ROOF LIFELINE SYSTEMS

Reliable fall protection for safe and efficient rooftop work

Working at height on rooftops requires a fall protection system that ensures safety without limiting movement. Our Roof Lifeline Systems provide a secure, permanent solution, allowing workers to perform maintenance and inspections without the risk of falling. Our lifeline systems for roofs consist of a horizontal steel cable securely anchored across multiple points on the roof, offering continuous protection while allowing uninterrupted mobility. At this page we will show you why to choose for a roof lifeline system, how this compares to guardrail systems, what components a roof lifeline system consists of and which types of systems we offer at XSPlatforms.

Why choose for a roof lifeline system?

A roof lifeline system provides a reliable and permanent fall protection solution for working at height. Unlike temporary measures, these systems ensure continuous safety, allowing workers to move freely while staying securely connected.

Whether for maintenance, inspections, or repairs, a well-designed lifeline system minimizes fall risks and enhances efficiency. Some benefits of a lifelineline system on a roof are mentioned here:

  • Continuous Safety – Workers remain connected at all times, reducing fall risks.
  • Seamless Movement – The slider system allows users to navigate the lifeline freely.
  • Versatile Installation – Suitable for both flat and sloped roofs (up to 15°).
  • Durable and Weather-Resistant – Built to withstand harsh conditions, ensuring long-term reliability.
  • Compliant & Tested – Developed according to the highest international safety standards.
XSLinked roof lifeline system on a concrete roof.

Lifelines placed at a ice hockey arena for snow removal in Finland.

Designed and approved to meet the following standards:
  • EN795 : 20212 Type D

  • CEN/TS 16415:2013 type C

  • OSHA 1910 subpart I & 1926 subpart M
  • ANSI Z359.6

  • CSA Z259/16

  • AS/NZS 1891.2

  • AS/NSZ 5532

How roof lifeline systems compare to guardrails?

When evaluating a roof for fall protection installation, a guardrail system can be an excellent choice. As a permanent physical barrier, it provides robust protection against fall hazards and requires no special training for users. In areas where workers need to move frequently, guardrails offer reliable, continuous safety. However, not all roofs are suitable for guardrail installation. Factors such as roof design, space limitations, and aesthetic concerns, especially in historical buildings, can make the installation of guardrails impractical or impossible. In such cases, roof lifeline systems, may be more appropriate.

XSLinked roof lifeline system on a currogated roof with XSMD anchor plate

Sloped roof lifelines placed at a Belgian soccer stadium.

So if guardrails are not a feasible option for your project: with roof lifeline systems you can also receive absolute safety. Our roof lifeline systems are designed to make fall protection easier for everyone involved: users, clients and suppliers. We offer a complete range of solutions for a durable lifeline track on roofs with slopes up to 15 degrees. But every building is different and every project has different requirements. As well as our horizontal lifelines were developed and tested according to the highest international safety standards.

What are the key components of a roof lifeline system?

Our roof lifeline systems consists of several key components that work together to provide fall protection while allowing movement along a roof or structure.

This are the primary components:

  • Roof anchor baseplates – Are installed on the roof or structure to which the lifeline is attached. These anchor points are critical for distributing the forces during a fall and must be installed according to safety standards. They can be fixed at regular intervals along the roof.
  • Lifelines (Steel cables) – The horizontal steel cable runs between the anchor points, forming the core of the lifeline system. The cable allows the user to move along it while remaining safely connected. It’s designed to withstand tension and impact from falls.
  • Sliders / Runners – A slider connects the workers harness to the lifeline (steel cable). Good sliders move smoothly along the lifeline. Our sliders are designed to navigate bends and corners without becoming disconnected.
XSLinked roof lifeline system on a currogated roof.

Lifelines placed at a sloped angle at a machine storage facility.

How is the lifeline system tensioned?

A roof lifeline system includes intermediate brackets, tensioning devices, and anchor points at both ends. Fall arrest devices, if included, automatically engage to stop a fall and reduce impact forces, like the XSDynamic or XSBending kit. Intermediate brackets offer additional support, and tensioning devices maintain proper cable tension. Anchor points secure the lifeline at both ends, providing reliable fall protection and allowing freedom of movement.

OUR ROOF ANCHOR BASE PLATES

Our Roof Anchor Base Plates provide stable, reliable anchor points for fall protection systems. Designed for durability, they ensure secure attachment on a variety of roof surfaces, meeting the highest safety standards. Ideal for maintenance, inspections, and construction, they offer a solid foundation for worker safety at height.

XSBASE PLATE

XSBase plate is our solution for concrete roofs, plywood roofs, or trapezoidal steel roofs with insulation. With the XSBase plate, just one anchor is needed to create a secure anchor point.

XSMD

XSMD is our solution for trapezoidal steel roofs without insulation. It can be used for different rib distances. Needing just 8 to 12 drilling holes, XSMD is incredibly strong and quick to install.

