What does safety factor mean in construction?
Short definition
A safety factor compares the strength of a material or system to the load it is expected to carry.
Longer explanation
Higher safety factors give more margin between expected use and failure, especially for temporary work, lifting, scaffolds, and structural supports.
Example in context
“The project team reviewed the safety factor during the construction phase.”
Common users
- Owners
- Architects
- Contractors
- Construction managers