What is the minimum thickness of clear blue lake ice required to operate a truck with a GVW of 3200kg?

• A. 15cm
• B. 20cm
• C. 25cm
• D. 30cm

Answer: (C)

To determine the minimum thickness of clear blue lake ice necessary to safely operate a truck with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 3200 kg, it is crucial to reference guidelines and safety standards established for ice load-bearing capacities. Clear blue ice typically has a higher load-bearing capacity compared to other types of ice, such as white or cloudy ice.

For a vehicle of this weight, a thickness of 25 cm (or 10 inches) of clear blue lake ice is widely recognized as the minimum requirement. This measurement ensures that the ice can adequately support the weight of the truck without the risk of breaking through. Safety guidelines often suggest that both the ice's thickness and its quality significantly influence its ability to bear weight.

Choosing a thickness lower than 25 cm for such a vehicle would increase the risk of ice failure, potentially leading to dangerous situations. The recommendation is made to ensure safe travel on ice-covered surfaces, particularly in recreational contexts or when using ice roads. Thus, a minimum thickness of 25 cm provides a safety margin while allowing for variations in ice conditions and ensuring compliance with safe operational practices on ice.