Live Loads
Live loads refer to the temporary forces or weights that a structure must support during its use. These loads can vary significantly over time, as they include people, furniture, vehicles, and other movable objects. Unlike dead loads, which are constant and include the weight of the structure itself, live loads change based on occupancy and usage.
Engineers consider live loads when designing buildings, bridges, and other structures to ensure safety and stability. Building codes often specify minimum live load requirements for different types of structures, such as residential homes or commercial buildings, to account for potential variations in weight and distribution.