Stairs must withstand 5 times the expected load, with a minimum of 1000 pounds.

Stairs must withstand 5 times the expected load, with a minimum of 1000 pounds.

• A. 2x
• B. 3x
• C. 4x
• D. 5x

Answer: (D)

Applying a safety factor to the design load is essential for stair safety. The requirement says stairs must withstand five times the expected load, with a minimum capacity of 1000 pounds. So the design goal is 5x the anticipated load, but you must guarantee at least 1000 pounds of capacity no matter what the expected load is. This means the multiplier should be five times; if the expected load is small, the minimum 1000 pounds still ensures a strong, safe stair, and if the expected load is larger, five times that load will exceed 1000 pounds. Lower multipliers (2x, 3x, or 4x) wouldn’t meet the stated standard.

Applying a safety factor to the design load is essential for stair safety. The requirement says stairs must withstand five times the expected load, with a minimum capacity of 1000 pounds. So the design goal is 5x the anticipated load, but you must guarantee at least 1000 pounds of capacity no matter what the expected load is. This means the multiplier should be five times; if the expected load is small, the minimum 1000 pounds still ensures a strong, safe stair, and if the expected load is larger, five times that load will exceed 1000 pounds. Lower multipliers (2x, 3x, or 4x) wouldn’t meet the stated standard.