Coastal and Floodplain Construction Inspector's Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes the purpose of ASCE 24?

1. To regulate wind force on buildings

2. To provide guidelines for earthquake resilience

3. To set standards for flood-resistant design and construction

4. To outline materials testing procedures

The correct answer is: To set standards for flood-resistant design and construction

The purpose of ASCE 24 is to establish standards for flood-resistant design and construction. This standard is specifically aimed at minimizing the impacts of flooding on buildings and structures, ensuring they are built to withstand the pressures and potential damages caused by flood events. By setting forth these guidelines, ASCE 24 helps architects, engineers, and construction professionals create designs that enhance safety and protect properties in flood-prone areas. This is crucial in coastal and floodplain construction, where the risks associated with flooding are significantly heightened, thereby promoting resilience in infrastructure. In contrast, the other choices focus on unrelated aspects of engineering standards. Regulating wind force is addressed through different codes and standards, specifically related to wind load calculations. Guidelines for earthquake resilience fall under seismic design standards, which focus on how structures can perform during seismic events. Lastly, materials testing procedures are not the main focus of ASCE 24, as that addresses design criteria rather than how materials are evaluated. Thus, focusing on flood-resistant design is the essential function of ASCE 24, making it the correct answer.