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Patent Searching and Data


Title:
IMPROVED PLANK
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2012/061889
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
The invention relates to an improved builder's plank, for use as a working platform, including a long body, having a first end, a second end, a substantially flat upper surface and a lower surface. The builder's plank also includes at least one conduit, formed in the body between the upper surface and the lower surface of the body enabling communication therethrough, and the or each conduit including a rigid tube and being adapted to receive at least one cable, chain, rope or the like therethrough. In use, the or each conduit can have one or more cable, chain, rope or the like passed through it, and around or through an object, and the builder's plank and the object are substantially attached together, as an anti-theft measure. The invention also relates to a method of use of the builder's plank to attach to an object, as an anti-theft measure.

Inventors:
FUNG NATHAN (AU)
FUNG RICHARD (AU)
Application Number:
PCT/AU2011/001450
Publication Date:
May 18, 2012
Filing Date:
November 10, 2011
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
FUNG NATHAN (AU)
FUNG RICHARD (AU)
International Classes:
E04G5/08; E05B73/00
Foreign References:
EP0250612A11988-01-07
US1737315A1929-11-26
US4366605A1983-01-04
US5882136A1999-03-16
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
PARISH, Tara Jane (Trade Marks & Designs1/68 Eyre Street,North War, Townsville Queensland 4810, AU)
Download PDF:
Claims:
1. An improved builder's plank, for use as a working platform, including: a long body, having a first end and a second end, and an upper surface and a lower surface, and the upper surface is a substantially flat surface on which a person can stand or walk during use as a working platform; and at least one conduit, formed in the body between the upper surface and the lower surface of the body enabling communication between the upper surface and the lower surface, the or each conduit including a rigid tube being adapted to receive at least one cable, chain, rope or the like therethrough, wherein, in use, the or each conduit including a rigid tube can have one or more cable, chain, rope or the like passed through it, and around or through an object, and the builder's plank and the object are substantially attached together, as an anti-theft measure.

2. The improved builder's plank of claim 1 , wherein the builder's plank is an extruded aluminium plank.

3. The improved builder's plank of claim 1 or 2, wherein the improved builder's plank creates a workers platform when supported between a pair of trestles, ladders or the like, or when supported by scaffolding.

4. The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the long body is substantially hollow.

5. The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the long body includes grooves to assist grip when walking or standing on the long body.

8. The improved builder's plank according to claim 5, wherein the grooves are longitudinal grooves, running substantially the length of the long body in the upper and or lower surface of the long body.

7. The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the or each rigid tube is welded into the long body,

8. The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the or each rigid tube has its ends flared and rolled out for a sealed finish.

9. The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the or each rigid tube is substantially cylindrical, square or rectangular in cross-section.

10. The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the cable, chain, rope or the like is chosen from the group: metal chain; cable lock; or anti-theft rope.

1 1 . The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the cable, chain, rope or the like is a U-shaped bent pole or D-lock which can be passed through a conduit including a rigid tube.

12. The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the cable, chain, rope or the like is a pole or post, and the pole or post can be passed through the conduit including a rigid tube or the conduit including a rigid tube can be passed onto the pole or post itself.

13. The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the or each cable, chain, rope or the like includes one or more lock, padlock or combination lock.

14. The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the object is a pair of trestles, or ladders or the like, or scaffolding and the builder's plank is attached to both of the trestles or ladders or the like, or to the scaffolding.

15. The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the object is a vehicle, building, construction or part thereof or is one or more other builder's planks .

16. The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the builder's plank including the or each conduit including a rigid tube is substantially sealed against corrosion.

17. The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein one or more handle is included.

18. The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the or each conduit is formed by one or more handle.

19. The improved builder's plank according to claims 17 or 18, wherein the handle is formed integrally with the long body.

20. The improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the builder's plank and the object are securely attached to one another.

21 . A method of attaching an improved builder's plank, for use as a workers platform, to an object, the method including the steps of: a) positioning the improved builder's plank proximal to the object; b) passing a cable, chain, rope or the like through of a conduit including a rigid tube of the improved builder's plank and around or through the object; and c) locking the cable, chain, rope or the like with a lock to attach the builder's plank to the object, wherein the builder's plank and the object are substantially securely attached together, as an anti-theft measure.

22. The method of claim 21 wherein the improved builder's plank is the improved builder's plank according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

23. An improved builder's plank substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any one of Figures 1 to 5.

24. A method of attaching a builder's plank to an object, substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any one of Figures 1 to 5.

