No matter what kind of planks you choose, such as the aluminum scaffolding planks, please remember that the scaffold system should be under the same safety conditions as that of its components. Planks are outstandingly more critical and should be selected and maintained with care in mind. A regular inspection of the planks by your competent personnel is an essential requirement.

For the plank which is not on the scaffold, you must stack them properly. Stack them off the ground in layers separated by lath. Cover the top and sides with plastic, leaving the ends open to allow for air circulation. Excessive water content will reduce the strength of any plank, so it’s important to minimize their exposure to water. Don’t leave them in stagnant water.

Some manufacturers can roughen, or abrade, the plank’s surface, decreasing slipperiness in wet conditions. About 50 percent of our sales have abraded surfaces and most people like it, but there are some traders who don’t like it because it’s harder to clean—plasterers for instance.

Treatment with a fire retardant is also available but is always used around shipyards where there is a lot of welding. Most masonry contractors need to rent scaffolding and scaffold plank for some of the time. Overall, about 70% of scaffolding is rented. The manufacturers are the best resources of information over engineered planks.