A scaffold platform is 20 feet long and 5 feet wide. If the maximum intended load is 25 pounds per square foot, what is the total load capacity of this platform?
Correct Answer
C) 2,500 pounds
Platform area = 20 ft × 5 ft = 100 square feet. Total load capacity = 100 sq ft × 25 lbs/sq ft = 2,500 pounds. This calculation is essential for determining safe loading limits on scaffolds.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Option C is correct because the total load capacity is calculated by multiplying the platform area by the load per square foot. The platform area is 20 ft × 5 ft = 100 square feet. When multiplied by the maximum intended load of 25 pounds per square foot, the total capacity is 100 × 25 = 2,500 pounds. This is a fundamental calculation for scaffold safety and load distribution.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: 1,500 pounds
Option A (1,500 pounds) is incorrect because it appears to use an incorrect load factor of 15 lbs/sq ft instead of the given 25 lbs/sq ft (100 sq ft × 15 = 1,500).
Option B: 2,000 pounds
Option B (2,000 pounds) is incorrect because it uses an incorrect load factor of 20 lbs/sq ft instead of the specified 25 lbs/sq ft (100 sq ft × 20 = 2,000).
Option D: 3,000 pounds
Option D (3,000 pounds) is incorrect because it uses an excessive load factor of 30 lbs/sq ft instead of the given 25 lbs/sq ft (100 sq ft × 30 = 3,000).
Memory Technique
Remember 'ALF' - Area × Load Factor = Total capacity. Always find the area first, then multiply by the load rating given in the problem.
Reference Hint
Florida Building Code Chapter 33 - Safeguards During Construction, or OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L - Scaffolds
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