Not all debris netting is the same.
Standard versions, like the CLASSIC brand, are widely used for debris containment on most scaffolding. The moment hot work enters, that’s where fire-retardant (FR) netting is required.
Here’s what you need to know.
FR Debris Netting Explained
If you walk past a construction site and spot a green mesh material wrapped around the scaffolding, that’s debris netting. Its knitted mesh design allows air to pass through while containing debris falling from heights. It’s draped over, with overlapping mesh sections that form a web-like pattern.
FR debris netting does the same job but includes fire-retardant additives. If it catches a spark or comes into contact with flame, it self-extinguishes once the ignition source is removed.
When Is FR Debris Netting Necessary?
The need for FR debris netting can vary from one project to another, including in situations or factors such as:
High-rise buildings
FR debris netting must be fully certified for any construction or refurbishment work on high-rise buildings. It applies regardless of contract value or scope of work.
Projects valued over £2.5m
If your project is valued at £2.5m or above (or is part of a larger project over £20m), JCoP applies. That means scaffold netting and sheeting must meet LPS 1215 or Certifire TS62 certification.
Any site with hot work
Welding, cutting, angle grinding – any of these near scaffolding makes standard netting a fire hazard. This applies on every site, regardless of project value or building type.
Contracts with strict client specifications
Some contractors, developers, housing providers, and public-sector organisations specify FR scaffold materials as standard, regardless of project size. In these cases, FR debris netting may be specified from the outset.
Site compliance
Certain site conditions, standards, and insurance requirements will make FR debris netting mandatory.
For instance, HSG168 (Fire Safety in Construction) sets out that fire risks on site should be controlled. The Joint Code of Practice (JCoP) also states that flexible materials used to clad scaffolding should conform to recognised fire-performance certification standards, such as Warringtonfire Certifire Technical Schedule 62 (TS62).
A TS62-certified debris netting is the safest option in this case.
When to Use FR Netting Even If It’s Not Technically Expected?
Even where JCoP does not apply, FR netting may be worth specifying if:
There’s a chance that hot work will happen during the project.
The scaffold is near occupied premises or a public footpath.
Your site-specific fire risk assessment flags elevated risk.
The scaffold is located near an escape route where a fire could block evacuation.
Remember, the cost difference between standard and FR netting is relatively small. But the cost of a site fire is not.
FR debris netting is often specified where additional fire safety measures are needed, but the condition will vary between sites. Always check the project’s specification and fire risk assessment before installation.
We supply FR Debris Netting Certified to TS62 and standard versions, including non-FR variants, in bulk. For fast quotes and availability, email our team at customercare@s-pgroup.com or call 028 9411 0032. SP Group is a temporary protection and scaffold supplier based in the UK and Ireland.
FAQ
What does LPS 215 and Certifire TS62 mean?
LPS 1215 is a Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) standard. It tests whether netting is genuinely fire retardant.
Certifire Technical Schedule 62 is the equivalent scheme run by Warringtonfire. Products that pass are independently certified and carry a Certifire mark.
Can FR debris netting be used with scaffold sheeting?
Yes. FR debris netting and scaffold sheeting are often used together, depending on the level of containment and weather protection required.
See our guide, Which Scaffold Protection Should You Choose?, for comparison.
Is FR debris netting suitable for long-term scaffold installations?
Yes, FR debris netting can be used on both short-term and long-term scaffold projects, provided it’s installed correctly and remains in good condition.