The obligations of the design engineer to consider the effects of multi-storey formwork activity on the structure are discussed along with the definitions of the three forming and stripping cycles. An overview of the history of research in this area is given culminating in the more recent work. The principles of the redistribution of loads throughout the system from time dependent deformation of the slabs is covered and extended to show the influence of the structure, the formwork system in use, the environment, drying shrinkage start times and superimposed loads on the slab loadings and deflection. Recommendations are given on the control of these loadings, the associated concrete strength requirements and some precautions to be observed in the use of table forms.