Subpart R -- Steel Erection

1926.750 Scope and application.

1926.751 Definitions.

1926.752 Site layout, site-specific erection plan and construction sequence.

1926.753 Hoisting and rigging.

1926.754 Structural steel assembly.

1926.755 Anchor bolts.

1926.756 Beams and columns.

1926.757 Open web steel joists.

1926.758 Pre-engineered metal buildings.

1926.759 Falling object protection.

1926.760 Fall protection.

1926.761 Training.

Appendix A to Subpart R -- Guidelines for Establishing the Components of a Site-Specific Erection Plan: Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying With Sec. 1926.752(d)

Appendix B to Subpart R -- Acceptable Test Methods for Testing Slip-Resistance of Walking/Working Surfaces: Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying With Sec. 1926.754(c)(3)

Appendix C to Subpart R -- Illustrations of Bridging Terminus Points: Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying With Sec. 1926.757(c)(3)

Appendix D to Subpart R -- Illustration of the Use of Control Lines to Demarcate Controlled Decking Zones (CDZs): Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying With Sec. 1926.760(c)(3)

Appendix E to Subpart R -- Training: Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying With Sec. 1926.761

Appendix F to Subpart R -- Installation of Perimeter Safety Cables: Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying With Sec. 1926.756(f) to Protect the Unprotected Side or Edge of a Walking/Working Surface

Subpart R -- Steel Erection

Sec. 1926.750 Scope and Application.

(a) Scope. This subpart sets forth requirements to protect employees from the hazards associated with steel erection activities involved in the construction, alteration, and/or repair of single and multi-story buildings, bridges, and other structures where steel erection occurs. The requirements of this subpart apply to employers engaged in steel erection unless otherwise specified. This subpart does not cover electrical transmission towers, communication and broadcast towers, or tanks.

Note: Examples of structures where steel erection may occur include but are not limited to the following: single and multi-story buildings; pre-engineered metal buildings; lift slab/tilt-up structures; energy exploration structures; energy production, transfer and storage structures and facilities; auditoriums; malls; amphitheaters; stadiums; power plants; mills; chemical process structures; bridges; trestles; overpasses; underpasses; viaducts; aqueducts; aerospace facilities and structures; radar and communication structures; light towers; signage; billboards; scoreboards; conveyor systems, conveyor supports and related framing; stairways; stair towers; fire escapes; draft curtains; fire containment structures; monorails; aerialways; catwalks; curtain walls; window walls; store fronts; elevator fronts; entrances; skylights; metal roofs; industrial structures; hi-bay structures; rail, marine and other transportation structures; sound barriers; water process and water containment structures; air and cable supported structures; space frames; geodesic domes; canopies; racks and rack support structures and frames; platforms; walkways; balconies; atriums; penthouses; car dumpers; stackers/reclaimers; cranes and craneways; bins; hoppers; ovens; furnaces; stacks; amusement park structures and rides; and artistic and monumental structures.

(b) Application. Steel erection activities include hoisting, connecting, welding, bolting, and rigging structural steel, steel joists and metal buildings; installing metal deck, siding systems, miscellaneous metals, ornamental iron and similar materials; and moving point-to-point while performing these activities.

Note: Activities which could be considered covered by this subpart when they occur during the process of steel erection include but are not limited to the following: rigging, hoisting, laying out, placing, connecting, guying, bracing, dismantling, burning, welding, bolting, grinding, sealing, caulking, and all related activities for construction, alteration and/or repair of materials and assemblies such as structural steel; ferrous metals and alloys; non-ferrous metals and alloys; glass; plastics and synthetic composite materials; structural metal framing and related bracing and assemblies; anchoring devices; structural cabling; cable stays; permanent and temporary bents and towers; falsework for temporary supports of permanent steel members; architectural precast concrete, stone and other architectural materials mounted on steel frames; safety systems for steel erection; steel and metal joists; metal decking and raceway systems and accessories; metal roofing and accessories; metal siding; bridge flooring; cold formed steel framing; elevator beams; grillage; shelf racks; multi-purpose supports; crane rails and accessories; miscellaneous, architectural and ornamental metals and metal work; ladders; railings; handrails; fences and gates; gratings; trench covers; floor plates; castings; sheet metal fabrications; metal panels and panel wall systems; louvers; column covers; enclosures and pockets; stairs; perforated metals; ornamental iron work; expansion control including bridge expansion joint assemblies; slide bearings; hydraulic structures; fascias; soffit panels; penthouse enclosures; skylights; joint fillers; gaskets; sealants and seals; doors; windows; hardware, detention/security equipment and doors, windows and hardware; curtain walls/sloped glazing systems/structural glass curtain walls; translucent wall systems; conveying systems; building specialties; building equipment; machinery and plant equipment, furnishings and special construction.

Sec. 1926.751 Definitions.

Anchored bridging means that the steel joist bridging is connected to a bridging terminus point.

Bolted diagonal bridging means diagonal bridging which is bolted to a steel joist or joists.

Bridging clip means a device that is attached to the steel joist to allow the bolting of the bridging to the steel joist.

Bridging terminus point means a wall, beam, tandem joists (with all bridging installed and a horizontal truss in the plane of the top chord) or other element at an end or intermediate point(s) of a line of bridging that provides an anchor point for the steel joist bridging.

Choker means a wire rope or synthetic fiber rigging assembly that is used to attach a load to a hoisting device.

