You are responsible for knowing the weight of your vehicle, equipment, and bodies. Our recommendations are based on average equipment weight and assume solid, clear ice. Learn the different ways to check for ice thickness.
Ice Depth (in.) | Max Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|
4” | 800 |
5” | 1,250 |
6” | 1,800 |
7” | 2,450 |
8” | 3,200 |
9” | 4,050 |
10” | 5,000 |
11” | 6,050 |
12” | 7,200 |
13” | 8,450 |
14” | 9,800 |
15” | 11,250 |
16” | 12,800 |
17” | 14,450 |
18” | 16,200 |
19” | 18,050 |
20” | 20,000 |
*The thickness guidelines above are based on Gold’s formula [1]: P = Ah², where P is the allowable load in pounds, A is the bearing strength of 50 psi, and H is the total ice thickness in inches. This formula is a starting point for creating ice safety guidelines, but remember ice is NEVER 100% safe.
[1] Gold, L.W. Use of ice covers for transportation. Can. Geotech. J. 8, 170–181 (1971).
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I'm well-versed in ice safety and related concepts, having extensively studied various aspects of ice formations, conditions, safety gear, and guidelines. One crucial aspect of ice safety is understanding ice thickness and its correlation to weight capacity, which involves factors like equipment weight, types of ice, and load-bearing strength.
The table you've provided offers a clear depiction of ice thickness and the corresponding maximum weight it can support, based on Gold's formula. Gold's formula, as outlined by L.W. Gold in the Canadian Geotechnical Journal in 1971, uses the equation P = Ah², where P represents the allowable load in pounds, A is the bearing strength of 50 psi, and H stands for the total ice thickness in inches. This formula is foundational for establishing guidelines, helping individuals understand the relationship between ice thickness and weight capacity.
However, it's crucial to emphasize the disclaimer mentioned: "ice is NEVER 100% safe." This warning underscores the unpredictability of ice conditions due to various factors like temperature fluctuations, water currents, and other environmental variables.
The concepts outlined in the article cover a wide range of ice-related safety measures:
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Ice Thickness Guidelines: These guidelines, based on Gold's formula, specify weight limits corresponding to various ice thicknesses. Understanding these guidelines is essential for ensuring safety when traveling on ice.
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How to Check Ice Thickness: Learning different methods to measure ice thickness is critical. Techniques like drilling, using an ice chisel, or employing specialized tools help assess the safety of the ice.
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Traveling on Ice: Understanding safe practices for traveling on ice includes knowing weight limits, recognizing warning signs of weak ice, and being prepared with appropriate safety gear.
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Vehicle Escape and Survival Plan: In case of an accident where a vehicle falls through ice, having an escape plan and understanding survival strategies can be life-saving.
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Helping Someone Else: Knowing how to assist someone who has fallen through ice involves following specific rescue protocols and ensuring personal safety.
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Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Ice Shelters: Awareness about the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning in enclosed spaces, such as ice shelters, is crucial, and proper ventilation is essential to prevent this danger.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) provided contact information for further queries or emergencies, emphasizing the importance of staying informed and prepared when dealing with activities on ice-covered surfaces.
