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 DRAFT FOR DEVELOPMENT DD ENV
1991-2-1:1996

Eurocode 1: Basis of
design and actions on
structures
Part 2.1: Actions on structures
Densities, self-weight and imposed
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

loads

(together with United Kingdom

National Application Document)

ICS 91.040
 DD ENV 1991-2-1:1996

Committees responsible for this

Draft for Development

The preparation of this Draft for Development was entrusted by Technical

Committee B/525, Building and civil engineering structures, to Subcommittee
B/525/1, Actions (loadings) and basis of design, upon which the following bodies
were represented:

British Constructional Steelwork Association

British Iron and Steel Producers Association
British Masonry Society
Concrete Society
Department of the Environment (Building Research Establishment)
Department of the Environment (Property and Buildings Directorate)
Highways Agency
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

Institution of Structural Engineers

National House Building Council
Royal Institute of British Architects
Steel Construction Institute

This Draft for Development,

having been prepared under the
direction of the Sector Board for
Building and Civil Engineering,
was published under the
authority of the Standards
Board and comes Amendments issued since publication
into effect on
15 October 1996 Amd. No. Date Comments
BSI 03-2000

The following BSI reference

relates to the work on this
Draft for Development:
Committee reference B/525/1

ISBN 0 580 25849 1

 DD ENV 1991-2-1:1996

Contents

Page
Committees responsible Inside front cover
National foreword ii
Text of National Application Document v
Foreword 2
Text of ENV 1991-2-1 5
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BSI 03-2000 i
 DD ENV 1991-2-1:1996

National foreword

This Draft for Development was prepared by Subcommittee B/525/1 and is the
English language version of ENV 1991-2-1:1995 Basis of design and actions on
structures Part 2.1: Actions on structures Densities, self-weight and imposed
loads, published by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN).
ENV 1991-2-1 results from a programme of work sponsored by the European
Commission to make available a common set of rules for the design of building
and civil engineering works. The full range of codes covers the basis of design and
actions, the design of structures in concrete, steel, composite construction,
aluminium, timber and masonry, and geotechnics and seismic design.
This publication is not to be regarded as a British Standard.
An ENV is made available for provisional application, but does not have the
status of a European Standard. The aim is to use the experience gained to modify
the ENV so that it can be adopted as a European Standard.
The values for certain parameters in the ENV Eurocodes may be set by individual
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

CEN members so as to meet the requirements of national regulations. These

parameters are designated by in the ENV.
During the ENV period reference should be made to the supporting documents
listed in the National Application Document (NAD).
The purpose of the NAD is to provide essential information, particularly in
relation to safety, to enable the ENV to be used for the design of buildings and
civil engineering works to be constructed in the UK. The requirements of the
NAD take precedence over corresponding provisions in the ENV.
Although the 1996 edition of BS 6399-1 is based on the Eurocode format for the
classification of loads according to use, the British Standard has several distinct
sub-categories within each Eurocode category, each usually assigned different
load requirements. This more detailed British Standard specification results in a
number of different loads defining current UK practice, rather than the single
value quoted for the equivalent wider Eurocode category. To ensure safety and
economy in line with current UK practice, in determining UK load values for this
NAD, the current requirements of the British Standard have been included for as
many specific uses as is practical. However, as a move towards harmonization,
ENV values which have only a minor difference from the equivalent British
Standard value have been accepted without amendment through this NAD.
Users of this document are invited to comment on its technical content, ease of
use and any ambiguities and anomalies. These comments will be taken into
account when preparing the UK national response to CEN on the question of
whether the ENV can be converted to an EN.
Comments should be sent in writing to the Secretary of B/525/1, BSI, British
Standards House, 389 Chiswick High Road, London W4 4AL, quoting the
document reference, the relevant clause and, where possible, a proposed revision
by February 1997. Comments after such time will still be possible through
corporate bodies, such as engineering institutions.

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i to x,
the ENV title page, pages 2 to 23 and a back cover.
This standard has been updated (see copyright date) and may have had
amendments incorporated. This will be indicated in the amendment table on the
inside front cover.

ii BSI 03-2000
 DD ENV 1991-2-1:1996

National Application
Document
for use in the UK with
ENV 1991-2-1:1995
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

BSI 03-2000 iii

 DD ENV 1991-2-1:1996

Contents of National Application Document

Page
Introduction v
1 Scope v
2 References v
3 Use in design v
4 Additional recommendations vi
Table 1 Imposed loads on floors in buildings vii
Table 2 Imposed loads on garages and vehicle traffic areas viii
Table 3 Imposed loads on roofs viii
Table 4 Horizontal loads on partition walls and barriers due to persons viii
Table 5 References in ENV 1991-2-1 ix
List of references x
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iv BSI 03-2000
 DD ENV 1991-2-1:1996

Introduction
This National Application Document (NAD) has been prepared by Subcommittee B/525/1. It has been
developed from the following:
a) a textual examination of ENV 1991-2-1;
b) a parametric calibration against BS 6399-1, BS 6399-3 and BS 648.

1 Scope
This NAD provides information to enable ENV 1991-2-1 to be used for the structural and geotechnical
design of buildings and civil engineering works to be constructed in the United Kingdom.

2 References
2.1 Normative references
This National Application Document incorporates, by reference, provisions from specific editions of other
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

publications. These normative references are cited at the appropriate points in the text and the
publications are listed on page ix. Subsequent amendments to, or revisions of, any of these publications
apply to this National Application Document only when incorporated in it by updating or revision.
2.2 Informative references
This National Application Document refers to other publications that provide information or guidance.
Editions of these publications current at the time of issue of this standard are listed on page ix, but
reference should be made to the latest editions.

3 Use in design
Except as noted in this NAD, the values given in ENV 1991-2-1 may be used on the structural and
geotechnical design of buildings and civil engineering works to be constructed in the United Kingdom.
3.1 Densities of building materials and stored materials
The values for densities of building materials and stored materials should be those given in
Table 4.1 to Table 4.8 of ENV 1991-2-1:1995, except:
Replace the following values in Table 4.1 to be compatible with BS EN 338.
Class C14 C16 C18 C22 C24 C27 C30 C35 C40 D50 D60 D70
3,5 3,7 3,8 4,1 4,2 4,5 4,6 4,8 5,0 7,8 8,4 10,8
3.2 Self-weight of construction elements
Clause 5.3.3.1 (2)
The following values shall be used in 5.3.3.1 (2) if no specific information is provided on ballast depth.
Nominal total depth = 0,50 m
Maximum total depth = (1,33 0,50) m
Minimum total depth = (0,50/1,33) m
3.3 Section 6
a) Clauses 6.2.1 (2) and 6.2.2 (2)
The reduction factors !A according to 6.3.1.2 (3) and !n according to 6.3.1.2 (4) should not be applied to
UK values of load given in this NAD. Reference should be made to clause 5 of BS 6399-1 for load
reductions.
b) Clause 6.3 Imposed loads characteristic values
The values for imposed loads should be those given in BS 6399-1 and BS 6399-3 as shown in Table 1 to
Table 3 of this NAD.
c) Clause 6.3.1.2 (2) P
The application area of the concentrated loads should be appropriate to their cause. Concentrated loads
due to specialist equipment shall also be determined for the individual case.
d) Clause 6.4. Horizontal loads on partition walls and barriers due to persons
The values for imposed loads should be those given in BS 6399-1 as shown in Table 4 of this NAD.