Clipped connection means the connection material on the end of a structural member intended for use in a double connection which has a notch at the bottom and/or top to allow the bolt(s) of the first member placed on the opposite side of the central member to remain in place. The notch(es) fits around the nut or bolt head of the opposing member to allow the second member to be bolted up without removing the bolt(s) holding the first member.

Cold formed joist means an open web joist fabricated with cold formed steel components.

Cold forming means the process of using press brakes, rolls, or other methods to shape steel into desired cross sections at room temperature.

Competent person (also defined in Sec. 1926.32) means one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.

Composite joists means steel joists designed to act in composite action with concrete floor and/or concrete roof slabs. Typically, a portion of the top chord of the joist (or a lug or similar device attached to the top chord of the joist) is embedded in the concrete slab.

Connector means an employee who, working with hoisting equipment, is placing and connecting structural members and/or components.

Construction load for joist erection means any load other than the weight of the employee(s), the joists and the bridging bundle.

Controlled Decking Zone (CDZ) means an area in which certain work (e.g., initial installation and placement of metal deck) may take place without the use of guardrail systems, personal fall arrest systems or safety net systems and where access to the zone is controlled.

Controlled load lowering means lowering a load by means of a mechanical hoist drum device that allows a hoisted load to be lowered with maximum control using the gear train or hydraulic components of the hoist mechanism. Controlled load lowering requires the use of the hoist drive motor, rather than the load hoist brake, to lower the load.

Controlling contractor means a prime contractor, general contractor, construction manager or any other legal entity at the site who has, by contract with other parties, the overall responsibility for the project, its planning, quality and completion.

Critical lift means a lift that exceeds 75 percent of the rated capacity of the crane or derrick, or requires the use of more than one crane or derrick.

Decking hole means a gap or void more than 2 inches (5.1 cm) in its least dimension and less than 12 inches (30.5 cm) in its greatest dimension in a floor, roof or other walking/working surface. Pre-engineered holes in cellular decking are not included in this definition.

Derrick floor means an elevated floor of a building or structure that has been designated to receive hoisted pieces of steel prior to final placement.

Double connection means an attachment method where the connection point is intended for two pieces of steel which share common bolts on either side of a central piece.

Erection bridging means the bolted diagonal bridging that is required to be installed prior to releasing the hoisting cables from the steel joists.

Fall restraint (Positioning device) system means a body belt or body harness used to prevent an employee from free falling more than 24 inches (61 cm) and where self rescue can be assured. It consists of an anchorage, connectors, a body belt or harness and may include a lanyard, deceleration device, lifeline, or suitable combination of these.

Girt (in pre-engineered metal buildings) means a "Z" or "C" shaped member formed from sheet steel spanning between primary framing and supporting wall material.

Headache ball means a weighted hook that is used to attach loads to the hoist load line of the crane.

Hoisting equipment means commercially manufactured lifting equipment designed to lift and position a load of known weight to an erection location at some known elevation and horizontal distance from the equipment's center of rotation. "Hoisting equipment" includes but is not limited to cranes, derricks, tower cranes, barge-mounted derricks or cranes, gin poles and gantry hoist systems. A "come-a- long" (a mechanical device, usually consisting of a chain or cable attached at each end, that is used to facilitate movement of materials through leverage) is not considered "hoisting equipment."

Leading edge means the unprotected side and edge of a floor, roof, or formwork for a floor or other walking/working surface (such as deck) which changes location as additional floor, roof, decking or formwork sections are placed, formed or constructed.

Metal deck means a commercially manufactured, structural grade, cold rolled metal panel formed into a series of parallel ribs; for this subpart, this includes metal floor and roof decks, standing seam metal roofs, other metal roof systems and other products such as bar gratings, checker plate, expanded metal panels, and similar products. After installation and proper fastening, these decking materials serve a combination of functions including, but not limited to: a structural element designed in combination with the structure to resist, distribute and transfer loads, stiffen the structure and provide a diaphragm action; a walking/working surface; a form for concrete slabs; a support for roofing systems; and a finished floor or roof.

Multiple lift rigging means a rigging assembly manufactured by wire rope rigging suppliers that facilitates the attachment of up to five independent loads to the hoist rigging of a crane.

Opening means a gap or void 12 inches (30.5 cm) or more in its least dimension in a floor, roof or other walking/working surface. For the purposes of this subpart, skylights and smoke domes that do not meet the strength requirements of Sec. 1926.760(d)(1) shall be regarded as openings.

Permanent floor means a structurally completed floor at any level or elevation (including slab on grade).

Personal fall arrest system means a system used to arrest an employee in a fall from a working level. A personal fall arrest system consists of an anchorage, connectors, a body belt or body harness and may include a lanyard, deceleration device, lifeline, or suitable combination of these. (As of January 1, 1998, the use of a body belt for fall arrest is prohibited by subpart M of this part.)

Pre-engineered metal building means a field-assembled building system consisting of framing, roof and wall coverings, and generally made of steel. Typically, in a pre-engineered metal building, many of these components are cold-formed shapes. These individual parts are fabricated in one or more manufacturing facilities and shipped to the job site for assembly into the final structure. Engineering design of the system is normally the responsibility of the pre-engineered metal building manufacturer.

Project structural engineer of record means the registered, licensed professional responsible for the design of structural steel framing and whose seal appears on the structural contract documents.

Purlin (in pre-engineered metal buildings) means a "Z" or "C" shaped member formed from sheet steel spanning between primary framing and supporting roof material.

Qualified person (also defined in Sec. 1926.32) means one who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the project.

Safety deck attachment means an initial attachment that is used to secure an initially placed sheet of decking to keep proper alignment and bearing with structural support members.

