Safety anchor points are crucial to the safety of work at height operations. Typically, they are installed on the roof and are used as a connection point for lifelines, work restraint systems and rope access. They form an integral component of the fall protection system that keeps our technicians safe while performing a job, whether it’s painting, window cleaning, light installation, concrete repairs, and more.

Safety anchor points can be permanent or temporary, depending on the client’s needs and the nature of the job. For example: permanent safety anchor points might be considered for buildings or structures that require frequent work by rope access technicians. They can also simple or highly sophisticated and complex, offering workmen a complete lifeline system.

In every scenario, Ascend Rope Access follows EN 795 Legislation covering the installation and inspection of safety anchor points for work restraint, overhead attachment points, fall arrest, and rope access.

The installation of safety anchor points requires different components that are determined (using product guidelines) by the substrate into which they will be placed. Typically, the team at Ascend Rope Access will first test the substrate by installing an anchor and performing a pull test until the anchor fails. This is reliable indicator of substrate strength and its ability to support a safety anchor point and, by inference, a rope access technician.

All anchors installed are pull tested to 6kN (kilo Newtons = ±612 kg), as per legislation. They are also tagged and uniquely numbered for inspection traceability and a full report issued to the client.

Anchors for rope access use should be inspected every 6 months.

Mechanical anchors consist of a hole with an anchor rod hammered into it. A mechanical sleeve is on the anchor, which opens up, causing it to choke when tightened. Mechanical anchors are quick and easy to install but they are typically not a good long-term solution because they may cause waterproofing issues.

Chemical anchors offer the best safety solution. For installation, we drill a hole, clean it out, and inject a two-part chemical mortar before placing the anchor rod inside the hole. The use of this special chemical mix creates an iron-strength bond between the anchor rod and the substrate. Chemical anchors tend to be the strongest and can last as long as inspections are kept up to date, and as long as stainless steel materials are used.

All safety anchor points come in a variety of sizes, depending on the intended use. Generally, Ascend Rope Access makes use of M10 or M12 for rope access and fall arrest jobs.

To find out more about our painting services and specialized coating systems or to speak to us about your project, contact us directly at +27 61 464 2632 or email: eugene@ascendropeaccess.co.za. Ascend Rope Access is based in Cape Town but we travel nationwide to cater to the needs of our clients.