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 DD ENV 1991-2-1:1996

4 Additional recommendations
4.1 Guidance on ENV 1991-2-1
NOTE 4.1.1 to 4.1.5 should be followed when designing in accordance with ENV 1991-2-1.
4.1.1 Section 1 General
Clause 1.5
For clarification the notation used in ENV 1991-2-1 is explained below.
Latin upper case letters:
A reduction coefficient is not used;
A loaded area in formula (6.1);
A0 a constant in formula (6.1).
Latin lower case letters:
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

reduction coefficient is not used;

n number of storeys (> 2) above the loaded structural elements (used in formula 6.2).
4.1.2 Section 2 Classification of actions
Clause 2.2 (2)
Replace this clause with the following.
The imposed loads given in this Part of ENV 1991 should be considered as static loads that include an
allowance for small, non-resonant dynamic effects.
4.1.3 Section 4 Densities of building materials and stored materials
Table 4.1
The values quoted do not cover proprietary lightweight materials, for which specific densities should be
obtained from the supplier. Care is needed where these materials contribute to the favourable part of the
restraining forces.
Densities for the following types of masonry units not given in the ENV may be used:
aggregate concrete 23 kN/m3;
autoclaved aerated concrete 57 kN/m3;
calcium silicate 20 kN/m3;
clay 2024 kN/m3;
manufactured stone 1923 kN/m3.
4.1.4 Section 5 Self-weight of construction elements
a) Clause 5.3.2.1 (1)
Where permanent partitions are indicated, their weight shall be included in the dead load, acting at the
given partition location.
The equivalent uniformly distributed load of partitions which are not permanent may be taken as not
less than one third of the load per metre run of the finished partitions. For offices this should not be less
than 1,0 kN/m2.
b) Clause 5.3.2.1 (3) P
In this clause thin concrete slabs should be taken to apply to slabs of less than 150 mm thickness.
c) Clause 5.3.2.1 (4) P
For simplicity, the weight of unrendered masonry walls may be based upon the density of the body
material, ignoring the mortar.
4.1.5 Section 6 Imposed loads on buildings
a) Clause 6.2.2 (1) P
This clause defines the loads on the floor of each storey as fixed actions. Only uniformly distributed
loading is used, not concentrated loads. Pattern loading including eccentricity and unbalanced loading
should be considered in accordance with UK practice.

vi BSI 03-2000
 DD ENV 1991-2-1:1996

b) Clause 6.2.2 (2)

Once the loads from several storeys have been reduced, the resulting load is treated as a single load
case.
c) Table 6.1
The examples should be used for guidance. The design should be based on the highest load which is
likely to be applied.
d) Clause 6.3.2.1 (1) P
For vehicles with a total weight > 160 kN on two axles, reference should be made to ENV 1991-3.
e) Clause 6.3.4.2 (5) P
The reference to Table 4.3 should be to Table 6.6.
f) Table 6.7
This table is applied to partition walls only when they have the function of a barrier.
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4.2 Recommendations on subjects not covered in ENV 1991-2-1

a) Clause 1.1.2 (7)
ENV 1991-2-1 does not give barrier loads for car parks. Values from BS 6399-1 should be used.
b) Clause 1.1.2 (8)
ENV 1991-2-1 does not specify dynamic loads causing vibrations or significant dynamic effects.
Guidance is given in BS 6399-1.
c) Clause 6.4
ENV 1991-2-1 does not specify loads applicable to the infill of barriers. See BS 6399-1
Table 1 Imposed loads on floors in buildings
qk [kN/m2] Qk [kN]
Loaded areas
ENV value UK value ENV value UK value
Category A general (see note 2) 2,0 2,0 (see note 3) 2,0 2,0
(see note 1) stairs 3,0 3,0 2,0 4,0
balconies 4,0 4,0 (see note 4) 2,0 1,5 kN/m run at
outside edge
Category B 3,0 2,5 2,0 2,7
Category C C1 (see note 6) 3,0 3,0 4,0 2,7
(see note 5) C2 (see note 7) 4,0 4,0 4,0 4,0
C3 5,0 4,0 4,0 4,0
C4 [see 4.2 b)] 5,0 5,0 7,0 4,0
C5 [see 4.2 b)] 5,0 5,0 (see note 8) 4,0 4,0
Category D D1 5,0 4,0 4,0 4,0
D2 5,0 note 9 7,0 note 9
Category E 6,0 note 10 7,0 note 10
NOTE 1 For all usages within self-contained dwelling units, qk = 1,5, Qk = 1,4.
NOTE 2 For specific use as a communal kitchen, qk = 3,0, Qk 4,5.
NOTE 3 For bedrooms and dormitories except in hotels and motels, qk = 1,5.
NOTE 4 For guest houses, residential clubs and communal areas in blocks of flats, qk = 3,0
NOTE 5 For corridors etc, see BS 6399-1.
NOTE 6 For all communal dining areas and lounges, including cafes and restaurants, qk = 2,0, Qk = 2,7. For reading rooms without
book storage, qk = 2,5, Qk = 4,5.
NOTE 7 For places of worship, qk = 3,0, Qk = 2,7.
NOTE 8 For stages susceptible to overcrowding in public assembly areas, qk = 7,5.
NOTE 9 Not defined in ENV 1991-2-1 and therefore no equivalent UK value can be given.
NOTE 10 See BS 6399-1 loading based upon specific use and if appropriate, stored height.

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 DD ENV 1991-2-1:1996

Table 2 Imposed loads on garages and vehicle traffic areas

qk [kN/m2] Qk [kN]
Traffic areas
ENV value UK value ENV value UK value

Category F
vehicle weight k 30 kN 2,0 2,5 10,0 9,0
Category G
vehicle weight > 30, k 160 kN 5,0 note 1 45,0 note 1
NOTE 1 To be determined for specific use.

Table 3 Imposed loads on roofs

qk [kN/m2] Qk [kN]
Roofs
ENV value UK value ENV value UK value
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Category H
Roof slope
(see note 2) < 20 0,75 0,6 1,5 0,9 (see note 3)
= 40 0,0 0,4 (see note 4) 1,5 0,9
NOTE 1 See also BS 6399-3 for snow loads. Snow loads and imposed roof loads from this table are alternative load cases.
NOTE 2 For slopes between 20 and 40 the value of qk may be determined by linear interpolation.
NOTE 3 Assumes spreader boards will be used.
NOTE 4 For slopes between 40 and 60 the value of qk may be determined by linear interpolation, with a value of qk at 60 of zero.