XTRUSION

XTrusion is our solution for roofs with a trapezoidal or standing seam profile. This base comes with special clamps and is installed close to the surface, giving it great tensile strength.

ELEVATE YOUR SAFETY

Don’t compromise on safety – contact our technical advisors today for tailor fall protection solutions!

OUR ROOF LIFELINE SYSTEMS

We offer two types of Horizontal Lifeline systems: XSLinked (single-cable system) and  LinkedPro (multi-cable system). Both systems feature a slider or runner that allows users to move smoothly over corners and bends along the lifeline. Furthermore, each system has unique advantages and differences. To learn more, see the detailed comparison of these systems here.

KNOW HOW TO USE A LIFELINE


The amount of user knowledge needed to safely use a horizontal lifeline depends on its layout on the roof.

A lifeline track that follows the roof’s contours at a fixed distance from the edge requires limited user knowledge. This reduces the reliance on workers to use the system correctly.

However, if the distance between the lifeline and roof edge changes, users must adjust the length of their lanyard, requiring significant knowledge and increasing the risk of misuse.

ABSORPTION DEVICES


The forces released during a fall can damage the roof at the anchor points. The type of roof surface determines whether components like the XSDynamic or XSBending kit are necessary to absorb these forces.

Anchor points can include the XSBending kit pro, a mechanism that bends in the direction of the fall, reducing the number of anchor points required for optimal performance.

For fragile structures or longer lifeline routes, the XSDynamic absorbs even greater forces.

LINKEDPRO

LinkedPro includes multiple lifelines, allowing several workers to stay connected while passing others without disconnecting. The system supports up to six users and is ideal for high-traffic work areas.

Safe passing without disconnecting:

  • Up to three lines can attach at a single anchor point.

  • Users can move freely while staying connected.

User-friendly and Cost-effective:

  • More users can share one system with fewer resources.

  • Quick installation methods reduce costs.

A Revolutionary system:

  • The only system allowing multiple users on the same lifeline path.

  • Combining LinkedPro with XSPoint access points ensures safe connections and minimizes risks.

XSLINKED

The XSLinked Single Cable Horizontal Lifeline System offers a reliable and versatile fall protection solution for workers at height. Designed for one to three users, this system provides excellent freedom of movement while ensuring safety on a wide range of surfaces, including roofs, walls, and ceilings.

  • Versatile Use: Suitable for 1 to 3 users, mounts on nearly all roof surfaces, walls, and ceilings.
  • User Protection: Provides individual protection and freedom of movement along the lifeline.
  • Easy Installation: Compatible with various anchor points in our product range.

Key components:

  • XSSLIDER: Moves with users along the lifeline, navigating bends and corners smoothly.
  • XSPOINT: Allows users to disconnect their lanyard only in safe zones, ensuring safety during use.
  • Passing Users: When two users need to pass each other, they must disconnect from the lifeline; for a multi-user solution, consider LinkedPro.

COMPLIANCE WITH SAFETY REGULATIONS

We tailor our fall protection solutions to fit every roof type. But, every rooftop is different, which is why our systems are modular and adaptable to suit various roof structures, materials, and project needs. Additionally, we regularly test our systems to ensure they meet all global fall protection standards.

Lifeline calculation tool, Fall protection flat sloped roofs XSLinked Lifeline system green roofs

Lifelines placed on a Green roof for a project in the Netherlands.

We rigorously test and certify all our Roof Lifeline Systems to meet international safety standards, ensuring compliance with regulations such as:

  • EN 795:2012 – European standard for personal fall protection anchor devices.
  • CEN/TS 16415 – Safety requirements for multiple users on anchor devices.
  • OSHA 1910.140 & 1926.502 – U.S. fall protection regulations for general industry and construction.

By choosing our systems, you can be confident that your rooftop safety measures meet or exceed all necessary safety guidelines.

FAQ: ROOF LIFELINE SYSTEMS


When working at heights, ensuring proper fall protection is essential. Roof lifeline systems provide a secure and flexible solution for workers who need to move safely across rooftops. Below are some frequently asked questions to help you better understand how these systems work and their benefits.

The number of users depends on the system type. Single-cable lifeline systems typically support one to three users, while multi-cable solutions, such as LinkedPro, allow multiple users to move independently and pass each other without disconnecting. Always check the system’s specifications and safety guidelines before use.

Regular inspections of a Horizontal Lifeline are crucial for safety. A qualified individual should evaluate them at least annually. It is also advisable to inspect the system before each use to identify any potential damage or wear.

A roof lifeline system provides a reliable and permanent fall protection solution for working at height. Unlike temporary measures, these systems ensure continuous safety, allowing workers to move freely while staying securely connected. Whether for maintenance, inspections, or repairs, a well-designed lifeline system minimizes fall risks and enhances efficiency.

XSLinked fall protection lifeline system on a green roof

Lifelines placed at a Dutch Zoo next to the zebra’s and rhinos.

HORIZONTAL LIFELINE SYSTEMS
INSTALLED BY XSPLATFORMS  PARTNERS