Connector 2017 winter edition - Steel Erectors Association of America

WINTER EDITION 2017

PROJECTS of the

YEAR

Overcoming TIGHT Sites & Schedules

16 Mini Cranes in Steel Erection 20 Blueprint for Better Welds 28 45th Convention & Trade Show Preview

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

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•

c ntents

WINTER EDITION February 2017

FEATURES Management

16

Mini Maneuverability Mini cranes find their place in steel erection work

By Lucy Perry

20

In the Field A Blueprint for Better Quality Welds Helping welders understand, read, and use Welding Procedure Specifications

By Lucy Perry

28

Special Focus Convention Preview Tap into Old School Experience and 21st Century Ideas at SEAA Convention.

24 Cover Story University Projects Selected for Project of the Year.

By Tina Cauller

About the cover: Bracken Construction, working on The Pavilion at Ole Miss, connects the first section of a three section truss. This was the last truss assembly to be installed.

seaa.net ONLINE HIGHLIGHTS QQErection topics offered at The Steel Conference QQNew requirements for tracking workplace injuries, illnesses QQOSHA issues recommended practices to promote workplace safety, health QQProtecting retractable lifelines from arcing damage

Check out our latest social media feeds.

See more photos of

PROJECT OF THE YEAR

OPT-IN for our e-Newsletters

seaa.net/publications/enews_subscribe.aspx 4 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

DEPARTMENTS 8 10 12 34

Perspective Association News Product Focus: Cranes Topping Out

SEAA Mission Statement The Steel Erectors Association of America (SEAA) is dedicated to advancing the common interests and needs of all engaged in building with steel. The Association’s objectives in achieving this goal include the promotion of safety, education and training programs for steel erector trades, development and promotion of standards and cooperation with others in activities which impact the commercial construction business.

Connector | WINTER EDITION February 2017 | 5

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

Membership in Steel Erectors Association of America provides Safety, Education, and Productivity benefits for its members. As a trade association representing Steel Erectors, Fabricators, General Contractors, and Vendors, businesses with complementary interests gain invaluable opportunities to learn from each other.

SEAA is the only national trade association representing the interests of steel erectors, fabricators, and related service providers. Connector reaches both small and large contractors working in union and open labor markets.

Your Industry No other national association represents the unique interests of all steel erectors and fabricators. Members are experts in construction of commercial buildings, arenas, bridges, and highway structures. Network with other industry professionals at the Anuual Covention, golf tournaments, member events and training classes.

Improve Safety and Productivity Members have access to custom Ironworker Craft Training Curriculum. Studies show 24% of businesses experience lower productivity due to the lack of skilled ironworkers and welders.

A better trained workforce delivers lower accidents rates, higher productivity, and increased profits.

Accredited Credentials at Reduced Cost SEAA’s NCCER sponsorship means your company can provide industry-recognized credentials to your employees with the benefit of SEAA adminstrative support and at a lower cost to members than going direct through NCCER.

Competitive Advantage SEAA’s U.S. Department of Labor-approved Ironworker Apprenticeship Program allows members to create formal training that meets standards recognized by Federal and State governments. Pariticipation allows merit shop contractors to utilize government approved apprenticeship rates on Davis Bacon Wage Projects.

Influence Industry Standards SEAA strategic partnerships with industry groups provides your company with industry represnetation with American Institute of Steel Construction, Steel Joist Institute, Steel Deck Institute, National Institute of Steel Detailing, and others.

Join by calling the SEAA office 336-294-8880 or visit www.seaa.net Discover why a SEAA Membership is a good investment for your business.

6 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

Steel Erectors Association of America Piedmont Leaf Lofts 401 E. 4th Street, #204 Winston-Salem, NC 27101-4171 336-294-8880 www.seaa.net OFFICERS & EXECUTIVE STAFF Josh Cilley, President David Schulz, VP, Industry Representative Carrie Sopuch-Gulajan, VP, Associate Representative Geoffrey Kress, Treasurer Chris Legnon, Secretary and Media Committee Chairman Tom Underhill, Executive Director PUBLISHING PARTNER Chris Harrison, Publisher connectorsales@seaa.net Phone 660-287-7660 Tracy Bennett, Managing Editor editor@seaa.net Phone 816-536-7903 Eileen Kwiatkowski, Art Director eileen@ekaygraphics.com MEDIA ADVISORY COMMITTEE Chris Legnon, Fabricators, Cooper Steel Jim Simonson, Fabricators, Steel Service Josh Cilley, Erectors, American Steel & Precast Erectors and Buckner Steel Erection Glen Pisani, Erectors, MAS Building & Bridge Bryan McClure, Safety, MSC Safety Solutions Ed Valencia, Safety, Peterson Beckner Industries Connector™ is published quarterly by the Steel Erectors Association of America, 401 E. 4th Street, #204, Winston-Salem, NC 27101-4171.

Copyright 2017 by the Steel Erectors Association of America. No material may be reprinted without permission from the Executive Director. While the information and recommendations contained in this publication have been compiled from sources believed to be reliable, the Steel Erectors Association of America, its affiliates, employees, contributors, writers, editors, designers, photographers, and media advisory committee, makes no guarantee as to, and assumes no responsibility for, the correctness, sufficiency or completeness of such information or recommendations and cannot be held responsible for the outcome of any action or decision based on the information contained in this publication or claims made by advertisers. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of the Publisher. Permission is only deemed valid if approval is in writing.

