The number depends on platform length, board strength, permitted support spacing and expected load. Follow the board and trestle manufacturer information plus the temporary work design rather than using a fixed rule.
Stable Support for Temporary Work Platforms
Trestles provide paired support for temporary work platforms and for materials being cut or prepared. Their height, duty rating, spacing and compatibility with boards must suit the planned task. MacBlair includes them within the site equipment range, alongside access, handling and temporary power products used during construction work. They can create a useful working height, but only within a correctly planned platform arrangement.
Plan the complete platform rather than choosing supports alone. Confirm the number of trestles, permitted spacing, board dimensions, overlap and total distributed load using manufacturer information and the site assessment. Position every leg on firm, level ground. Uneven packing with bricks, blocks or offcuts can shift under load and must not be used to gain extra height. Check that boards sit squarely and cannot slide as people or materials move across them.
Trestles used as a working platform require suitable edge protection, access and controls for falls and falling objects. Keep boards restrained and avoid concentrated loads near unsupported spans. Do not climb the frame unless it is specifically designed as access equipment. For other work-at-height tasks, compare the ladder and access range with the method identified by the risk assessment. Changes in height or span require the layout and loading to be reassessed.
Inspect Trestles before assembly for bent frames, cracked welds, damaged feet and faulty adjustment pins or locks. Keep the platform clear of loose debris and stop work if the ground settles or components move. Store supports dry and secure during transport. Scaffold boards and netting must only be used within a correctly specified system. Never mix damaged, unknown or incompatible components simply to extend a platform.
Trestles FAQs
No. Loose packing can crush, shift or create an unstable base. Use equipment with an approved adjustment method or select the correct trestle height for firm, level ground.
Capacity varies by product and can also be limited by boards, spacing and the complete platform arrangement. Count people, tools and materials in the total load and stay within every component rating.
Fall protection requirements depend on the work-at-height assessment and platform design. Where a fall risk exists, provide the specified edge protection and safe access rather than relying on careful behaviour alone.
Inspect frames, welds, feet, pins, locks and adjustment points, then confirm the ground and board arrangement. Remove bent, cracked or incomplete equipment from use.