How far below the work surface must safety nets be positioned?

Safety nets are a crucial part of fall protection systems used in construction and similar work environments, particularly when workers are operating at heights where there is a risk of falling. According to regulations and industry standards, safety nets must be positioned to effectively catch a worker who falls without being so far away that the worker is at risk of hitting the ground or other obstacles.

The requirement to position safety nets at a distance of 10 feet below the work surface is based on the need to reduce the impact force and provide enough cushioning for the worker. This distance allows for any potential movement as a result of a fall and ensures that the worker does not come into contact with structures, equipment, or the ground itself during the incident.

Thus, positioning the safety nets at 10 feet below helps to maximize the safety of workers at height by ensuring that if a fall occurs, the net will effectively absorb the force of the fall and protect the worker from serious injury. This regulation helps to establish a standard across the industry, promoting uniform safety practices.