Safe Working Load

This can mean either the maximum load which can be safely lifted by lifting equipment or the maximum load a van / lorry can carry where it is uniformly distributed.

Normal operating conditions would apply to any stated safe working load. Where conditions vary from the norm, for example higher or lower temperatures, or drier or wetter conditions, then an appropriate adjustment would need to be made. This might typically result in a reduction in the mass of the load to ensure it is still classed as a safe working load. The acronym SWL is often used.