Seat means a structural attachment mounted to a structural member beneath a connection point, designed to support an incoming member that is to be connected to the first member.

Shear connector means headed steel studs, steel bars, steel lugs, and similar devices which are attached to a structural member for the purpose of achieving composite action with concrete.

Steel erection means the erection of steel buildings, bridges and other structures, including the installation of steel flooring and roofing members and all planking and decking used during the process of erection.

Steel joist means an open web, secondary load-carrying member of 144 feet (43.9 m) or less suitable for the support of floors and roofs. This does not include structural steel trusses or cold-formed joists.

Steel joist girder means an open web, primary load-carrying member, designed by the manufacturer, suitable for the support of floors and roofs. This does not include structural steel trusses.

Steel truss means an open web member designed of structural steel components by the project structural engineer of record. For the purposes of this subpart, a steel truss is considered equivalent to a solid web structural member.

Unprotected sides and edges means any side or edge (except at entrances to points of access) of a walking/working surface, e.g., floor, roof, ramp or runway, where there is no wall or guardrail system at least 39 inches (1.0 m) high.

Sec. 1926.752 Site layout, site-specific erection plan and construction sequence.

(a) Approval to begin steel erection. Before authorizing the commencement of steel erection, the controlling contractor must provide the steel erector with the following written notifications:

(1) The concrete in the footings, piers and walls or the mortar in the masonry piers and walls has attained, on the basis of an appropriate ASTM standard test method of field-cured samples, either 75 percent of the intended minimum compressive design strength or sufficient strength to support loads imposed during steel erection.

(2) Any repairs, replacements and modifications to the anchor bolts were conducted in accordance with Sec. 1926.755(b).

(b) Site layout. The controlling contractor shall provide and maintain the site layout as follows:

(1) Adequate access roads into and through the site for the safe delivery and movement of derricks, cranes, trucks, other necessary equipment, and the material to be erected and means and methods for pedestrian and vehicular control; and

(2) A firm, properly graded, drained area, readily accessible to the work with adequate space for the safe storage of materials and the safe operation of the erector's equipment.

(c) Overhead protection. All hoisting operations in steel erection shall be pre-planned in accordance with Secs. 1926.753(b) and 1926.759 to ensure that no employee is required to be exposed to overhead hazards.

(d) Site-specific erection plan. Where employers elect, due to conditions specific to the site, to develop alternate means and methods that provide employee protection in accordance with Sec. 1926.753(a)(5), Sec. 1926.757(a)(3) or Sec. 1926.757(e)(4)(i), a site-specific erection plan shall be developed by a qualified person and be available at the work site. Guidelines for establishing a site-specific erection plan are contained in appendix A to this subpart.

Sec. 1926.753 Hoisting and rigging.

The following provisions supplement the requirements of Sec. 1926.550 regarding the hazards associated with hoisting and rigging.

(a) General. (1) Pre-shift visual inspection of cranes.

(i) Cranes being used in steel erection activities shall be visually inspected prior to each shift by a competent person; the inspection shall include observation for deficiencies during operation. At a minimum, this inspection shall include the following:

(A) All control mechanisms for maladjustments;

(B) Control and drive mechanisms for excessive wear of components and contamination by lubricants, water or other foreign matter;

(C) Safety devices, including but not limited to, boom angle indicators, boom stops, boom kick-out devices, anti-two block devices, and load moment indicators where required;

(D) Air, hydraulic, and other pressurized lines for deterioration or leakage, particularly those which flex in normal operation;

(E) Hooks and latches for deformation, chemical damage, cracks, or wear;

(F) Wire rope reeving for compliance with hoisting equipment manufacturer's specifications;

(G) Electrical apparatus for malfunctioning, signs of excessive deterioration, dirt, or moisture accumulation;

(H) Hydraulic system for proper fluid level;

(I) Tires for proper inflation and condition;

(J) Ground conditions around the hoisting equipment for proper support, including ground settling under and around outriggers, ground water accumulation, or other similar conditions;

(K) The hoisting equipment for level position; and

(L) The hoisting equipment for level position after each move and setup.

(ii) If any deficiencies are identified, an immediate determination shall be made by the competent person as to whether the deficiency constitutes a hazard.

(iii) If the deficiency is determined to constitute a hazard, the hoisting equipment shall be removed from service until the deficiency has been corrected.

(iv) The employer shall obtain and/or prepare a certification record of the pre-shift inspection required by paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section which includes the date the hoisting equipment items were inspected; the signature of the person who inspected the hoisting equipment items; and a serial number, or other identifier, for the hoisting equipment inspected.

(v) The operator shall be responsible for those operations under the operator's direct control. Whenever there is any doubt as to safety, the operator shall have the authority to stop and refuse to handle loads until safety has been assured.

(2) A qualified rigger (i.e., a rigger who is also a qualified person) shall inspect the rigging prior to each shift in accordance with Sec. 1926.251.

(3) The headache ball, hook or load shall not be used to transport personnel except as provided in paragraph (a)(1)(v)(4) of this section.

(4) Paragraph (g)(2) of Sec. 1926.550 notwithstanding, cranes or derricks may be used to hoist employees on a personnel platform when work under this subpart is being conducted, provided that all other provisions of Sec. 1926.550(g) are met.

(5) Safety latches on hooks shall not be deactivated or made inoperable except:

(i) When a qualified rigger has determined that the hoisting and placing of purlins and single joists can be performed more safely by doing so; or

(ii) When equivalent protection is provided in a site-specific erection plan.

