Live load on quay

Live load on a quay is the operational variable load imposed on the deck or apron by stored cargo, vehicles, and handling equipment, applied as a uniformly distributed surcharge plus point and wheel loads. BS 6349-1 and PIANC container-terminal guidance set uniform values that typically run 30 to 60 kN/m2 for container stacking yards, lower for general apron, and higher under heavy bulk stockpiles. The surcharge also acts behind the wall, adding to the active earth pressure that the quay must resist. Concentrated loads from a loaded reach-stacker, RTG wheel, or crane outrigger govern the local deck and pavement design, while the uniform load governs global stability.