Chad Poulsen

Technical Writing 2100

Technical Definitions
Dead Load: Loads which are permanent, unchanging, and constant such as the weight of the
structure.
Live Load: Moving loads placed on the structure like occupants, furniture, and cars.
Lateral Load: Horizontal loads placed on the structure usually from wind and earthquakes.
Girder: A large beam made of metal, wood, or concrete used to support the ends of smaller
beams.
Codes: Regulations, ordinances, and requirements set in place by government related to building
materials and construction methods for public safety and welfare of occupants.
Professional Engineer: Licensure designating the skills learned by an engineer. This registration
can be earned by all types of engineers including structural, electrical, mechanical, and civil
engineers for the approval of drawings and technical qualifications of a design. The licensure of
a Professional Engineer is earned through a stringent testing process developed to demonstrate
the proficiency of the engineer for his/her particular field of study.
Professional engineers can develop the design of a project, create the requirements for and
prepare the drawings of a project. The professional engineer also gives his professional services
and advice during the construction of a project as the need arises. Drawings must be reviewed
and approved by a professional engineer for use in the project as the professional engineer
assigns drafters, detailers, and other engineers parts of the project to help with. The extra testing
provides added proof that the design is proven to be safe for consumer use or construction.
The testing for a Professional Engineers license is extremely difficult and many engineers do
not pass the test on their first try. The requirements of this testing may differ from state to state
but demonstrates the same competency level for the engineer that completes the testing in any
given field. Structural engineers may also complete an additional test giving them the added
designation of SE, or structural engineer certificate. Each license has the benefit of allowing
additional design certifications for all projects that come to the office from all types of projects.
Professional engineers in the structural field can acquire projects such as hospitals, offices, and
even sports arenas for the special uses each will fill that those without the certification cannot
obtain.