A Guide to Anchorages and Anchor Points in 2025

Protecting your workers from falls means planning carefully and using the right equipment. Every part of your fall protection system must be chosen with care. When you build a strong system, you can trust it to keep your workers safe before, during, and after a fall.

This guide will show you why anchors are a key part of fall protection. You’ll learn how to choose the right equipment for your job and how to use anchors to protect your team in any industry.

  Key Takeaways  

• Understand what an anchor is in fall protection and learn how to tell the difference between the many terms used for this equipment.
• Learn about the different types of anchors, what they do, and when to use them to keep your workplace safe.
• Follow step-by-step instructions to choose the right anchor for your job and worksite.
• Find clear answers to common questions about anchors, including how to inspect them properly.

Glossary of Terms

Anchor	An anchor is a common name for an anchorage, anchorage connector, or anchor point.
Anchor Point	An anchor point is another name for an anchor.
Anchorage	An anchorage is the structure that the anchorage connector attaches to. The structure depends on the industry, type of work, and jobsite. For example, an anchorage in a warehouse might be a beam, while on a residential construction site, it could be a roof.
Anchorage Connector	An anchorage connector is the equipment that connects the worker’s fall protection system to the structure or anchorage. The type of anchorage connector changes based on the application and jobsite. These are the products you buy from fall protection equipment manufacturers.
Anchorage Tie-Off	An anchorage tie-off is another name for anchors, anchor points, and anchorage connectors. You will often hear this term when talking about anchors used in a fall restraint system.

  What’s the Difference Between an Anchorage and an Anchorage Connector?  

An anchorage is the structure that supports your fall protection system. Anchorage connectors are the devices that attach a worker’s fall protection system to this structure. It’s important to know the difference because both parts play a key role in keeping workers safe.

At every new site, a Qualified Person will help you find an acceptable anchorage. Some sites already have anchorages designed to accept an anchorage connector. If not, the Qualified Person will choose the safest place to install one.

An acceptable anchorage should:

•      Be located directly above the worker to reduce free fall and swing fall distance. This also lowers the minimum required fall clearance (MRFC).
•     Be evaluated and approved by a Competent Person or Qualified Person.
•     Be used only for fall protection, not for any other operations.
•     Meet OSHA standards, meaning it must be strong enough to support twice the force expected during a fall.

The Qualified Person will also recommend the best type of anchor to use. For example, a penetrating anchor attaches directly to a structure with nails, screws, bolts, or other fasteners. A non-penetrating anchor does not damage the structure. Always follow their specific instructions on which anchor to use and where to attach it.

Here’s why this matters: Imagine your Competent Person tells you that your anchorage connectors can support 5,000 pounds of force. If you don't know the difference between an anchorage and an anchorage connector, you might wrongly assume the structure itself can hold that much force. You could then pick an unsafe anchorage that might fail if someone falls.

Many people confuse these terms, so double-check to avoid mistakes. Always rely on your Competent Person to approve the installation, as OSHA requires. You can also contact manufacturers, like FallTech, to confirm you are using the right anchors for your job.

  What is a Fall Protection Anchor Used for?  

The term “fall protection anchor” usually refers to the combination of anchors and anchorages that connect workers to the worksite. The types of anchors you use and the structures you attach them to will depend on your industry, the jobsite, and the work you’re doing.

For example, on a roofing site, you might use a roof anchor to connect workers to a house. On a larger building, workers may use a tie-back self-retracting lifeline (SRL) or lanyard that wraps around a beam and ties back to itself. Because the anchorage connector is built into the lanyard, people often call this setup an anchorage system.

The purpose of the gear also matters. Anchors used for fall restraint don’t face as much force as those used for fall arrest. That’s why the requirements change depending on the application.

  Certified vs. Non-Certified Anchorages: What’s the Difference?  

Two main factors set certified and non-certified anchorages apart: how much weight they can hold and who approves the structure for use as an anchorage.

  What is an Acceptable Anchorage Point in a Fall Protection System?  

At each new jobsite, your Qualified Person will help you find a safe anchorage. Some sites already have anchorages designed to work with a lanyard or anchor. If not, your Qualified Person will choose the safest place to set up your anchorage system.

