Scaffolding and debris netting go hand in hand. These safety nets are attached around the scaffold to give it full height coverage where construction work takes place.
Where and how debris netting is placed and installed can vary, but strict guidelines must always be followed. This guide covers the key points of debris netting installation: the placement, attachment types, and the regulations that must be adhered to.
Where Should Debris Netting Be Installed on Scaffolding?
Debris netting shall be placed to enclose all open sides, ends, and the bottom of the scaffold—essentially on every platform level of the structure, as required. This is to ensure any potential debris and construction rubble that may fall from height is contained.
Debris netting can also catch workers, which is why the distance between the netting and the ground is important for proper placement, too. BS EN 1263-2: 2014 states the maximum fall height into debris netting is 6 metres from the work position or 7 metres from a person’s centre of gravity.
If the net is smaller than 35 square metres or less than 5 metres on each side, the fall height is limited to 2 metres because smaller nets can’t safely handle higher falls.
Different Attachment Types for Debris Netting
Debris netting can be attached to scaffolding using various fasteners, including:
Zip ties
Zip ties or cable ties are narrow pieces of plastic that can be pulled tight and fastened to hold debris netting in place. To attach: thread the zip tie through the edge of the netting, then attach the other end to a secure point on the scaffold, like the rail. Pull the zip tie tight to fasten the netting.
Secure clips
Secure clips are heavy-duty snap locks with a locking mechanism or a pinch design to fasten the netting. To secure: snap the clip onto the edge of the net, then attach the other end to the support. Repeat this along the entire edge of the netting until it is fully secured.
Bungee clips
Bungee clips are elastic shock cords with an inner core of elastic strands, wrapped in a water- and abrasion-resistant braided sheath. To clip: Loop a bungee clip through the netting’s edge, then stretch the bungee around the scaffold pole or tube. Attach the end of the bungee clip to its own hook or loop to lock it in place. Repeat this process with more bungee clips along the edges until the netting is secure.
What Standards Must Be Complied With?
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requires that you inform those involved in the design and erection of the scaffold before attaching debris netting. For one, the assigned competent person needs to ensure the scaffold is designed to accommodate it, as per The Work at Height Regulations 2005.
There are also exceptions that must be considered:
- Debris netting isn’t needed to protect the bottom of the scaffold platform if it’s securely fastened to the deck and the planks are tight or if the deck is solid.
- Netting on the upper level of a supported scaffold or on a suspended scaffold only needs to extend up to the height of the top rail.
- The netting must enclose the scaffold for its full height if the scaffold replaces sidewalk sheds, vertical nets, or protection for adjoining properties.
- Debris netting must be fully certified as fire retardant for use in the construction and refurbishment of high-rise buildings. This PLUS FR Debris Netting Certified to TS62 is your best option for this setup.
Check out our guide, ‘Debris Netting: Compliance, Maintenance, and Selection,’ to ensure your debris netting does its purpose well. And while you’re here, you might as well check out our selection of Safegard scaffold protection, and other options like FR debris netting, shrink wrap, scaffold sheeting, or monarflex alternative.
For queries, contact us at +44 (028) 9442 8611. SP Group is a scaffold supplier based in the UK and Ireland.