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 2,000 pounds significantly overestimates the capacity, possibly using 80 square feet or a higher load rating than specified in the problem.
Option D: 2,000 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).
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
More Project Mgmt Questions
What is the minimum R-value required for wall insulation in Florida Climate Zone 2?
A subcontractor brings a new chemical product to your jobsite. Under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), what information must be immediately available to workers?
A construction site has a trench that is 8 feet deep in Type B soil. What is the maximum allowable slope ratio for the trench walls without protective systems?
What is the maximum recommended spacing between drywall screws when attaching to wood studs?
Your crew discovers suspected asbestos-containing materials during a renovation project. What is the first action you should take?
Which CSI MasterFormat Division would contain specifications for fire-stopping and firesafing materials?
In tilt-up concrete construction, what is the primary advantage of this method over conventional cast-in-place construction?
Which OSHA standard specifically addresses construction industry safety and health regulations?
A structural drawing shows a beam labeled 'W12x26'. What does the '26' represent?
An accessible parking space detail shows dimensions of 8 feet wide with a 5-foot access aisle. A van-accessible space is also required. What should be the width of the van-accessible space?
People Also Study
Business & Financial Management
120 questions · 70% to pass
Contract Administration
60 questions · 70% to pass
Related Study Resources
Previous Question
According to OSHA standards, at what height must fall protection be provided for workers on scaffolds?
Next Question
During plan review, you notice the accessible parking spaces are located 200 feet from the building entrance, but a shorter route exists through landscaping. According to ADA requirements, what action is required?