How far should a 10-foot scaffold plank extend over its supports if not restrained from movement?

A 10-foot scaffold plank should extend a minimum of 6 inches over its supports if it is not restrained from movement. This extension is crucial for providing enough support to ensure stability and safety during use. The 6-inch overhang allows for adequate bearing on the support points while also preventing the plank from tipping or sliding off of the braces or ledges.

Allowing too little overhang can lead to unsafe conditions, such as insufficient support, instability, or potential accidents. On the other hand, exceeding the recommended overhang could create a risk of the plank being too easy to dislodge. Therefore, adhering to the 6-inch guideline ensures optimal balance between safety and effectiveness in scaffolding applications.