Definition of load:

The loading capacity of any grating/plank module varies with the material, clear span, bearing bar dimension, contact surface and the distance between the bearing bars.

The maximum loading capacity is obtained when the grating/plank module is spanning the shortest direction (bearing direction/span) with all the bearing bars/planks continously supported. The recommended minimum bearer support at each end is 30 mm 

Distributed load
The load is spread across the entire grating/plank module, which is also known as Distributed Load.

This load is stated as: "q/m^2", where q = kN, Shown as:- q kN/m²

Point load
The load is concentrated to a smaller area of the grating, e.g. 200x200mm, which is also known as Point Load. 

This load is stated as: "P/c x a mm", where P = KN, c = length of contact area & a = width of contact area.

Shown as:- P KN/200x200mm 

Example 1 - typical loading calculation sheet for  Industrial Application in "Grating Type SP"