Jakob Rope Systems manufactures high-performance stainless steel cable and mesh systems for demanding architectural and infrastructure applications. Webnet stainless steel mesh provides reliable solutions for bridge safety, offering fall protection, debris containment, and suicide deterrence while maintaining visibility, durability, and minimal visual impact. This guide explains how to specify Webnet for bridge and infrastructure projects, from evaluating project requirements to selecting the appropriate mesh configuration and preparing complete construction documentation.
1. Assess the Project Requirements
Before selecting a mesh configuration, identify the primary safety objective and the project conditions that will influence the specification.
Define the Protection Objective
Determine how the mesh will function within the project:
- Fall protection for pedestrian railings or balustrades
- Debris or anti-throw containment for bridge decks or undersides
- Suicide deterrence barriers with vertical, horizontal, or angled installations
- Temporary safety netting during construction or maintenance
Document Key Site Parameters
Gather the information required to develop an accurate specification:
- Span length or total protected area to determine mesh panel sizes and quantities.
- Exposure conditions such as coastal, urban, or inland environments.
- Structural loading requirements, including pedestrian, wind, and snow loads where applicable.
- Mesh orientation, whether vertical, horizontal, or angled.
- Available support structure, including tubular frames, existing railings, or custom fabrication.
- Applicable building codes and bridge authority requirements, including IBC and local regulations.
2. Select the Appropriate Webnet Configuration
Choose the mesh specification based on the project's structural and safety requirements.
Select the Mesh Aperture and Rope Diameter
Jakob Webnet is available in multiple cable diameters and mesh openings to accommodate different performance requirements.
| Rope Diameter | Mesh Aperture | Typical Applications |
| 1.5 mm | 40–60 mm | Pedestrian railings and light-duty fall protection. |
| 2.0 mm | 60–100 mm | Bridge balustrades, debris containment, and deterrence barriers. |
| 3.0 mm | 80–120 mm | Heavy-duty infrastructure and high-load barrier systems. |
Specify the Correct Stainless Steel Grade
For bridge and infrastructure applications, specify AISI 316 stainless steel. Its molybdenum content provides enhanced resistance to chloride corrosion, making it suitable for outdoor, marine, and high-humidity environments. While AISI 304 is commonly used in architectural applications, it is not recommended for exposed bridge infrastructure where long-term corrosion resistance is critical.
3. Choose the Boundary and Support System
Webnet transfers loads through its perimeter boundary system, making the supporting structure an important part of the specification.
Inviss-C Frame
Choose the prefabricated Inviss-C stainless steel frame when standard panel sizes are suitable. This option integrates easily with existing post-and-rail systems and provides the fastest specification process.
Custom Fabricated Frame
Specify a custom frame for projects with irregular geometries, curved bridges, or unique structural conditions. This solution requires project-specific engineering and fabrication drawings.
Border Rope Termination
Use border rope terminations when the mesh will be anchored directly to the supporting structure. This option offers maximum design flexibility but requires properly engineered structural attachment points.
4. Verify Code Compliance
Confirm that the selected mesh aperture satisfies the passage width requirements established by the applicable building codes and bridge authority standards.
When preparing the specification:
- Verify opening limitations for guardrail infill systems required by the International Building Code (IBC) and referenced standards.
- Review Jakob's Webnet Passage Width technical data sheet for standard mesh configurations.
- Coordinate with the local Department of Transportation (DOT) or bridge authority when working on transportation infrastructure projects.
Note: The Webnet Passage Width technical data sheet is included as a downloadable attachment on this page.
5. Prepare the Project Documentation
Complete the specification package by documenting the selected system and supporting information.
CSI Specifications
Jakob provides project-specific CSI specification language upon request. Typical specifications include:
- Product name
- Rope diameter
- Mesh aperture
- Stainless steel grade
- Boundary or frame system
- Surface finish
- Installation method
Construction Drawings
Standard CAD details are available for Inviss-C framing systems and common installation configurations. Projects with custom geometries require fabrication drawings developed specifically for the project.
Submittal Documentation
A typical submittal package includes:
- Product data sheets
- AISI 316 material certifications
- Structural load test reports
- Installation instructions
- Shop drawings for custom systems
Download Technical Resources
- Safety Net for Bridges and Infrastructure (Drawing)
- Webnet Bridge References (Catalog)
- Webnet Passage Width (Technical Data Sheet)
- Webnet Product Catalog (Full Catalog)
Need Project-Specific Specification Support?
Jakob Rope Systems USA provides engineering assistance to help architects and structural engineers develop project-specific bridge safety solutions. Contact the Jakob engineering team with your project requirements to receive specification language, technical documentation, and design support tailored to your application.