Description:
The present invention relates to an improved builder's plank and in particular to an improved builder's plank that can be secured against theft,

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Aluminium planks, known as builder's planks, are a vital part of every modem works site, providing a working platform on which tradespeople can stand and work. The aluminium builder's planks are installed between two fixed structures such as two ladders, trestles or a scaffolding structure, to create the working platform. Without use of a working platform a person can only access a small area at a time, and is limited to balancing on a ladder and frying to hold the fools needed for the job. Use of a working platform enables the tradesperson, or home DIY person, to work comfortably, at an appropriate height, and to rest tools and equipment on the platform, within easy reach.

Builder's planks are usually made of extruded aluminium, have a hollow construction, and are generally rectangular in cross-section. The particular configuration of the extruded aluminium planks provides sufficient rigidity for the planks to be used as a working platform. Other materials, such as a single plank of wood or metal, are much too flexible to be used safely or efficiently as a workers platform. Wooden planks readily rot, split or otherwise deteriorate, whereas aluminium planks have a very long working life. Due to the specialised nature, and long life of the aluminium planks, these are an expensive item to buy. For a small or large business, purchase of the appropriate number of aluminium builder's planks is a significant investment, although a worthwhile one.

As the cost and value of the aluminium builder's planks has increased so has the incidence of theft and the strong desire in the industry to find a way to keep the aluminium builder's planks secure. The inventor is not aware of any successful means of securing the aluminium builder's planks being developed.

Most thefts of existing builder's planks are opportunistic, as the builder's planks are often left out in the open overnight, at work sites or loose in the back of a vehicle. It has long been desired by the industry to find a way to prevent theft of the aluminium builder's planks as they are a valuable commodity. There are considerable technical difficulties to be overcome in this regard, as the structural integrity of the builder's plank must also be maintained.

The inventor has ingeniously designed a surprisingly effective means of securing an aluminium builder's plank to scaffolding, trestles or ladders or the like, any other structure, a vehicle or to other planks.

Throughout the specification and claims, reference is made to builder's planks. Builder's planks are used in construction and by tradespeople such as painters, carpenters, decorators, electricians, plasterers or home DIY enthusiasts, to name but a few. It is not intended that the term builder's plank be limited to use of planks used in construction or by builders but to include other related trade or home uses.

Throughout the specification and claims the invention is described with respect to an improved aluminium builder's plank. The invention is particularly applicable and useful as an improved aluminium builder's plank, however the builder's plank may be any suitable builder's plank and is not limited to an aluminium builder's plank.

For clarity, any prior art referred to herein, does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in Australia or elsewhere. It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved builder's plank that at least ameliorates one or more of the aforementioned problems of the prior art.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, the present invention provides an improved builder's plank, for use as a working platform, including: a long body, having a first end and a second end, and an upper surface and a lower surface, and the upper surface is a substantially flat surface on which a person can stand or walk, during use as a working platform; and at least one conduit, formed in the body between the upper surface and the lower surface of the body enabling communication between the upper surface and the lower surface, the or each conduit including a rigid tube being adapted to receive at least one cable, chain, rope or the like therethrough, wherein, in use, the or each conduit including a rigid tube can have one or more cable, chain, rope or the like passed through it, and around or through an object, and the builder's plank and the object are substantially attached together, as an anti-theft measure.

Preferably, the builder's plank is an extruded aluminium builder's plank.

Preferably, the improved builder's plank creates a workers platform when supported between a pair of trestles, ladders or the like. Alternatively, the improved builder's plank may create a workers platform when supported by scaffolding. The improved builder's plank may be supported by any suitable structure to create a workers platform. A plurality of improved builder's planks may be used to create a workers platform of a greater length or width, as appropriate. The improved builder's plank may be used for any suitable purpose, including at ground level. Means may be used to maintain the improved builder's plank in position on the trestles, ladders or the like, or scaffolding. The means may be builder's plank clamps or similar.

Preferably, the long body is substantially rectangular. Preferably, the long body is substantially rectangular in cross-section. Preferably, the long body is substantially 3 metres in length. Preferably, the body is approximately 225 millimetres wide and 50 millimetres deep. Any suitable configuration of the long body may be used.