A safe anchorage should meet the following conditions:

•         It’s directly above the worker to reduce free fall, swing fall, and the Minimum Required Fall Clearance (MRFC).
•         A Competent Person or Qualified Person has inspected and approved it.
•         It’s used only for fall protection—not for any other task.
•         It meets OSHA standards, meaning it can support at least twice the expected force of a fall.

Your Qualified Person will also choose the right anchor for the structure.

For example:

•         A penetrating anchor attaches directly into the structure using nails, screws, bolts, or similar fasteners.
•         A non-penetrating anchor does not damage the structure and stays in place using weight or friction.

Always follow your Qualified Person’s instructions on which products to use and exactly where to attach them.

  Types of Fall Protection Anchors  

 

Your Competent Person will consider several factors to choose the best anchor for your work zone. Their decision is based on whether a Qualified Person or Professional Engineer has certified the anchorage. As mentioned earlier, the strength and condition of the anchorage will affect the type of anchor you can use. Whether you need a fall arrest or a fall restraint system also plays a role.

One of the most important factors is the type of surface (or substrate) the anchor will attach to. Substrate categories include:

•         Steel
•         Concrete
•         Roofing
•         Multi-Use
•         Specialty surfaces

Within each category, your Qualified Person will also decide if you need a penetrating or non-penetrating anchor. The effectiveness of your fall protection system depends on using the right equipment for the situation, so always trust their judgment.

Steel Anchors

Steel anchors attach to steel structures, such as building frames. Common types include:

•            Fixed D-ring Anchors: These bolt directly onto the structure. You can choose a simple bolt-on anchor or a bolt-on plate anchor with an anchoring plate.
•         Beam Clamp Anchors: These clamps lock onto an I-beam and allow you to move the anchor point. Some clamps can be permanently installed or used on vertical members.
•         Beam Trolley Anchors: These anchors have wheels that let workers move horizontally under an overhead beam while staying connected.
•         Wire-form Anchors: These are used to anchor to round overhead structures, like pipe racks or scaffolding.
•         You can also use movable eyebolts and swivel rebar hooks for temporary anchoring to steel structures.

Concrete Anchors

Concrete anchors are used in many settings. Before installation, you may need to scan for rebar. Common types include:

•         Wedge Anchors: Insert these into pre-drilled holes in concrete. They lock into place with a spring-loaded system and can be reused.
•         Pour-in-Place Web Anchors: Strap these to rebar before pouring the concrete. They are temporary and can be cut away after use.
•         Rotating D-ring Anchors: Install these with expansion bolts or concrete screws. They offer 360° rotation for worker mobility.

Roofing Anchors

Roofing anchors are made for residential and commercial roof work. Types include:

 

•          Roof Ridge Anchors: Attach directly to the peak (ridge) of a roof.
•         Field and Ridge Anchors: Attach to flat or sloped roof surfaces.
•         Truss Anchors: Secure to trusses, either over or under roof sheathing.
•         D-Ring Anchors: Often permanent, with one or two D-ring attachments.
•         SRL Cradle Anchors: Rotate to allow safe use of self-retracting lifelines (SRLs) on roofs.
•         Post Anchors: Raise the anchor point above the walking surface and provide 360° mobility.

Tip: Always check that your roofing anchors match the surface material (wood or metal).

 

Multi-Use Anchors

 

Multi-use anchors work across different applications, including:

•         Sewn Web Anchors: Wrap these around a structure using either a pass-through or choker style. They are strong and lightweight.
•         Cable Sling Anchors: Loop these around anchorages, especially where sharp edges are a concern.
•         Suspended, Drop-Through Anchors: Drop these through overhead openings in concrete, grating, or steel decks.

Note: Multi-use anchors are good for high-heat or spark environments. Always check the material to match the conditions.

Specialty Anchors

Certain jobs, like window cleaning, need specialty anchors:

•         Strut Anchors: Move easily along overhead struts and can be reinstalled as needed.
•         Parapet Anchors: Clamp onto parapets or guardrails for quick, safe attachment.
•         Window and Door Jamb Anchors: Use these in building frames before windows and doors are installed.
•         Rail Anchors: Let workers move safely along elevated train trestles and railways.

Penetrating vs. Non-Penetrating Anchors

 

•         Penetrating Anchors: Install directly into the structure using fasteners like nails, screws, or bolts. These provide a very secure attachment.
•        Non-Penetrating Anchors: Attach around a structure without damaging it. These use friction or wrap-around designs. Examples include beam clamps, pass-through or choker-style web anchors, cable slings, interlocking plates, beam trolleys, and counterweight systems.

