Anchorages: Systems, devices and anchor points for work at height

Anchors are used to fix or connect fall arrest equipment to a specific structure. The anchor must guarantee an adequate resistance in order to stop a fall. For each structure, industry, installation and work at height, there is a different type of anchor point. At 3M™ we make it easy for you, we help you comply with the standards and regulations (EN 795 and EN 353) and select the type of anchor that best suits you and your wokers' needs. Contact us - We will advise you without obligation.

At 3M™ we have been innovating in technology for decades to offer you a wide, versatile and reliable range of fixed and mobile anchors: structural anchors, anchor bolts for concrete or foundations, for metal structures, for roofs, beams anchors, steel, metal and extension anchors, anchor rings, plates, screws, anchor ropes, lifelines, vacuum and counterweight anchors, tripods, davits, and much more!

What type of anchors do your workers need?

What type of anchors do your
workers need?

What type of anchors do your workers need?

Let us help you!

Let us help you!

Ask THE Expert

All of our anchors are EN 795 or EN 353 certified. Your employees can confidently work knowing that each anchor point has been rigorously tested to meet CE standard requirements

At 3M™ we have been helping thousands of customers around the world for over 70 years. We help you solve the risks associated with working at heights, comply with regulations, and help keep workers safe and comfortable in different sectors and industries. We'll help you face your challenges safely!

Types of Anchors

Different types of anchors for different needs

For each type of job, structure and industry there is a different type of anchor. In order to offer maximum safety for workers, it is essential to select the right anchorage. All anchors must provide a secure fixing point, regardless of whether the application is based on steel, concrete, walls, roofs, etc. The anchor points must support the stresses of the fall protection system. Discover the main types of anchors:

Fixed Anchors
Fixed anchor for concrete

FIXED AND STRUCTURAL ANCHORS - EN 795-A


Fixed and structural anchors are designed to be permanently attached to a structure. This type of anchorage allows fall protection equipment to be anchored in buildings, structures or areas that are frequently accessed. They can be used in most cases of work at heights.


Fixed anchors are usually the easiest to use and find: they are installed in one place and limit the work space. They can be installed on horizontal, vertical and inclined surfaces such as roofs, walls, columns, wind turbines, hydraulic dams, bridges, high up areas requiring regular inspections, etc.


At 3M™ we have the structural anchor you are looking for! Fixed anchors for iron or steel beams, anchors for metal structures, for concrete pillars, anchor plates for foundations, brick, wood, etc.


More information on fixed anchors >

Temporary Anchors
Temporary anchor for work at height

TEMPORARY AND TRANSPORTABLE ANCHORAGES - EN 795-B


Not all infrastructures need or can have fixed anchors. For some projects it is better to have temporary and transportable anchor systems such as areas that need occasional inspection.


Temporary jobs require transportable horizontal fall arrest systems that are lightweight and easy to use and can be moved from place to place. Temporary and transportable anchors do require CE marking and are considered PPE.


At 3M™ we have temporary and transportable anchorages for every type of work and application! For door frames, window openings, tubular structures, metal structures... These transportable anchors can be: davits, vacuum anchors, temporary lifelines, loop clamps (rope, cable, textile), anchors for steel beams, concrete, etc.


More information on temporary and transportable anchors >

Horizontal Lifelines
Types of anchors used in vertical work

    HORIZONTAL LIFELINES - EN 795- B, C and D


  • Horizontal lifelines allow the worker to move over a given horizontal surface, expanding the work area for greater mobility. Anchor lines have two main functions: restriction (prevents the worker from approaching the risk area) and fall arrest (stops the fall if an accident occurs).
    • Flexible lifeline (EN 795-C): Made of metal cable, rope, or synthetic fibres.
    • Rigid Lifeline (EN 795-D): Made with a metal, steel or aluminium rail.
    • Temporary lifeline (EN 795-B): Temporary and transportable lifelines. Such as 3M™ DBI-SALA® Mobi-Lok vacuum anchor.

  • At 3M™ we have a horizontal lifeline for every type of work and application! These systems are essential for many types of work at heights: industrial warehouse roofs, residential roofs, cleaning tasks, train maintenance, tank unloading docks, aeronautical inspections, etc.

