Static loads are loads that don't change over time.
Static load testing, as it relates with resilient flooring covers the ASTM Test F-790, "Standard Test Method for Static Load Limit". This test method is designed to evaluate the ability of a flooring product to withstand or recover from indentation. This test method is designed to evaluate the ability of a flooring product to withstand or recover from indentation. This can refer to tables/chairs in schools or beds in hospitals. For example, a desk weighing 400 lbs, with four feet, would generate a load of 100 PSI at each foot on the floor's surface. An occupied hospital bed weighing approximately 700 pounds, would produce a floor loading of 583 PSI per wheel (with each wheel having .3 square inches of contact). Static loads can result in tips, tears, gouges, displacement of adhesive of the flooring.
Static load limit is one of many characteristics of a floor's durability; in addition to stain resistance, puncture resistance, and ease of maintenance.