What does the term "live load" refer to in building design?

The term "live load" specifically refers to the weight of occupants, furniture, and movable items within a building. In building design, live loads are dynamic and can vary over time as people and items move in and out of the space. These loads are crucial for structural engineering because they influence how a building must be designed to ensure safety and stability under changing conditions.

Live loads are different from dead loads, which pertain to the permanent weight of the building materials and the structure itself. Understanding the distinction between these types of loads helps engineers accurately calculate the required strength and support for various components of a building. Other factors, such as snow loads or equipment weight, fall into different categories like environmental loads or dead loads, further highlighting why live load is defined as the variable weight from occupants and movable objects.