N.Y. Comp. Codes R. & Regs. Tit. 12 §§ 23-1.17

Current through Register Vol. 46, No. 50, December 11, 2024

Section 23-1.17 - Life nets

(a) Approval required. Any life net used in construction or demolition operations shall be approved.

(b) Materials and construction. Approved life nets shall be made of first grade fibre cordage, woven fabric or synthetic fibre and all such materials shall be treated to render them fire resistant; or such approved life nets shall be constructed of wire rope. An approved life net shall have a mesh not exceeding four inches. The perimeter of every life net shall be reinforced with cloth- covered wire rope, manila rope or synthetic fibre rope and shall be equipped with properly sized padded thimbles, sockets or equivalent approved means of attachment to supports and anchorages.

(c) Size, strength, location and attachment of life nets. Every life net or combination of life nets shall be of sufficient size and strength to catch and hold any person for whose protection such net or combination of nets is being used in case of a fall. Such net or combination of nets shall be located so as to completely cover the area of possible fall. Every life net shall be attached to sufficient anchorages or supports outside of and beyond the area of possible fall and shall be supported at a height to prevent sagging which may cause the net to strike or touch any surface or object beneath when cushioning the fall of any person.

(d) Maintenance. Every life net in use shall be thoroughly dried before storage and shall be stored in a dry location which is protected from the elements. Every life net shall be protected against damage from mechanical devices, acid or other corrosive substances or from any other type of deterioration.

(e) Inspection. Every life net shall be thoroughly inspected by a designated qualified person before each installation. A daily visual inspection shall be made by a designated person of every life net in use. Employers shall not suffer or permit any installation or use of any life net which shows any indication of mildew, broken fibre or fabric, excessive wear or any other damage or deterioration which could materially affect the strength of any portion of such life net. Any life net found to be unsafe shall be immediately removed from the job site and not returned for reuse unless properly repaired.

N.Y. Comp. Codes R. & Regs. Tit. 12 §§ 23-1.17