Scaffolding planks consist of long wood boards that are laid over the sections of scaffolding to provide workers with a place to stand and to work from. Unlike a purpose-built scaffold work plank, these planks don’t connect to the framework for the scaffolding. Initially, the timber plank is transported up the scaffolding sections by workers . They are then put on the sections of the scaffolding to allow workers to stand when assembling their scaffolding. In most cases, the planks will be simply raised section-by-section during the process of erecting the scaffolding, instead of putting them across the entire scaffolding tower.
The use of wood scaffolding planks is common for two reasons. They are strong and easily stack during transport. The principal reason why many scaffolding rental companies use wooden planks for their scaffolding is because they are much less costly than an aluminum specially-built work platform. Some employees prefer using planks as aluminum platforms are often slick and slide over the tubing that’s made of steel on the scaffold sections. The planks made of wood also soak in moisture, while aluminum versions tend to collect the rainwater, which can result in an unsafe slip-risk.
Numerous accidents could happen If the scaffolding structure was not stabilized properly.
Sometimes, the wood planks are doubled to give more support to heavy work materials such as brick and mortar. The overhanging ends of planks are also a good place for putting up materials and equipment while the aluminum platforms are directly at the edge of the scaffold. Another reason why some workers are more inclined to option of using the planks instead of those of those made from aluminum platforms is their tendency of the platform to adhere on the scaffold. The platforms can get stuck when the scaffold has twisted or shifted even a little, requiring the platforms to be pried and smashed out of the way at breakdown time, whereas the planks are simply lifted off of the sections.
The utilization of scaffolding planks does not just saves time, however, it also saves money. It generally provides the same level of safety as the purpose-built platforms. They are simple to move around while building the scaffolding. This provides an improved or better foundation while trying to elevate the scaffolding sections in place. In certain circumstances workers may actually outfit the working section of scaffolds with both an aluminum platform as well as scaffolding planks. The work materials are typically put on the platform due to its sides that stop the materials from accidentally falling off of the scaffold as the workers perform jobs from the scaffolding planks.
What You Should Know Concerning Wood Scaffold Plank
In accordance with the guidelines of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the contractor is responsible to ensure the safety of scaffolding — even if it’s rented, even if the equipment is defective or not properly labeled. OSHA has strict requirements for the performance of scaffold planking.
it must be able to support its own weight as well as at least four times the intended weight. It must be able to support its own weight and at least four times the intended.
When fully loaded, the plank will not allow more than 1/60 of the span
Planks of solid-sawn wood used for scaffold planking need to be inspected and evaluated by a certified inspector. Manufactured planks can also be used and can be used in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer. If you follow the guidelines that OSHA recommends for you, you’ll get through your safety check (assuming the boards are in good working order). If you decide to use another wood for planking it is possible that you will need to demonstrate that they meet the performance requirements. Another reason to follow the OSHA suggestions on scaffold planking is the safety of your workers. There are many alternatives to solid-sawn planks of wood: manufactured (or engineered) lumber planks, aluminum or steel planks, and platforms. This article focuses upon engineered wood planks. Manufactured wood scaffolds are available in three varieties:
Laminated veneer lumber
Glued laminated lumber (glulam)
Pinned planks
Engineered wood planks have grown popularity over the past few years due to a variety of advantages over solid sawn:
Longevity
Stiffness and strength
Certification
Cost
The scaffolding system is only as secure as its components. The selection of planks, their maintenance and storage are crucial. Regular inspection of the planks by a professional is an OSHA standard. The majority of scaffolding is rented. Manufacturers are the best source of information regarding engineered planks. This article also offers details about laminated lumber and a chart comparing characteristics of different manufacturers plans for scaffolding.
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