(b) Working under loads. (1) Routes for suspended loads shall be pre-planned to ensure that no employee is required to work directly below a suspended load, except for:

(i) Employees engaged in the initial connection of steel; or

(ii) Employees necessary for the hooking or unhooking of the load.

(2) When working under suspended loads, the following criteria shall be met:

(i) Materials being hoisted shall be rigged to prevent unintentional displacement;

(ii) Hooks with self-closing safety latches or their equivalent shall be used to prevent components from slipping out of the hook; and

(iii) All loads shall be rigged by a qualified rigger.

(c) Multiple lift rigging procedure. (1) A multiple lift shall only be performed if the following criteria are met:

(i) A multiple lift rigging assembly is used;

(ii) A maximum of five (5) members is hoisted per lift;

(iii) Only structural members are lifted; and

(iv) All employees engaged in the multiple lift have been trained in these procedures in accordance with Sec. 1926.761(c)(1).

(2) Components of the multiple lift rigging assembly shall be specifically designed and assembled with a maximum capacity for total assembly and for each individual attachment point. This capacity, certified by the manufacturer or a qualified rigger, shall be based on the manufacturer's specifications with a 5 to 1 safety factor for all components.

(3) The total load shall not exceed:

(i) The rated capacity of the hoisting equipment specified in the hoisting equipment load charts; or

(ii) The rigging capacity specified in the rigging rating chart.

(4) The multiple lift rigging assembly shall be rigged with the members:

(i) Attached at their center of gravity and maintained reasonably level;

(ii) Rigged from the top down; and

(iii) Rigged at least 7 feet (2.1 m) apart.

(5) The members on the multiple lift rigging assembly shall be set from the bottom up.

(6) Controlled load lowering shall be used whenever the load is over the connectors.

Sec. 1926.754 Structural steel assembly.

(a) Structural stability shall be maintained at all times during the erection process.

(b) The following additional requirements shall apply for multi-story structures:

(1) The permanent floors shall be installed as the erection of structural members progresses, and there shall be not more than eight stories between the erection floor and the upper-most permanent floor, except where the structural integrity is maintained as a result of the design.

(2) At no time shall there be more than four floors or 48 feet (14.6 m), whichever is less, of unfinished bolting or welding above the foundation or uppermost permanently secured floor, except where the structural integrity is maintained as a result of the design.

(3) A fully planked or decked floor or nets shall be maintained within 2 stories or 30 feet (9.1 m), whichever is less, directly under any erection work being performed.

(c) Walking/working surfaces -- (1) Shear connectors and other similar devices -- (i) Tripping hazards. Shear connectors (such as headed steel studs, steel bars or steel lugs), reinforcing bars, deformed anchors or threaded studs shall not be attached to the top flanges of beams, joists or beam attachments so that they project vertically from or horizontally across the top flange of the member until after the decking, or other walking/working surface, has been installed.

(ii) Installation of shear connectors on composite floors, roofs and bridge decks. When shear connectors are utilized in construction of composite floors, roofs and bridge decks, employees shall lay out and install the shear connectors after the decking has been installed, using the deck as a working platform. Shear connectors shall not be installed from within a controlled decking zone (CDZ), as specified in Sec. 1926.760(c)(8).

(2) Metal decking. [Reserved]

(3) Skeletal structural steel. Workers shall not be permitted to walk the top surface of any structural steel member installed after [effective date of final rule] which has been finish-coated with paint or similar material unless documentation or certification, based on an appropriate ASTM standard test method, is provided that the finished coat has not decreased the coefficient of friction (COF) from that of the original steel before it was finish-coated. Such documentation or certification shall be available at the site and to the steel erector (see appendix B of this subpart).

(d) Plumbing-up. (1) Connections of the equipment used in plumbing- up shall be properly secured.

(2) Plumbing-up equipment shall be removed only with the approval of a competent person.

(e) Decking -- (1) Hoisting, landing and placing of deck bundles. (i) Bundle packaging and strapping shall not be used for hoisting unless specifically designed for that purpose.

(ii) If loose items such as dunnage, flashing, or other materials are placed on the top of deck bundles to be hoisted, such items shall be secured to the bundles.

(iii) Bundles of decking on joists shall be landed in accordance with Sec. 1926.757(e)(4).

(iv) Bundles shall be landed on framing members so that enough support is provided to allow the bundles to be unbanded without dislodging the bundles from the supports.

(v) At the end of the shift or when environmental or jobsite conditions require, decking shall be secured against displacement.

(2) Roof and floor openings. Metal deck at roof and floor openings shall be installed as follows:

(i) Where structural design and constructability allow, framed deck openings shall have structural members turned down to allow continuous deck installation.

(ii) Roof and floor openings shall be covered during the decking process. Where structural design does not allow openings to be covered, they shall be protected in accordance with Sec. 1926.760(a)(2).

(iii) Decking holes and openings shall not be cut until essential to the construction process, and openings shall be protected immediately in accordance with Sec. 1926.760(d) or be otherwise permanently filled.

(3) Space around columns. Wire mesh, exterior plywood, or equivalent, shall be used around columns where planks or decking do not fit tightly.

(4) Floor decking. Floor decking shall be laid tightly and secured to prevent accidental movement or displacement.

(5) Derrick floors. (i) A derrick floor shall be fully decked and/ or planked and the steel member connections completed to support the intended floor loading.

(ii) Temporary loads placed on a derrick floor shall be distributed over the underlying support members so as to prevent local overloading of the deck material.

Sec. 1926.755 Anchor bolts.

