People unfamiliar with working from tall heights have very little idea what security measures construction workers and window washers need to work safely. Metal devices called fall arrest anchors are an important component in the security system that is used. There are dozens of varying types of roof anchors that are designed to work with different roofing materials. Both permanent and temporary anchors are used as part of the security system.

A roof can be made of slate, concrete tile and steel sheets. Sometimes the point of attachment must be something other than the roof such as a skylight frame or a truss. Some anchors are freestanding since they do not penetrate the material. The anchors must be attached to a strong, reliable point in or near the roof that can be firmly penetrated by the anchor.

In recent years more buildings are being constructed of larger areas of glass. This provides more work for the window washer and consequently more building owners understand that it is cheaper to build the permanent roof anchor system into the construction during the building period. These anchors are an essential component of the fall arrest anchor system. Suspension ropes are used in this system to help lower and raise the workers.

The more architects and building companies work together the better the fall arrest anchor system will meet the recommended safety guidelines. Safety needs to be a constant concern especially with an increase in the number of window washers expected to be working in such dangerous conditions. Adding systems at a later date is not cost effective and possibly not as safe.

There are four ways window cleaners can do their job and the least expensive system is the belt and anchor system where the cleaner is able to pass through an open window, attaches a belt to anchors that are located in the roof or walls of the building. Window washing equipment also includes a platform system allowing two people to work at the same time. There is a rope attached at either end of the platform which runs through anchor bolts that are built into the roof.

Letting window washers make use of existing anchor bolts is cheaper than having them bring their portable system for which they will be charging an extra fee. In 1998 a fatal accident occurred where a young window washer fell to his death due to poor communications between the crew. This concerned so many professionals in the industry that they banded together and created a set of guidelines with a goal to create a safer working environment.

These standards are recommended for both building owners and window washing contractors to adopt. The risk of accidents should be reduced if at all possible. There is no law stating that they must be implemented but they are a step in the right direction.

Fall arrest anchor play a crucial part in ensuring the safety for window washers. Workers require a safe and secure anchor system. Consultations should take place between building owners and security experts who are in a position to make the best recommendations. To the inexpert eye the dozens of different types of anchors make it easy to get confused.

Have a quick look at our site for complete details about the benefits of using fall arrest anchors, now. You can also find information about a reliable company that manufactures roof anchors, today.