A new standard governing the testing and rating of scaffold boards has been formally approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), which is expected to enhance safety and consistency across the scaffolding, shoring, and formwork sectors in the United States.
The ANSI/SAIA A11.6-2025 standard, developed by the Scaffold & Access Industry Association (SAIA), will take effect from 1 May 2026. It outlines detailed methods for evaluating the performance of manufactured scaffold boards and decking products used in a wide range of temporary works applications.
The update marks the latest addition to a growing framework of standards maintained by the ASC A11 Committee, which oversees American National Standards for the design, manufacture, and testing of scaffold and access-related equipment.
Global Relevance in Scaffold Safety
Though ANSI standards are U.S.-based, their influence is often felt internationally, especially among manufacturers exporting to North America or adopting best practices. The new board rating standard is seen by many as part of a broader global push toward harmonised safety benchmarks in access systems.
Those interested in viewing or purchasing the full A11.6-2025 standard can do so via the SAIA’s online store.
Call for Volunteers
Alongside the announcement, SAIA is inviting stakeholders to join its ASC A11 Committee, with a particular need for members from the C-2 Users and C-3 General Interest categories.
The C-2 Users category includes end-users, distributors, and regulatory bodies, while the C-3 General Interest category is aimed at academics, safety professionals, government representatives, and other non-commercial participants.
Committee members play a key role in drafting and maintaining technical standards including:
A11.1 – Testing and Rating Scaffold Assemblies and Components
A11.2 – Shoring Equipment
A11.3 – Portable Rigging Devices for Suspended Scaffolds
A11.4 – Multiple Point Suspended Platforms
A11.5 – Concrete Formwork and Accessories
A11.6 – Scaffold Planks and Decks
A11.7 – Permanent Equipment
Interested parties are encouraged to contact [email protected] for more information on how to contribute.
