If joins in ledgers are incorrectly placed, what could potentially happen to the scaffold?

When joins in scaffolding ledgers are incorrectly placed, one of the primary risks is that it could affect the scaffold under load, potentially leading to failure. Proper positioning of the joins is critical for maintaining structural integrity, ensuring that weight is evenly distributed across the structure.

Incorrect joins can create weak points where the load may not be properly supported, leading to excessive stress on certain areas that were not designed to bear it. This misalignment can result in bending, buckling, or even collapse under the applied weight, particularly if there are heavy loads or dynamic forces at play, such as movement or wind.

The focus here is on the importance of strategic positioning of joins to promote stability and safety, underscoring why any errors in their placement can severely compromise both the scaffold's performance under load and the safety of those working on or around it.