Visual Strength Grading - Softwood

£1190 + VAT
£1070 + VAT (TRADA members)

Duration - 5 days


A practical five-day course to grade softwood to the visual strength grades set out in BS 4978: 2007+A1:2011 'Specification for visual grading of softwood'.
Visual Strength Grading - Softwood
Return the booking form or contact us on: courses@exova.com 
+44 (0)1494 569 750
  • 19-23 February 2018 at The Horse Trust, Speen
  • 23-27 April 2018 at The Horse Trust, Speen
  • 18-22 June 2018 at The Horse Trust, Speen
  • 24-28 September 2018 at The Horse Trust, Speen
  • 12-16 November 2018 at The Horse Trust, Speen
Course details

You should attend this course if:

  • you are involved in the selection and supply of softwood for structural use

Course content:


Through classroom based interactive learning, practical days spent in the timber yard and a practical examination, this course will provide delegates with:
  • an introduction to timber, including the uses of strength graded timber
  • the meaning of strength classes, an explanation of strength grading and the
  • marking systems
  • an understanding of the responsibilities of the grader and the grading company
  • an introduction to the natural growth characteristics of wood using hand held samples
  • practical exercises grading lengths of softwood timber.

The course also includes:

  • practical exercises
  • a written test.
Pre-course requirements
During the course, 3m lengths of timber will be handled on a daily basis. Please ensure all delegates bring suitable clothing such as Hi-Vis vest/jacket and protective safety/footwear. Delegates must also be aware of the correct manual handling techniques.
Contact us
e: courses@exova.com
+44 (0)1494 569 750
Visual Strength Grading - Softwood

Phil O'Leary

In-situ strength grading expert

Senior Technical Consultant

View profile
Information library
Visit our technical library to discover factsheets and technical information sheets on a range of subjects.
Browse library
Terms & conditions
Training booking terms and conditions
Find out more