Do's and Don'ts - Working Above Safety Nets

We often see safety nets being altered or damaged on construction sites. The common mindset towards safety nets includes, “they are in the way,” “it’s a gimmick,” “they hinder my work,” or “I can’t get my material up where I am working.” However, these nets are there to save you from serious injury and, in some cases, to prevent death.

Therefore, it is crucial to understand what you should do and avoid when working with safety nets.

What You Should Do to Stay Safe

• Do ensure you use a reputable safety net company that specializes in their trade.
• Do ensure they employ competent, Faset-qualified net riggers.
• Do conduct a physical inspection once a week and report any concerns to the installer.
• Do call your installer for any necessary alterations.
• Do report any falls into the net to your installer so they can replace the net immediately; nets have a one-time use.
• Do ensure that the nets installed have been tested in the last 12 months and comply with BS EN 1263-1 & BS EN 1263-2.
• Do make sure your installer follows the Worksafe guidelines and the code of practice BS8411.
• Do familiarize yourself with the rescue procedures.

What You Should Not Do

• Do not walk on the nets; they have a one-time use limit. If you fall into a net that has been walked on, it could fail and cost you your life.
• Do not lie down in the nets or use them as a hammock.
• Do not drop debris into the nets, as this damages them.
• Do not alter the nets.
• Do not remove the nets.
• Do not avoid reporting a fall; this could cost you or a colleague’s life.
• Do not cut the nets to get your bracing on or off.

In Summary

Common sense should be applied in all instances, ensuring you prioritize your own safety and the safety of your colleagues on site.