4.3 Structural Loads
Design loads shall be in accordance with International
Building Code (IBC) except as noted:
Flexibility in the Use of Space: Since locations of
corridors are not always known until after the completion
of construction documents and are subject to change over
time, use a uniform live load of 3.8 kPa (80 pounds per
square foot) over the entire floor for all elevated slabs
unless the tabulated uniform live load required by the
International Building Code is higher than 80 psf. This
load includes .96 kPa (20 pounds per square foot) of
partitions, but excludes heavy loads like the planned use
of space saver file systems.
Do not use live load reductions for (1) horizontal framing
members, (2) transfer girders supporting columns, and
(3) columns or walls supporting the roofs where mechanical
equipment can be located. Live load reductions shall be
considered in the design of foundation members regard-
less of the restrictions placed on individual members.
Telecommunication Closets: Use 3.8 kPa (80 pounds
per square foot) minimum distributed live load capacity,
which exceeds the minimum live load capacity stated in
EIA/TIA Standard 569, standard part 7.2.3 of 2.4 kPa (50
pounds per square foot). Verify if any equipment will be
used that exceeds this floor load requirement.
Equipment Rooms for Telecommunication Equipment:
Floor loading capacity of telecommunication equipment
rooms shall be sufficient to bear both the distributed and
concentrated load of installed equipment. The EIA/TIA
Standard 569 prescribes a minimum live load capacity
for distributed loads of 12.0 kPA (250 pounds per square
foot) and a minimum concentrated live load of 4.5 kN
(1,000 pounds) over the area of greatest stress to be
specified.
National Building Museum, Washington, D.C.
111
STRUCTURAL
ENGINEERING
4.3
Structural Loads
Revised March 2005 PBS-P100
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