The Process of Construction with Structural Steel in California

The process of constructing with structural steel in California is a key aspect of civil construction. It typically begins with the requirements set by the OWNER or DEVELOPER, which may be a commercial company, real estate developer, or landowner. These entities hire a design firm—referred to as the ARCHITECTURE or DESIGN-BUILD FIRM—to develop the project with input from engineers and specialists in various disciplines, including geotechnical, civil, structural, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and architectural fields.

Within the structural specialty, it is important to distinguish between different trades. For example, carpentry involves not only the installation of wood elements, drywall, and siding but also the installation of light-gauge metal plates or cold-formed metal that does not require welding. Additionally, reinforcement steel specialists work with concrete and its metal accessories, usually in the form of rebars, while structural steel professionals handle the steel framework, metal stairs, railings, metal deck and steel components that require welding.

Once the design is completed, the DEVELOPER hires a GENERAL CONTRACTOR to execute the project according to the approved design specifications. The general contractor, upon winning the project, subcontracts various specialist firms for each trade. For the structural steel work, after selecting a CONTRACTOR, shop drawings are created. These are the final, detailed drawings that outline every structural element and accessory specified in the plans, aligning them with civil plans and topographical details.

After the shop drawings are reviewed and approved, the bill of materials is prepared, and logistics for purchasing are organized. The fabrication process then begins, where the steel components are manufactured in a workshop. Once fabrication is complete, the prefabricated elements are transported to the construction site for erection, field welding, and final finishing.

Occupational Health and Safety Program in the Steel Trade

Structural steel fabrication and erection work involves hazards and risks that can endanger the lives and health of workers, as well as the environment and property. Workers are the most valuable assets of a company, making their safety and well-being a top priority. It is imperative to ensure that they are protected and kept in optimal working conditions for both their safety and productivity. In this regard, the work performed should not present a high level of risk or severity. Therefore, hazards must be eliminated or controlled, and risks minimized.

To address this, a comprehensive Occupational Health and Safety Program has been implemented, based on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines. This program outlines objectives, scope, responsibilities, methods, and includes an education and training plan, as well as systems for incident and accident monitoring and reporting. Furthermore, it ensures compliance with life insurance, disability, and property protection coverage.