Final answer:
Intermediate rails or balusters need to withstand a certain horizontal load to comply with safety standards, typically around 50 pounds over one square foot, to prevent structural failures or falls.
Step-by-step explanation:
Intermediate rails or balusters should be capable of withstanding a horizontal load is a requirement typically set forth by building codes and standards to ensure safety and structural integrity.
These components are part of the guard or handrail system in structures such as balconies, staircases, and decks. The actual loading requirement may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the type of structure.
However, a common requirement is for intermediate rails or balusters to withstand a load of 50 pounds exerted over an area of one square foot. This ensures that the railings can provide adequate resistance to forces that might be applied by individuals leaning or pushing against them, thereby preventing falls and injuries.
For example, if we consider a wall under construction being braced against a strong wind, calculations would need to be made to ensure that the force exerted by the wind can be adequately resisted by the bracing system. Similarly, this analogy applies to the purpose of designing intermediate rails or balusters to handle specific loads.