The short answer
For any building worked from the roof down, the equipment already installed sets the options. Certified anchors in the right places make rope descent straightforward. Missing or uncertified anchors have to be fixed first. A permanent powered platform brings its own inspection rules.
Roof anchors
Fixed tie-off points that rope descent systems and fall protection attach to. Under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.27, before any rope descent system is used, the building owner must confirm in writing that each anchorage has been identified, tested, certified and maintained to support at least 5,000 pounds in any direction for each worker attached, based on an annual inspection and certification at least every 10 years.
- Certified and documented: rope work can be planned around them.
- Installed but uncertified: they need inspection, testing and certification first.
- Missing or in the wrong places: new engineered anchors, or a different method.
Davit systems
Davit bases or sockets on the roof accept arms that suspend rope or stage equipment out past the roof edge. Where they exist, they shape where drops can start and what equipment can be rigged. They have to be in known condition before anyone relies on them.
Permanent powered platforms
Some buildings have a permanently installed powered platform for facade maintenance. These fall under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.66, which requires the building owner to inform the contractor in writing that the installation has been inspected, tested and maintained as the standard requires, before anyone uses it.
Roof access and utilities
- How crews and equipment reach the roof: hatch, door, stairs or freight elevator
- Roof surface and parapets, which affect how equipment is rigged
- Water supply at ground level for water-fed pole work
What to pull together before the walkthrough
- Anchor layout drawings, if you have them
- The most recent anchor inspection and certification records
- Manufacturer and maintenance records for any davits or powered platform
- Roof access instructions and any restrictions
Missing paperwork is common, and it is fixable.
How it changes the job
| What you have | What it means |
|---|---|
| Certified anchors, current records | Rope descent can be planned directly |
| Anchors, records unknown or expired | Inspection, testing and certification come first |
| No anchors | New engineered anchors, or ground and lift access where height allows |
| Permanent powered platform | Owner's written assurance of inspection, testing and maintenance under 1910.66 |
How S&K helps
Through its long-time anchor partner, S&K installs engineered anchor points and inspects, load tests and certifies existing systems, with records for ownership, insurers and auditors. See anchor installation and inspection and the roof anchor and fall protection compliance guide.
