Before installation, safety nets must be inspected for damage or defects. Please do not use safety nets that are damaged or have defects. Safety nets must have the manufacturer’s and removable test mesh labels. Do not use safety nets that do not have labels attached.

Inspecting safety nets before installation. Before installing the nets, the installer should examine the safety nets on both sides for damage or defects; check the net’s labels (manufacturer’s and removable test mesh) are displayed, current and valid. If the installer finds any damage or defects, the safety net should not be used. If the damage is reparable, the net may be repaired; otherwise, it must be withdrawn from service.

If a label is not attached, or the label’s information is not legible, do not use the net.

1. The general safety net installation process

2. Install safety nets as close as possible to the work platform.

3. Rig safety nets to follow the roofline.

4. Nets should not restrict the construction work.

5. Ceiling battens must not be installed until the safety nets have been removed. If they are installed before or with safety nets in place, the battens will be the first obstacle the falling person hits.

6. Before installing nets near live wires or overhead power cables, contact the line-owner to make the wires or cabling safe.

Net access

Nets must be easily accessible to carry out a rescue or clear debris. The access is provided by:

1. installing the nets next to a work platform

2. installing the nets next to the work platform’s access point

3. providing an access platform next to the net.

4. People should be able to remove debris from the nets without walking on them. Do not use safety nets to collect debris, for storage, as a work platform, or for providing access to a work platform.

Attaching safety nets to steel structures

Safety nets may be attached directly to hot-rolled, structural steel members such as trusses, rafters, portal frames, and purlin support cleats. Do not attach safety nets to gutter supports, pipework, or electrical service installations.

Cold-formed sections such as purlins, ceiling battens, and scaffolding tubes should not be used unless calculations show they are strong enough for the load.