North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What is the required design live load minimum for the walking surface of a walkway?

1. 100 psi

2. 150 psi

3. 200 psi

4. 250 psi

The correct answer is: 150 psi

The required design live load minimum for the walking surface of a walkway in North Carolina is specified to be 150 pounds per square foot (psf). This standard is in place to ensure that walkways can safely accommodate the foot traffic and potential additional temporary loads. Walkways are often used by pedestrians who may carry various items, and it's important for the design to consider not just the typical weight of individuals but also variations in use. The value of 150 psf ensures a buffer for unexpected weight on the walkway, enhancing safety and minimizing the risk of structural failure. In contrast, other values such as 100 psi would not provide adequate support for typical uses, whereas 200 psi and 250 psi would exceed typical requirements, leading to unnecessary costs in materials or construction for most walkway scenarios. This standardization helps maintain a balance between safety, functionality, and practicality in construction.