Safety Nets should be oversized to fit the void whilst still providing sufficient sag. The sag is required to allow the net to deform and absorb the load when an individual falls into it.

BS 8411 refers to the need to avoid reliance upon a single mesh cord because this may result in the mesh tearing under load.

The only recognised methods of doing this is by rolling the edge of net and incorporating the border rope into the roll. This reduces stress on individual meshes by distributing the applied load evenly and significantly minimises the likelihood of mesh tear when loaded.

The old technique of gathering is no longer recognised as a safe method of sizing the net.