The ProAltus Guide to Bespoke Aesthetic Debris Netting
- Alex Highton
- Oct 20
- 3 min read
When you’re working in sensitive environments, from heritage sites to high-footfall retail centres, standard debris netting just doesn’t cut it.
Scaffold wraps and off-the-shelf mesh might tick a box for containment — but they often compromise on aesthetics, access, or real-world performance.
At ProAltus, we take a different approach. Our bespoke netting systems are engineered for the site, designed to integrate seamlessly with live environments — and backed by the technical standards and documentation that matter.
This guide explains how aesthetic debris containment works, when it’s used, and what makes a system safe, compliant, and effective.
What Is Aesthetic Debris Netting?
Bespoke debris netting is more than a sheet draped over a scaffold. It’s a tensioned, high-performance system that captures falling materials — without creating visual clutter, public disruption, or access issues.
These systems are especially useful in:
Shopping centres and retail buildings
Public-facing commercial environments
Live demolition or renovation sites
Heritage or architecturally sensitive façades
Every netting system is site-specific — not a product pulled off the shelf.
Where It’s Used — and Why
We typically install aesthetic containment netting where:
Debris may fall from height (roof-light glass, cladding, ceiling panels, etc.)
Public access must remain open below
Scaffolding isn’t viable, or creates too much disruption
A discreet, professional finish is required
These environments demand a solution that works both visually and structurally — keeping people safe without drawing attention or compromising building operations.
Recent projects include:
A bespoke netting install at Whitgift Shopping Centre, Croydon
High-performance containment beneath glazed rooflights at Market Place, Greater London
What the System Includes
Each system is designed to meet the specific risks and structure of the site. Common features include:
High-tenacity polypropylene nettingManufactured to meet EN 1263-1 standards for fall prevention
Secondary debris meshFor capturing smaller particles like glass shards or render fragments
Tensioned steel cable support systemsDesigned and fixed to structural elements — not just façade cladding
Close-placement to risk areasPositioned tight to the structure to reduce potential fall loads
Discreet finishesEngineered for minimal visibility and aesthetic impact
These systems are often installed overhead — above retail walkways, entrances, or voids — with all fixings and load paths carefully calculated and documented.
Compliance and Documentation
Bespoke netting systems must do more than look neat — they have to perform under pressure, and comply with UK safety regulations. That means:
Designed and manufactured in accordance with BS EN 1263-1 and, where applicable, BS EN 1263-2 (safety requirements, testing and positioning of safety nets)
Installed and maintained in line with BS 8411:2019 (Code of Practice for safety nets on construction sites and other works)
Anchor systems designed and installed to BS 7883:2019 (personal fall protection — anchor systems, system design, installation and inspection)
Full method statements, structural calculations, and supporting documentation
On-site testing, inspection and certification by competent persons
Compliance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005
At ProAltus, every netting install comes with full documentation — from engineering drawings and fixing schedules to RAMS, testing, and certification.
Why Standard Solutions Don’t Cut It
Off-the-shelf netting might work for scaffold wraps or low-risk sites — but in public, operational spaces, the stakes are higher.
Common pitfalls with standard systems include:
Inadequate fixing to structural elements
Poor visual impact
Lack of certification or compliance documentation
Too much disruption during install
A tailored netting system means a tailored outcome — one that fits your space, satisfies regulations, and keeps everyone protected.
Built for Access — Not Against It
One of the key benefits of our aesthetic netting systems is that they work with your access plan, not against it.
We often install alongside rope access, fixed anchor points, or temporary lifeline systems — enabling maintenance, inspection, or remedial works to continue above, while protecting people below.
Whether it’s a one-off installation or part of a wider safety strategy, we build in flexibility from the start.
Need Support With a Complex Netting Requirement?
If you’re managing a site where debris containment matters — but disruption isn’t an option — we can help.
We’ll work with you to understand the risk, design a system that works for your structure, and deliver installation with minimal downtime.
From visual impact to verified performance — this is debris netting done properly.
Contact ProAltus Group on 01638 781 541 or email sales@proaltus.co.uk to talk through your project.
