Other anchor systems

Ground anchors

The operative may be required to operate in an area where no anchor points are readily available. In these cases it may be possible to:

Utilise suitable ground-driven anchors.
Attach to suitable points on a motor vehicle (that has been effectively isolated and rendered immovable), with ropes going up and over the building.

Dead-weight anchors

Where no anchor points are available on the roof, dead-weight anchors may be used.

Particular account should be taken of cantilever and frictional effects. Wet or icy conditions can significantly affect frictional performance.

The frictional resistance of any anchor weight should be assured by checking that it does not move when subjected to a load of 4× that which could be applied in a work positioning situation. In a rescue the system may have the weight of two persons applied — consider the effect of a main rope failure during a rescue.

Also consider the stretch potential in the rope and unusual abrasion points. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions before using these anchor systems.

Beam clamps

Beam clamps can provide a simple and portable attachment point.

Refer to the user information supplied with the product.

Using roof buildings & structures as anchorages

It is often possible to anchor ropes inside or around a sub-building situated on the roof, with the ropes radiating out to the required points on the roof edge.

All textiles used for rigging must be suitably protected against abrasion and cutting.
Where the anchor itself may cause damage to rope or textile slings, use canvas rope protectors or install wire slings.

Steel cables around sub-buildings

The most common method is to utilise two 12 mm steel cables.

Protect at the corners of the roof building to ensure damage doesn't occur to either the cable or the building.
Follow your company's own written procedures for fixing methods.
Bulldog clips should be attached with the saddle on the 'Live' end of the cable.

Using structural steel

Where structural steel members are to be used as anchorages, it is imperative they are soundly attached to the building roof or walls.

Check all necessary fixings are in place and tight.
It would be advisable to use steel attached by nuts and bolts — welded fixings may require Non Destructive Testing (NDT) prior to use.