Table 4 Horizontal loads on partition walls and barriers due to persons

qk [kN/m]
Loaded areas
ENV value UK value

Category A 0,5 0,74 (see note 1)

Category B 1,0 0,74 (see note 2)
Category C1 1,0 1,5
Category C2, C4 and D 1,5 1,5
Category C3 1,5 0,74
Category C5 3,0 3,0
NOTE 1 For all areas within self-contained dwellings, except external balconies and edges of roofs, qk = 0,36.
NOTE 2 For light access stairs not more than 600 mm wide, qk = 0,22. For light pedestrian traffic routes in industrial and storage
buildings qk = 0,36.

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 DD ENV 1991-2-1:1996

Table 5 References in ENV 1991-2-1

Clause in
ENV 1991-2-1 Document
giving reference to Document title Status UK document
other codes or referred to
standards

1.2
1.4(1)
2.1(1)P
2.2(1)P
3.1(1)P ENV 1991-1 Basis of design ENV DD ENV:1991-1
5.3.1.1(3)
5.3.1.3(3)
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5.3.2.1(3)P
6.1(4)P
6.3.1.2(3)
6.3.3(3)9 ENV 1991-2-6 Loads and deformations imposed ENV
during execution
1.1.2(7)note ENV 1991-2-7 Accidental actions ENV
2.2(1)P
1.1.2(6)P ENV 1991-3 Traffic loads on bridges ENV DD ENV:1991-3
6.3.3(4)P ENV 1991-4 Actions in silos and tanks ENV DD ENV:1991-4
5.3.3.2(3) ENV 1993 Design of steel structures ENV DD ENV:1993
2.1(2)P ENV 1997 Geotechnical design ENV DD ENV:1997
1.2 ISO 3898:1987 Basis of design for structures.
1.5(1)note Notations. General symbols
Table 4.1 ENV 206 Concrete performance, production, ENV DD ENV:206
Table 4.3 placing and compliance procedure
Table 4.1 prEN 771 Specification for masonry units
Table 4.1 prEN 338 Structural timber strength classes EN BS EN 338
Table 4.2 UIC 60 General regulations concerning electric
traction lines

BSI 03-2000 ix
 DD ENV 1991-2-1:1996

List of references (see clause 2)

Normative references

BSI publications
BRITISH STANDARDS INSTITUTION, London

BS 6399, Loading for buildings.

BS 6399-1:1996, Code of practice for dead and imposed loads.
BS 6399-3:1988, Basis of design and actions on structures.
BS EN 338:1995, Structural timber. Strength classes.

CEN and CENELEC standards publications

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION (CEN) and EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR
ELECTROTECHNICAL STANDARDIZATION (CENELEC), Brussels. (All publications are available from
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

BSI Sales.)
ENV 1991-3:1995, Basis of design and actions on structures Part 3: Traffic loads on bridges.

Informative references

BSI publications
BRITISH STANDARDS INSTITUTION, London

BS 684:1964, Schedule of weights of building materials.

x BSI 03-2000
 EUROPEAN PRESTANDARD ENV 1991-2-1
PRNORME EUROPENNE
February 1995
EUROPISCHE VORNORM

ICS 91.040.00

Descriptors: Buildings, structures, design, computation, loads: forces, operating loads, weight: mass

English version

Eurocode 1: Basis of design and actions on structures

Part 2-1: Actions on structures Densities, self-weight and
imposed loads
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

Eurocode 1: Bases du calcul et actions sur les Eurocode 1: Grundlagen der Tragwerksplanung
structures Partie 2-1: Actions sur les und Einwirkungen auf Tragwerke
structures Densits, poids propres et charges Teil 2-1: Einwirkungen auf Tragwerke
dexploitation Wichten, Eigenlasten, Nutzlasten

This European Prestandard (ENV) was approved by CEN on 1993-06-30 as a

prospective standard for provisional application. The period of validity of this
ENV is limited initially to three years. After two years the members of CEN
will be requested to submit their comments, particularly on the question
whether the ENV can be converted into a European Standard (EN).
CEN members are required to announce the existence of this ENV in the same
way as for an EN and to make the ENV available promptly at national level in
an appropriate form. It is permissible to keep conflicting national standards in
force (in parallel to the ENV) until the final decision about the possible
conversion of the ENV into an EN is reached.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium,
Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy,
Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and
United Kingdom.

CEN
European Committee for Standardization
Comit Europen de Normalisation
Europisches Komitee fr Normung
Central Secretariat: rue de Stassart 36, B-1050 Brussels

1995 All rights of reproduction and communication in any form and by any means reserved in all
countries to CEN and its members
Ref. No. ENV 1991-2-1:1995 E
 ENV 1991-2-1:1995
Foreword
Objectives of the Eurocodes
(1) The Structural Eurocodes comprise a group of
standards for the structural and geotechnical design
of buildings and civil engineering works.
(2) They cover execution and control only to the
extent that is necessary to indicate the quality of the
construction products, and the standard of the
workmanship, needed to comply with the
assumptions of the design rules.
(3) Until the necessary set of harmonised technical
specifications for products and for methods of
testing their performance are available, some of the
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Structural Eurocodes cover some of these aspects in
informative Annexes.
Background to the Eurocode Programme
(4) The Commission of the European Communities
(CEC) initiated the work of establishing a set of
harmonized technical rules for the design of
building and civil engineering works which would
initially serve as an alternative to the different rules
in force in the various Member States and would
ultimately replace them. These technical rules
became known as the Structural Eurocodes.
(5) In 1990, after consulting their respective
Member States, the CEC transferred the work of
further development, issue and updating of the
Structural Eurocodes to CEN, and the EFTA
Secretariat agreed to support the CEN work.
(6) CEN Technical Committee CEN/TC 250 is
responsible for all Structural Eurocodes.
Eurocode Programme
(7) Work is in hand on the following Structural
Eurocodes, each generally consisting of a number of
parts:
EN 1991, Eurocode 1: Basis of design and actions
on structures.
EN 1992, Eurocode 2: Design of concrete
structures.
EN 1993, Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures.
EN 1994, Eurocode 4: Design of composite steel
and concrete structures.
EN 1995, Eurocode 5: Design of timber
structures.
EN 1996, Eurocode 6: Design of masonry
structures.
EN 1997, Eurocode 7: Geotechnical design.
EN 1998, Eurocode 8: Design of structures for
earthquake resistance.
EN 1999, Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium alloy
structures.
2 BSI 03-2000
(8) Separate sub-committees have been formed by
CEN/TC250 for the various Eurocodes listed above.
(9) This part of Eurocode 1 is being published as a
European Prestandard (ENV) with an initial life of
three years.
(10) This Prestandard is intended for experimental
application and for the submission of comments
(11) After approximately two years CEN members
will be invited to submit formal comments to be
taken into account in determining future actions.
(12) Meanwhile feedback and comments on this
Prestandard should be sent to the Secretariat of
CEN/TC250/SC1 at the following address:
SNV/SIA (until end SIS/BST (from
May 1995) June 1995)
Selnaustrasse 16 Box 5630
CH-8039 ZURICH S-114 86 Stockholm
SWITZERLAND SWEDEN
or to your national standards organisation.
National Application Documents (NADs)
(13) In view of the responsibilities of authorities in
member countries for safety, health and other
matters covered by the essential requirements of
the Construction Products Directive (CPD), certain
safety elements in this ENV have been assigned
indicative values which are identified by [ ] (boxed
values). The authorities in each member country
are expected to review the boxed values and may
substitute definitive values for these safety
elements for use in national application.
(14) Some of the supporting European or
International Standards may not be available by the
time this Prestandard is issued. It is therefore
anticipated that a National Application Document
(NAD) giving any substitute definitive values for
safety elements, referencing compatible supporting
standards and providing guidance on the national
application of this Prestandard, will be issued by
each member country or its Standards
Organization.
(15) It is intended that this Prestandard is used in
conjunction with the NAD valid in the country
where the building or civil engineering works is
located.
Matters Specific to this Prestandard
(16) The scope of ENV 1991 is defined in 1.1.1 and
the scope of this Part of ENV 1991 is defined
in 1.1.2. Additional parts of ENV 1991 which are
planned are indicated in 1.2.
 ENV 1991-2-1:1995

