Masonry Magazine April 2012 Page. 19
Masonry: Can you offer information about scaffold plank evaluation and visual inspection? What are the most common damages seen during visual inspection of scaffold plank?
Jared Kennison: All legitimate scaffold plank suppliers offer inspection and storage information that widely adopted in the industry. The most common damage or "caused defect" seen today is end splits. This is when the end separates over time, due to abuse or wet/dry exposure. If the length of the end split exceeds the width of the piece, the contractor should cut back the plank to a shorter length or take it out of service.
It is very important to inspect your scaffold planks routinely for all types of damage or abuse. This must be done by a "qualified" or "competent" person. OSHA Safety and Health Standards and Scaffold Industry Association defines "qualified person" as one who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate or professional standing or by extensive knowledge training and experience, has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work or the project. The Scaffold and Access Industry Association (SAIA) makes a Solid Sawn and LVL Pocket Hand Book that is an excellent reference for inspection and storage. Bottom line: When in doubt, throw it out.
Visual inspection, proper handling and storage are the best ways of ensuring safe performance of D1-65 and Laminated scaffold planks. Following are other things to look for.
End splits: These are separations that extend through the plank from face to face. If the length of an end split exceeds the width of the plank, cut back the plank, or remove the plank from service. (Fig. 6)
Saw cuts, drilled holes and notches: Saw cuts, drilled holes or notches will reduce the plank's load-carrying capacity. These planks should be removed from service and inspected by a qualified person. (Fig. 7)
Edge splits: A separation of the narrow edge of the plank usually is caused by forklift damage. If an open split is detected, remove the plank from service. (Fig. 8)
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April 2012
MASONRY 17