mounting clamps. Each type of clamp is designed for standing seam and double seam profiles, or round seam profiles.
With the use of a mounting kit and pop rivets, installation is also possible on trapezoidal cold roofs.
Need system advice for a roof or structure?
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CONFIGURATIONS OF ROOF ANCHOR POINTS
MODULAR ROOF ANCHOR POINTS
Each roof base plate can be equipped with the following roof anchor point components. The user can secure themselves to the anchor point’s safety eyes using the appropriate fall protection personal protective equipment (PPE). Most configurations are intended for positioning on the roof, but some configurations also allow for abseiling. XSPlatforms roof anchor points can be assembled into the following configurations:
XSGLOBE EYE
A safety eye that can rotate 360°, providing the user with a full range of motion. For use as a single anchor point, or as an anti-pendulum anchor in combination with a horizontal lifeline system or other anchor point. It can be installed on flat roofs and lightly sloped roofs with a maximum angle of 15º. Check out this project, where we used XSGlobes.
XSIMPACT 360º
A fall protection anchor point with an integrated energy absorber that can be used as a fall arrest system. It can be installed on flat roofs and lightly sloped roofs with a maximum angle of 15º.
RAP GLOBE EYE
A fall protection anchor point designed for work positioning. It can be installed on flat roofs and lightly sloped roofs with a maximum angle of 15º. When installed on the appropriate roofing material, it can also be used for abseiling (rope access).
XSBENDING KIT RAP
A fall protection anchor point with an integrated energy absorber that can be used as a fall arrest system. It can be installed on flat roofs. This configuration is part of an XSLinked or LinkedPro lifeline system, equipped with safety eyes, the RAP. When installed on the appropriate roofing material, the RAP can also be used for abseiling (rope access).
Frequently asked questions about roof anchor points
- XSImpact 360º:
This anchor point is a fall protection system with an integrated energy absorber and can be used as a fall arrest system. It is suitable for installation on flat roofs and lightly sloped roofs with a maximum angle of 15º. It can rotate 360 degrees, providing a wide range of motion for the user. - XSGlobe Eye:
This anchor point is designed for work positioning. It can be installed on flat roofs and lightly sloped roofs with a maximum angle of 15º. When installed on the appropriate roofing material, it can also be used for abseiling (rope access). Unlike the XSImpact 360º, it does not have an integrated energy absorber. - RAP Globe Eye:
This anchor point features an integrated energy absorber and can be used as a fall arrest system. It can be installed on flat roofs and is part of an XSLinked or LinkedPro lifeline system with safety eyes, the RAP. When installed on the appropriate roofing material, it can also be used for abseiling (rope access). It is distinguished by its integration with XSLinked or LinkedPro systems.
All attachment points are designed for 2 users.
The roof base plates, in combination with the components, form the permanent anchor points. The type of roof determines which base plate can be used for the fall protection installation. Specific base plates can be installed on various substrates such as steel, concrete, wood, and zinc. The installation of the fall protection system must always be carried out according to the roof specifications and should be installed by a certified XSPlatforms installer. Please consult XSPlatforms for a certified installer or partner for your fall protection installation.
According to regulations and XSPlatforms guidelines, permanent anchor points must be inspected at least once a year by a certified professional to ensure their safety and functionality.
Yes, XSPlatforms anchor points are designed for a wide range of work at height, including maintenance, cleaning, and installation tasks. However, it is important to always follow the appropriate equipment and procedures for each specific type of work.
Yes, anchor points such as the XSImpact and XSGlobe Eye are designed for outdoor use and can withstand various weather conditions. However, users should check local weather forecasts to determine if it is advisable to use the system in current conditions. Always refer to the XSPlatforms manual before accessing the roof.
XSPlatforms anchor points and other products can be purchased directly from XSPlatforms or from a certified partner. The latter are recognized installers authorized to install XSPlatforms products.
XSPlatforms assists both clients and architects with fall protection solutions. If you need help integrating our anchor points or other fall protection solutions into your designs, you can contact us via the contact form. The BIM models of XSPlatforms can be downloaded here.
- Suitable for almost every surface: XSPlatforms offers different base plates, to create an anchor point for different kinds of roofs, wall and ceilings. Our modular range of fall protection for roofs covers almost every type of roof surface with only three different base plates.
- Incredibly quick to install: All our anchor points can be installed much quicker than comparable systems. If you want a demo or test, please contact us and we can provide additional information.
- Additional components: XSPlatforms offers modular anchor points. This means that anchor points can be equipped with extra components for increased functionality (abseiling, for example) or increased absorption (to protect the roof surface in case of a fall).
WALL AND OVERHEAD MOUNTED ANCHORAGE
XSPlatforms also offers different fall protection anchor points which can be mounted overhead or installed to a wall. These various safety eyes are easily mounted with just 1 or 2 drilling holes. We offer such anchor points for concrete, brick and steel surfaces.
The Bird’s eye mini anchor point (shown on the right) has a visual fall indicator: the safety eye to which the safety hook is connected will bend if the anchor has been used to arrest a fall. This ensures that if the anchor point is unsafe for use, users will always notice.
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