 

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  What are the Basic Components of a Fall Protection Anchor?  

Because there are so many types of anchors, their designs can vary a lot. Still, all anchors share a few basic parts.

Every anchor must have a connection point where you attach the lifeline or lanyard. Most often, this is a D-ring or an O-ring. Some anchors may use a carabiner or interlocking plates instead.

 

These parts must allow a safe, secure connection. For example, the D-ring or O-ring should be larger than the snap hook on the lanyard or lifeline. If the connector is too small or shaped incorrectly, it can create a dangerous, incompatible connection.

 

  When to Use a Fall Protection Anchor  

Any time workers need a fall protection system—such as when working at height—you must use an anchor. This applies to both active and passive systems, though anchors are more common in active fall protection setups.

Before using an anchorage, make sure it’s rated for the type of work being done. For example:

 

•         Work positioning anchorages must handle at least 3,000 pounds.
•         Fall arrest anchorages must handle at least 5,000 pounds or twice the expected arrest force

A structure that works for one type of task may not be strong enough for another. Always ask your Qualified Person before using an anchor or anchorage. Never assume an anchor already installed at a jobsite is safe until it has been approved.

 

Important: You can only connect one worker per anchorage—no matter how large it is.

 

  How to Choose the Right Fall Protection Anchor  

 

 

To protect workers effectively, choose an anchor that fits both the job and the site. Unlike other gear decisions, selecting anchors depends heavily on the location’s conditions. Follow these steps—and always consult your Qualified Person for expert guidance.

Step 1: Identify the Application

First, decide what the anchor will be used for:

•         Fall Arrest: Anchors must handle at least 5,000 pounds or twice the arrest force.
•         Fall Restraint / Work Positioning: Anchors must handle at least 3,000 pounds or twice the expected force.

Both the anchor (the device) and the anchorage (the structure) must meet these requirements. If either one fails to meet the standard, the system will not be safe.

Step 2: Evaluate the Anchorage

Before starting a project, your Competent Person must inspect the site:

 

•         Identify fall hazards
•         Decide what kind of fall protection system is needed
•         Locate possible anchorages

 

Your Qualified Person will confirm if those structures can support the required load.

 

Step 3: Choose the Right Anchor

Once your anchorage is approved, your Qualified Person will:

•         Identify the substrate (steel, concrete, roofing, etc.)
•         Choose the anchor that fits the substrate and the work type
•         Decide whether the anchor needs to be temporary or permanent
•         Consider how much movement the worker needs

They’ll recommend the best anchor for both safety and efficiency.

 

Step 4: Determine Anchor Type

Next, decide if you need a:

•         Penetrating anchor – installed with bolts, nails, or screws
•         Non-penetrating anchor – attached by clamps, friction, or weights

Some surfaces (like certain roofs) only work with penetrating anchors. Others (like steel beams) may only allow non-penetrating types. Your Competent Person will decide which option is safest during their inspection.

 

  How to Inspect a Fall Protection Anchor for Safety  

 

Regular and careful inspections are essential for keeping your fall protection system safe. Anchors can get damaged from use, poor storage, or aging. The only way to know they’re still safe is to inspect them properly.

 

Workers must inspect anchors before every use, and a Competent Person must inspect all equipment at least once a year. Also, check the manufacturer’s user manual for the recommended inspection schedule.

 

Always begin by reviewing the manufacturer’s manual. Each type of anchor may have unique inspection steps. If you're unsure about anything, contact the manufacturer for help.

 

The basic components to inspect on every anchor are:

Labels

Check that all labels are:

•         Intact
•         Easy to read
•         Not damaged or missing

Anchor Materials

Rope & Webbing

•         For webbing, check both sides and bend it into a U-shape to spot damage.
•         For rope, twist the material to look for unraveling or loose strands.
•         Run your bare hands along the material to feel for damage (do not wear gloves for this).

