OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewScaffoldsMedium
A scaffold is being erected on a construction site. The scaffold components are designed to support a working load of 750 pounds. According to OSHA, what is the minimum load capacity this scaffold *must* be capable of supporting without failure?
- A750 pounds
- B3000 pounds
- C1500 pounds
- D2250 pounds
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 3000 pounds
OSHA requires that scaffolds and scaffold components must be capable of supporting, without failure, at least four times the maximum intended load. For a 750-pound working load, this means 750 lbs * 4 = 3000 lbs.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 750 pounds is the intended working load, not the minimum required capacity.
- C. 1500 pounds is twice the intended load, which is insufficient.
- D. 2250 pounds is three times the intended load, which is insufficient.
Scaffold Load Capacity
Scaffolds and their components must be designed and constructed to safely support significantly more than their maximum intended working load.
- Must support at least four times the maximum intended load.
- This factor of safety accounts for dynamic loads, material degradation, and unforeseen stresses.
- Applies to all structural components, including planks, frames, and connections.
Memory trick: Four Times the Load, For Your Safety.