A scaffold platform is 12 feet long and 5 feet wide. If the maximum load capacity is 25 pounds per square foot, what is the total weight capacity of this platform?
Correct Answer
B) 1,500 pounds
Platform area = 12 ft × 5 ft = 60 square feet. Total capacity = 60 sq ft × 25 lbs/sq ft = 1,500 pounds total weight capacity.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
To find the total weight capacity of a scaffold platform, you must first calculate the total area by multiplying length times width (12 ft × 5 ft = 60 sq ft). Then multiply this area by the maximum load capacity per square foot (60 sq ft × 25 lbs/sq ft = 1,500 pounds). This gives you the total distributed load capacity that the platform can safely support. The calculation follows the basic principle that load capacity equals area times load per unit area.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: 1,200 pounds
This answer of 1,200 pounds appears to use an incorrect area calculation, possibly using 48 square feet instead of the correct 60 square feet (48 × 25 = 1,200).
Option C: 1,800 pounds
This answer of 1,800 pounds uses an incorrect load capacity, possibly 30 lbs/sq ft instead of the given 25 lbs/sq ft (60 × 30 = 1,800).
Option D: 2,000 pounds
This answer of 2,000 pounds significantly overestimates the capacity, possibly using 80 square feet or a higher load rating than specified in the problem.
Memory Technique
Remember 'LWL' - Length times Width times Load per square foot. Think 'Low Weight Limit' to remember you're calculating maximum safe capacity.
Reference Hint
OSHA Construction Standards 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L - Scaffolds, or Florida Building Code Chapter 33 - Safeguards During Construction
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