Barrier Mesh & Star Picket Caps

Barrier mesh & star picket caps

Barrier mesh is the step up from barricade tape — rigid enough to block access rather than just signal exclusion, but still quick to roll out and reposition. The standard system uses hi-vis orange plastic mesh supported by star pickets with fluoro caps. The picket caps themselves are mandated under AS 4687 to prevent impalement injuries on exposed picket tops.

Barrier mesh applications

• Temporary site fencing — cheaper and faster than rigid fence panels for short-duration work.
• Excavation edge protection — marking trench and pit perimeters.
• Pedestrian exclusion — directing foot traffic around work zones.
• Event and crowd control — temporary barriers at car parks, sporting events, and venues.

Mesh specification

Typical spec is 1 m × 50 m rolls of UV-stabilised polyethylene in fluoro orange. Higher-grade mesh has reinforced edges and a 10–15 mm square aperture. For livestock or larger animal exclusion, use reinforced mesh or switch to proper temporary fencing.

Star picket caps — non-negotiable

Under AS 4687 and state-based WHS regulation, any exposed star picket on a worksite must have a safety cap fitted. Without a cap, a worker tripping onto an exposed picket can suffer a serious penetrating injury. Fluoro caps also make pickets visible at night. Cost per cap is trivial (often <$1); no excuse for omission.

Cap types

• Standard fluoro orange cap — the default. Fits most common Y-shape pickets.
• Ball-style cap — rounded profile; sometimes preferred for reduced snag risk on clothing.
• Reflective caps — with retro-reflective banding for night-work visibility.

Deployment

Drive pickets at 3–5 m spacing depending on expected wind and pedestrian contact. Tie mesh to pickets with UV-stable cable ties at top and mid-height. For high-wind sites, reduce spacing to 2 m.

Standards & compliance

Star picket caps must comply with AS 4687 (temporary fencing and hoardings). Mesh itself is not standards-certified but should meet the employer's visibility and durability requirements.

Frequently asked questions

How long does barrier mesh last outdoors?

UV-stabilised mesh: 3–6 months in direct Australian sun. Unstabilised mesh: 4–8 weeks before fading and brittleness. For project durations over 6 months, specify rigid fencing panels instead.

Can I reuse barrier mesh?

Yes, if undamaged and still bright. Roll carefully without sharp creases to extend service life. Replace when fluoro colour has faded or the mesh is torn.

Are picket caps mandatory on every site?

Yes — under AS 4687 and the WHS regulation, any exposed picket (site perimeter, building line, excavation edge) must be capped. Most safety audits check this specifically.

Do you offer trade or bulk pricing?

Yes — trade accounts get 5% off RRP, and bulk orders of mesh and caps are priced per carton/pallet. Apply for a trade account →