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Scaffolding is a temporary structure used at every construction site to support a work crew and provide access to construction projects. Workers tend to climb the scaffold in order to access higher heights and accomplish tasks. They stand on a platform that supports their weight and the weight of their tools.
The scaffolding accessories used for this support are the planks. These planks are temporary platforms installed at work sites, and they are mounted on supports. They should be made from quality materials, as they serve as workstations on which workers rely. The aluminum scaffolding planks should be made of high-quality materials to ensure the complete safety and load-bearing capacity of the scaffold.
In this article, we shall assess the importance of quality scaffolding boards.
What are scaffolding planks and why are they important?
Planks are most commonly used to create a sturdy platform for working at high heights, such as building and inspection sites. They are used as platforms and are available in single- and double-sided varieties. There are retractable models with adjustable board lengths as well as fixed-length models with fixed lengths. The type that is most suited to the construction site can be chosen.
The most prevalent materials are aluminum and steel, and non-skid surface treatments are often used. Connecting single pipes and struts using clamps and joint brackets is important to fix scaffolding boards. When choosing and erecting scaffolding planks, users should consider the total length and breadth of the plank, as well as whether its maximum working weight will be sufficient.
A scaffold plank should-
- Be even and uniform in thickness
- Be fixed precisely and secured properly
- Have no cracks
- Be slip-resistant
- Be fixed in a position with no gaps in between the planks
- Not be exceeded with load limits
Why is the quality of scaffolding planks important?
Scaffolds are meant to hold huge loads. Hence, it is important that they must be robust, dependable, and secure.
1. Scaffolding planks provide support
Planks provide support and a secure foothold for employees. Thus, to ensure safety, the material used should be thick enough and adequately strong to support the entire weight of employees and tools carried. The uneven surfaces should be removed. In the event of any gaps, those should be filled with infill planks to ensure further stability and safety.
2. Precisely adjoint planks
All the planks are to be leveled. An inclined platform is unlikely, especially when the supporting frame is cleverly elevated. A leveling check is recommended in case of any setup error. This check can be done in two stages-
a. Inspection of the tower for orientation
b. Inspection of each plank for quality and fixtures
3. Platform spacing
Planks are placed on top of the panels. The planks are slip-resistant. This makes them safe enough to access people and tools. Care should be taken while fitting planks; i.e., there should be no gaps in between the two planks.
OSHA quality standards for scaffolding planks
OSHA regulations specify and address information for scaffolding accessories. Below are the specifications for scaffolding planks for sale.
1. Scaffold planks must be lumber grading
Scaffold-grade lumber is designed to resist stresses that standard construction-grade wood cannot (which is only two-thirds the capacity of scaffold-grade). Using construction-grade timber on a scaffold platform is not only against OSHA rules but is also a risky practice that might lead to a fatal occurrence.
2. Wood condition
Cracks, splits, and notches will appear as the wood matures and reacts to use. These will vary in severity according to the weights carried by a plank, the weather it has been exposed to, how long it has been in use, and so on.
3. Scaffolding planks should not be painted
Aluminum Scaffold planks with accumulated layers of paint, plaster, etc. are not authorized to stay in service since their condition cannot be determined. Under these coverings, dangerous splits may be masked.
Final Word
Scaffolding planks, being the support for employees, should be properly maintained and detected. This will provide a fruitful environment for them to access greater heights.
AAIT Scaffold provides best-in-class aluminum scaffold planks, wooden planks, and steel scaffold planks for sale. We ensure that all the guidelines are followed during the manufacturing process to provide safe access to heights.
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