Contents Page
Page 6.3.3 Areas for storage and industrial
activities 22
Foreword 2
6.3.4 Roofs 22
Objectives of the Eurocodes 2
6.4 Horizontal loads on partition walls
Background to the Eurocode Programme 2 and barriers due to persons 23
Eurocode Programme 2 Table 4.1 Construction materials 8
National Application Documents (NADs) 2
Table 4.2 Bridge materials 10
Matters Specific to this Prestandard 2
Table 4.3 Stored materials building
Section 1. General 5 and construction 11
1.1 Scope 5 Table 4.4 Stored materials agricultural 12
1.1.1 Scope of ENV 1991-Eurocode 1 5 Table 4.5 Stores materials foodstuffs 13
1.1.2 Scope of ENV 1991-2-1 Densities, Table 4.6 Stored materials liquids 14
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self-weight and imposed loads 5

Table 4.7 Stored materials solid fuels 15
1.1.3 Further parts of ENV 1991 5
Table 4.8 Stored materials
1.2 Normative references 5 industrial and general 15
1.3 Distinction between principles Table 6.1 Categories of building areas 19
and application rules 6 Table 6.2 Imposed loads on floors in
1.4 Definitions 6 buildings 20
1.5 Symbols 6 Table 6.3 Traffic areas in buildings 21
Section 2. Classification of actions 7 Table 6.4 Imposed loads on garages
2.1 Self-weight 7 and vehicle traffic areas 21
2.2 Imposed loads 7 Table 6.5 Categorization of roofs 22
Section 3. Design situations 7 Table 6.6 Imposed loads on roofs 22
3.1 General 7 Table 6.7 Horizontal loads on partition
3.2 Self-weight 7 walls and barriers due to persons 23
3.3 Imposed loads 7
Section 4. Densities of building materials
and stored materials 8
4.1 Definitions 8
4.2 Tables 8
Section 5. Self-weight of construction elements 16
5.1 Representation of actions 16
5.2 Load arrangements 16
5.3 Self-weight characteristic values 16
5.3.1 Assessment of self-weight 16
5.3.2 Self-weight for buildings 17
5.3.3 Self-weight for bridges 17
Section 6. Imposed loads on buildings 18
6.1 Representation of actions 18
6.2 Load arrangements 18
6.2.1 Horizontal members 18
6.2.2 Vertical members 19
6.3 Imposed loads characteristic values 19
6.3.1 Residential, social, commercial
and administration area 19
6.3.2 Garage and vehicle traffic areas 21

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4blank
 ENV 1991-2-1:1995

Section 1. General
1.1 Scope
1.1.1 Scope of ENV 1991 Eurocode 1
(1)P ENV 1991 provides general principles and actions for the structural design of buildings and civil
engineering works including some geotechnical aspects and shall be used in conjunction with
ENV 1992-1999.
(2) It may also be used as a basis for the design of structures not covered in ENV 1992-1999 and where
other materials or other structural design actions are involved.
(3) ENV 1991 also covers structural design during execution and structural design for temporary
structures. It relates to all circumstances in which a structure is required to give adequate performance.
(4) ENV 1991 is not directly intended for the structural appraisal of existing construction, in developing
the design of repairs and alterations or, for assessing changes of use.
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(5) ENV 1991 does not completely cover special design situations which require unusual reliability
considerations such as nuclear structures for which specified design procedures should be used.
1.1.2 Scope of ENV 1991-2-1: Densities, self-weight and imposed loads
(1)P Design guidance and actions are provided for the structural design of buildings and civil engineering
works including some geotechnical aspects for the following subjects:
Densities of construction materials and stored materials;
Self-weight of construction elements;
Imposed loads.
(2) Section 4 gives characteristic values for densities of specific building materials, additional materials for
bridges and stored materials. In addition for specific materials the angle of repose is provided.
(3) Section 5 provides methods for the assessment of the characteristic values of self-weight of construction
elements.
(4) Section 6 gives characteristic values of imposed loads on floors and roofs in building structures.
(5) These characteristic values are defined according to category of use as follows:
areas in dwellings, offices etc;
garage and vehicle traffic areas;
areas for storage and industrial activities;
roofs.
(6)P The loads on traffic areas given in section 6 refers to vehicles up to a gross weight of 160 kN. Traffic
areas for heavy vehicles of more than 160 kN total weight shall be designed by applying the road bridge
loads according to section 4 of ENV 1991-3.
(7) For barriers or partition walls having the function of barriers, horizontal forces due to persons are given.
NOTE Forces due to vehicle impact are specified in ENV 1991-2-7.
(8) Section 6 does not specify fatigue loads and dynamic loads causing vibrations or dynamic effects.
1.1.3 Further Parts of ENV 1991
(1) Further Parts of ENV 1991 which, at present, are being prepared or are planned are given in 1.2.

1.2 Normative references

This European Prestandard incorporates by dated or undated reference, provisions from older standards.
These normative references are cited at the appropriate places in the text and publications listed hereafter.
ISO 3898:1987, Basis of design for structures
Notations. General symbols.
NOTE the following European Prestandards which are published or in preparation are cited at the appropriate placed in the text
and publications listed hereafter
ENV 1991-1, Eurocode 1: Basis of design and actions on structures Part 1: Basis of design.
ENV 1991-2-2, Eurocode 1: Basis of design and actions on structures Part 2.2 Actions on structures
exposed to fire.

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ENV 1991-2-3, Eurocode 1: Basis of design and actions on structures Part 2.3: Snow loads.
ENV 1991-2-4, Eurocode 1: Basis of design and actions on structures Part 2.4: Wind loads.
ENV 1991-2-5, Eurocode 1: Basis of design and actions on structures Part 2.5: Thermal actions.
ENV 1991-2-6, Eurocode 1: Basis of design and actions on structures Part 2.6: Loads and deformations
imposed during execution.
ENV 1991-2-7, Eurocode 1: Basis of design and actions on structures Part 2.7: Accidental actions.
ENV 1991-3, Eurocode 1: Basis of design and actions on structures Part 3: Traffic loads on bridges.
ENV 1991-4, Eurocode 1: Basis of design and actions on structures Part 4: Actions in silos and tanks.
ENV 1991-5, Eurocode 1: Basis of design and actions on structures Part 5: Actions induced by cranes and
machinery.
ENV 1992, Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures.
ENV 1993, Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures.
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

ENV 1994, Eurocode 4: Design of composite steel and concrete structures.

