load and resistance factor design

Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) is a method used in engineering, particularly in civil and structural engineering, to ensure that structures are safe and reliable. It involves applying factors to both the loads (forces acting on a structure) and the resistance (strength of the materials used) to account for uncertainties. By increasing the loads to their worst-case scenarios and reducing the material strengths to account for imperfections, engineers can design structures that are not only strong enough to handle expected conditions but also safer against unexpected events. It balances safety with efficient use of materials.