If you're in need of a safety anchor, it is a good idea to become acquainted with the purpose of a safety anchor and the different options that KwikSafety offers. 

What is a fall protection safety anchor? 

A safety anchor is the anchor point that is an essential part of a personal fall protection system. It is the point of connection that a worker's fall protection lifeline will be tethered to.  A roof anchor will be secured with nails on the top of a roof, while a cross arm strap can be secured around stable beams. 

A Roof anchor is designed to create an anchor point for fall protection devices such as a safety lanyard or Self Retracting Lifeline (SRL). There are diferent types of Roof anchors for different roof types, but KwikSafety's Gator is the perfect choice for average roofers, maintenance personnel, and DIY homeowners. To ensure worker safety, roof anchors should always be inspected and replaced if warped or damaged.

Our GIBBON cross arm strap serves the specific purpose of creating a temporary anchor point. This is done by wrapping the strap around solid structure and then connecting a safety lanyard, Self Retracting Lifeline, or fall arrest device to the metal D-ring on the cross arm strap. Like our GATOR roof anchors, these products are designed for roofers and construction workers in need of fall protection.

The DOLPHIN DORSAL is a D-Ring extender and it's purpose is to give a little more length to a lifeline or lanyard. 

Where should you anchor a personal fall protection system?

The safety anchor in a fall protection system should always be secured to a strong foundational beam or structure that can confidently hold the weight of all of the workers on the job. It should also always be centered in the workspace for maximum mobility and security. 

How to install permanent roof anchor?

It is recommended that 3" x #10 screws are used to secure the GATOR roof anchor. The GATOR roof anchor must be installed at the peak of the roof, ensuring that the anchor is in the center of the roof or as far away from fall hazards as possible. It should never be installed into just sheathing, but always secured directly into a truss or the wood beams that form the structure of the roof.

For the GIBBON cross arm strap, the process is a little more straightforward. Simply find a solid, foundational structure and wrap the strap around it. Thread the O-ring through the D-ring, then attach your safety lanyard.

How often do roof anchors need to be inspected?

Roof anchors should always be visually inspected for rust or damages before each use, ensuring fall protection system will work every time. The anchors should also be stress tested at least once a year.

Make sure you have what you need by visiting our Safety Anchor catalogue and if you have more questions visit our FAQ page. 

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