  • More information on horizontal lifelines >
Vertical Lifelines
Anchorage for  vertical lifelines Cabloc

VERTICAL LIFELINES - EN 353-1 and EN 353-2


Vertical lifeline anchors must be in compliance with EN 353 regulations. They allow the worker to go up or down the entire height of the system, instead of having to disconnect and look for new anchor points along the way: climbing ladders, ascending wind turbines, lighting pylons, tanks, communication towers, etc. Guided type fall arresters can be either a flexible or rigid anchor line:


  • Flexible anchorage (EN 353-2): Steel cable, rope or synthetic fibres.
  • Rigid anchorage (EN 353-1): Cable or rail. They are designed to be fixed to the structure, so that lateral movements are limited.

The worker needs to be safe, but also needs to be able to ascend in a comfortable way. 3M™ systems are designed to be easy to use and with quick automatic connection to improve worker productivity.


More information on vertical lifelines >

Tripods and Davits
Anchors for working at heights and types

TRIPODS AND DAVITS - EN 795-B


Every work at height situation is different, and sometimes a special anchorage is needed to keep workers safe. At 3M™ we offer complete rescue and evacuation systems for confined spaces or hard-to-reach areas such as wells, reactors, tanks, rafts and many more!


Discover our complete tripod and davit anchorages that allow rescue and evacuation from confined spaces. Safe, portable and lightweight solutions that combine ease of use and endurance to provide total safety and protection in evacuation/access and rescue tasks.


Our special anchors have been rigorously tested to meet CE standards. At 3M™ we have the confined space anchor system you're looking for!


More information on tripods and davits >

Counterweight Anchors
Counterweight Anchors

COUNTERWEIGHT ANCHORS EN 795-E -VACUUM ANCHORS EN 795-B

  • "Deadweight" or counterweight anchors (EN 795-E) are quick to install and easy to move. They are used on horizontal surfaces such as terraces and flat roofs. The mechanism consists of a series of weights placed on a flat surface onto which the worker is connected in order to be able to move around the entire surface in a safe and secure manner.

    The counterweight anchor must be more than 2.5 m from the edge or the place where there is a risk of falling. The surface on which it is used must not deviate from the horizontal by more than 5° and may not be used in the event of frost or the risk of frost.

    Vacuum anchors (EN 795-B) allow anchoring to virtually any smooth, non-porous surface. This system is widely used in maintenance tasks both in the aeronautical and railway industries. For example, to repair an airplane or a train, paint a water tank and more.

    This type of anchor does not damage the structure and is a temporary solution on specific surfaces. These anchors do not need to be permanently attached and offer a versatile and safe anchor point against falls. At 3M™ we have the solution you are looking for!

    More information on counterweight and vacuum anchors >
Flexiguard™ Structures
Flexiguard anchors for working at height

FLEXIGUARD™ STRUCTURES - 795-B


Flexiguard™ access systems are an alternative solution to fixed overhead lifelines. They are commonly used to surround large equipment such as airplanes, trains, trucks, heavy industry materials, etc.


In addition, 3M™ engineers also design and manufacture custom fixtures to fit your specific needs.


These systems are mobile and easy to assemble. The worker is connected to the Flexiguard structure and in the event of a fall is suspended, reducing the possibility of injury. 3M™ has the anchor system that you are looking for!


More information on Flexiguard™ structures >


Contact an expert

Too many types of anchors?

Contact us for more information

CONTACT AN EXPERT

How to comply with EN795 standard?

  • All our anchor systems are EN 795 certified and meet or exceed industry regulations.

    EN795:2012 standard dictates that an anchor point must have a minimum resistance of 12 kN in the direction in which the force will be applied in the event of a fall.

    The anchors must also be located in accordance with the minimum safety requirements. It must be located at a sufficient height, so that the worker does not come into contact with the lower level in the event of a fall.

    Technical specification TS16415 comes into effect, for anchors type A, C and D, depending on the number of users.

  • Do not connect to an anchor if you do not know the
    certification or origin. Ask us!

    In many construction sites and infrastructures, you will find hooks, plates, bolts, or metal anchor points. However, if you do not have evidence of CE marking, year of manufacture, lifespan, in date inspection tag or certification, etc. It is possible that it will not be safe, and you will have to install it again.


