Which term describes the property of a structural system that provides alternative load paths if one member fails?

• A. Rehabilitation
• B. Redundancy
• C. Relief
• D. Resurfacing

Answer: (B)

Redundancy is the ability of a structural system to carry loads even if some member or connection fails, by having extra members or alternative paths for the forces. This means that when one element is compromised, the remaining parts can redistribute the loads and keep the structure behaving safely instead of collapsing. It’s a deliberate design feature to improve reliability and prevent progressive collapse, especially in bridges and frames where continuous service is critical.

The other terms don’t describe this inherent load-path capability. Rehabilitation refers to repairing or upgrading existing members, not the presence of multiple load paths. Relief isn’t a standard term for structural load distribution, and resurfacing deals with applying a new surface layer, not the structural load-sharing mechanism.