Primary controls to prevent objects falling include:

• Perimeter containment screening
• Scaffolds with mesh panels and shade cloth
• Mesh guarding
• Inserting extra scaffold planks in an internal gap between a building and perimeter scaffold
• Toe boards/kickboards
• Penetration covers as per GMR 5.3
• Overhead protective structures

Applying containment screening to permanent handrails used during construction:

Secondary controls to be used in conjunction with primary controls

• Exclusion zones around and underneath the work area to prevent access
• Signage warning workers to remain outside of the drop zone
• Catch platforms
• Tool/equipment lanyards

The gap between the inner edge of a platform and the face of a building or structure immediately beside the platform must be protected and fully enclosed wherever possible. 

An example of a fully closed gap between a building and scaffold including edge protection with mesh and shade cloth installed to prevent the fall of material:

Consideration must also be given to the risk of falling objects whilst installing, altering and dismantling scaffold.

This can be controlled with overhead protective structures, exclusion zones, establishing restricted areas and signage

Example of signage for exclusion zones erected under areas where there is a potential for falling objects:

Where shade cloth is fixed to a scaffold above 4m in height:

• Ensure all wind loading has been assessed in accordance with AS 1170.2 for V₁₀₀  wind loading, with due consideration for site specific conditions and shape factors (e.g. corners and the end of scaffold)
• Do not extend more than 2m above the height of the last structural tie

Refer to the Temporary Works Management Procedure (linked below) for design verification and validation requirements.

Example of screens being jumped only after suitable edge protection has been installed:

An example of full height perimeter protection with mesh panels and shade cloth:

Example of mesh guarding on a suspended slab: