Which of the following would be considered a dead load?

A dead load refers to a permanent or static load that is typically immovable and does not change over time. This includes the weight of the structure itself, as well as any attached components that are designed to remain in place throughout the life of the building.

Formwork fits this definition, as it is a temporary structure used during construction to shape and support concrete until it gains sufficient strength. Once the concrete sets, the formwork is usually removed, but it serves its purpose as a part of the overall construction process and is considered a dead load during that timeframe. Since formwork is usually heavy and its weight contributes to the load on the structural elements, it is classified as a dead load when in use.

In contrast, the other choices—workers, equipment, and stored materials—are considered live loads. Live loads are transient and can change over time, representing forces that can vary, such as the movement of people (workers), the use of machinery (equipment), or the addition and removal of materials (stored materials) on the site. Therefore, the only choice that aligns with the definition of a dead load is formwork.