Scaffolding netting is a safety device used to prevent injuries on construction sites. It protects workers and the public from falling objects and can be required by law. The mesh should be large enough, strong, and UV resistant. It is an inexpensive way to prevent injuries but should not be used to catch falling workers. It does not offer protection against rain or moisture.
Scaffolding netting is a safety device used to prevent injuries on or around a construction site. These nets protect workers and the public from items dropped from scaffolding and can also help minimize property damage caused by falling tools or materials. Scaffolding mesh generally consists of heavy plastic, such as high-density polyethylene, although some contractors may use wire or woven mesh instead of plastic for certain types of applications.
While some contractors install scaffolding netting as a voluntary precaution, many are required to use this product by law. In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires builders to use this mesh to protect workers. Some cities or states may have additional requirements to further protect employees and the public.
Generally, the scaffold mesh completely wraps the length and height of the scaffold. A canopy or debris net is often added under the scaffold to further prevent injuries and accidents. On a building located along a busy street, for example, this canopy typically consists of a heavy tarp or plywood roof installed over the sidewalk. At sites separated from the public, the cover may simply consist of plastic mesh netting to catch fallen tools.
When choosing scaffolding mesh, builders should look for rolls large enough to meet the needs of a specific project. The larger the roll, the quicker the mesh can be secured to the scaffold and the fewer links will need to be maintained. Materials must be strong enough to accommodate the typical tools and materials of the job and must be treated with a UV resistant coating when exposed to direct sunlight.
The main interest of scaffolding netting is that it is an inexpensive way to prevent injuries. The mesh nature of this mesh means that wind passes through the material which reduces problems associated with wind loading. It is also quick and easy to set up and flexible enough to use with any type of scaffolding.
Scaffold netting should not be used to catch falling workers and is not designed for this purpose. Contractors must still use proper fall protection and safety devices regardless of any netting. Unlike other scaffolding systems, scaffolding netting does not offer protection against rain, snow and other elements and should not be used on applications that require protection from moisture. In these types of applications, plastic sheeting or plywood can be used in place of mesh to prevent objects from falling and to keep moisture out.
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