A competent person finds a crack in a scaffold plank during daily inspection. What action should be taken?
Correct Answer
B) Immediately remove the defective plank from service
OSHA requires immediate removal of any defective scaffold components. Cracked planks present a serious fall hazard and must be removed from service immediately.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.451 requires immediate removal of any defective scaffold components from service. A cracked plank compromises structural integrity and creates an imminent fall hazard. The competent person must prioritize worker safety by removing the defective plank immediately, regardless of crack size or operational convenience. No exceptions are permitted for damaged scaffold planks.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Allow continued use if the crack is less than 6 inches long
OSHA does not allow any size crack in scaffold planks. Even small cracks can rapidly propagate under load, leading to catastrophic failure. There is no safe threshold for crack length - any visible crack requires immediate removal from service.
Option C: Reinforce the plank with additional support underneath
Reinforcing a cracked plank is not an acceptable repair method under OSHA standards. The structural integrity is already compromised, and additional support cannot restore the plank to safe working condition. Only complete replacement is permitted.
Option D: Mark the plank and continue using it until replacement is available
Marking and continuing use creates an ongoing safety hazard. OSHA requires immediate action when defects are discovered. Delayed replacement puts workers at risk and violates the competent person's duty to maintain safe working conditions.
Memory Technique
Remember 'CRACK = YANK' - any crack means you must yank (remove) the plank immediately. No cracks are acceptable on scaffolds.
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