What is live load?

Live load refers to the dynamic and moving loads on a structure, such as people, furniture, vehicles, and machinery. These loads are temporary in nature and can vary in magnitude and location.

Live loads are important considerations in the design and construction of buildings, bridges, and other structures to ensure that they can safely support the anticipated use and occupancy. Engineers must calculate and account for the potential live loads on a structure to determine the appropriate size and strength of the materials used.

Building codes and standards typically provide guidelines for minimum live load requirements based on the intended use of a structure. For example, the live load requirements for a residential building will be lower than those for a commercial building or a bridge.

In addition to human occupancy, live loads can also include environmental factors such as wind, snow, and seismic forces that can have a dynamic impact on a structure. Properly accounting for live loads is essential to ensuring the safety and integrity of a structure over its lifespan.