What does the rated capacity define?

• A. The maximum water capacity of the device's waterway
• B. The internal hydraulic oil temperature limit
• C. The total weight of personnel and equipment that may be supported at the outermost rung of an aerial ladder or platform with the waterway not charged
• D. The maximum reach of the device

Answer: (C)

Rated capacity is the maximum safe load the aerial device can support at its working end. It is defined as the total weight of personnel and equipment that may be supported at the outermost rung of an aerial ladder or platform with the waterway not charged. This limit helps ensure the ladder or bucket remains stable and structurally sound during operation. Other specs—such as how much water can flow through the waterway, the hydraulic oil temperature limit, or how far the device can reach—describe different performance aspects and do not define the rated load.