When using needles to support a cantilevered scaffold, what is the minimum inboard length of the needle?

The minimum inboard length of the needle to support a cantilevered scaffold must be at least three times the length of the outboard portion. This requirement is based on principles of structural stability and safety. The inboard portion of the needle provides necessary counterbalance and helps distribute the load effectively, reducing the risk of tipping or failure.

When the outboard portion of the needle extends beyond its support, having a sufficient inboard length is critical to ensure that the forces acting on the scaffold are managed appropriately. An inboard length that is three times the outboard length creates a safer margin for stability, which takes into account factors such as load distribution and potential for bending or shear stresses.

Insufficient inboard length could lead to increased risk, as the scaffold may not be adequately secured, compromising safety for workers using the scaffold. Therefore, adhering to this minimum ratio is essential for designing safe scaffolding systems that can handle the loads and forces involved.