Common Engineering Terms and Safety Factors for Scaffolding, Shoring, and Forming

This document explains commonly used engineering and material design terms—including ultimate strength, yield strength, and safety factors—as they apply to scaffolding, shoring, and forming equipment. It provides practical examples to clarify how loads are tested, how allowable working loads are established, and how safety factors vary by equipment type and regulatory standard. The guidance helps industry professionals better understand load ratings, compliance expectations, and the role of ANSI, OSHA, CSA, and other standards in safe equipment design and use.