Comprehensive technical support throughout all the phases of your project

In addition to manufacturing an expansive and reliable range of anchors and fall arrest systems, we are able to offer integral technical support


Main anchors:

ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT ANCHORS? ASK US!

There are a variety of anchor points under EN 795. Discover the most commonly used!

All anchor systems are EN 795 certified and meet industry standards. They are made of durable and corrosion resistant materials. However, remember that before you weld, assemble or fix any anchor points designed to prevent a worker from falling, you need to consult an engineer.

Anchors for concrete
Fixed anchors for safe working at height

ANCHORS FOR CONCRETE


Portable and permanent anchors, anchors with tightening expansion, or displacement, screws for concrete, etc.


Anchors for steel beams
Concrete anchors for steel beams

ANCHORS FOR STEEL BEAMS


Our steel anchors are lightweight and easy to install. Can be used horizontally or vertically.


  • Find the iron and steel beam anchor you're looking for: Portable, fixed, anchors for connecting to I-beams and other steel structures, etc.


    1. 3M™ DBI-SALA® Fixed Beam Anchor
    Installs in seconds to the beam structure in any orientation...


    2. 3M™ DBI-SALA® Glyder™ 2 Sliding Beam Anchor
    Provides complete horizontal mobility on i-Beams, attach overhead or at your feet...


    3. 3M™ DBI-SALA® I-Beam Trolley Anchor
    Can be installed in seconds and has a rotating D-ring.

Anchors for walls, ceilings and floors
Anchors for walls, ceilings and floors

ANCHORS FOR WALLS, CEILINGS AND FLOORS


Discrete stainless-steel anchors to be fixed the to floor, wall or ceiling. Useful anchor points. With a quick release button that provides maximum safety by pressing the device...


Anchors for doors and windows
Anchorage for doors and accesses

ANCHORS FOR DOORS AND WINDOWS


The non-penetrating design of the anchorage ensures that the structure is not damaged.


  • This type of anchor is compressed between the vertical sides of the door or window. Quick and easy installation with a built-in adjustment button. No tools or drills required.


    1. 3M™ DBI-SALA® Window and Door Jamb Anchor
    Lightweight and portable design, 55 cm to 130 cm width adjustment

Straps or connection adapters
Anchorage for work at height and mooring slings

STRAPS OR CONNECTION ADAPTERS


Extremely versatile anchors that provide a fast and secure anchor point.


Remote anchoring systems
Anchorage by lever

REMOTE ANCHORING SYSTEMS


A telescopic rod connector that allows connection to a fall arrest system up to 8 m above the user. This allows the worker to climb a tower or reach the top of a pole with total safety...


  • First-Man-Up™ Remote Anchoring Pole
    Enables attachment to an anchorage up to 8 m above the user...


Horizontal lifelines. EN 795 Type C and D Standards

Ask our experts

Portable (EN 795-B) | Flexible (EN 795-C) | Rigid (EN 795-D) Standards and Regulations

Horizontal lifelines are anchor systems that allow the worker to move horizontally. They are suitable for both restraint systems and fall arrest systems. Before installing a horizontal lifeline, it is necessary to consult an engineer and ensure the system is designed and calculated correctly.

3M™ horizontal lifelines have been developed to offer a complete range of solutions and effectively solve the risks associated with work at heights. There are different types of horizontal lifelines: portable, permanent, flexible, rigid, vacuum anchors. At 3M™ we have an approved solution for your project and sector!

For architects looking to specify 3M system components and to insert component models into drawings, please click here to be taken directly to the 3M™ DBI-SALA® page on the NBS website.

Permanent anchor lines
Roof Lifeline Anchors

PERMANENT ANCHOR LINES - EN 795-D, EN 795-C


This type of horizontal anchor is permanently fixed to the structure. The device can be flexible (metallic cable with synthetic fibres), or rigid (a metallic rail of steel or aluminium).


They are often used for areas where work is carried out on a regular basis. At 3M™ we have a versatile and reliable range of permanent lifelines...


  • 1. 3M™ DBI-SALA® 8 MM permanent Horizontal Lifeline System: Fixed | Flexible
    Very versatile system made from stainless steel components and cable. Can be installed in a multitude of structures, walls, floors, ceilings etc....


    2. 3M™ DBI-SALA® ROOFSAFE™ Cable & Anchor System: Fixed | Flexible
    Made for installation on roofs, the innovative SpiraTech™ energy absorber is designed to withstand a pull test to 6 kN, ensuring structural integrity.


    3. 3M™ DBI-SALA® RoofSafe™ Rail System: Fixed | Rigid
    Extracted aluminum rigid rail system offers free-flowing movement with no brackets to pass over. Aesthetic and practical. Ideal for inspection, maintenance, suspension façade access, gutter cleaning etc.


    4. UNIRAIL™: Fixed | Rigid
    Perfect for construction projects such as access, inspection and maintenance of the internal and external façades, as well as for suspended rope tasks.


    5. 3M™ DBI-SALA® Glyde-Saf™ System: Fixed | Rigid
    The modular product design with closed aerial tracking system can tackle unlimited sections and cover up to 6 m between mounts.

Portable anchor lines
Portable anchors for working at height

PORTABLE ANCHOR LINES - EN 795-B, EN 795-C, EN 795-D


This type of horizontal lifeline is commonly used in areas where work is carried out occasionally.


Temporary jobs require portable systems that are lightweight, easy to use, and can be moved from place to place.


At 3M™ we have a versatile and reliable range of portable lifelines...


  • 1. 3M™ Protecta® PRO-LINE™: Portable | Flexible
    Portable, versatile and quick to install. This system is installed in seconds, without tools or special equipment. Perfect for maintenance tasks, work on bridges, construction, manufacturing, etc.


    2. 3M™ DBI-SALA® EZ-LINE™: Portable | Flexible
    Easy to use and extremely quick to install, remove and store. The innovative retractable design of EZ-Line eliminates large and bulky coils of cable that are difficult to set-up, relocate and store.


    3. 3M™ DBI-SALA® Mobi-Lok™ Vacuum Anchor: Portable | Flexible
    Provides a tie-off point on virtually any smooth, non-porous surface. Lightweight design for easy transport and does not damage the surface.

Flexible anchor lines
Transporter anchors for working at height

FLEXIBLE ANCHOR LINES - EN 795-C


Extremely lightweightFlexible horizontal lifelines can be cable, steel, or textile (synthetic fibres). Depending on the length of the lifeline, it may be necessary to use intermediate anchors to reduce the strain and deflection experienced by the flexible lifeline in the event of a fall. At 3M™ we have the flexible anchor lifeline you are looking for.


  • 1. 3M™ Protecta® PRO-LINE™: Portable | Flexible
    Portable, versatile and quick to install. This system is installed in seconds, without tools or special equipment. Perfect for maintenance tasks, work on bridges, construction, manufacturing, etc.


    2. 3M™ DBI-SALA® EZ-LINE™: Portable | Flexible
    Easy to use and extremely quick to install, remove and store. The innovative retractable design of EZ-Line eliminates large and bulky coils of cable that are difficult to set-up, relocate and store.


    3. 3M™ DBI-SALA® Mobi-Lok™ Vacuum Anchor: Portable | Flexible
    Provides a tie-off point on virtually any smooth, non-porous surface. Lightweight design for easy transport and does not damage the surface.


    4. 3M™ DBI-SALA® 8 MM permanent Horizontal Lifeline System: Fixed | Flexible
    Very versatile system made from stainless steel components and cable. Can be installed in a multitude of structures, walls, floors, ceilings etc....


    5. 3M™ DBI-SALA® RoofSafe™ Cable & Anchor System: Fixed | Flexible
    Made for installation on roofs, the innovative SpiraTech™ energy absorber is designed to withstand a pull test to 6 kN, ensuring structural integrity.

Rigid anchor lines
Fixed and sliding anchors

RIGID ANCHOR LINES - EN 795-D


Made from galvanised or stainless steel and offer greater resistance to corrosion and abrasion. They are highly recommended when the height of fall from the work surface is reduced, or when used by a large number of users at the same time.


Rigid lifelines are formed by a rigid and robust metallic rail (steel or aluminium), on which the trolley slides.