Preferably, the long body is substantially hollow. The long body may take any suitable form. The particular structure of the long body may be adapted to be rigid when used as a workers platform. In an alternative form of the invention the long body may be substantially solid. In another alternative form of the invention the improved builder's plank includes a plurality of short bodies attached together to form a long body, for use as a workers platform.

Preferably, the long body includes grooves to assist grip when walking or standing on the long body. Preferably, the grooves are longitudinal grooves running substantially the length of the long body. Preferably, the grooves are formed in the upper and or lower surface of the long body. The grooves may take any suitable form. The grooves are useful but may in an alternative form of the invention the grooves may be omitted. Alternative forms of assisting with grip on the upper surface of the builder's plank may be included, such as cross-hatching, a raised pattern, or width-way grooves. Additional materials may be included on the surface of the builder's plank such as a strip of non-slip rubber or the like.

Preferably, the upper surface and or the lower surface of the long body includes pattern or ornamentation. The upper and or lower surface may include a treated mill finish.

All kinds of people can use the improved builder's plank as a workers platform for all kinds of jobs. Workers platforms are used at building sites, at homes for smaller building or decorating jobs, and domestically. Preferably, the person is chosen from the group: builder; carpenter; decorator; DIY person; electrician; painter; or plasterer.

Preferably, the or each rigid tube is welded into the long body. Alternatively, each rigid tube has its ends flared and rolled out for a sealed finish. Preferably, the or each rigid tube is substantially cylindrical. In another form of the invention, the or each rigid tube is substantially square or rectangular in cross-section. Preferably, the or each rigid tube is fitted through a hole formed in and between the upper surface and the lower surface of the body. Preferably, the or each rigid tube is fitted flush with the corresponding holes formed in the upper surface and the lower surface of the long body. Most preferably, the or each conduit including a rigid tube is configured to avoid ingress of dirt or liquid into the long body of the builder's plank, which may lead to corrosion. Preferably, the or each conduit including a rigid tube is sealed against corrosion. Preferably, the builder's plank including the or each conduit including a rigid tube is sealed against corrosion. Preferably, the rigid tube is sealed into the conduit to prevent corrosion. Preferably, the conduit passes in a substantially straight line from the upper surface to the lower surface. In an alternative form of the invention, the conduit is angled between the upper surface and lower surface so that any water such as rain entering the conduit drains away.

Preferably, the cable, chain, rope or the like is a metal chain. Preferably, in one form of the invention the cable, chain, rope or the like is a cable lock. In another form of the invention, preferably the cable, chain, rope or the like is an anti-theft rope. In another form of the invention, preferably the cable, chain, rope or the like is a U-shaped bent pole or D~lock which can be passed through a conduit including a rigid tube. In yet another alternative form of the invention, the cable, chain, rope or the like is a pole or post and the pole or post can be passed through the conduit including a rigid tube or the conduit including a rigid tube can be passed onto the pole or post itself. In this form of the invention the pole or post may be attached to the ground and the ground may be the object to which the improved builder's plank is attached.

Preferably, the or each cable, chain, rope or the like includes one or more lock for locking the cable, chain, rope or the like to itself. Preferably, the lock is a padlock. Alternatively, the lock may be a combination lock. In a preferred form of the invention the cable, chain, rope or the like attaches to itself after being passed around or through the object whereby the builder's plank and object are attached together.

In a preferred form of the invention, the cable, chain, rope or the like is a cable lock and the lock is a combination lock and a free end of the cable lock is passed through a conduit and around or through the object and fitted into the combination lock and locked, as an anti-theft measure.

Preferably, there are a pair of conduits, one positioned towards either end of the long body and each conduit receives a cable, chain, rope or the like therethrough to attach the builder's plank to the object, as an anti-theft measure.

Preferably, in one use of the invention, the object is one or more other builder's planks. Most preferably, in this use of the invention, the object is a plurality of substantially identical builder's planks, attached together. In this form of the invention, preferably each builder's plank includes a conduit, one at either end and the conduits are lined up before a single cable, chain, rope or the like is passed through each of two sets of aligned conduits, whereby the builder's planks are attached together. Alternatively, more than one cable, chain, rope or the like can be used to attach the builder's planks together at each end.

