What is the purpose of using cleating on sloping platforms?

Using cleating on sloping platforms primarily serves to prevent plank creep. When planks are used on an inclined surface, they can slide out of position due to gravitational forces, especially when weight is applied or if the surface is slick. Cleating refers to the installation of wooden or metal strips, known as cleats, that are affixed across the planks or along the edge of the platform. These cleats help to secure the planks in place, significantly reducing the risk of movement and maintaining the safety and integrity of the scaffold assembly.

The purpose of cleating is not related to comfort, as it does not add cushioning or softness to the platform. Similarly, while adding weight to a structure can sometimes affect stability, the main function of cleating is not to increase the weight of the platform. Decoration is also not a factor; cleating serves a functional and safety-related purpose rather than an aesthetic one.