Construction Site Netting

The use of construction site nets is subject to statutory regulations. These include for example the German Construction Site Ordinance (BaustellV), which prescribes health and safety measures on construction sites, and the Technical Rules for Workplaces (ASR), which provide guidance on the design and equipment of workplaces.

In addition, specific EN standards apply, such as EN 1263 for safety nets, which specify the requirements for materials and use. Compliance with these regulations ensures safety and prevents legal consequences.

The use of construction site nets is subject to legal regulations. These include the Construction Site Ordinance (BaustellV), which prescribes health and safety measures on construction sites, as well as the Technical Rules for Workplaces (ASR), which provide information on the design and equipment of workplaces. In addition, specific standards apply, such as EN 1263 for safety nets, which specify the requirements for materials and use. Compliance with these regulations ensures safety and prevents legal consequences.

Yes, personal safety nets are always compulsory whenever there is a risk of falling whilst working at height and this risk cannot be adequately prevented by other fall protection measures, such as side guardrails or scaffolding. The type of safety measure that must be used on the building site is determined by the risk assessment and the applicable health and safety regulations and technical standards.

The contractor is responsible for the correct installation of safety nets – or, in the case of employees, the employer. Every safety net must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and applicable standards. Only correct installation using suitable fastenings ensures the required level of protection and, consequently, reliable fall protection on the building site.

The appropriate mesh size depends on the specific intended use of the safety net. Depending on whether fall arrest nets, side protection nets or scaffolding safety nets are being used, different requirements apply regarding mesh size, material and load-bearing capacity.

As a general rule, the mesh size should always be selected so that the smallest objects, materials or tools that are likely to fall are reliably retained. This prevents building rubble, tools or other falling objects from passing through the net and endangering people or work areas below the construction site. In the case of personal safety nets, the mesh size is also designed to ensure that people are safely caught.

It is crucial that the safety net in question is approved for its intended use and complies with the applicable standards for fall protection and safe use on construction sites.

Construction site nets can be reused as long as they are undamaged and in good working order. Maintenance includes regular inspections for cracks, holes or other damage, cleaning with water and mild detergents and proper storage in a dry place protected from direct sunlight to prevent material fatigue. Regular inspections in accordance with legal requirements are also necessary for safety nets.

You can find further information on the applicable directives and standards on our info page Safety Net Guidelines.