Scaffold planks are an integral part of the 3D framework as they provide a secure foothold for scaffolders at a specific height. It is artificial flooring with adequate thickness, good enough to support the ample weight of scaffolders and the scaffolding equipment.
Being an unavoidable scaffolding component at every construction site, scaffold planks have multiple advantages and are made from different materials. But one main factor that ensures the safety of the entire structure and scaffold users is the build quality and robustness of the scaffold planks.
Hence, in order to gauge the importance of scaffold planks and the best material for the same, continue reading.
The importance of scaffold planks in the construction industry
Every scaffolder relies heavily on the stable platform in the scaffold, which indeed, is provided by planks. The planks come with two basic components, i.e., planks and connecting pins. Evidently, scaffold planks are easy to fix and use. The additional importance of planks is–
- Complete accessibility
Construction is a challenging industry in which access to every component is essential. Scaffolding addresses the issue of inaccessibility by allowing workers uninterrupted access to the project site.
When the project is a large and tall building and support is essential, it is incredibly useful. As a result of the scaffold’s interconnected design, workers have full access to all areas of the structure for plastering, painting, and other tasks.
- Provide stability
In the construction industry, many precise tasks necessitate skill. Amazingly, a scaffold can provide the worker with stable footing while working, which is extremely beneficial. The scaffolding planks provide the workers with a level surface for balancing themselves in a variety of positions. It is essential because specific tasks necessitate particular positions, especially when the balance is involved.
Scaffolding eliminates awkward angles and positions the worker in front of the area being worked on. Additionally, scaffolding provides a much broader surface than a ladder, allowing multiple workers to perform their duties side-by-side without difficulty; this would be extremely difficult for two workers using ladders.
- Enhance safety
A scaffold with four or more anchor points on the ground is an exceptionally stable platform. On the stable platform, employees may sit, stand, or kneel. In addition, a scaffold is typically constructed from lightweight and durable materials such as aluminum, which makes it considerably more stable.
In contrast to working on a ladder step, workers can maintain their balance while performing their duties. Typically, a handrail is installed on scaffolding to prevent workers from falling from the top platform. In other words, scaffolding reduces the likelihood of workplace accidents.
- Works as a bridge
People on the construction site must frequently take multiple routes to reach different areas, which can be time-consuming and tiresome. Scaffold planks address this issue by providing multiple bridging points, thereby reducing the distance that individuals must traverse. In addition to saving energy and time, the bridging points simplify the task.
- Long-lasting
Rest assured that scaffolding typically has a lengthy lifespan. Many people do not use wood scaffold planks as frequently as they once did, but they are also durable and long-lasting. Nevertheless, steel is the best material for a scaffold’s durability. While standing on the scaffolding planks, workers will have both durable support and a high level of safety.
Types of scaffold planks
There are three types of planks, based on the materials used to build them.
- Steel scaffold planks
These are used as steel walkway planks in a scaffold’s framework. They are made of low-alloy standard steel, which makes them durable and reliable. Steel planks avoid the drawbacks of heavy water absorption and excessive slipperiness caused by rain on wooden planks.
Specifications for steel scaffold planks at Scaffold Supply:
- The planks are perforated to provide formidable slip resistance.
- They have a hot-dip galvanized finish and are CO2 arc-welded.
- They are compatible with cuplock and ringlock systems.
- Aluminum scaffold planks
These platforms are designed to assist scaffold users and their materials. It is constructed from durable material and has bolts and couplers with high tensile strength. They are lighter and more corrosion-resistant. The scaffold is equipped with side rails to prevent tools and debris from falling off.
Characteristics for aluminum scaffold planks at Scaffold Supply:
- Aluminum panels with a UV coating and complete fire resistance
- These planks have wind latches installed.
- The surface is designed for maximum traction.
- Compatible with both ringlock and cuplock scaffolding systems
- Wood scaffold planks
These are the standard scaffolding boards that span the sections and provide workers with a platform. In addition, they are doubled to provide increased support for heavy loads such as brick and mortar. These planks can also be adjusted to improve footing while lifting scaffolding components into place while scaffolding is being erected.
Characteristics for wood scaffold planks at Scaffold Supply
- OSHA-approved scaffold plank
- DI-65 Grade-stamped Southern Yellow Pine
- Edges are Clipped and Rodded
- Inspected and tested to meet or exceed OSHA 1910.28 and ANSI 10.8.5.1-3.2 standards for Dense Industrial-65 (SI-65) Scaffold Plank.
Final Thoughts
Scaffold planks are fitted to the scaffold framework to provide a stable platform for scaffold users and allow them access to heights above the ground level. These planks are used universally and for all types of construction work. They are assembled and disassembled with ease.
Looking at the above advantages, it is important to select a scaffolding plank manufacturer that delivers robust and OSHA-specified material. If you are looking for scaffold planks for sale or aluminum scaffold planks for sale, connect with Scaffolds Supply.
We manufacture robust and OSHA and ANSI-compliant scaffold planks. Book your free quote today.
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