RESOURCES - WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON SAFETY OBSTACLES TO OVERCOME WHEN STRETCHING FABRIC?

  1. Lifting. To ensure safety, it is important to follow proper lifting techniques when handling a roll of chain link fabric. These rolls can weigh anywhere from 50 to 400 pounds, so it is essential to get assistance and avoid attempting to lift them onto your shoulders.
  2. Cuts. During the manufacturing process of chain link fabric, icicles may form due to the dripping-off of galvanizing. It is recommended to wear gloves and be cautious when handling the material, especially when sliding the tension bar through the fabric to avoid pinching your hand. Additionally, when cutting the top rail, there may be sharp burs and ends that can cause injury, so it is important to handle them carefully.
  3. Loose top rail. Prior to tying the fabric to the top rail, the rail remains unsecured on top of the post, making it susceptible to becoming dislodged and sliding through the line top like a spear. It is crucial to wear safety glasses and hard hats and to remain aware of your surroundings to prevent any potential accidents.
  4. The Wave. Before securing the chain link fabric, there is a significant risk of it falling over and creating a wave effect that could cause injury to anyone in its path. The fabric is heavy and has a lot of momentum. To prevent this, make sure to pull the fabric away from the posts and tie it off temporarily every 10 feet for taller heights. It's essential to educate all crew members so that everyone knows to yell "wave!" if a wave occurs to warn others to clear the area. Please note that the photo below does not show any waves, and it is not an official Shop Chain Link photo.

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