  • 1. 3M™ DBI-SALA® RoofSafe™ Rail System: Fixed | Rigid
    Extracted aluminum rigid rail system offers free-flowing movement with no brackets to pass over. Aesthetic and practical. Ideal for inspection, maintenance, suspension façade access, gutter cleaning etc.


    2. 3M™ DBI-SALA® UniRail™: Fixed | Rigid
    Perfect for construction projects such as access, inspection and maintenance of internal and external façades, as well as for suspended rope tasks.


    3. GLYDE-SAF™: Fixed | Rigid
    The exclusive modular product design with closed aerial tracking system can tackle unlimited sections and cover up to 6 m between mounts.


Vertical Lifelines. EN 353-1 and EN 353-2 Standards

Let the 3M technical team advise you!

Rigid (EN 353-1) | Flexible (EN 353-2)

Every day, workers around the world climb ladders to great heights to get their job done. 3M™ vertical safety systems offer the worker absolute protection against falls. They are robust, practical, comfortable and versatile. Optional brackets, styles and configurations are available suitable for almost any application of vertical anchors.

Flexible vertical anchor lifeline
Vertical Lifeline Anchors

FLEXIBLE VERTICAL ANCHOR LINES - EN 353-2


Cable or rope. They are usually installed ontelecommunication poles, vertical metal structures, existing metal access ladders...However, they should never be installed in an inclined position.


  • 1. 3M™ Protecta® Cobra™: Portable | Flexible
    The Cobra rope grab device is available in 3 variants and a variety of different lengths to suit a wide variety of applications. It has automatic locking, a lever for manual positioning and an articluated cam.

Rigid vertical anchor lines
Rigid vertical lifeline anchors

RIGID VERTICAL ANCHOR LINES - EN 353-1


They are usually of a permanent nature (fixed). In other words, they are designed for areas where periodic work is carried out. In such a way that the user has easy access to them and they are available when necessary.


  • 1. 3M™ DBI-SALA® LAD-SAF™: Fixed | Rigid
    Versatile and robust. Allows hands-free ascent and descent and quickly locks on the cable in the event of a fall.


    2. 3M™ PROTECTA® CABLOC™: Fixed | Rigid
    Quick and easy to install. Vertical cable system consisting of an 8mm cable and lightweight traveller, available in kit form with all the necessary components required.


Tripods and Davits. EN 795 Class B Standard

Temporary anchor devices for confined spaces and height access

A confined space is any site with limited entry and exit openings, and unfavourable natural ventilation. Confined spaces can have different access points: lateral entry, descending from above or crawling through an entry point; therefore they require different types of anchors and access devices.

At 3M™ we offer you complete evacuation/entry and rescue systems for confined spaces, wells, reactors, bunkers, tanks, rafts, etc. Get to know some of our temporary anchors for confined and limited space!

  • Designed for manhole and confined space entry/retrieval applications and constructed of lightweight materials. The davit pivots for ease-of-rescue and has adjustment for overhead clearance restrictions. The lower base adjusts to fit most standard entries.

  • Designed for use on top of transformers or other types of vertical platforms with potential fall hazards. It’s compact and lightweight design of only 17.20 kg (38 lbs). The system features 3 independent swivel anchor points that can rotate 360 degrees, offering freedom of mobility for up to 3 workers with self-retracting lifelines or fixed length lanyards.

  • Anchorages suitable for rescue
    3M™ DBI-SALA® UCT-1000 Aluminium Tripod

    3 m (10 ft.) Tripod with adjustable locking legs, safety chains, top pulley & winch bracket.


Flexiguard™ Anchor Systems. Standard and Regulation EN 795-B

Temporary anchor devices for height access

Operators working in logistics centres know that accessibility is essential. Flexiguard™ anchor solutions are very versatile. They can be used indoors and outdoors and provide a large overhead anchor system. The devices are designed to be used by one or 2 users, offering your operators an extensive and safe work area. These anchor devices can be moved to secure different areas.

Although we have a wide range of pre-engineered devices to suit most applications and environments. Our team of engineers also designs, models and manufactures fully personalised anchor devices. We are determined to exceed your expectations!

