Responsibilities of an AISC Certified Structural Steel Fabricator

The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) plays a pivotal role in the construction industry by providing guidelines for structural steel fabricators. These standards are essential for ensuring the safety and reliability of steel structures. Within the realm of steel fabricators, the AISC places significant responsibility on them to adhere to the standards of their specific fabrication category.

• Quality Control: One of the primary responsibilities shared by all structural steel fabricators is ensuring the quality of the fabricated steel. Fabricators are expected to maintain stringent quality control measures outlined by AISC standards. This includes using skilled personnel, proper equipment, and adherence to approved fabrication processes.

• Compliance with Codes and Specifications: AISC provides a comprehensive set of codes and specifications that a structural steel fabricator must follow. These guidelines encompass everything from material selection to welding techniques. The responsibility of fabricators is to ensure strict compliance with these standards to guarantee the structural integrity of the final product.

• Welding Procedures: Welding is a critical aspect of structural steel fabrication. Fabricators must establish and follow approved welding procedures to maintain the strength and durability of steel connections. This responsibility extends to training and certifying welders, monitoring weld quality, and conducting non-destructive testing to identify defects.

• Material Handling and Storage: Proper documentation, material handling, and storage are essential to assure materials specification adherence, as well as prevent contamination, corrosion, or damage to the steel. The structural steel fabricator ensures that materials adhere to specifications, are stored correctly, and are handled carefully to maintain structural integrity.

• Documentation and Record Keeping: Structural steel fabricators must meticulously document their materials’ compliance, processes, inspections, and tests conducted during fabrication. These records are evidence of compliance with AISC standards and are crucial for quality assurance and liability purposes.

• Communication: Effective communication is vital in construction projects. The structural steel fabricator must coordinate with engineers, architects, and contractors to ensure the fabricated steel aligns with the project’s design and specifications. This responsibility involves addressing any design or compatibility issues promptly.

• Inspection and Testing: Structural steel fabricators are responsible for conducting various inspections and tests, including visual inspections, ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle testing, and dye penetrant testing, as specified by AISC. These tests ensure the structural integrity and safety of the fabricated steel components.

• Compliance with Safety Standards: Safety is paramount in the construction industry. The structural steel fabricator must adhere to AISC’s safety standards to protect workers and prevent accidents in the fabrication shop. This includes implementing safety protocols, providing necessary safety equipment, and maintaining a safe working environment.

• Timely Delivery: Meeting project deadlines is a crucial responsibility for fabricators. Delayed delivery of fabricated steel can disrupt construction schedules and lead to additional costs. Structural steel fabricators must manage their production schedules efficiently to ensure on-time delivery.

It is essential to employ an AISC Certified Structural Steel Fabricator to ensure a safe and reliable steel structure that meets the highest industry standards. Southeastern Construction is committed to shouldering the responsibilities of an AISC Certified fabricator and complying with the AISC Code of Standard Practice.