Preferably, in an alternative use of the invention, the object is a pair of trestles or ladders, or the like, and the builder's plank is attached to both of the trestles or ladders, or the like. Preferably, in this form of the invention, the improved builder's plank is attached to the trestles or ladders or the like, during use as a workers platform. Preferably, the or each cable, chain, rope or the like is passed between the rungs of a trestle, ladder or the like and locked so that the builder's plank is attached to the trestle, ladder or the like. Preferably, in another use of the invention, the object is scaffolding. Preferably, in a different use of the invention, the object is a vehicle. Preferably, in yet another different use of the invention, the object is a building or construction, or part thereof. The object may be a structure attached to the ground. Preferably, in one form of the invention, the pole or post is fixed to the ground and the ground is the object to which the builder's plank is attached, by the pole or post, as an anti-theft measure.

Preferably, the attachment of the builder's plank to an object is a secure attachment. Preferably, the builder's plank and the object are securely attached to one another. For example, a key to a padlock or combination to a combination lock may be required in order that the cable, chain, rope or the like can be detached and so the builder's plank and object can be separated one from another.

In an alternative form of the invention, one or more handle may be included. The or each conduit may be formed by the one or more handle. The or each handle may be formed or attached at an end of the long body. Preferably, in this form of the invention the or each handle forms a conduit or aperture towards an end of the long body, and, in use, the or each conduit or aperture can have one or more cable, chain, rope or the like passed through it, and around or through an object, and the builder's plank and the object are substantially attached together, as an anti-theft measure. The handle may be riveted, screwed or welded to the long body. Or the handle may be formed integrally with the long body. There may be two handles, one at each end of the long body. Referring to the preferred form of the invention, preferably, the builder's plank is substantially sealed against corrosion. Preferably, the entire builder's plank including the or each conduit is sealed against corrosion.

Accordingly, a second form of the invention provides, an improved builder's plank, for use as a working platform, including: a long body, having a first end and a second end, and an upper surface and a lower surface, and the upper surface is a substantially flat surface on which a person can stand or walk during use as a working p!atform; and a pair of conduits, one formed towards each end of the body, each conduit including a cylindrical tube tightly fitted into a hole formed in the body in and between the upper surface and the lower surface of the body enabling communication between the upper surface and the lower surface, each conduit being adapted to receive a cable lock therethrough, wherein, in use, the or each conduit can have a free end of one or more cable lock, passed through it, and around or through an object, and the free end is locked to the other end, and the builder's plank and the object are substantially securely attached together, as an anti-theft measure.

The invention also provides a method of attaching an improved builder's plank, for use as a workers platform, to an object, the method including the steps of: a) positioning the improved builder's plank proximal to the object; b) passing a cable, chain, rope or the like through a rigid tube of a conduit of the improved builder's plank and around or through the object; and c) locking the cable, chain, rope or the like with a lock to attach the builder's plank to the object, and, wherein the builder's plank and the object are substantially securely attached together, as an ants-theft measure.

The improved builder's plank may be the improved builder's plank according the invention, including the second form of the invention.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The invention relates to a useful improved plank that can be manufactured for sale through the usual trade retailers, for use by builders and tradespeople.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described in connection with a non-limiting preferred embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a front perspective view of an improved builder's plank, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, between two trestles, and secured at each end thereto by a security chain;

Figure 2 is a plan view from above of the builder's plank of Figure 1 removed from the trestles and with the security chains also removed;

Figure 3 is a side view of the builder's plank of Figure 2;

Figure 4 is side view of the builder's plank of Figures 2 and 3, secured to 7 more identical builder's planks by a pair of security chains; and

Figure 5 is a side view the builder's plank of Figures 2 and 3 being transported by a vehicle and secured to the vehicle by a pair of security chains, one at the front and one at the back. Referring to Figures 1 to 5, a preferred embodiment of the invention will be described, where builder's plank 1 is shown having body 10, first end 12 and second end 14.

Builder's plank 1 is illustrated as an aluminium builder's plank, 3 metres long, 225 millimetres wide and 50 millimetres deep. As will be apparent to a person skilled in the art the particular dimensions of the builder's plank are particularly applicable for use as a working platform, but may be varied to suit other requirements. Builder's plank 1 , as illustrated, is formed of extruded aluminium and is hollow, to create a strong, rigid platform, in use. Builder's plank 1 may, in alternative forms of the invention, be made of other metals or materials as are suitable to being used as a workers platform. In another form of the invention, builder's plank 1 may be adapted for other uses, for example, for any use where a builder's plank is required and it is desirable to be able to secure the builder's plank.

