A carpenter is setting up a series of 5.0 m tall timber shores for a suspended slab. What is the minimum recommended bracing configuration to ensure adequate stability for these shores, assuming standard timber dimensions?

Question: A carpenter is setting up a series of 5.0 m tall timber shores for a suspended slab. What is the minimum recommended bracing configuration to ensure adequate stability for these shores, assuming standard timber dimensions?

Answer options:

• Bracing only at the top of the shores. ✅ Diagonal bracing in both directions, at a maximum unbraced length of 2.0 m.
• Horizontal bracing at mid-height only.
• No bracing is required if the shores are plumb.

Correct answer: Diagonal bracing in both directions, at a maximum unbraced length of 2.0 m.

Explanation: For shores exceeding 3.0 m, CSA S269.3 requires diagonal bracing in both directions, with the unbraced length of the timber shore not exceeding 40 times its least dimension. A 2.0 m unbraced length is a common and safe practice for tall shores, providing sufficient lateral stability and preventing buckling, often resulting in multiple bracing levels.