Look for damage such as:

 

•         Cuts, tears, or pulled/missing stitches
•         Broken or melted fibers
•         Cracks or worn areas
•         Discoloration or shiny/brittle spots
•         Fraying, stretching, or uneven thickness
•         Burned or charred sections
•         Deployed fall indicators
•         Knots, kinks, or hockling (twisting)
•         User modifications or missing straps

Note: Some pass-through anchors have wear pads to protect the webbing. Even if the pad is worn, the anchor might still be safe. Ask your Competent Person if you’re unsure.

Wire Rope/Cable

 

Check for:

 

•         Bird caging (bulging wires)
•         Broken, bent, or kinked strands
•         Rust or corrosion
•         Crushed, flattened, or jammed areas
•         Gaps between strands or heat damage
•         Pitting or surface damage

 

Note: Always wear gloves when inspecting wire rope or cable.

Hardware

Inspect all metal parts like D-rings, O-rings, buckles, or connectors for:

•         Cracks or breaks
•         Sharp or rough edges
•         Rust, pitting, or corrosion
•         Excessive wear
•         User modifications or damage

If you spot any kind of damage, stop using the anchor immediately. Tell your Competent Person, who will check it and decide if it’s still safe or needs to be removed from service.

Need Help Choosing or Replacing an Anchor?

Our team can help you select and maintain ANSI-compliant anchor systems for your site.

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  FAQs: Anchors and Anchorage Points for Fall Protection  

How much weight does a fall protection anchor support?

Anchors used for fall arrest must support:

•         5,000 pounds for non-certified anchors
•         Or a 2:1 safety factor based on maximum arrest force for certified anchors

Fall restraint anchors must support 3,000 pounds.

 

According to ANSI, anchors should support users who weigh between 130 to 310 pounds. At FallTech, we test some anchors up to 425 pounds. to support heavier workers.

 

(Note: These ratings apply to one user, unless the anchor is rated for more.)

 

Can you tie off to a scaffold for anchorage?

 

Yes, some scaffolds are designed to support anchor tie-offs. The manufacturer must design and test the scaffold for this purpose. Always check the scaffold’s manual and get approval from your Competent Person before using it as an anchorage.

What is the minimum safe working load for an anchorage point?

 

Anchorage points must support twice the expected load:

 

•         For fall arrest, that’s twice the maximum arrest force.
•         For fall restraint or work positioning, that’s twice the expected or "foreseeable" force.

These requirements follow OSHA regulations and help ensure safety in a fall.

 

What are mobile fall protection anchor points?

Mobile anchors allow workers to move while staying protected. Common types include:

•         Beam trolleys: These roll along a beam and let workers move side to side while staying tied off.
•         Trailing beam clamps: These attach to the top of a beam and slide as the worker moves.
•         Counterweight systems: These sit on rooftops and are held in place with heavy weights. Workers can move the weights to change the anchor location.
•         Gantry systems: Sometimes called “anchor points on wheels,” these rolling frames offer overhead anchors. They’re often used at airports or anywhere overhead access is needed, like working on airplane wings.

What are the latest OSHA requirements for anchorages in 2025?

 

OSHA lists the following anchorage requirements for general industry (29 CFR 1910):

 

•        Anchors must support at least 5,000 pounds per employee attached, or be designed, installed, and used under the supervision of a qualified person as part of a complete personal fall protection system that maintains a safety factor of at least two.
•        Anchors must support at least 3,000 pounds or twice the potential impact load, whichever is greater. ​

 

 OSHA lists the following for construction (29 CFR 1926):

 

•             Anchorage points must support at least 5,000 pounds per attached worker or be designed with a safety factor of at least two under the supervision of a qualified person.
•     Anchors must support at least 3,000 pounds or twice the potential impact load, whichever is greater.

Can you reuse a fall protection anchor after a deployment or fall?

 

Yes, if a Competent Person has inspected and approved the anchor for use.

 

Why Choose FallTech for Anchor Systems and Fall Protection

Fall protection isn’t about checking a box—it’s about saving lives. That’s why FallTech designs every product, from anchors to harnesses, with one goal: to keep your team safe, no matter the job.

We back our gear with real data. Every product is tested in our ISO 17025:2017-accredited lab, and we publish test reports and Declarations of Conformity right on our product pages. Need proof for a specific application? We’ve got it. 

With FallTech, you get more than equipment—you get a partner. Our experts work with you to build the right system, tailored to your needs. And as a privately owned company, we deliver fast answers, trusted guidance, and a personal level of service you won’t find elsewhere.

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