The short answer
OSHA requires rope descent anchorages to be inspected every year and certified by a qualified person as necessary and at least every 10 years. "As necessary" is the part owners miss: anything that could change what an anchor can hold is a reason to recertify before the 10 years are up.
Two clocks, running together
| Annual inspection | Certification | |
|---|---|---|
| How often | Every year | As necessary, and at least every 10 years |
| Who | A qualified person | A qualified person |
| Purpose | Confirms the anchor is still in certified condition | Confirms capacity: 5,000 lb in any direction per worker |
Events that call for early recertification
- Reroofing or membrane work around the anchors, which can disturb flashing, fasteners and the structure below
- Structural changes to the roof, parapet or rooftop equipment near the anchors
- Corrosion, damage or movement found at the annual inspection
- Repairs to, or relocation of, an anchor
- A fall or shock load on an anchor
- Records you cannot trace to a qualified person
The rule itself says only "as necessary." This list is common industry practice, and your qualified person makes the final call.
What a new certification does
A new certification by a qualified person becomes the reference date for that anchor. Track it anchor by anchor, because anchors on the same roof can end up on different cycles after repairs or replacements.
How to keep the cycle from lapsing
- Keep an anchor register: ID, location, last inspection, last certification, next due dates
- Schedule the annual inspection at the same time every year. S&K's annual calendar puts it in the fall, ahead of the next season's high-rise work.
- Tell your roofer and any trade working near the anchors that recertification may follow their work
- Plan recertification before a certification lapses, not after
Through its long-time anchor partner, S&K installs engineered anchor points and inspects, load tests and certifies existing systems, with records you can hand to ownership, insurers or auditors. See anchor installation and inspection.
Not sure where your building stands? Start with a free roof compliance survey, or read the full Roof Anchor and Fall Protection Compliance guide.
