In our previous article on debris netting, we talked about its role in maintaining safety and compliance on construction sites. If you read that guide but still have more questions about these nets, you might find answers here. We’ve curated a list of some common FAQs to help you better understand this scaffold protection.
How High Can You Fall into Debris Netting?
According to BS EN 1263-2: 2014, the maximum fall height into a 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.
How Often Should Debris Netting Be Inspected?
Debris netting must be inspected weekly to ensure it remains safe for use as a fall arrest system and for containing debris. The nets should only be inspected by a competent person after installation, with a handover certificate to confirm that the netting has been correctly assembled and positioned, as required by HSE.
How Can the Contractor Verify the Net Has Been Tested?
The contractor can confirm the net has been tested by requesting the written history of the safety net from the netting contractor. They can also check the net’s manufacture date, and the number of tests meshes remaining. Some manufacturers attach tag systems to the nets to confirm the annual inspection to provide extra assurance.
What’s the Maximum Gap Between Debris Netting and the Scaffold?
The maximum gap between debris netting and the scaffold should be no more than 100mm or 10cm to comply with the safety standards. According to HSE, minimising gaps is crucial for the nets to effectively contain debris and reduce the risk of accidents on site.
Can You Attach the Nets to Handrails?
No, it’s not recommended to install debris netting on handrails because handrails are not designed to support the load and stress of the netting.
According to HSE guidelines and BS EN 1263-1: 2019, debris netting should be secured to the scaffold structure or other approved supports, such as scaffold tubes, support poles or standards, and building facades.
How Long Does Debris Netting Last?
The lifespan of debris netting installed on scaffolding varies based on the material used, usage, and environmental conditions. Generally, it can last between 6 months and 2 years — or even longer if it is made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and regularly inspected.
Keep in mind that while HDPE is resistant to UV rays and moisture, prolonged exposure to intense sunlight and heavy rain can still affect its lifespan. The same applies to the level of wear and tear the netting experiences, including the weight and type of debris it is exposed to.
Regularly check the netting and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to keep it functional for its intended use.
What Colours Are the Nets Available In?
There are a variety of colours available for debris netting, including green, blue, black, white, orange, red, and yellow. They don’t have set meanings and are usually chosen based on preference or site needs. However, they can be used for different needs.
For instance, bright colours like orange, red, and yellow debris netting are great for increasing visibility on-site. A darker colour like black netting is a suitable choice for masking dirt, while white netting is for achieving a clean appearance.
Note: The colours don’t change what the netting does — they all work the same way. The different colours are just there to fit different needs or preferences.
Can Debris Netting Stop Both Falling Objects and People?
Yes, debris netting is designed to give construction workers confidence that if an object or even a worker falls from a height, the net is there to catch them. This benefit also extends to protecting pedestrians from any potential falling debris.
By surrounding the work area, debris netting prevents loose materials or persons from falling outside the scaffold perimeter. This reduces the distance and impact of the fall and minimises the potential harm to others on the ground below.
We hope this guide gives you a clearer understanding of what debris netting is, how to use and maintain it effectively. For more information on scaffold protection, FR debris netting, shrink wrap, scaffold sheeting, or monarflex alternative, contact us at +44 (028) 9442 8611. SP Group is a scaffold supplier based in UK and Ireland.