What size of sandbag is used to drop-test safety nets?

The appropriate size of sandbag used to drop-test safety nets is 400 pounds. This standard weight is chosen to ensure the safety and reliability of the net under realistic conditions it may face on a job site. The drop-test evaluates the performance of the safety net when subjected to a significant impact, simulating the force of a falling person or object. By using a sandbag of this specified weight, it allows for an effective assessment of the net's ability to absorb shock and prevent injuries, which is critical in maintaining workplace safety standards.

Using either a lighter or heavier weight could result in inadequate testing, either failing to sufficiently challenge the net or presenting unreasonable conditions not reflective of true scenarios encountered at a construction site. Thus, the 400-pound sandbag is specifically designated to provide a consistent and safe parameter for testing safety nets.