(a) General requirements for erection stability. (1) All columns shall be anchored by a minimum of 4 anchor bolts. Each column anchor bolt assembly, including the welding of the column to the base plate, shall be designed to resist a 300 pound (136.2 kg) eccentric load located 18 inches (.46 m) from the column face in each direction at the top of the column shaft.

(2) Columns shall be set on level finished floors, pre-grouted leveling plates, leveling nuts, or shim packs which are adequate to transfer the construction loads.

(3) Unstable columns shall be evaluated by a competent person and be guyed or braced where deemed necessary.

(b) Repair, replacement or field modification.

(1) Anchor bolts shall not be repaired, replaced or field-modified without the approval of the project structural engineer of record.

(2) Such approval under paragraph (b)(1) of this section shall state whether the repair, replacement or modification has made guying or bracing of the column necessary.

(3) Prior to the erection of a column, the controlling contractor shall provide written notification to the steel erector if there has been any repair, replacement or modification of the anchor bolts of that column.

Sec. 1926.756 Beams and columns.

(a) General. During the final placing of solid web structural members, the load shall not be released from the hoisting line until the members are secured with at least two bolts per connection drawn up wrench-tight or the equivalent as specified by the project structural engineer of record, except as specified in paragraph (b) of this section.

(b) Diagonal bracing. Solid web structural members used as diagonal bracing shall be secured by at least one bolt per connection drawn up wrench-tight or the equivalent as specified by the project structural engineer of record.

(c) Double connections at columns and/or at beam webs over a column. When two structural members on opposite sides of a column web, or a beam web over a column, share common connection holes, at least one bolt with its wrench-tight nut shall remain connected to the first member unless a shop-attached or field-bolted seat or similar connection device is present to secure the second member and prevent the column from being displaced. When seats are provided, the connection between the seat and the structural member that it supports shall be bolted together before the nuts are removed for the double connection.

(d) Column splices. Each column splice shall be designed to resist a 300 pound (136.2 kg) eccentric load located 18 inches (.46 m) from the column face in each direction at the top of the column shaft.

(e) Perimeter columns. Perimeter columns shall extend a minimum of 48 inches (1.2 m) above the finished floor to permit installation of perimeter safety cables prior to erection of the next tier except where structural design and constructibility do not allow. (See appendix F to this subpart.)

(f) Perimeter safety cables. (1) Perimeter safety cables shall be installed at the perimeter during the structural steel assembly of multi-story structures.

(2) Perimeter safety cables shall consist of \1/2\-inch wire rope or equivalent installed at 42-45 inches above the finished floor and at the midpoint between the finished floor and the top cable.

(3) Holes or other devices shall be provided by the fabricator/supplier and shall be in or attached to perimeter columns at 42-45 inches above the finished floor and the midpoint between the finished floor and the top cable to permit installation of perimeter safety cables except where structural design and constructibility allow. (See appendix F to this subpart.)

Sec. 1926.757 Open web steel joists.

(a) General. (1) In steel framing, where steel joists or steel joist girders are utilized and columns are not framed in at least two directions with solid web structural steel members, the steel joist or steel joist girder shall be field-bolted at or near columns to provide lateral stability to the column during erection.

(2) Where steel joists at or near columns span 60 feet (18.3 m) or less, the joist shall be designed with sufficient strength to allow one employee to release the hoisting cable without the need for erection bridging.

(3) Where steel joists at columns span more than 60 feet (18.3 m), the joists shall be set in tandem with all bridging installed unless an alternative method of erection, which provides equivalent stability to the steel joist, is designed by a qualified person and is included in the site-specific erection plan.

(4) A stabilizer plate shall be provided on each column for steel joists and steel joist girders and shall extend at least 3 inches (76 mm) below the bottom chord of the joist with a 13/16 inch (21 mm) hole to provide an attachment point for guying or plumbing cables.

(5) Bottom chords of steel joist girders and steel joists required by paragraph (a)(1) of this section shall be stabilized to prevent rotation during erection.

(6) A steel joist shall not be placed on any support structure unless such structure is stabilized.

(7) When steel joist(s) are landed on a structure, they shall be secured to prevent unintentional displacement prior to installation.

(8) Except for steel joists that have been pre-assembled into panels, connections of individual steel joists to steel structures in bays of 40 feet (12.2 m) or more shall be fabricated to allow for field bolting during erection.

(9) A bridging terminus point shall be established before bridging is installed. (See appendix C to this subpart.)

(10) Steel joists and steel joist girders shall not be used as anchorage points for a fall arrest system unless written direction to do so is obtained from a qualified person.

(11) No modification that affects the strength of a steel joist shall be made without the approval of the project structural engineer of record.

(b) Attachment of steel joists and steel joist girders. (1) Each end of "K" series steel joists shall be attached to the support structure with a minimum of two \1/8\-inch (3 mm) fillet welds 1 inch (25 mm) long or with two \1/2\-inch (13 mm) bolts, or the equivalent.

(2) Each end of "LH" and "DLH" series steel joists and steel joist girders shall be attached to the support structure with a minimum of two \1/4\-inch (6 mm) fillet welds 2 inches (51 mm) long, or with two \3/4\-inch (19 mm) bolts, or the equivalent.

(3) Except as provided in paragraph (b)(4) of this section, each steel joist shall be attached to the support structure, at least at one end, immediately upon placement in the final erection position and before additional joists are placed.

(4) Steel joists that have been pre-assembled into panels through the installation of bridging shall be attached to the structure at each corner before the hoisting cables are released.

