What kind of load does a live load refer to when considering building design?

A live load refers specifically to the dynamic weights that are not fixed to a structure, meaning they can vary over time. This category predominantly includes the weight of occupants, furniture, and any movable objects within a building. Understanding live loads is crucial in building design because they represent the fluctuating nature of usage, including people moving in and out, furniture being rearranged, or even transient loads like temporary storage.

In contrast, fixed weights, such as structural components or installed building features, fall under the category of dead loads, which are static and constant. Environmental weights, such as snow accumulation or rainwater, are considered separately as they are categorized as environmental loads or imposed loads. Permanent components of a building are also not classified as live loads since they do not vary and are integral to the structure's overall design stability.

By accurately accounting for live loads, engineers and architects can create safer buildings that can accommodate varying levels of occupancy and usage without compromising structural integrity.