A debris containment system includes channel units that are configured to attach to perimeter structural members of the building (e.g., vertical columns and/or horizontal beams) and extend outward from the perimeter of the building. Channel units can be produced in any length or lengths needed for a given application. These channel units are used to lift and support barrier members (e.g., nets, tarps, canvas/fabric, or other barrier members) to create barriers along the perimeter of the building. Importantly, these channel units are generally attached directly or indirectly (e.g., via temporary vertical members) to structures that will remain on the building (e.g., structural columns and beams of the building) as opposed to being used with separate framing structures erected outside of the building perimeter, although in some exemplary embodiments, channel units can be used on structures erected outside of the perimeter of the building.