ENV 1995, Eurocode 5: Design of timber structures.
ENV 1996, Eurocode 6: Design of masonry structures.
ENV 1997, Eurocode 7: Geotechnical design.
ENV 1998, Eurocode 8: Earthquake resistant design of structures.
ENV 1999, Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium alloy structures.

1.3 Distinction between principles and application rules

(1) Depending on the character of the individual clauses, distinction is made in this Part between principles
and application rules.
(2) The principles comprise:
general statements and definitions for which there is no alternative, as well as
requirements and analytical models for which no alternative is permitted unless specifically stated.
(3) The principles are identified by the letter P following the paragraph number.
(4) The application rules are generally recognized rules which follow the principles and satisfy their
requirements.
(5) It is permissible to use alternative rules different from the application rules given in this Eurocode,
provided it is shown that the alternative rules accord with the relevant principles and have at least the
same reliability.
(6) In this Part the application rules are identified by a number in brackets eg. as this clause.

1.4 Definitions
(1) For the purposes of this prestandard, a basic list of definitions is provided in ENV 1991-1, Basis of
design.

1.5 Symbols
(1) For the purposes of this prestandard, the following symbols apply.
NOTE The notation used is based on ISO 3898:1987
(2) A basic list of notations is provided in Part 1 Basis of design of ENV 1991 and the additional notations
below are specific to this part.
Latin upper case letters
A reduction coefficient
Qk concentrated load
Latin lower case letters
gk weight per unit area, or weight per unit length
qk uniformly distributed load, or line load

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Lower case Greek letters

n reduction coefficients
* bulk weight density
>o Coefficient for combination value of a variable action
>1 Coefficient for frequent value of a variable action
8 angle of repose

Section 2. Classification of actions

2.1 Self-weight
(1)P Self-weights of construction elements are classified as permanent actions and generally also are fixed
actions, see ENV 1991-1.
(2)P Earth loads on roofs and terraces shall be considered as variable actions. Pressure on basement walls
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

induced by earth loads shall however be considered a permanent action. Pore water pressure shall also be
considered a permanent action.
NOTE For more detailed information, see ENV 1997.
(3)P Loads due to ballast shall be considered as variable actions.

2.2 Imposed loads

(1)P Imposed loads are classified as variable and free actions, see ENV 1991-1.
NOTE Where impact from vehicles or accidental loads from machines may be relevant for accidental situations the loads should be
taken from ENV 1991-2-7.
(2) Imposed loads should be considered as static loads, non resonant dynamic effects being considered.

Section 3. Design situations

3.1 General
(1)P The relevant self-weights and imposed loads shall be determined for each design situation identified
in accordance with ENV 1991-1 Basis of design.

3.2 Self-weight
(1) Post-execution additional new coatings and/or distribution conduits should be considered in design
situations.
(2) The source and moisture content of bulk materials should be considered in design situations of buildings
used for storage purposes.

3.3 Imposed loads

(1)P For cases involving interaction with other types of lead (e.g. wind), the total imposed load on a building
shall be considered as a single action.
(2)P Where the characteristic value of the imposed load is reduced by > factors in combination with other
actions, the loads shall be assumed in all storeys without reduction by the factor n.
(3) This Part does not specify fatigue loads.
(4)P In the case of production areas where the number of load variations or the effects of vibrations may
cause fatigue, a fatigue load model shall be established for the particular case.

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Section 4. Densities of building materials and stored materials

4.1 Definitions
(1) The bulk weight density is the overall weight per unit volume of a material, including a normal
distribution of voids and pores. In everyday usage this term is frequently abbreviated to density (which is
strictly mass per unit volume).
(2) The angle of repose is the angle which the natural slope of the sides of a heaped pile of loose material
makes to the horizontal.

4.2 Tables
(1) The densities and angles of repose of some materials may vary from those indicated depending on
moisture content, settlement and depth of storage.
Table 4.1 Construction materials
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

Density
Materials
[kN/m3]
concrete (see ENV 206)
lightweight
density class 1,0 9 10
density class 1,2 10 12
density class 1.4 12 14
density class 1,6 14 16
density class 1,8 16 18
density class 2,0 18 20
normal weight 24a
heavyweight > 28
reinforced and prestressed concrete +1
unhardened concrete +1
mortar
cement mortar 19 23
gypsum mortar 12 18
lime-cement mortar 18 20
lime mortar 12 18
masonry units (see prEN 771)
aggregate concrete
autoclaved aerated concrete
calcium silicate
clay
manufactured stone
natural stone
basalt 27 31
dense limestone 20 29
granite 27 30
sandstone 21 27
glass blocks, hollow 8
terra cotta, solid 21
metals
aluminium 27
brass 83
bronze 83
copper 87
iron, cast 71
iron, wrought 76
lead 112
steel 77
zinc 71
a
density may be in the range 2028 depending on local materials

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Table 4.1 Construction materials

Density
Materials
[kN/m3]
wood
timber strength class C14 (see prEN 338) 2,9
C16 3,1
C18 3,2
C22 3,7
C24 3,8
C27 4,1
C30 4,2
C35 4,4
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

C40 4,5
C50 6,5
C60 7,0
C70 9,0
plywood:
raw plywood (softwood and birch) 6
laminboard and blockboard 4
particleboards:
chipboard 8
cement-bonded particleboard 12
flakeboard, oriented strand board, waferboard 7
fibre building board:
hardboard, standard and tempered 10
medium density fibreboard 8
softboard 4
other materials
glass, in sheets 25
plastics:
acrylic sheet 12
polystyrene, expanded, granules 0,25
slate 29

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Table 4.2 Bridge materials

Density
Materials
[kN/m3]
pavement of road bridges
gussasphalt and asphaltic concrete 25
mastic asphalt 18
hot rolled asphalt 23
pavement of rail bridges
concrete protective layer 25
ballast 20
Weight per unit area
gk
[kN/m2]
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

structures with ballasted bed

2 rails UIC 60 1,2
prestressed concrete sleeper with track
fastenings 4,8
timber sleepers with track fastenings 1,9
Weight per unit area
gk
[kN/m]
structures without ballasted bed
2 rails UIC 60 with track fastenings 1,7
2 rails UIC 60 with track fastenings,
bridge beam and guard rails 3,4

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Table 4.3 Stored materials building and construction

Density Angle of repose
Materials
8 []
[kN/m3]
aggregates (see ENV 206)
lightweight 20 30
normal 20 30 30
heavyweight > 30 30
gravel and sand, bulked 15 20 35
sand 14 19 30
blast furnace slag
lumps 17 40
granules 12 30
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

crushed foamed 9 35
brick sand, crushed brick, broken bricks 15 35
vermiculite
exfoliated, aggregate for concrete 1
crude 69
bentonite
loose 8 40
shaken down 11
cement
in bulk 16 28
in bag 15
fly ash 10 14 25
glass, in sheets 25
gypsum, ground 15 25
lignite filter ash 15 20
lime 13 25
limestone, powder 13 27
magnesite, ground 12
plastics,
polyethylene, polystyrol granulated 6,4
polyvinylchloride, powder 5,9
polyester resin 11,8
glue resins 13
water, fresh 10