(c) Erection of steel joists. (1) One end of each steel joist shall be attached to the support structure before an employee is allowed on the steel joist.

(2) On steel joists that span 40 feet (12.2 m) or less and that do not require erection bridging per Tables A and B, only one employee shall be allowed on the joist until all bridging is installed and anchored.

(3) Employees shall not be allowed on steel joists that span more than 40 feet except in accordance with Sec. 1926.757(d).

(4) When permanent bridging terminus points cannot be used during erection, additional temporary bridging terminus points are required to provide stability. (See appendix C of this subpart.)

(d) Erection bridging. (1) Where the span of the steel joist is equal to or greater than the span shown in Tables A and B, or in bays of 40 feet (12.2 m) through 60 feet (18.3 m), the following shall apply:

(i) The row of erection bridging nearest the midspan of the steel joist shall be bolted diagonal bridging;

(ii) Hoisting cables shall not be released until this bolted diagonal erection bridging is installed; and

(iii) No more than one employee shall be allowed on these spans until all other bridging is installed and anchored.

(2) Where the span of the steel joist is over 60 feet (18.3 m) through 100 feet (30.5 m), the following shall apply:

(i) The two rows of erection bridging nearest the third points of the steel joist shall be bolted diagonal bridging;

(ii) Hoisting cables shall not be released until this bolted diagonal erection bridging is installed; and

(iii) No more than two employees shall be allowed on these spans until all other bridging is installed and anchored.

(3) Where the span of the steel joist is over 100 feet (30.5 m) through 144 feet (43.9 m), the following shall apply:

(i) All rows of bridging shall be bolted diagonal bridging;

(ii) Hoisting cables shall not be released until all bridging is installed; and

(iii) No more than two employees shall be allowed on these spans until all bridging is installed.

(4) For steel members spanning over 144 feet (43.9 m), the erection methods used shall be in accordance with Sec. 1926.756.

(5) Where any steel joist specified in paragraphs (c)(2) and (d)(1), (d)(2), and (d)(3) of this section is a bottom chord bearing joist, a row of bolted diagonal bridging shall be provided near the support(s). This bridging shall be installed before the hoisting cable(s) is released.

(6) When bolted diagonal erection bridging is required by this section, the following shall apply:

(i) The bridging shall be indicated on the erection drawing;

(ii) The erection drawing shall be the exclusive indicator of the proper placement of this bridging;

(iii) Shop-installed bridging clips, or functional equivalents, shall be provided where the bridging bolts to the steel joists;

(iv) When two pieces of bridging are attached to the steel joist by a common bolt, the nut that secures the first piece of bridging shall not be removed from the bolt for the attachment of the second; and

(v) Bridging attachments shall not protrude above the top chord of the steel joist.

Table A. -- Erection Bridging for Short Span Joists

Table B. -- Erection Bridging for Long Span Joists

(e) Landing and placing loads. (1) During the construction period, the employer placing a load on steel joists shall ensure that the load is distributed so as not to exceed the carrying capacity of any steel joist.

(2) Except for paragraph (e)(4) of this section, no construction loads are allowed on the steel joists until all bridging is installed and anchored and all joist-bearing ends are attached.

(3) The weight of a bundle of joist bridging shall not exceed a total of 1000 pounds (454 kg). A bundle of joist bridging shall be placed on a minimum of 3 steel joists that are secured at one end. The edge of the bridging bundle shall be positioned within 1 foot (.30 m) of the secured end.

(4) No bundle of decking may be placed on steel joists until all bridging has been installed and anchored and all joist bearing ends attached, unless all of the following conditions are met:

(i) The employer has first determined from a qualified person and documented in a site-specific erection plan that the structure or portion of the structure is capable of supporting the load;

(ii) The bundle of decking is placed on a minimum of 3 steel joists;

(iii) The joists supporting the bundle of decking are attached at both ends;

(iv) At least one row of bridging is installed and anchored;

(v) The total weight of the decking does not exceed 4000 pounds (1816 kg); and

(vi) The edge of the bundle of decking is placed within 1 foot (.30 m) of the bearing surface of the joist end.

(5) The edge of the construction load shall be placed within 1 foot (.30 m) of the bearing surface of the joist end.

Sec. 1926.758 Pre-engineered metal buildings.

(a) Erection of pre-engineered metal buildings shall not begin until the site layout has been completed in accordance with Sec. 1926.752(b).

(b) Each column shall be anchored by a minimum of 4 anchor bolts.

(c) Rigid frames shall have 50 percent of their bolts or the number of bolts specified by the manufacturer (whichever is greater) installed and tightened on both sides of the web adjacent to each flange before the hoisting equipment is released.

(d) Construction loads shall not be placed on any structural steel framework unless such framework is safely bolted, welded or otherwise adequately secured.

(e) In girt and eave strut to frame connections, when girts or eave struts share common connection holes the following shall apply:

(1) At least one bolt with its wrench-tight nut shall remain connected to the second member unless a field-attached seat or similar connection device is present to secure the first member so that the girt or eave strut is always secured against displacement; and

(2) The seat or similar connection device shall be provided by the manufacturer of the girt or eave strut.

(f) Both ends of all steel joists or cold-formed joists shall be fully bolted and/or welded to the support structure before:

(1) Releasing the hoisting cables;

(2) Allowing an employee on the joists; or

(3) Allowing any construction loads on the joists.

(g) Purlins and girts shall not be used as an anchorage point for a fall arrest system unless written direction to do so is obtained from a qualified person.

(h) Purlins may only be used as a walking/working surface when installing safety systems, after all permanent bridging has been installed and fall protection is provided.

