Debris Net

Debris nettings are used in construction sites to protect construction workers and pedestrians from the risk of falling debris. The debris nettings are featured with small mesh sizes so that the construction wastes cannot escape through the small holes.

They are also helpful to contain other construction materials, worker’s tools, or any falling object. The debris nettings are frequently used in renovation and rehabilitation works on buildings at elevated heights. Common application scope for debris netting can be utilized in demolition projects with high frequency and risk of falling debris.

Figure 1 – Debris Nets In Construction Sites

The common material used in manufacturing debris netting is HDPE or high-density polyethylene due to its unique and beneficial properties. The material is suitable to withstand heavy abuse against tear. This feature is very useful prominently because of how the shape of debris is shaped.

The debris has sharp edges that might damage the net after frequent use. Moreover, the net’s high-strength property helps prevent small to large-sized debris or other falling objects.

There are two methods of debris netting installation. You can either install them horizontally below a certain height to catch any falling scrap. Or you can install them vertically at the outer perimeter to stop any kinds of waste material from falling over.

You can use both these methods, but the vertical installation method at each edge perimeter is more suitable for buildings with open sides. Follow these steps for installation:

• The debris nets are required to be attached with vertical members like columns or scaffolding pipes, etc. So, before installation, you have to make sure these vertical components are ready.
• Mark the height at which you need to install the net. Common heights used in the construction sectors are at 5’, 3’6” heights. You can use other height options as long as it conforms to legal standards.
• The debris net should have an additional height that you need to fold inwards for toeboard overlap. According to legal standards, this toeboard overlap should be a minimum of 6 inches.

Figure 2 – Installation Procedure Of Nets In Open-sided Buildings

• Take the net and cut according to the perimeter length of the edge where you want to install it. You can also proceed with installation without cutting and finally trim once the installation is complete.
• You need to use wire ropes horizontally from one vertical member to the next to support the net. For the rope selection strictly follow the guidelines of the legal standards to choose strong rope to support the debris net at moderate wind speeds.
• Install the ropes from one end of the perimeter to the other end and rigidly attach at all the intermediate vertical posts. Make sure to attach them at the marked height.
• Install another piece of rope below the previous rope following the same method. The height should be in the middle between the previous height and the ground.
• Attach the top portion with the topmost wire rope using cable ties. You can also different kinds of plastic attachment clips for the attachment. But use them at close intervals to avoid any kind of sagging.
• Now, attach the net with the middle rope using the same techniques. In this case, you may use fewer attachment clips since this will help to hold against lateral force.
• Finally, fold the bottom part of the net with the toeboard overlap and use steel plates to attach them with the ground.

Figure 3 – Steel Plates For Toeboard Installation

The benefits of debris nets are as follows:

• Safety nets are critical elements of a fall protection system in any construction site. The risk of falling debris poses a huge threat as it may seriously injure any person passing by or working below. They will safeguard your workers from these risks.
• With a safe working environment, you can increase the efficiency of work in your job site by avoiding unnecessary disruptions and smooth workflow.
• With the usage of construction debris safety nets, you can conform to the mandatory legal standards in your construction site.
• Debris nets are very easy to install at the exterior border of the construction sites. So, this enables you with a cost-effective approach for safety elements.
• At elevated heights, material transportation is done by a crane system through the perimeter edge. The debris nets can benefit you for loading and unloading purposes since you can simply open up a space by removing the cable ties during material transportation. Once completed, you can again reinstall them very quickly.
• The debris nets are lightweight materials. So, with the high portability feature, you can easily transport and install them. You can also reuse them for different areas.