A scaffold platform is 32 feet long and 7 feet wide, supporting 4 workers and materials. What is the maximum uniform load this platform can support according to OSHA standards?
Correct Answer
C) 75 psf (16,800 lbs total)
OSHA requires scaffolds to support at least 75 psf for working loads. With a platform area of 224 square feet (32 × 7), the maximum capacity would be 16,800 pounds total.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.451(f)(15) requires scaffolds to be designed to support at least 75 pounds per square foot (psf) for working loads. The platform area is calculated as 32 feet × 7 feet = 224 square feet. Multiplying 224 square feet by 75 psf gives a total maximum capacity of 16,800 pounds. This standard ensures adequate safety margin for workers, tools, and materials on scaffold platforms.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: 25 psf (5,600 lbs total)
25 psf is far below OSHA requirements and would be dangerously inadequate for scaffold loading with workers and materials.
Option B: 50 psf (11,200 lbs total)
50 psf is still below the minimum OSHA requirement of 75 psf for scaffold working loads.
Option D: 100 psf (22,400 lbs total)
100 psf exceeds the minimum OSHA requirement, and while scaffolds may be designed for higher loads, the standard minimum is 75 psf.
Memory Technique
Remember '75 PSF' as 'Seventy-Five Pounds Safe Foundation' - the minimum load requirement that keeps scaffold workers safe
Reference Hint
OSHA Construction Standards 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L - Scaffolds, specifically section 1926.451(f)(15)
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