Masonry Magazine October 1998 Page. 22
# Manufactured Scaffold Plank
In addition to LVL scaffold plank, there are two other types of "manufactured" plank on the market today, glue-laminated plank and pinned lumber plank. The glue-laminated plank is comprised of 2x2 strips of wood which are bonded side-by-side with adhesive whereas the pinned plank is comprised of selected dimensional lumber that is fastened side-by-side with steel rods. Both products are also O.S.H.A. recognized and must be stamped accordingly. See figure #2 for details regarding "manufactured" scaffold plank.
# Plank Inspection and Care
Since you now have a better understanding of the various O.S.H.A. recognized wood planks available and how to identify them, it's time to outline exactly what the "competent person" should know about proper plank inspection and care. Scaffold plank takes a lot of abuse in the field so it is wise to inspect your plank periodically for signs of degradation.
Example of unacceptable split. Not repairable and plank must be discarded
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Common Signs of Plank Degradation
Splits are a separation of the wood parallel to the grain and typically on the plank ends. A split is usually caused by abusive handling and are more likely to occur if the plank is too dry-low moisture content. As a general rule, no more than one split is permitted at each end, it should not exceed 1/8 inch wide, and be no longer than 12 inches in length. Splits can possibly be repaired by banding the ends with steel straps specifically for plank. The best recommendation is to cut back the plank to eliminate the entire split, seal the end with acrylic paint and use the plank in question for shorter spans.
Saw kerfs are saw cuts across the face of the board, penetrating partially through the plank thickness. This most definitely reduces the plank strength directly proportionate to the depth of the cut. Saw kerfs are not repairable, but the plank can be cut back in length enough to eliminate the kerf and utilized for shorter spans.
Notches are cuts in a board that pass through the entire plank thickness and into the plank width. Notches definitely reduce plank strength around the immediate area of the notch and are not repairable. Either dispose of entire plank or cut notched portion out and utilize remaining for shorter spans.
Breaks are permanent fractures of the wood fiber and are not always visually detectable. They are usually caused by abusive handling such as dropping or overloading. Be especially weary of any plank that has been used as a ramp or mudsill, jumped on, or abruptly struck by an object. Periodic proof-loading at safe ground levels is advisable. Measure the amount of deflection and listen intensely for cracking noises. There is no repair for breaks and the entire plank should be disposed of immediately. If in doubt, throw it out!
Warping is the occurrence of board twist, crook, or cupping. May occur when plank moisture content deviates from the optimal 15% to 19%. There is no means of repairing twist or crook but cupping can be minimized by periodically flipping the plank to a crown-up position. Properly storing plank with spacers between rows will allow air to circulate within a bundle and minimize warping. Obviously, plank that are twisted or crooked should be removed from service to prevent potential tripping hazards.
Decay is the presence of mold or bacteria causing the wood fiber to breakdown and rot. Over-exposure to moisture without adequate air circulation will cause decay. Proper storage of your plank with spacers between rows will minimize potential of bacterial growth and prolong plank life. There is no means of repairing a decayed plank. It must be properly disposed of so it does not accidentally get mixed in with your good boards.