(i) Construction loads may be placed only within a zone that is within 8 feet (2.5 m) of the centerline of the primary support member.

Sec. 1926.759 Falling object protection.

(a) Securing loose items aloft. All materials, equipment, and tools, which are not in use while aloft, shall be secured against accidental displacement.

(b) Overhead protection. The controlling contractor shall ensure that no other construction processes take place below steel erection unless adequate overhead protection for the employees below is provided.

Sec. 1926.760 Fall protection.

(a) General requirements. (1) Except as provided by paragraph (a)(3) of this section, each employee covered by this subpart who is on a walking/working surface with an unprotected side or edge more than 15 feet (4.6 m) above a lower level shall be protected from fall hazards.

(2) Protection from fall hazards required by this subpart shall consist of perimeter safety cable systems, guardrail systems, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest or fall restraint (positioning device) systems. Guardrail systems, safety net systems, personal fall arrest systems and fall restraint (positioning device) systems shall conform to the criteria set forth in Sec. 1926.502.

(3) Connectors and employees working in controlled decking zones shall be protected from fall hazards as provided in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, respectively.

(b) Connectors. Each connector shall:

(1) Be protected from fall hazards of more than two stories or 30 feet (9.1 m) above a lower level, whichever is less;

(2) Have completed connector training in accordance with Sec. 1926.761; and

(3) Be provided, at heights over 15 and up to 30 feet above a lower level, with a personal fall arrest or fall restraint (positioning device) system and wear the equipment necessary to be able to be tied off; or be provided with other means of protection from fall hazards in accordance with paragraph (a)(2) of this section.

(c) Controlled decking zone (CDZ). A controlled decking zone may be established in that area of the structure over 15 and up to 30 feet above a lower level where metal deck is initially being installed and forms the leading edge of a work area. In each CDZ, the following shall apply:

(1) Each employee working at the leading edge in a CDZ shall be protected from fall hazards of more than two stories or 30 feet (9.1 m), whichever is less.

(2) Access to a CDZ shall be limited exclusively to those employees engaged in leading edge work.

(3) The boundaries of a CDZ shall be designated and clearly marked. The CDZ shall not be more than 90 feet (27.4 m) wide and 90 feet (27.4 m) deep from any leading edge. The CDZ shall be marked by the use of control lines or the equivalent. Examples of acceptable procedures for demarcating CDZ's can be found in Appendix D to this subpart.

(4) Each employee working in a CDZ shall have completed CDZ training in accordance with Sec. 1926.761.

(5) During initial placement, deck panels shall be placed to ensure full support by structural members.

(6) Unsecured decking in a CDZ shall not exceed 3000 square feet (914.4 m \2\).

(7) Safety deck attachments shall be performed in the CDZ from the leading edge back to the control line and shall have at least two attachments per deck panel.

(8) Final deck attachments and installation of shear connectors shall not be performed in the CDZ.

(d) Covering roof and floor openings. (1) Covers for roof and floor openings required by Sec. 1926.754 (e)(2)(ii) and (e)(2)(iii) shall be capable of supporting, without failure, the greater of either:

(i) 30 psf for roofs and 50 psf for floors; or

(ii) twice the weight of the employees, equipment and materials that may be imposed on the cover at any one time.

(2) All covers shall be secured when installed to prevent accidental displacement by the wind, equipment or employees.

(3) All covers shall be painted with high-visibility paint or shall be marked with the word "HOLE" or "COVER" to provide warning of the hazard.

(4) Smoke dome or skylight fixtures, which have been installed, are not considered covers for the purpose of this section unless they meet the strength requirements of paragraph (d)(1) of this section.

(e) Custody of fall protection. Fall protection provided by the steel erector shall remain in an area to be used by other trades after the steel erection activity has been completed only if the controlling contractor or its authorized representative:

(1) Has directed the steel erector to leave the fall protection in place; and

(2) Has inspected and accepted control and responsibility of the fall protection prior to authorizing persons other than steel erectors to work in the area.

Sec. 1926.761 Training.

The following provisions supplement the requirements of Sec. 1926.21 regarding the hazards addressed in this subpart.

(a) Training personnel. Training required by this section shall be provided by a qualified person(s).

(b) Fall hazard training. The employer shall provide a training program for all employees exposed to fall hazards. The program shall include training and instruction in the following areas:

(1) The recognition and identification of fall hazards in the work area;

(2) The use and operation of perimeter safety cable systems, personal fall arrest systems, fall restraint (positioning device) systems, safety net systems, controlled decking zones and other protection to be used;

(3) The correct procedures for erecting, maintaining, disassembling, and inspecting the fall protection systems to be used;

(4) The procedures to be followed to prevent falls to lower levels and through or into holes and openings in walking/working surfaces and walls; and

(5) The fall protection requirements of Sec. 1926.760.

(c) Special training programs. In addition to the training required in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, the employer shall provide special training to employees engaged in the following activities.

(1) Multiple lift rigging procedure. The employer shall ensure that each employee who performs multiple lift rigging has been provided training in the following areas:

(i) The nature of the hazards associated with multiple lifts; and

(ii) The proper procedures and equipment to perform multiple lifts required by Sec. 1926.753(c).

(2) Connector procedures. The employer shall ensure that each connector has been provided training in the following areas:

(i) The nature of the hazards associated with connecting; and

(ii) The establishment, access, proper connecting techniques and work practices required by Secs. 1926.760(b) and 1926.756(c).

