Erection Bridging - Short to Mid-Length Spans

There are dozens of different types of joists, each with its own strength. Due to the differences in joist types, each type has a different span at which it requires bridging. A table that lists each type of joist and the length at which it requires bridging may be found in 29 CFR 1926.757.

When the span of a joist exceeds its minimum bridging span, a row of bolted diagonal bridging must be installed near the midspan of the joist. Hoisting cables may not be released until the bridging is installed and anchored. No more than one employee is allowed on the joist until all other bridging is installed and anchored.

When the span of a steel joist is between 60 feet and 100 feet, all the rows of bridging must be bolted, diagonal bridging. Two rows of bridging must be installed at one-third intervals along the joist. Hoisting cables may not be removed until the bridging is installed and anchored. No more than two employees are allowed on the joist until all other bridging is installed and anchored.

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