Free tool
Do you need roof tie-backs? How many?
Answer five questions. We'll check your building against Cal/OSHA Title 8 §3291 and estimate your anchor count at the code's approximately 12-foot spacing.
This tool is a quick screen based on California Code of Regulations Title 8 §3291(f) and Hardy's reading of the routine-maintenance rules. It is not engineering or legal advice. The building official, Cal/OSHA and your EBM design (by a Scaffold, Inspection and Testing company) make the final call. Read the code, simplified.
Frequently asked questions
When are roof tie-backs required?
Under California Code of Regulations Title 8 §3291, every building 3 stories or 36 feet or more in height must have roof tie-backs or other permanent devices at roof level to secure suspended scaffold hooks, clamps and safety lines. Exceptions apply to buildings using other approved permanent rooftop maintenance systems, and to buildings up to 4 stories or 48 feet when maintenance can be done with extension tools, ladders, approved ground equipment or aerial devices.
Do buildings under 36 feet need fall protection anchors?
Yes, when workers routinely approach within 6 feet of a fall hazard. Routine means four or more times a year, and a fall hazard is an elevation difference of 30 inches or more. A parapet or guardrail 42 inches or higher counts as passive fall protection; below 42 inches, a routine-maintenance fall protection system must be designed.
How far apart should tie-backs be spaced?
Approximately 12-foot intervals, depending on the availability of roof framing members strong enough to carry the loads (Title 8 §3291(f)(2)). Tie-backs may go in structural parapets of adequate strength, as close to roof level as practicable.
Does the building need an EBM design?
If the windows will be washed, that's scheduled maintenance, and window-washing companies must follow an Operating Procedure Outline Sheet (OPOS), which requires an exterior building maintenance (EBM) design by a Scaffold, Inspection and Testing (SIT) company. The EBM design and OPOS aren't needed for the building permit, but are required before scheduled maintenance. Without scheduled maintenance, tie-backs are still required at about 12 ft on center.