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Table 4.4 Stored materials agricultural

Density Angle of
Materials
Repose 8 []
[kN/m3]
farmyard
manure (minimum 60 % solids) 7,8
manure (with dry straw) 9,3 45
dry chicken manure 6,9 45
slurry (maximum 20 % solids) 10,8
fertiliser, artificial
NPK, granulated 8 12 25
basic slag, crushed 13,7 35
phosphates, granulated 10 16 30
potassium sulphate 12 16 28
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

urea 78 24
fodder, green, loosely stacked 3,5 4,5
grain
whole (k14 % moisture content unless indicated otherwise)
general 7,8 30
barley 7,0 30
brewers grain (wet) 8,8
herbage seeds 3,4 30
maize in bulk 7,4 30
maize in bags 5,0
oats 5,0 30
oilseed rape 6,4 25
rye 7,0 30
wheat in bulk 7,8 30
wheat in bags 7,5
grass cubes 7,8 40
hay
(baled) 13
(rolled bales) 67
hides and skins 89
hops 12 25
malt 46
meal 45
ground 7 40
cubes 7
peat 35
dry, loose, shaken down 1
dry, compressed in bales 5
wet 9,5
silage 5 10
straw
in bulk (dry) 0,7
baled 1,5
tobacco in bales 3,5 5
wool
in bulk 3
baled 7 13

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Table 4.5 Stored materials foodstuffs

Density Angle of
Materials
Repose 8 []
[kN/m3]
eggs, in stands 45

flour
bulk 6 25
bagged 5

fruit
apples
loose 8,3 30
boxed 6,5
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

cherries 7,8
pears 5,9
raspberries, in trays 2
strawberries, in trays 1,2
tomatoes 6,8

sugar 7,5 9,5 35

vegetables, green
cabbages 4
lettuce 5

vegetables, legumes
beans
general 8,1 35
soya 7,4 30
peas 7,8

vegetables, root
general 8,8
beetroot 7,4 40
carrots 7,8 35
onions 7 35
turnips 7 35

potatoes
in bulk 7 35
in boxes 4,4
2,9 35
sugarbeet, dried and chopped

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Table 4.6 Stored materials liquids

Density
Materials
[kN/m3]
beverages
beer 10,3
milk 10,1
water, fresh 9,8
wine 10
natural oils
castor oil 9,3
glycerol (glycerine) 12,3
linseed oil 9,2
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

olive oil 8,8

organic liquids and acids
alcohol 7,8
ether 7,4
hydrochloric acid (40 % by weight) 11,8
methylated spirit 7,8
nitric acid (91 % by weight) 14,7
sulphuric acid (30 % by weight) 13,7
sulphuric acid (87 % by weight) 17,7
turpentine, white spirit 8,3
hydrocarbons
aniline 9,8
benzene (benzole) 8,8
coal tar 10,8 12,8
creosote 10,8
naphtha 7,8
paraffin (kerosene) 8,3
benzine (benzoline) 6,9
oil, crude (petroleum) 9,8 12,8
diesel 8,3
fuel 7,8 9,8
heavy 12,3
lubricating 8,8
petrol (gasolene, gasoline) 7,4
liquid gas
butane 5,7
propane 5,0
other liquids
mercury 133
red lead paint 59
white lead, in oil 38
sludge, over 50 % by volume water 10,8

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Table 4.7 Stored materials solid fuels

Density Angle of
Materials
Repose 8 []
[kN/m3]
charcoal
air-filled 4
air-free 15
coal
block briquettes, tipped 8 35
block briquettes, stacked 13
egg briquettes 8,3 30
coal, raw from pit 10 35
coal in washing pools 12
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coal dust 7 25
coke 6,5 35
middlings in the quarry 12,3 35
waste washing tips in colliery 13,7 35
all other kinds of coal 8,3 30
firewood 5,4 45
lignite/brown coal
briquettes, tipped 7,8 30
briquettes, stacked 12,8
damp 9,8 30
dry 7,8 35
dust 4,9 25
low-temperature coke 9,8 40
peat
black, dried, firmly packed 69
black, dried, loosely tipped 36
Table 4.8 Stored materials industrial and general
Density Angle of
Materials
Repose 8 []
[kN/m3]
books and documents
books and documents, 6
densely stored 8,5
filing racks and cabinets 6
garments and rags, bundled 11
ice, lumps 8,5
leather, piled 10
paper, in rolls 15
rubber 10 17
rock salt 22 45
salt 12 40
sawdust
dry, bagged 3
dry, loose 2,5 45
wet, loose 5 45
tar, bitumen 14

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Section 5. Self-weight of construction elements

5.1 Representation of actions
(1)P Construction elements include structural and non-structural elements.
(2)P For the purpose of this section, the self-weight of non-structural elements shall include the weight of
fixed machinery and, for example, of earth and ballast.
(3) Non-structural elements include:
roofing
surfacing and coverings
non-structural partition walls and linings
hand rails, safety barriers, parapets and kerbs
wall cladding
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

suspended ceilings
insulation
fixed machinery
earth and balast
(4) Fixed machinery includes:
lifts and moving stairways
heating, ventilating and air conditioning equipment
electrical equipment
pipes without their contents
cable trunking and conduits.
(5)P Loads due to movable partitions shall be treated as imposed loads (see section 6 Imposed loads).
(6) The self-weight of industrial equipment should be considered as an imposed load. Only the self-weights
of equipment incorporated into the construction shall be classified as permanent actions.
(7)P Where there is a reasonable likelihood that services will at some time be relocated within the building,
loads due to these services shall be considered as imposed loads.

5.2 Load arrangements

(1) In the case where the self-weight is classified as a fixed action it may be assumed that the variations of
densities as well as the differences between nominal and actual dimensions of construction elements do not
change within a given structure.

5.3 Self-weight characteristic values

5.3.1 Assessment of self-weight
5.3.1.1 Characteristic value
(1) The weights of parts of structures and of non-structural elements shall be determined from the weights
of the elements of which they are composed.
(2) Unless more reliable data are available (ie. from product standards, the supplier or by direct weighing),
the characteristic value of the weight of individual elements shall be estimated from nominal dimensions
and the nominal densities of their constituent materials.
(3) However, in accordance with ENV 1991-1 Basis of design, it may be necessary to consider both upper
and lower characteristic values for the self-weight. This may apply to thin concrete members or in cases of
uncertainty about the precise value of self-weight, or where dimensional alternatives and the type of
materials to be used remain open at the design stage.

