A design approach that accounts for the stochastic nature of structural loads, as well as the machining accuracy of fabricated homogenous beams, is presented. The approach is physically based (conceptual) and provides an alternative to theconventional (deterministic) method of structural design in which empirical factors are often employed. For any applied random load consisting of a spanning uniformly distributed load and / or an arbitrarily positioned point load, the minimumcross-sectional area of a supporting beam is sought for prescribed reliability criteria pertaining to stability and safety requirements. The governing equations are derived and a structured flowchart for its coding is presented.
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