For a scaffold with a 5' x 7' base using a 4:1 ratio, what is the maximum allowable height of the first intermediate tie from the ground?

To determine the maximum allowable height for the first intermediate tie on a scaffold with a 5' x 7' base using a 4:1 ratio, it's essential to understand the scaffold stability requirements. The 4:1 ratio means that for every 1 foot of height, the scaffold must extend 4 feet horizontally to maintain stability.

In this case, the base width creates a necessary relationship between height and base dimensions. The maximum height can be calculated by multiplying the horizontal base width by the ratio. With a base dimension of 5 feet, the relevant calculation for the max height of the scaffold would be:

Height = Base Width x 4

Height = 5 feet x 4 = 20 feet

Since the 4:1 ratio informs how tall the scaffold can go before needing intermediate ties for additional support to prevent collapse, additional calculations must take into account the structure as a whole, including the overall height before ties need to be implemented.

For a scaffold of 5' x 7', if we are considering a standard height for the first tie which typically must be one-quarter of the height, the allowed height for the first intermediate tie would then logically support the calculation of being at a maximum height, typically consistent with