Load test

Load test is performed on structural elements to experimentally assess their deformation behavior under operating actions.
These tests are generally conducted on floor or roof slabs, but may also involve large-span beams (e.g., in gyms, swimming pools, or prestressed concrete beams in industrial buildings). Load tests can be carried out during the acceptance phase, before the structure is put into service, to verify its compliance with design forecasts, or as an assessment of the performance of structural elements already in use.
The test involves applying load to the structural element until the design action is reached. Displacement transducers are used to measure deformations and rotations during loading and the residual deformation after unloading, with intermediate load steps and one or more load/unload cycles.

Reference standard: ACI 437.2-22