This circular highlights the recent issue of traders in the UAE supplying Safety Net Fans made with nets from unknown and uncertified factories. These products are not accredited, not tested, and pose potentially fatal risks to workers and the public.
Why Uncertified Safety Net Fans Are Dangerous
- No verified dynamic load absorption
- Materials and construction not tested or measured
- Potential for serious or fatal accidents
- Suppliers may cut corners to reduce cost
- Purchasers may incorrectly assume they are saving money
Key Compliance Requirements for Safety Net Fans
1. Independent Test Report
Nets must have a manufacturer’s independent dynamic load test, verified and documented through approved Safety Nets Solutions:
- Net classification: Class A or B
- Safety Net Fans must be Class B1
2. Mandatory Net Label (Permanently Stitched)
A compliant net label must include:
- Unique ID number for traceability
- Manufacturer and Supplier
- Date of manufacture
- First date of use on site
- Net Class & manufacturing standard
- Material & annual testing method
- Next testing due date
3. Test Tags (Minimum 3)
- Nets must have at least three test tags
- Tags must match the net’s ID number
- UV exposure requires annual testing
- Without annual testing, net validity is limited to one year from first use
4. Border Rope Requirement
- Nets must include a 15 kN border rope
- Ensures falling objects remain contained during impact
Compliance Summary Table
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Dynamic Load Test | Must be Class B1 for Safety Net Fans |
| Permanent Label | ID, manufacturer, dates, class, material, next test |
| Test Tags | Minimum 3, must match net ID |
| Annual Testing | Required due to UV degradation |
| Border Rope | 15 kN capacity around entire net |
Conclusion
Users and contractors must ensure all Safety Net Fans are purchased from accredited suppliers such as TSS, and meet EN Standards and local regulations. Selecting compliant systems is essential to prevent accidents and protect workers and the public.
Faqs
1. Why are uncertified Safety Net Fans a safety risk?
Because their dynamic load capacity, material quality, and performance are unknown and untested, increasing the risk of failure during a fall.
2. What class must Safety Net Fans comply with?
Safety Net Fan nets must always be Class B1 based on dynamic energy absorption requirements.
3. What information must be included on a compliant safety net label?
A compliant net must display a unique ID number, manufacturer, date of manufacture, first use date, class, material, testing method, and next test due date.
4. How often do safety nets need to be tested?
Nets exposed to UV must be tested at least once every year. Without testing, a net is valid for only one year from its first date of use.
5. What is the purpose of the 15kN border rope?
The 15kN border rope ensures the net can retain falling objects and withstand high-impact forces in case of a fall.