Debris Netting

Debris netting is a knitted plastic mesh, usually made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). It’s fixed to scaffolding or fencing to catch falling debris and help shield sites from wind and weather.

It’s sometimes referred to as scaffold netting, builders netting or construction netting.

Why is debris netting used on scaffolding?

Debris netting helps:

• Protect the public from falling debris
• Improve site safety and compliance
• Reduce wind and rain exposure
• Allow airflow to reduce wind loading
• Provide light shading without blocking visibility

Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, suitable measures must be taken to prevent materials falling where people could be exposed to risk. In many situations, debris netting is used to meet this requirement.

It’s worth reading the latest scaffolding guidance from the Health and Safety Executive and consulting your scaffolding designer or contractor before fitting debris netting, as it can affect wind loading and structural design.

Debris netting is typically made from UV-stabilised HDPE. The open mesh structure allows air to pass through, helping to reduce pressure on scaffolding and fencing. Custom printed debris netting is 50gsm with plain mesh netting is slightly thicker, weighing 60gsm.

Debris netting is usually fixed using cable ties:

1. Secure one end to the scaffold or fence
2. Wrap the netting around the structure
3. Fix at regular intervals (typically every metre)
4. Trim excess material for a tidy finish

The same method is used for Heras fencing.

The lifespan depends on:

• Weather exposure
• Amount of falling debris
• Quality of installation
• Ongoing inspection and maintenance

Damaged or torn netting should be replaced immediately.

Should debris be allowed to collect in netting?

No. Debris should be removed regularly to avoid:

• Excess weight
• Damage to the netting
• Increased risk to workers and the public

In some cases, debris netting can be reused if it has not been damaged and has been properly removed and stored. For long-term or reusable solutions, building wraps or fence covers may be more suitable.