Scaffold Plank

Side Story:
Evaluation and Visual Inspection

John Warlikowski
Western Sales Representative
Kennison Forest Products, Inc.

Prior to use, each scaffold plank should be inspected by a qualified person*. Visual inspection, proper handling and storage are the best ways of ensuring safe performance of DI-65 and laminated scaffold planks. Any planks exhibiting any of the following signs should be removed from service and inspected more thoroughly by a qualified person*:

	END SPLITS: A separation that extends through the plank from face to face. If an end split exceeds 18" remove the plank from service.
	SAW CUTS, DRILLED HOLES AND NOTCHES: Saw cuts, drilled holes or notches will reduce the plank's load-carrying capacity.
	EDGE SPLITS: A separation of the narrow edge of the plank usually caused by forklift damage.
	DENTS, GOUGES AND DEPRESSIONS: Dents may reflect internal structural damage.
	FACE BREAKS: Irregular cracks across the face of the scaffold plank. Usually a result of overloading, face cracks dramatically reduce the strength of the plank.
	OTHER PHYSICAL SIGNS: Discoloration, odor and/or soft spongy wood.

Remember to immediately remove damaged scaffold planks from service. Damaged planks may result in injury or death.

This information is provided as a service by Kennison Forest Products. For additional safety information or training, contact Jared Kennison, toll-free, at (888) 697-5585.

*"Qualified person," as defined in OSHA Safety and Health Standards and by the Scaffold Industry Association, means 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.