A nylon line is rated at 15,000 lbs. breaking strain. Using a safety factor of 5, what is the safe working load (SWL)?
Official USCG Answer & Rule Citation
Correct Answer: Option A — 3,000 lbs
Applying the standard engineering formula for rigging, the Safe Working Load is determined by dividing the breaking strain by the safety factor. Dividing 15,000 lbs by 5 yields 3,000 lbs. This provides the necessary margin of safety required for lifting operations under standard maritime safety protocols.
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