The new edition of ASCE 7, ASCE 7-10 Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures, contains new, revised and updated provisions for dead and live loads to be used for structural design since the previous edition, ASCE 7-05, was published five years before. The provisions of this Standard, adopted by reference by building codes across the nation, impact the structural design of nearly every building in the country, and are used by all who are responsible for these designs. New material has been introduced which provide for the live load requirements for structures not previously covered in prior editions, specifically for helipads and screen enclosures. Revisions to the live load requirements for balconies and decks, roofs, and vehicle barrier systems have been made which better define the nature of live loads acting on these particular occupancy areas or structural elements. There has also been a revision to the live load reduction provisions for structural members in one- and two-family dwellings supporting more than one floor load. The rationale for the new live load provisions and for the substantial technical revisions to previous live load requirements are presented, relating the discussions and comments by committee members during the five-year balloting period since the previous Standard was published in 2005, and incorporating guidance from the Commentary to the Standard where this helps to clarify some of the new or revised loading requirements.
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