Scaffolding is an essential material in almost any large scale construction project and the boards used are among the key components of any scaffolding structure. They provide a working surface and can be positioned at varying heights, such that the user is provided stable and varied access to the exterior of a building during construction.
Scaffolding boards
Traditionally, boards are made from solid planks of wood, often a soft wood such as European Whitewood. In order for this to be durable and long lasting, it needs to be dried out and seasoned. Furthermore, if the board is being used in an outdoor area which is particularly exposed to rain and moisture, the wood is often required to be treated to prevent any rot or softening setting in.
The board ends are protected by metal plates called hoop irons or sometimes called nail plates. These add extra strength to the board. The inward pressure prevents the board from splitting and the metal plate itself protects the end of the board from damage and wear and tear.
Size
The main thing to think about when buying boards is the size of the board required in terms of length, width and thickness. The length of a board is largely dependent on the frame you have chosen to use. The boards should be long enough so that they comfortably cover the area between the frames. Boards can vary in thickness and are usually available in 38 mm, 50 mm and 63 mm. The thickness does not make a huge amount of difference to the job, but thicker boards last longer and are generally less likely to warp. Thicker boards are generally heavier and more cumbersome when it comes to storage. The width of a board is also worth considering and it is largely dependent upon the amount of room the scaffolding user requires to maneuver around the construction area.
The toe board is the working board and must also be accompanied by a guard rail to prevent any construction workers from falling from the scaffold. Most boards are 225mm in width. Although wider boards are available, extra space for construction workers can be made by adding an extra board, parallel to the toe board and effectively doubling the working area.
Security
Boards and planks don’t necessarily need to be secured because their weight generally makes them sturdy. However, in order to minimise risk on a construction site, it is important to consider securing the boards using putlog clips, lashing them to the scaffolding with rope, or even clamping them down with another piece of tubing running perpendicular to the boards. Securing the boards will prevent accidents from board slippage or even boards being blown off the structure during very high winds.