Referring to Figure 1 in particular, builder's plank 1 is illustrated installed on trestles 16 and 18. To install builder's plank 1 , end 12 of body 10 is passed through trestle 16 to rest on rungs 20 and likewise end 14 of body 10 is passed through trestle 18 to rest on rungs 22. In this way a flat and stable working platform is created on which a tradesperson can stand, walk and work in the usual manner. Trestles 16 and 18 as illustrated are made of rigid aluminium but could be made of any suitable material.

Towards end 12 is tube 24, and towards end 14 is tube 26 fitted into holes 28 and 30, respectively as can be seen in Figure 2. Tube 24 is configured to fit tightly into hole 28 and is welded in place; similarly, tube 26 is welded tightly into hole 30. In an alternative construction, the ends of tubes 24 and 26 can be flared and rolled for a flush finish. Tube 24 in hole 28 is formed approximately 50 millimetres from the edge of first end 12, and similarly tube 26 in hole 30 is formed approximately 50 millimetres from the edge of second end 14. Use of tubes 24 and 26 in holes 28 and 30 has been carefully designed and developed so as not to reduce the ability of builder's plank 1 to perform as a strong, safe and rigid workers platform. It is known that a cylinder is one of the strongest forms of shape, as demonstrated by a person's weight being able to be supported on an empty drinks can. Use of tubes 24 and 26 is therefore extremely beneficial in actually strengthening builder's plank 1 while also allowing builder's plank 1 to be secured, see below. Tubes 24 and 26 are illustrated made of rigid aluminium welded into holes 28 and 30. Other materials such as steel could also be used for tubes 24 or 26, provided the material is strong and unlikely to fail during the life of builder's plank 1 , Holes 28 and 30 are formed during manufacture of builder's plank 1 as it is important that tubes 24 and 26 fit very tightly within holes 28 and 30 or are sealed so as not to allow material or liquid into body 10. Significant technical difficulties have to be overcome in order that holes 28 and 30 can be formed, and tubes 24 and 26 installed while maintaining the strength and integrity of builder's plank 1. Forming of holes 28 and 30 in an existing builder's plank 1 would be most unsatisfactory and the zinc or other coating to the material would be damaged which may allow corrosion of builder's plank 1. If the corrosion continues unchecked builder's plank 1 may become seriously damaged and dangerous. A person using builder's plank 1 at an elevated height may be caused to fall if there is an uneven edge due to the damage, for example, which may lead to injury or possibly death. Therefore, it is important that holes 28 and 30 and fitted tubes 24 and 26 are fitted and properly sealed at the time of manufacturing, to ensure integrity and longevity of builder's plank 1.

Each tube 24 and 26 can receive a cable, chain, pole, post, rope, U-shaped security lock or other security device therethrough, in order that builder's plank 1 can be attached to an object, in this case to trestle 16 or 18. Any suitable chain, rope, cable or the like may be used that can be passed through tubes 24 or 26. For example, as shown In Figure 1 , a free end (not labelled) of security chain 32 has been passed through tube 24 and looped through and between two rungs 20 of trestle 16 before being secured to lock 34. Similarly, security chain 36 has been passed through tube 26 and between two rungs 22 of trestle 18 and secured by lock 38. Locks 34 and 38 are shown as combination locks fitted to cable locks (security chains 32 and 36) but any other security device could be used, such as a standard chain and padlock arrangement.

Use of security chains 32 and 36 and locks 34 and 38 is a significant improvement to the security of the builder's plank 1. A potential thief will need to take not just the readily moved builder's plank 1 but also the two trestles 16 and 18 as they are all secured together. Each of builder's plank 1 , trestle 16 or 18 can be fitted easily into the back of a van, for example, as individual items but together this is much more difficult. The securing of builder's plank 1 to trestles 16 and 18 makes it much less attractive and more difficult to steal builder's plank 1 , or in fact either trestle 16 or 18.

In another use of the invention, trestles 16 and 18 can be replaced by scaffolding or similar, or another structure. In other uses of the invention, builder's plank 1 can be used in a domestic setting on standard ladders or other supports as can be found about the house. In each of these uses of the invention, security chains 32 and 36 can be locked to a conveniently placed fixed object and locked using locks 34 and 38, as appropriate.

