ANSI approves new scaffold plank standard

The Scaffold & Access Industry Association (SAIA) has announced that the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Board of Standards Review has officially approved ANSI/SAIA A11.6-2025, the latest standard for testing and rating scaffold planks. It takes effect May 1, 2026.

The standard provides methods for testing and rating the performance of planks and decks used in scaffolding, shoring and forming applications.

To learn more or purchase the ANSI/SAIA A11.6-2025 standard, visit the SAIA’s online store at https://shop.saiaonline.org/

Volunteers needed for writing A11 standards

The SAIA is also calling for volunteers to assist with writing standards for the ASC A11 Committee, which develops American National Standards for Design, Manufacturing and Performance Testing related to Scaffolding, Shoring and Forming Products and Related Components and Accessories.

Specifically, the ASC A11 Committee needs volunteers within the C-2 Users category. This category would be suitable for those who are predominantly interested in the use of the product, materials or services. This category includes consumers, customers of product producers, distributors, retailers, etc. and may include regulatory agencies, safety associations, certification agencies and other similar organizations.

Photo: Sunbelt Rentals Scaffolding

The Committee also needs volunteers within the C-3 General Interest category. This includes volunteers not associated with production, distribution or direct use of products, materials or services. This category typically includes professional and lay people employed by academic and scientific institutions, experts, government agencies, insurance companies, utilities, etc. Regulatory agencies, safety associations, certification agencies and similar organizations may belong in this category as opposed to the user category.

The ASC A11 manages and maintains the following standards:

• A11.1 (SC100) Standard for Testing and Rating Scaffold Assemblies and Components
• A11.2 (SH300) Standard for Testing & Rating Shoring Equipment
• A11.3 (SPS1.1) Standard Requirements and Test Methods for Testing and Rating Portable Rigging Devices for Suspended Scaffold
• A11.4 (SPS2.1 & SPS3.1) Standard Requirements for Testing and Rating Multiple Point Suspended Scaffold Platforms
• A11.5 (F400) Standard for Testing and Rating Vertical Concrete Formwork, Ties, and Accessories
• A11.6 (P500) Standard for Testing and Rating Manufactured Scaffold Planks and Decks
• A11.7 Standard for Testing and Rating Permanent Equipment

If you or any other person in your organization is interested in joining the ASC A11 Committee, please contact [email protected].