[SML] Loading Bridge design...

[Matthew Breton]

Maybe the difference is between what they feel is required by code (ie, the minimum permissible) versus the actual load it needs to support?  20psf seems ridiculously low, especially when a loading gallery for a theater is likely to be holding around 10 tons of counterweight.

Given the dimensions of a steel counterweight (6" x 13" x 2") — two across and two high would be somewhere around 200 lbs/s.f., no?  (Plus two burly stagehands....)


Matthew Breton  |   he, him, his
Design for Theater and Dance
________________________________
From: Stagecraft <stagecraft-bounces at theatrical.net> on behalf of Will Leonard via Stagecraft <stagecraft at theatrical.net>
Sent: Monday, June 2, 2025 11:10 AM
To: stagecraft at theatrical.net <stagecraft at theatrical.net>
Cc: Will Leonard <will at istudioprojects.com>
Subject: [SML] Loading Bridge design...

Howdy,

We are doing an install on a building that was built in 1976 & I need some information from the experts on the List:

 With this project, we are having to work with an Architectural Firm who has no theater experience. We are having to explain to them how things are actually work/are used, which is not a problem because this is very common as we deal with remodels, etc.

However, they are trying to tell us that the loading bridge is only designed for a Live Load of 20psf. This means that 1- we cannot build a scaffolding to reinforce the head steel (as they are requiring) but also that 2- the bridge cannot have the stage weights stacked on it as it was (& has been since the building first opened).

What I am looking for is if someone can quote (or direct me to where I can find) documentation that the building codes of the 1970s required Live Load ratings (150 psf? like the stage floor). I don't want the client to not be able to use their newly installed counterweight system because of incorrect information, so I reach out to the group to see if I am crazy.

Let me know what you think (dangerous request I know) ;)
- Will Leonard
Design Manager
C: 281-752-1060



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