What is the minimum design load per rung?

• A. 750 pounds
• B. 250 pounds
• C. 1000 pounds
• D. 500 pounds

Answer: (D)

Ladders and aerial devices are built to support a defined minimum load per rung to keep users safe during ascent and work, accounting for a firefighter plus gear and the extra forces that occur when stepping or moving. The required minimum design load per rung is 500 pounds, which covers a typical firefighter wearing turnout gear plus equipment and provides a margin for dynamic loads. A lower value, like 250 pounds, wouldn’t reliably accommodate a single occupant with gear and transient forces, while higher values such as 750 or 1000 pounds exceed the minimum requirement but aren’t necessary for compliance.