Abstract: The present invention provides a device and method for independently anchoring a core in a core drilling operation prior to, during and after the drilling operation, so that upon severance of the core from its surrounding structure, free fall of the core is prevented and safety of nearby workers is protected. The device comprises a hollow core drive shaft and a structurally separate, independent anchoring device positioned within the central axis of the hollow core drive shaft and secured to the core. The device and method provides complete physical accessibility and visibility to the core at all times during a drilling operation. The core can thus be securely anchored from the top side of a structure without the need to brace the underneath side of the structure and having the core fall down upon severance from the structure.