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 ENV 1991-2-1:1995

5.3.1.2 Dimensions
(1) In general nominal dimensions should be those as shown on the drawings.
(2) In general, where the weight of thin finishes is small in comparison with the weight of the elements to
which they are applied, it is not necessary to consider variation in finish thickness. However variation in
thickness may need to be considered when the thickness depends on the deflection of the structural
component to which the finish is applied or when the maintenance of the finish may include the addition
of further layers of material.
5.3.1.3 Densities
(1) For the assessment of nominal densities section 4 should be used.
(2)P If the density of the material is likely to deviate significantly from the specified value, such deviation
shall be considered.
(3) For structures where more accurate values are required, for example, where a design is likely to be
particularly sensitive to variations in permanent lead, a representative sample of the materials to be used
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

should be tested at representative moisture contents. Characteristic and representative values should then
be determined according to ENV 1991-1 Basis of design.
(4) For some materials the bulk weight density has significant variability and may be dependent on the
source and moisture content. For these materials, section 4 gives a range of characteristic values related
to the moisture content for the situations in which the material is normally to be found.
5.3.2 Self-weight for buildings
5.3.2.1 Floors and walls and partitions
(1) For determining the effect of the self-weight due to partitions, an equivalent uniformly distributed load
may be used.
(2) Account should be taken of voids made for the purpose of thermal insulation or for the reduction of
weight.
(3)P For suspended beam and block floors and beam and hollow-pot floors, data may be provided by the
manufacturer. When the dimensions of thin concrete slabs are unlikely to be controlled to within 5 % of
their nominal values a range of values for the permanent lead shall be taken into account and treated as
indicated in ENV 1991-1 Basis of design.
(4)P For determining the weight of unrendered masonry walls the weight of mortar shall be taken into
account.
5.3.2.2 Roofs
(1)P The weights shall be calculated from the weight of the component materials and the geometry
(e.g. pitch tiles/sq.metre etc).
(2) Information may be taken from documents provided by the manufacturer.
5.3.2.3 Claddings and finishes
(1)P For the purpose of this section claddings shall be considered to include curtain walling (and fixings),
overcladding (and fixings) and roof coverings.
(2)P When designing individual structural elements the estimation of weight shall include the weight of
claddings and finishes, unless alternative provision has been made (see 5.3.1). Finishes include in-situ
finishes (such as plaster and screeds), pre-fabricated wall-panel finishes, and timber and other floor
finishes.
5.3.3 Self-weight for bridges
5.3.3.1 Nominal values
(1)P For the determination of self-weight of the non structural parts of bridges an upper (and, if relevant,
a lower) bound of the nominal value of all these parts shall be established, taking account of the
possibilities of initial deviation and of variation with time, resulting from
the necessity of joining the coatings on the bridge and on the adjacent carriageway,
the deviations of the levels of the upper surface of decks from the specified levels,
the post-execution addition of new coatings and / or distribution conduits and, if relevant, of other
equipment.

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(2) For railway bridges information should be obtained on:

nominal total depth of ballast;
maximum and minimum total depth of ballast.
If no values are given, the following values may be used:
nominal total depth = 0,50 m;
maximum total depth = 1,33 0, 50 m;
minimum total depth = 0,50/1,33 m.
NOTE The above information should be provided by the National Competent Authority.
5.3.3.2 Characteristic values
(1) To deduce the characteristic values of waterproofing and other coatings for bridges from the nominal or
other specified values, the deviation of the total thickness from the nominal value should be taken equal
to 20 % if a post-execution coating is included in the nominal value, and to + 40 % and 20 % if such a
coating is not included.
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

(2) If a full and detailed pre-design investigation to determine the nominal weight of distribution conduits
has been carried out, the upper characteristic weight should be considered to be + 20 % greater than the
maximum nominal value determined during the investigation. In the absence of such an investigation, the
upper value shall be assessed as the maximum value in the long term, estimated on the bases of the site
location and of likely future needs.
(3) For steel structures the characteristic self-weight should be estimated as the product of the sum of the
nominal weights of the individual elements and a factor of 1,1 to allow for the plates and fasteners at the
joints (see ENV 1993).

Section 6. Imposed loads on buildings

6.1 Representation of actions
(1) Imposed loads on buildings are those arising from occupancy. They may be caused by
normal use by persons;
furniture and moveable objects (e.g. lightweight moveable partitions, storage, the contents of
containers);
machines and vehicles;
exceptional use, such as exceptional concentrations of persons or of furniture, or the moving or
stacking of commodities which may occur during reorganization or redecoration.
(2)P The self-weight of structural and non-structural components and of fixed equipment shall be taken
into account according to section 5 Self-weight of construction elements.
(3) Imposed loads are modelled by uniformly distributed loads or concentrated loads or combinations of
these loads.
(4)P The characteristic values of the loads are determined for a reference period, see ENV 1991-1.
(5)P The characteristic values of the loads are composed of long-term, medium-term and short-term
components that, according to their duration, may have different effects on materials sensitive to
time-dependent actions.

6.2 Load arrangements

6.2.1 Horizontal members
(1)P For the design of the elements of a floor structure within one storey the action shall be assumed as a
free action on the most unfavourable tributary zone of the influence area. Where the loads on other floors
are relevant, they may be assumed to be distributed uniformly (fixed actions).
(2) Imposed loads from a single occupancy may be reduced according to the tributary area by a reduction
factor A according to 6.3.1.2(3) and 6.3.2.2(4)
(3)P To ensure a minimum local resistance of the floor structure a separate verification shall be performed
with a concentrated load that, unless stated otherwise, shall not be combined with the uniformly
distributed loads or other variable loads.

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6.2.2 Vertical members

(1)P For the design of columns or walls acting as vertical members, loaded from several storeys, the loads
on the floor of each storey shall be assumed to be distributed uniformly (fixed actions).
(2) Where the imposed loads from several storeys are relevant, the loads may be reduced by a reduction
factor n according to 6.3.1.2(4) and 6.3.2.2(5).

6.3 Imposed loads characteristic values

6.3.1 Residential, social, commercial and administration area
6.3.1.1 Categories
(1)P Areas in residential, social, commercial and administration buildings are divided into five categories
according to their specific uses shown in Table 6.1.
Table 6.1 Categories of building areas
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

Category Specific Use Example

A Areas for domestic and residential
activities
B Office areas
C Areas where people may
congregate (with the exception of
areas defined under category
A,B,D and E)
D Shopping areas
E Areas susceptible to accumulation
of goods, including access areas
Rooms in residential buildings and houses; rooms and
wards in hospitals; bedrooms in hotels and hostels;
kitchens and toilets.
C1: Areas with tables, etc. e.g. areas in schools, cafs,
restaurants, dining halls, reading rooms, receptions
etc.
C2: Areas with fixed seats, e.g. areas in churches,
theatres or cinemas, conference rooms, lecture halls,
assembly halls, waiting rooms, etc.
C3: Areas without obstacles for moving people,
e.g. areas in museums, exhibition rooms, etc and access
areas in public and administration buildings,
hotels, etc.
C4: Areas with possible physical activities, e.g. dance
halls, gymnastic rooms, stages, etc.
C5: Areas susceptible to overcrowding, e.g. in buildings
for public events like concert halls, sports halls
including stands, terraces and access areas, etc.
D1: Areas in general retail shops, e.g. areas in
warehouses, stationery and office stores, etc.
Areas for storage use including libraries. The loads
defined in Table 6.2 shall be taken as minimum loads
unless more appropriate loads are defined for the
specific case. Further guidance is given in Table 4.8

6.3.1.2 Values of actions

(1) The characteristic values qk and Qk are given in Table 6.2.
(2)P For local verifications a concentrated load Qk acting alone shall be taken into account. The
characteristic values Qk are given in Table 6.2. Where concentrated loads from storage racks or from lifting
equipment may be expected Qk shall be determined for the individual case (see 6.3.3).
The local concentrated load shall be considered to act at any point on the floor, balcony or stairs and to have
an application area comprising a square with a 50 mm side.