  • Flexiguard Fall Arrest Anchors for Maintenance
    Wide range of standard designs

    Pre-engineered standard anchorage systems, such as DBI-SALA® Flexiguard™, adapt to most applications and environments

  • Flexiguard temporary anchoring systems
    Modular Jib System for heavy machine industries

    DBI-SALA® Flexiguard™ modular jib system is the most is the most popular Flexiguard ™ anchor for companies who build large machines/components where workers need to be safely attached during assembly or for maintenance of large vehicles.

  • Flexiguard and portable anchoring systems
    Counterweight C-Frame System

    DBI-SALA® Flexiguard™ Counterweight C-Frame is the ideal solution for truck unloading or truck maintenance, allowing 2 workers to be secured along the length of the truck.

  • Flexiguard portable industrial anchoring system
    A-Frame System

    DBI-SALA® Flexiguard™ A Frame is the optimal solution for securing workers during the maintenance of heavy machinery vehicles like mining trucks, military tanks, buses…


Vacuum anchors and counterweight anchors. Standard and Regulation EN 795-B and EN 795-E

Temporary anchor devices for work at height

Both vacuum and counterweight anchors are non-invasive systems that are an excellent option on virtually any smooth or flat surface. This type of anchor does not require fixations on structures, so they are an excellent anchoring option for terraces, roofs, logistics centres, aviation industry, etc.

  • 3M™ DBI-SALA®   Mobi-Lok™ Vacuum Anchors
    3M™ DBI-SALA® Mobi-Lok™ Vacuum Anchors

    Provides an anchorage point on smooth, non-porous surface. Easy to transport and commonly used in the aeronautical industry.


    • Lightweight design (under 10 kg) for easy transport
    • EPDM rubber seals are Skydrol resistant and won't damage surface
    • Weight capacity 136 kg
    • Aviation rated intrinsically safe electronics
    • Compatible with external air power options
    • Built-in check valves provide safety during accidental air loss
    • Lightweight design is easy to set-up and use
    • Approved for horizontal lifeline use
  • Anchoring system
    3M™ DBI-SALA® Freestanding Rooftop Counterweight Anchor

    The rooftop freestanding counterweight anchor does not require attachment to a working surface and provides a safe and versatile fall arrest rated tie-off point.


    • Lifting kit and easy installation
    • Built-in 3M™ SpiraTech™ shock absorbing system for added safety
    • Ideal for flat surfaces with a maximum inclination of 5°
    • Anchorage without damaging the structure
    • Allows the worker to move freely - 360°
    • Portable and reusable

     

     


We have been working in your sector for decades

Ask our experts!

Whatever your need or your sector, at 3M™ we have an anchor that will allow your workers to work at height in a safe, comfortable and effective way.

  • Experts in anchors and anchoring devices
    Construction

    In most construction sites it is common to use retractable fall arrest systems and lanyards where sharp edges are hazardous and foot level tie-off is needed.

  • Audit of fall arrest systems
    Mining

    Flexiguard and heavy duty anchors are usually used in a Mining environment.

  • Consultants of works at height
    Wind energy

    After decades of work in the sector, we have specific anchor points to install on wind turbines.

  • Aircraft fall arrest consultancy
    Transport

    Transport structure maintenance tasks require particularly non-intrusive and reliable anchors.

  • Audit of fall protection installations
    Oil and gas

    DBI-SALA® Lad-Saf™ Vertical Lifeline System is our most popular anchor for use on oil platforms, refineries etc.

  • Safety installations against falls
    Telecommunications and Utilities

    Ensures the ascent and electrical work on towers and poles with vertical lifelines...

  • Fall protection in industrial maintenance activities
    Industrial Maintenance

    We provide mobile and versatile anchor points suitable for numerous industrial maintenance tasks.

  • Audit of EPIS in fall arrest installations
    Pharmaceuticals and Chemical

    We have anchors suitable for work in Pharmaceutical such as tanks or reactors allowing access on the most critical confined space configurations.


Questions and answers about anchorages

Contact us!

There are as many types of anchors as there are needs and sectors. All projects with even a minimal risk of falling from height require anchor points. Depending on the frequency with which the workers are going to use them, it is necessary to decide between temporary and permanent anchors. Contact us and get advice from an expert!


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