As illustrated there are two holes 28 and 30 for tubes 24 and 26. In another form of the invention more holes and corresponding tubes could be used as appropriate to secure builder's plank 1 for a particular purpose. For example, two holes may be formed at either end of builder's plank 1 , or additional holes may be formed in body 10 to enable builder's plank 1 to secured at an additional point to a fixed object. These additional holes may be formed at any point along the length of body 10 including centrally. There is a limitation on the number of holes to be used in order that the rigid, strong function as a workers platform can be maintained. Optionally, holes 28 and 30 may be formed by handles formed or attached on the ends of body 10. In this form of the invention security chains 32 and 36 would pass through the apertures formed by the handles and secure builder's plank 1 to the object in this way.

Grooves 40 are formed in builder's plank 1 during manufacture to assist grip when standing or walking on builder's plank 1 in use as a working platform. Grooves 40 are useful during wet weather or when dirt or other material collects underfoot, which may cause builder's plank 1 to become slippery and dangerous. The particular number and arrangement of grooves 40 may be varied as deemed suitable for the particular use of builder's plank 1 , or grooves 40 may, in another form of the invention be omitted.

Figure 4 illustrates a further feature of the preferred embodiment of the invention. Builder's plank 1 is attached to 7 identical builder's planks, also labelled 1 by securing chain 32 with lock 34, and security chain 36 with lock 38. Each of builder's planks 1 are positioned one on top of the other so that first ends 12 and tubes 26 approximately line up, creating a common conduit for receipt of security chain 36. A free end (not labelled) of security chain 32 is fed through the aligned tubes 26 and secured by lock 34 so that each of the 8 builder's planks 1 are attached and secured one to the other. Each of the second ends 14 of the 8 builder's planks 1 are also positioned one on top of the other so that tubes 28 approximately line up, creating a common conduit for receipt of security chain 36. Again a free end (not labelled) of security chain 36 is fed through the aligned tubes 28 and secured by lock 38. In this way both first ends 12 and second ends 14 of the 8 builder's planks are secured together. If a potential thief wants to steal one builder's plank 1 , it will not be easily done and to steal all 8 will be heavy and awkward. In turn security chain 32 or 36 can be further looped around a fixed object or pole to increase protection for builder's planks 1 . Referring to Figure 5, a further significant advantage of the preferred embodiment of the invention is illustrated, where builder's plank 1 can be secured to a vehicle 42. Builder's plank 1 can be secured to vehicle 42 in the same manner as for the previously described uses. Builder's plank 1 is positioned on the top of vehicle 42 for transportation, in Figure 5 vehicle 42 can be seen to include two carrying points 44 and 46 one at the back of vehicle 42 and one at the front, adapted to carry long articles. Builder's plank 1 is positioned to balance on carrying points 44 and 46 and a free end (not labelled) of security chain 32 is fed through the tube 28 of builder's plank 1 , around a part of vehicle 42 and secured by lock 34. Then, a free end (not labelled) of security chain 36 is fed through tube 28, through a suitable part of the front of vehicle 42 and secured by lock 38. Tradespeople such as painters and builders need to transport their equipment for day to day use in their vehicle 42. When travelling vehicle 42 may be parked for a time, with some of the equipment in the back. The equipment is an invitation to thieves to help themselves unless secured. Securing builder's plank 1 front and back to vehicle 42 greatly increases the security of builder's plank 1 , and would significantly slow down any potential thief as both the front and back security chains 32 and 36 would need to be disabled before builder's plank 1 could be removed.

Use of builder's plank 1 according to the invention with security chains 32 and 36 and locks 34 and 38 is a vast improvement to use of an ordinary builder's plank. For decades it has been a serious problem for tradespeople in particular to secure their tools and equipment. For larger, valuable items such as an aluminium builder's plank these do not fit in the cab of a ute or car and so cannot be locked away. Typically the aluminium builder's plank lies loose in the back of a vehicle, or on a trestle or scaffold, or simply lying on the ground ready for use. The temptation to a would be thief is great when no means of security is used. Of course, a hardy thief with all the right tools and a big truck would not be deterred. However, most thefts from building sites and other worksites are not planned, they are opportunistic. A valuable commodity such as an aluminium builder's plank is seen to be just lying about, and will be quietly disappeared. Therefore, use of the invention to secure one or more builder's plank to an object by attaching them together will prevent most casual thieves from stealing the builder's plank, and the functionality and longevity of the builder's plank is not unduly effected. Being able to attach the builder's plank to an object and secure it provides a massive benefit to prevent opportunistic theft and give peace of mind when builder's plank 1 is in use, being transported or stored for later use. it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that changes may be made to the embodiment disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention in its various aspects.