Scaffolding planks are used to make platforms that are safe to walk on. These planks are different than regular boards and can even be made from metals such as aluminium for increased safety. Using these planks correctly and knowing which type best suits your needs will ensure you are confident when working on scaffolding.
Wood Scaffolding Planks
Wooden scaffolding planks are among the most affordable and durable for the job. Each board is specially treated to resist water damage and damage from chemicals, such as paint thinner, that may be used in the workplace. These boards are also often pressed with new technology to ensure greater safety even with a heavy load on the scaffold.
Wooden scaffolding boards are tested for safety. All scaffolding planks should be straight and smooth since knots and other natural flaws can cause the board to be weaker than those that are solid wood. Each wooden plank will also have some information stamped on the board that shows the date that the plank was tested for safety. There will also be some markings that identify the board as a scaffolding plank to assist you in choosing the right boards for your scaffold platform.
Evaluating Wooden Planks
Wooden planks can become damaged when in regular use. There are some signs to look for when using wooden scaffolding planks that indicate you may need to make a replacement. Some common signs that your wooden scaffolding platform needs to be replaced include:
- Any visible holes that come from working with power tools, such as deep gashes from power saws or holes from drills.
- Any visible staining from chemicals indicated a need to replace the plank. Chemicals can easily degrade the wooden plank and you may not notice anything other than a stain from the chemical before the plank breaks.
- Splits that are noticeable near the ends of the planks. Evaluate the plank with a tool to determine the depth of the split. You may be able to cut the damage section off if the gash is deeper than one-half of the width of the plank.
- If your scaffolding planks have become soft then you will need to replace them immediately. This is a sign of rot that can lead to falls.
- Any splitting or splintering along the length of the platform needs to be replaced. Face breaks are commonly hard to see unless the platform is being used. If you notice any sagging or splintering you should replace the boards immediately.
- Depressions from objects, such as dents from hammers, require an evaluation of the plank. Some dents may require replacing the board.
Prolonging Use
There are some simple things that you can do to protect your wooden scaffolding boards. For instance, when storing the boards you should stack them with space in between each board to promote air circulation and avoid storing wet planks for long periods of time. With proper use and storage techniques your scaffolding planks can last for much longer periods of time. Your boards should be handled carefully and not thrown or jumped on to preserve their integrity.
You may also want to limit the amount of weight on your scaffolding planks to the recommended weight by using hoists to move materials as needed. You can limit the weight on the scaffold platform by using minimal tools and keeping the workers on the platform limited to one or two. The size of your platform will determine its weight capacity. Storing your planks correctly and using them correctly is the best way to extend the life of your platform boards.
Metal Scaffold Boards
Metal is a great option if you are looking for a long-lasting alternative to wooden scaffolding planks. Metals such as aluminium are often used for scaffold platforms. The metal is corrugated along the walking surface to provide more friction for people and supplies and also features hooks that connect the plank to the frame of the scaffold for greater security. These planks are slightly more costly but are worth the investment if you use scaffolding regularly at work.
Metal scaffolding planks should also be treated carefully to preserve the integrity of the plank. The metal can bend if there is too much weight on the platform and care should be taken when hauling and moving the planks to avoid damage. The hooks on the end should also be protected from damage. There are strict guidelines on the maintenance of all planks used for scaffolding platforms. These regulations can help you prevent an injury by showing you how to care for and when to replace your planks.
One of the main benefits of choosing metal scaffolding planks is that the materials often last much longer than wooden planks. Since wooden planks must use the best wood to maintain their soundness you may find it is costly to replace these wooden boards over time. Metals don’t easily succumb to damage and can be used for a longer length of time than wood if cared for properly. Wood still has some advantages over metal, but if you need a long term product that doesn’t need to be replaced often then you may find that metal is your best option.
Buying Scaffolding Boards
Over time you may find that you need to purchase scaffolding planks several times. Working on your scaffold platform will naturally put stress on your platform boards even if you follow all the precautions necessary. You can choose scaffolding boards from wood if you like the natural friction that wood provides for your workers or you can opt for aluminum if you have found your line of work is too harsh for wooden planks.
These options give you the best of both worlds. Many people choose both aluminium and wooden scaffolding planks that can be used in different situations. There are many ways to ensure your scaffolding boards will last for many months to come without needing to replace them but if you do then there are some great options available.