(3) Controlled decking zone procedures. Where CDZs are being used, the employer shall ensure that each employee has been provided training in the following areas:

(i) The nature of the hazards associated with work within a controlled decking zone; and

(ii) The establishment, access, proper installation techniques and work practices required by Secs. 1926.760(c) and 1926.754(e).

Note to Appendices to Subpart R: The following appendices to subpart R of this part serve as non-mandatory guidelines to assist employers in complying with the appropriate requirements of subpart R of this part.

Appendix A to Subpart R -- Guidelines for Establishing the Components of a Site-Specific Erection Plan: Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying With Sec. 1926.752(d)

(a) General. This appendix serves as a guideline to assist employers who elect to develop a site-specific erection plan in accordance with Sec. 1926.752(d) with alternate means and methods to provide employee protection in accordance with Secs. 1926.752(d), 1926.753(a)(5), 1926.757(a)(3) and 1926.757(e)(4)(i).

(b) Development of a site-specific erection plan. Pre- construction conference(s) and site inspection(s) are held between the erector and the controlling contractor, and others such as the project engineer and fabricator before the start of steel erection. The purpose of such conference(s) is to develop and review the site-specific erection plan that will meet the requirements of this section.

(c) Components of a site-specific erection plan. In developing a site-specific erection plan, a steel erector considers the following elements:

(1) The sequence of erection activity, developed in coordination with the controlling contractor, that includes the following:

(i) Material deliveries:

(ii) Material staging and storage; and

(iii) Coordination with other trades and construction activities.

(2) A description of the crane and derrick selection and placement procedures, including the following:

(i) Site preparation;

(ii) Path for overhead loads; and

(iii) Critical lifts, including rigging supplies and equipment.

(3) A description of steel erection activities and procedures, including the following:

(i) Stability considerations requiring temporary bracing and guying;

(ii) Erection bridging terminus point;

(iii) Anchor bolt notifications regarding repair, replacement and modifications;

(iv) Columns and beams (including joists and purlins);

(v) Connections;

(vi) Decking; and

(vii) Ornamental and miscellaneous iron.

(4) A description of the fall protection procedures that will be used to comply with Sec. 1926.760.

(5) A description of the procedures that will be used to comply with Sec. 1926.759.

(6) A description of the special procedures required for hazardous non-routine tasks.

(7) A certification for each employee who has received training for performing steel erection operations as required by Sec. 1926.761.

(8) A list of the qualified and competent persons.

(9) A description of the procedures that will be utilized in the event of rescue or emergency response.

(d) Other plan information. The plan:

(1) Includes the identification of the site and project; and

(2) Is signed and dated by the qualified person(s) responsible for its preparation and modification.

Appendix B TO Subpart R -- Acceptable Test Methods for Testing Slip-Resistance of Walking/Working Surfaces (Sec. 1926.754(c)(3)) Non-mandatory Guidelines for Complying With Sec. 1926.754(c)(3).

The following references provide acceptable test methods for complying with the requirements of Sec. 1926.754(c)(3).

• Standard Test Method for Using a Portable Articulated Strut Slip Tester (PAST) (ASTM F1678-96)

• Standard Test Method for Using a Variable Incidence Tribometer (VIT) (ASTM F1679-96)

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Appendix D to Subpart R -- Illustration of the use of Control Lines to Demarcate Controlled Decking Zones (CDZs): Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying With Sec. 1926.760(c)(3)

(1) When used to control access to areas where leading edge and initial securement of metal deck and other operations connected with leading edge work are taking place, the controlled decking zone (CDZ) is defined by a control line or by any other means that restricts access.

(i) A control line for a CDZ is erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) nor more than 90 feet (27.4 m) from the leading edge.

(ii) Control lines extend along the entire length of the unprotected or leading edge and are approximately parallel to the unprotected or leading edge.

(iii) Control lines are connected on each side to a guardrail system, wall, stanchion or other suitable anchorage.

(2) Control lines consist of ropes, wires, tapes, or equivalent materials, and supporting stanchions as follows:

(i) Each line is rigged and supported in such a way that its lowest point (including sag) is not less than 39 inches (1.0 m) from the walking/working surface and its highest point is not more than 45 inches (1.3 m) from the walking/working surface.

(ii) Each line has a minimum breaking strength of 200 pounds (90.8 kg).

Appendix E to Subpart R -- Training: Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying With Sec. 1926.761

The training requirements of Sec. 1926.761 will be deemed to have been met if employees have completed a training course on steel erection, including instruction in the provisions of this standard, that has been approved by the U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Bureau of Apprenticeship.

Appendix F to Subpart R -- Installation of Perimeter Safety Cables: Non-Mandatory Guidelines for Complying with Sec. 1926.756(f) To Protect the Unprotected Side or Edge of a Walking/Working Surface.

In multi-story structures, the project structural engineer of record (SER) may facilitate the ease of erecting perimeter safety cables, where structural design allows, by placing column splices sufficiently high so as to accommodate perimeter safety cables located at 42-45 inches above the finished floor. The SER may also consider allowing holes to be placed in the column web, when the column is oriented with the web perpendicular to the structural perimeter, at 42-45 inches above the finished floor and at the midpoint between the finished floor and the top cable. When holes in the column web are allowed for perimeter safety cables, the column splice must be placed sufficiently high so as not to interfere with any attachments to the column necessary for the column splice. Column splices are recommended to be placed at every other or fourth levels as design allows. Column splices at third levels are detrimental to the erection process and should be avoided if possible.

[FR Doc. 98-21112 Filed 8-12-98; 8:45 am]

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