Cribbing generally has what load capacity per contact point?

The correct answer indicates that cribbing generally has a load capacity of 500 psi per contact point. This value is significant for rescue operations, particularly in structural collapse scenarios where understanding load-bearing capacities is critical for the safety of both rescuers and victims.

Cribbing is typically made from wood or other materials and is used to stabilize or support structures that might be in danger of collapsing. When determining how much weight a piece of cribbing can support at each point of contact, 500 psi serves as a standard figure that reflects the effective pressure the material can withstand without failure.

This standard helps rescue technicians make informed decisions about how to place cribbing for optimal stability and safety, ensuring that any additional loads placed on the structure don't exceed the cribbing's capacity. For example, understanding that a point of cribbing can safely handle 500 psi allows technicians to accurately assess how much weight can be supported from above, which is crucial in managing both static and dynamic loads encountered during a rescue.

While higher capacities exist in certain contexts, the specified 500 psi is a reliable benchmark that technicians can use across various scenarios, ensuring consistency and safety in rescue operations.