Scaffold planks should extend past their end supports a MINIMUM of ________ inch(es).

Scaffold planks should extend past their end supports a MINIMUM of ________ inch(es).

• A. 1
• B. 2
• C. 4
• D. 6

Answer: (D)

Extending scaffold planks a minimum distance past the end supports is a safety measure to keep the plank securely seated on the supports. When the plank overhangs by six inches, there’s enough bearing on the end supports to resist movement and slippage as workers step on and off or as loads shift. Shorter overhangs—such as one, two, or four inches—increase the risk that the plank edge could lift or slip, leading to a fall. So the minimum required extension is six inches. For context, many guidelines allow a range (about six to twelve inches) to balance safety with practicality, but six inches is the minimum.

Extending scaffold planks a minimum distance past the end supports is a safety measure to keep the plank securely seated on the supports. When the plank overhangs by six inches, there’s enough bearing on the end supports to resist movement and slippage as workers step on and off or as loads shift. Shorter overhangs—such as one, two, or four inches—increase the risk that the plank edge could lift or slip, leading to a fall. So the minimum required extension is six inches. For context, many guidelines allow a range (about six to twelve inches) to balance safety with practicality, but six inches is the minimum.