ICC Commercial Building Inspector Practice Test

What is the minimum uniformly distributed live load a bowling alley must be designed for?

1. 50 psf

2. 60 psf

3. 75 psf

4. 100 psf

The correct answer is: 75 psf

The minimum uniformly distributed live load that a bowling alley must be designed for is typically set at 75 psf, which corresponds to common building codes and standards established by organizations such as the International Code Council (ICC). This load value accounts for the dynamic nature of bowling activities, considering both the weight of the participants and the equipment involved, such as bowling balls and pins. Bowling alleys also experience high foot traffic and may require additional considerations for safety and structural integrity. The 75 psf value is designed to ensure that the structure can handle not just the static loads, but also the dynamic loads that occur during play. It provides a margin of safety to accommodate the various activities and states of occupancy within the facility, ensuring compliance with the safety requirements expected in public recreation spaces. In deciding the minimum load for specific buildings and spaces, codes are periodically reviewed and updated, which is critical for structural safety and durability.