The majority of construction sites and structures include anchor points where workers can fasten their safety gear. However, not all of these anchor points are secure enough and you need to choose anchor points made from sturdy materials for your workers. A suitable anchor point must be capable of supporting 5,000 pounds per worker. Know about the main types of harness anchor points.
Main Types of Anchor Points
The anchor systems known as "engineered anchor points" go beyond OSHA regulations. They are available for both long-term and transient purposes. The primary categories of harness anchor points are shown here.
Engineered Systems
You must use harness anchor points designed according to the OSHA's fall weight criteria. They do not require any more testing on site and are ready for use when purchased. To ensure appropriate installation and maintenance, they do need to be inspected on a regular basis.
You will need an engineer for testing of your anchor points and confirming that they are secure if they are not engineered systems. It is mandatory to maintain the OSHA regulations for the safety of your workers and if you fail to maintain such regulations then you will be penalized by the government.
Surface Mount
The perfect spot for these simple-to-install anchors is a metal roof. With the aid of screws and rivets, you may fasten them to the roof immediately. They are secure enough to be used as a fall arrest or restraint. It requires some knowledge and training, and you need to provide a proper training to your workers for the same.
Concrete Mount
Concrete mounts affix to cement-based materials, as the name implies. They are fastened using a torque anchor or a chemical fix. They are sturdy enough to prevent falls and allow for rappelling.
Surface Mount For Rappelling
A surface mount is a useful option in case you have to rappel over a building's side. They are sturdy enough for falls as well as for rappelling down the sides of tall structures and attach to metal cladding.
Temporary Anchor Points
You must utilize a temporary anchor point where stable metal roof is not available for permanent anchor points. These give you with fall protection while you work and affix to the roof of a building. They are adequate for falls but not the best for rappelling.
Reusable Anchor Points
These are permanent anchors with multiple uses, including rappelling and fall protection. These need to be maintained to make sure they are secure enough to be used. In order for these to be safe for use, the points must undergo routine examinations and certifications.
The kind of harness anchor points that you will require will depend on the components of the building's roof. The fall protection system cannot perform well if an incorrect type of anchor point is used on a specific material.
Choosing the Best Fall Protection Anchor Points
You must consider where and how you will use the harness anchor points for roof fall prevention while selecting the best ones for your next project.
I-Beam
I-beams are among the strongest structural elements of any building. I-beams are typically utilized as support beams and columns in buildings and are most frequently composed of steel. They can typically meet OSHA's 5,000 lb safety limit because they can sustain and endure a variety of weights.
Residential Roofs
Residential rooftops can serve as permanent and movable fall safety anchor points. For tile, wood and shingled roofs, there are some anchor points available in the market. You can discuss your requirement with an engineer to choose these points for your workers.
Commercial Roofs
On a commercial roof, both temporary and permanent anchor points can be used.
A building's permanent anchor point is a wise addition because it can be used for cleaning, maintenance, and other purposes.
Parapet clamps and transportable dead-weight fall anchor points are further options.
Conclusion
There are secure and dependable fall prevention anchor points for you to employ, regardless of the type of building you are working on. Harness anchor points can be secure if you are aware of the materials they are being fastened to and if you comply with OSHA regulations. Always have a licensed engineer to inspect your fall protection system if you have any doubts.