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Table 6.2 Imposed loads on floors in buildings

qk Qk
Loaded areas
[kN/m2] [kN]

Category A general 2,0 2,0

stairs 3,0 2,0
balconies 4,0 2,0

Category B 3,0 2,0

Category C C1 3,0 4,0

C2 4,0 4,0
C3 5,0 4,0
C4 5,0 7,0
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

C5 5,0 4,0

Category D D1 5,0 4,0

D2 5,0 7,0

Category E 6,0 7,0

(3) The reduction factor A. For categories A to E should be determined as follows:

(6.1)

With the restriction for categories C and D: A U 0.6

where:
?o is the factor according to ENV 1991-1 Basis of design
Ao = 10,0 m2
A is the loaded area
(4)P The reduction factor n for categories A to E should be determined as follows:

(6.2)

where:
n is the number of storeys (> 2) above the loaded structural elements

20 BSI 03-2000
 ENV 1991-2-1:1995

6.3.2 Garage and vehicle traffic areas

6.3.2.1 Categories
(1)P Traffic areas in buildings are divided into two categories according to their accessibility for vehicles as
shown in Table 6.3.
Table 6.3 Traffic areas in buildings
Category Specific Use Example

F Traffic and parking areas for light vehicles e.g. garages; parking areas, parking halls
(k30 kN total weight and k8 seats not
including driver)
G Traffic and parking areas for medium e.g. access routes; delivery zones; zones
vehicles (> 30 kN, k 160 kN total weight, accessible to fire engines (k 160 kN total
on 2 axles) weight)
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

(2)P Access to areas designed to category F shall be limited by physical means built into the structure.
(3) Areas designed to categories F and G should be posted with the appropriate warning signs.
6.3.2.2 Values of actions
(1) The characteristic values for the concentrated loads Qk representing a single axle with dimensions
according to Figure 6.1 and the distributed load qk are given in Table 6.4.

Figure 6.1 Dimensions of axle load

Table 6.4 Imposed loads on garages and vehicle traffic areas

traffic areas qk Qk
[kN/m2] [kN]
Category F
vehicle weight: k 30 kN 2,0 10
Category G
vehicle weight: > 30, k 160 kN 5,0 45
(2)P Both the concentrated load Qk and the uniformly distributed load qk shall be considered to act together.
(3)P Each concentrated load shall be applied on a square surface with a 200 mm side in the positions which
will produce the most adverse effects.
(4)P The reduction coefficient A for categories F and G shall be considered as follows:
!A = 1,0 (6.3)
(5)P The reduction coefficient n for categories F and G shall be considered as follows:
!n = 1,0 (6.4)

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 ENV 1991-2-1:1995

6.3.3 Areas for storage and industrial activities

(1)P The characteristic value of the imposed load and also the loading arrangement (free or fixed actions)
shall be defined, respectively, by the maximum value taking account of dynamic effects if appropriate and
the most unfavourable condition allowed in use.
(2) The maximum permitted loads should be indicated by signs in the rooms concerned.
(3)P For transient situations due to installation and reinstallation of machines, production units etc.
guidance is given in ENV 1991-2-6. Loads and deformations imposed during execution.
(4)P The characteristic values of vertical loads in storage areas may be derived by taking the values given
in section 4 and upper design values for stacking heights. When stored material exerts horizontal forces on
walls etc., the horizontal force shall be determined by the rules in ENV 1991-4 Actions in silos and tanks.
Any effects of filling and emptying shall be taken into account.
(5)P Loads for storage areas for books and files shall be determined from the loaded area and the height of
the book cases using the density values in section 4.
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

(6)P Loads on industrial areas may comprise machines, production units, heavy rolling engines that can
have a defined lane, suspended cranes, etc. that cannot be modelled by uniformly distributed loads but need
more detailed modelling.
(7)P The imposed loads to be considered for serviceability limit state verifications shall be specified in
accordance with the service conditions and the requirements concerning the performance of the structure.
6.3.4 Roofs
6.3.4.1 Categories
(1)P Roofs are divided according to their accessibility into three categories as shown in Table 6.5.
Table 6.5 Categorization of roofs
Category Specific Use

H Roofs not accessible except for normal maintenance, repair, painting and minor repairs
I Roofs accessible with occupancy according to categories A G
K Roofs accessible for special services, such as helicopter landings

(2) Loads for roofs of category H are given in Table 6.6. Loads for roofs of category I are given in Table 6.2
and Table 6.4 according to the specific use. For roofs of category K the loads should be established for the
particular case.
6.3.4.2 Values of actions
(1)P The characteristic values Qk and qk are given in Table 6.6. They are related to the projected area of the
roof under consideration.
Table 6.6 Imposed loads on roofs
qk Qk
Roofs
[kN/m2] [kN]

Category H roof slope: < 20 0,75a 1,5

> 40 0,0a 1,5
a For slopes between 20 and 40 the value of qk may be determined by linear interpolation

(2)P Separate verification shall be performed for the concentrated lead Qk and the uniformly distributed
lead qk, acting independently.
(3)P For local checks the concentrated lead Qk is given in Table 6.6. The application area of Qk comprises a
square with a 50 mm side.
(4)P The reduction coefficient A for category H shall be considered as follows:
!A = 1,0 (6.5)

22 BSI 03-2000
 ENV 1991-2-1:1995

(5)P Access ladders and walkways shall be assumed to be loaded according to Table 4.3 for a roof
slope < 20. For walkways which are part of a designated escape route qk shall be assumed to be:
qk = 3,0 kN/m2 (6.6)

(6) The effects of water ponding on roofs should be considered.

6.4 Horizontal loads on partition walls and barriers due to persons

(1)P The characteristic values of the line load qk acting at the height of the hand rail but not higher
than 1,20 m are given in Table 6.7.
Table 6.7 Horizontal loads on partition walls
and barriers due to persons
Loaded areas qk
[kN/m]
Category A 0,5
Licensed Copy: Sheffield University, University of Sheffield, 11 June 2002, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

Categories B and C1 1,0

Categories C2 C4 and D 1,5
Category C5 3,0

(2) For areas susceptible to significant overcrowding associated with public events e.g. for sports stadia,
stands, stages, assembly halls or conference rooms, the line load shall be taken according to category C5.

BSI 03-2000 23
 DD ENV
1991-2-1:1996
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