Scaffold Planking Grade
Scaffold planking grade is the regulatory specification of lumber grading, species, and size that ensures scaffold planks have sufficient structural capacity and quality. In BC, it requires lumber graded 'Number 2 or better' for specific species, with minimum dimensions like 38 mm × 235 mm for Select Structural grades, verified by NLGA grading and marking, and used within prescribed spans and duty ratings.
On a shop floor, scaffold planking grade is applied through selection, marking, inspection, and control of wood planks. Purchasing must specify correct grade and size per WorkSafeBC, such as Select Structural – Scaffold Plank. Planks must be grade-stamped and legible. Erectors match span and load to grade and size, ensuring platforms are fully planked with proper overhangs. Supervisors conduct pre-use inspections to identify damage, removing suspect planks. Integration into compliance systems like SafeDesk involves tagging planks as assets with grade, species, and jurisdictional compliance fields.
What is the difference between 'Select Structural – Scaffold Plank' and 'No. 2 and Better – Joists and Planks' in BC regulations?
'Select Structural – Scaffold Plank' is a higher-grade lumber category with tighter defect limits and higher allowable stresses, specifically for scaffold planking. 'No. 2 and Better – Joists and Planks' is a lower structural grade, requiring larger dimensions (48 mm × 251 mm) or double-planking (38 mm × 235 mm, stacked) for equivalent capacity at a 3 m span.
How do NLGA grading rules relate to scaffold planking grade in BC?
BC mandates that all lumber used for scaffolding be graded and marked to NLGA Standard Grading Rules. NLGA defines allowable defects, species grouping, and structural properties for grades like Select Structural and No. 2 & Better. WorkSafeBC's requirements are regulatory selections from NLGA grade classes, combined with minimum sizes and span/duty limits.
Does WorkSafeBC require a specific 'scaffold grade' stamp like Alberta does?
No, BC's Part 13 specifies 'Select Structural – Scaffold Plank' or equivalent NLGA grades, not 'scaffold grade' as in Alberta. Alberta requires planks to be graded as scaffold grade or better and stamped accordingly. In BC, compliance is indicated by an NLGA grade stamp matching permitted categories.