On a large bolted connection, which serves as an example, service loads, permitted strength values and safety values are interpreted statistically by means of a stochastic approach. The goal of the above efforts is to increase reliability of dimensioning, because the “service load” and fatigue behavior of the bolted connection can be described more realistically with the help of probability functions than when general limit values are observed. The above approach is demonstrated via a specific example and rounded off with TÜV SÜD's special risk assessment.