It is paramount for all persons working above a safety net that any gaps between the structure and the net edge be reduced so far as is reasonably practicable. In most cases, by installing nets to the bottom of a rafter there should be no gaps between the edge of the net and the structure. Where this is not achievable then gaps should be no more than 100mm i.e. (1 mesh).

Unavoidable gaps can occur at eaves overhangs or against core walls where there may not be anything to which the net can be attached due to the self-weight of the net pulling the border rope away from the eaves / core wall. To close up the gap, the rigger may create an eaves bag by tying the border rope to the structure and creating a bag that hangs down at the eaves / core wall.

Notes:

• The “bag” side of the net is reliant upon two attachment points; one at each end of the eaves bag. This is the only occasion where the maximum attachment spacings can be exceeded.
• It is normal practice to create the bag from approximately 15 meshes, although this may vary according to site conditions and the span of the eaves bag.
• There is no limit to the length of the “eaves bag”.
• It must be ensured that the border rope along the length of the “eaves bag” is straight and that the tear drop ends are suitably closed up.