The short answer
Tieback and D-ring anchors are fixed points that rope descent lines and fall protection attach to. Davit bases hold arms that suspend rigging out past the roof edge. Permanent lifelines protect workers moving along the roof. Anchors used for rope descent must be certified to hold at least 5,000 pounds in any direction per worker attached.
Tieback anchors
- What they are: fixed anchors that rope descent and suspension lines are tied back to
- Used for: rope descent main and safety lines, and swing stage rigging
- Rating: at least 5,000 lb in any direction per worker attached, for rope descent
D-ring anchors
- What they are: permanent single-point anchors with a D-shaped ring as the attachment point
- Used for: tie-off for fall arrest and rope descent lines
- Rating: 5,000 lb per worker for rope descent; for fall arrest, 5,000 lb per worker or an engineered system with a safety factor of at least two
Davit bases
- What they are: roof-mounted bases or sockets that accept davit arms to suspend rope or stage rigging past the roof edge
- Used for: drops where the roof edge, parapet or setback keeps a line from hanging clear
- Rating: used with rope descent, the anchorage must meet the 1910.27(b)(1) requirement; the davit is rated and certified for the rigging it supports
Permanent lifelines
- What they are: horizontal lifeline or rail systems along a roof edge
- Used for: fall protection for workers moving along the edge, such as while rigging drops
- Rating: engineered systems, designed and installed under a qualified person with a safety factor of at least two (OSHA 1910.140(c)(13))
At a glance
| Type | Main use | Key requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Tieback anchor | Rope descent and stage rigging | 5,000 lb any direction per worker |
| D-ring anchor | Tie-off and rope descent lines | 5,000 lb per worker, or engineered with safety factor 2 for fall arrest |
| Davit base | Suspending rigging past the edge | Anchorage meets 1910.27(b)(1); davit rated for its rigging |
| Permanent lifeline | Fall protection along the edge | Engineered under a qualified person, safety factor 2 |
Which types your building needs
It depends on the facade and the drops it takes to cover it: how many, where the roof edge sits, and what is in the way. Buildings with permanent powered platforms fall under a separate OSHA standard, 1910.66. See what building access equipment you already have.
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.
