Field-Bolting at the Column

If open web steel joists are installed on columns that are not framed in at least two directions by solid web structural steel, the joists must be field-bolted (if possible) at the column to provide stability to the column during other erection activities. This installation must include the following:

• A vertical stabilizer plate of at least 6 inches by 6 inches is required. The plate must extend at least 3 inches from the joist and have a hole for attaching guying or plumbing cables.
• The bottom chords (horizontal elements on the capital letter "I") must be stabilized so that the joist does not rotate.
• Hoisting cables must remain in place until the seat at each end of the joist is bolted, and until each end of the bottom chord is attached to the stabilizer plate.

To learn more about Construction Steel Erection visit our Construction Steel Erection Safety Online Training web page.