Which type of load is not permanent and may change with use?

• A. Gravity loads
• B. Dead loads
• C. Lateral loads
• D. Live loads

Answer: (D)

Loads are categorized by how fixed or variable they are. Dead loads are the fixed weights of the structure itself and permanent finishes, so they don’t change. Live loads are the loads that come from occupants and furnishings and can change as a space is used—people move in and out, furniture is rearranged, and equipment is added or removed. Because these vary with use, they’re not permanent. Gravity loads is a broader category that includes both dead and live loads, so it’s less specific to the idea of change with use. Lateral loads come from wind or seismic forces and can fluctuate as conditions change, but they aren’t defined by use inside the space. So the option describing something that is not permanent and may change with use is live loads.