In April 2019, Notre-Dame Cathedral suffered a devastating fire.
When restoration efforts began, the architects leading the project—among the most highly qualified heritage preservation professionals in France—faced a unique challenge: implementing modern fall protection systems that would meet current safety requirements without compromising historic stonework that cannot easily be repaired or replaced by today’s craftsmen.
They chose Webnet.
Jakob Rope Systems was contracted as a subcontractor to Baudin Châteauneuf to design, supply, and install stainless steel mesh systems throughout three critical areas of the cathedral:
-
Galerie des Chimères — the iconic gargoyle gallery
-
South Tower — the largest installation area (approximately 160 m²)
-
Cour des Citernes — a sheltered interior courtyard
To preserve the visual character of the cathedral, all Webnet mesh was finished in burnished RAL black, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the aged stone façade. Two mesh configurations—60 mm and 120 mm apertures—were specified, each selected to meet the structural and safety requirements of its respective location. In total, more than 2,200 linear meters of edge and connecting ropes were installed across the project.
Images Courtesy of: Jakob USA
Webnet is approved by safety authorities for use as both a vertical and horizontal fall protection system. Combined with its ability to conform to complex geometries and be installed on surfaces that cannot accommodate conventional rigid safety barriers, Webnet provides a solution for historic structures and sensitive architectural environments where traditional safety systems are simply not feasible.
Notre-Dame is an extreme example. But the underlying challenge — balancing code compliance with architectural sensitivity — shows up in projects of all scales: historic courthouses, adaptive reuse buildings, academic facilities, cultural institutions.
About Jakob USA: Part of the global Jakob Rope Systems network, Jakob USA has engineered and supplied stainless steel cable systems for architectural, safety, and green building applications across North America for over 50 years. Our Webnet transparent barrier systems—installed through our network of expert partners—protect visitors in the most demanding environments while preserving the views that make these destinations worth visiting.
