Alternative Anchoring Techniques for Construction Safety Netting
February 2021
Safety netting systems are required on construction sites to prevent injuries, damage and even save lives. Anchoring is the critical component to the performance of any safety netting system, which ultimately relies on the proper tension to do their jobs effectively. There are several common anchoring methods used to secure a netting system, including:
- Drilling directly into brick or concrete, then inserting and setting an eye bolt with epoxy
- Fastening welded padeyes to a box beam
- Drilling through or tapping into an I-beam for an eye bolt
While these tried-and-true techniques cover many conditions, we often get questions about alternative anchoring methods. In some situations – the above approaches are simply not applicable due to certain limitations or restrictions. Good news. There is no shortage of alternative approaches! They fit into three general categories:
Wrapping/Sling Methods – certain conditions will allow for either a chain, cable or a fabric sling to be wrapped around an I-beam. These methods work well for horizontally set beams where clearance is available. A few configurations are available:
- A) Chain & Quick Link – a chain that contains quick link is wrapped around the beam, and the cable is then threaded through the quick link
- B) Sling Chain – chain is also wrapped around a beam, with the terminated cable loop joining two links
- C) Wire Rope Wrap – where it’s simply wrapped around the beam
- D) Ratchet Strap with D-Ring – ratchet strap with a D-ring threaded onto it is wrapped around the beam, and the cable loop locks in to the D-ring
- E) Fabric Sling – contains two larger loops, it’s wrapped around the beam, one loop is threaded through the other, and the cable is threaded through the bottom loop
Beam Clamps – sometimes, one side of the beam may not be accessible. There is no gap to wrap a cable around. In these cases, beam clamps may be secured to the bottom of the beam. Several clamp styles may be used depending on conditions, as shown in the diagram. Important to note that this approach works for debris containment, and is NOT recommended for personnel applications.
Wrap and Terminate – with this set up, the anchor cable is wrapped around a column and terminated. A few fastening methods may be applied – using clips, thimbles, quick links and D-rings. This method is typically used around large columns that you don’t want to drill into.
So, what method is best for your particular application? There’s no easy answer. You must make sure that your approach is compliant with OSHA, ANSI, contractual and any other applicable regulations. Ultimately, an engineer should be making the final recommendation considering those guidelines, and the specific conditions of the jobsite.
This blog is brought to you by InCord Custom Netting Solutions to educate our customers and colleagues on the safety topics associated with different workplaces and jobsites.
On job sites big or small, InCord’s American-crafted safety netting solutions keeps you on schedule and in compliance. Also available from InCord is East Coast Lifting Products. American made synthetic slings, round slings, and tie‐downs.
For more information, email Sales Manager, Daniel Peloquin or call directly at 860.531.3311.
InCord’s Safety Netting Solutions
860.537.1414 or email netting@incord.com
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In 2020, InCord was recognized by its employees and was awarded the Top Workplace by the Hartford Courant for the tenth consecutive year.
InCord provides custom netting solutions for Material Handling, Construction, Amusement, Sports, Theatre, Service Pits (BayNets™), Specialty, and Environmental/Ecological Restoration markets. InCord’s custom solutions meet or exceed applicable safety standards due to consistent research, testing and direct involvement with renowned safety organizations, such as ANSI, OSHA, and ASTM. InCord also offers in-house design, installation and extraordinary customer service for a complete, turn-key experience. Green Bureau Certified Platinum
