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Special Inspections: Roof Anchor Testing

Architectural building designs that incorporate large windows for lighting or aesthetic value will have the need for roof anchors. Whether bolted, embedded in concrete or welded, roof anchors are the integral part of the fall arrest system used for window washing crews and other trades that would need to access your building’s façade.
The testing consists of a static load applied in each primary direction that an intended anchor load may be applied. A dynamometer is attached to the end of one anchor while a manual chain hoist is attached to an adjacent parallel anchor and then to the opposite end of the dynamometer. As tension is applied to the lever of the chain hoist, the dynamometer measures the applied load. Anchors may be attached to the structural steel horizontal roof members, or installed in a parapet or concrete wall.  Depending on the anchoring location and materials, different minimum loads are applied.  They may also be tested to the design load if the design differs from the minimum requirements.
According to OSHA standard 1910.66 (g)(2)(i), it is the responsibility of the building owner to ensure these anchors are tested annually. The International Window Cleaning Association (IWCA) states roof anchors shall be inspected annually by a qualified person. SCI Engineering, Inc. has qualified technicians to conduct the required testing as outlined in the IWCA I-14.1-2001 Window Washing Safety Standard. Contact SCI Engineering Inc. to schedule your building roof anchor testing / certification today.
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