Construction work requires safety, which is what scaffolding planks are made for. These are long wooden boards, which workers stand on and work from. However, you must ensure that the scaffolding planks are constructed of quality wood, such as the 2200F MSR 1.8E Solid Sawn Scaffold Plank that Kennison Forest Products distribute.
Using scaffolding planks that ensure safe working conditions throughout your project is only practical. That’s why compliance with OSHA Regulations is necessary. For instance, it correctly supports your workers and their equipment while working. It also keeps them safe and away from accidents.
Understanding the Basics of Scaffolding Planks
Scaffolding planks are used mainly for two reasons, to provide support due to their strength, and they easily stack during transport. These are an ideal option since they’re cost-effective compared to aluminum scaffoldings. Workers also prefer these since they’re not slippery, especially in high areas where they can easily fall.
That said, understanding the basics of scaffolding planks is necessary to help you while searching for a reliable distributor.
What are the Standard Width & Length of Scaffold Planks?
Scaffold planks are typically available in lengths up to 13 ft. However, it’s worth noting that scaffolding planks 13 ft. and above are ideal for more significant projects or scaffolding structures.
But what is the minimum size for scaffold planks? Planks ten ft. and below are suitable for DIY projects. There are available in 5 ft., six ft., eight ft., and 10 ft.
But when it comes to how much weight can a scaffold plank hold, it depends on the rated load capacity of the scaffolding plank.
- Light-duty: Per square foot is 25 pounds rated load capacity
- Medium-duty: 50 pounds per square foot rate load capacity
- Heavy-duty: 75 pounds maximum capacity per square foot
- One person: 250 pounds placed at the center of the span
- Two-person: 250 pounds placed 18 inches to the left and right of the span’s center or 500 pounds total
- Three-person: 250 pounds placed at the span’s center and 250 pounds placed 18 inches to the left and right of the span’s center, or 750 pounds total
Meanwhile, what is the minimum width of a scaffold plank? OSHA states it must be at least 18 inches (46 cm) wide. It’s also the standard width of scaffolding planks provided by most manufacturers.
Scaffold Planks for Outside Use
If you’re wondering, “are scaffolding planks treated?” the answer is yes. Without proper treatment, they rot faster, especially when exposed to intermittent weather constantly. However, the type of treatment depends on the supplier, as well as its intended use.
Furthermore, it isn’t a mandatory rule to have them treated. But to enhance their performance and ensure longevity, treating them may be necessary. So if you’re only using them indoors, it’s okay not to treat them anymore.
What Wood is Scaffold Planks Made of?
In terms of the type of wood, scaffold planks are made out of two kinds. The first one is solid-sawn planks, which are made from Southern Pine. A great example is the 2200F MSR 1.8E Solid Sawn Scaffold Plank. However, they can also be made from Douglas fir.
On the other hand, Laminate veneer lumber (LVL) planks are made from layers of wood bonded together using exterior-grade adhesive. So you can choose from these two, both of which Kennison Forest Products offer.
Let Kennison Forest Products Handle All Your Scaffolding Needs
Choosing a reliable distributor is key if you’re working on a project where scaffolding planks are necessary. And one of them is Kennison Forest Products. We can handle all your scaffolding needs, and you can choose from MSR Solid Sawn Scaffold Plank or SURE-LAM LVL.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact us today. You may also request a quote, and we’ll find the best solution to meet your expectations.