Connector | WINTER EDITION February 2017 | 7

PERSPECTIVE

By Tom Underhill

New Publishing Partner Named for Connector

T

his issue of Connector magazine represents the first to be published by SEAA’s new publishing partner. During the October Board of Directors Meeting, held in Raleigh, N.C., the board voted to extend a publishing agreement to CPH Holdings LLC, Columbia, Mo., through 2019. Mighty Mo Media Partners LLC, Parkville, Mo., will provide editorial content development and will oversee graphics services.

This publishing partnership is in alignment with the Association’s goals to expand membership numerically and geographically, while also expanding services and benefits to member companies.

A new look, refreshed circulation The most visible change you will see is a redesign and professionally written content. With this agreement, SEAA expands its marketing and content development relationship with Tracy Bennett of Mighty Mo Media Partners. Tracy has managed SEAA’s e-newsletter and public relations efforts since 2013. She has proactively promoted the Association and has done an excellent job communicatTracy Bennett ing with the board and with members. Mighty Mo Media Partners She brings more than 20 years of editorial management and construction writing experience to the publication.

Tracy will be working closely with a new media advisory committee made up of subject matter experts from our membership. Led by Chris Legnon, the committee includes fabricator, erector, and safety experts. If you have an idea for a topic, contact Tracy at 816-536-7903 or editor@seaa.net. Next issue, look for articles on: • • • •

Ironworker training and apprenticeship Mobile software applications for job management AWP Operation Welding equipment and supplies

Behind the scenes, but equally important, Chris Harrison of CPH Holdings will utilize proven audience Tom Underhill is the Executive Director of the Steel Erectors Association of America. Contact him at tomunderhill@seaa.net.

8 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

development techniques and circulation growth tools to establish a circulation strategy that creates exposure for the association among prospective members. Chris has worked in construction industry and association trade publishing for nearly 25 years. Connector will Chris Harrison CPH Holdings be distributed to approximately 4,500 erectors, fabricators and general contractors. The result will be a better value for advertisers and growth potential for the association as we refine our circulation list to reach managers in the steel construction community.

In 2017, Connector will be published in February, May, August, and November. It will feature both management and field focused topics relevant to erectors, fabricators, and general contractors. In addition, we will produce an e-Newsletter and Safety Flash email six times each.

Both newsletters appreciate excellent open and click thru rates. New digital advertising options are now available in the newsletters. Interested advertisers can download the 2017 media guide by going to the Publications tab and clicking on Advertise at SEAA.net or contact Chris Harrison at 660-287-7660 or ConnectorSales@seaa.net.

As the SEAA Board of Directors moves to make SEAA relevant to erectors in today’s construction environment, a refreshed public image must be part of the plan. We encourage your feedback as we refine our communications with the industry.

•

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Sign up for News & Safety Flash: Go to PUBLICATIONS/Get News Updates.

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Connector | WINTER EDITION February 2017 | 9

ASSOCIATION NEWS ■■SEAA

Adds Rigger, Signal Person, Crane Operator Endorsements

S

EAA has completed all requirements for full NCCER endorsement as a provider of Rigger, Signal Person and Mobile Crane Operator Certifications and Credentials. “These certifications complement SEAA/ NCCER Ironworker Craft Training, as many ironworkers

standards and OSHA 29 CFR part 1926 subpart CC. NCCER’s Mobile Crane Operator Certification Program consists of assessments and practical examinations that meet or exceed current ASME B30.5 consensus safety standards and OSHA 29 CFR part 1926 subpart CC. For more information on becoming a SEAA sponsored training unit or assessment site, contact Tim Eldridge at 980-722-9373 or crafttraining@seaa.net.

■■Member

Gets US DOL Approval of Ironworker Apprenticeship

must also be qualified to perform rigging, signaling, or crane operation tasks,” said Tim Eldridge, SEAA Craft Training and Assessment Coordinator and President of Education Services Unlimited.

Since SEAA initiated the program in March 2014, it has grown from concept to a network of 14 Training Units and Assessment Sites in 12 states. “Employers are joining in the effort to create a supply of qualified ironworkers that will meet the demands of a workforce that has been on the decline for many years,” said Josh Cilley, President of SEAA. The SEAA/NCCER program provides industry-recognized curriculum that meets or exceeds national standards.

Since September 2016, SEAA can now offer Rigger, Signal Person, and Mobile Crane Operator certifications and credentials, in addition to Ironworker Levels 1-2-3, through SEAA training and assessment sites.

NCCER’s Rigger and Signal Person Certification Program consists of assessments and practical examinations that meet or exceed current ASME B30 consensus safety 10 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

Adaptive Construction Solutions Inc. (ACS), Houston, Texas, a SEAA/NCCER training unit and assessment site, now also meets requirements for apprenticeships.

The company utilized the SEAA Ironworker Apprenticeship program template, which meets the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, guidelines for apprenticeship standards. “Our Ironworker training program is uniquely positioned to provide military veterans with career options as they re-integrate into civilian life,” said Nicholas Morgan, President of ACS. “SEAA provides its apprenticeship template to assist member companies in establishing Registered Apprenticeship programs throughout the country. Companies using these guidelines will help to build standardization and consistency in Ironworker craft training for the industry,” said Josh Cilley, SEAA president.

The company was founded on the principal of veterans helping other veterans. “We started as a training company, but are quickly expanding to much more. In 2017, we are establishing a formal disaster response team to empower veterans who want to continue to serve those in need,” said Morgan. “Veterans are most successful when they believe that the best things they’ve done in life are not behind them,” said Morgan.

■■Safety

Consultant joins Ironworker Craft Training Network

■■Erection

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

Cole-Preferred Safety Consulting Inc., Denver, Colo., has been approved as a SEAA/NCCER Training Unit and Assessment Site for Ironworker, Rigging, and Signal Person credentials. They will also offer NCCER training and assessments for Welding, Safety Tech/Orientation, and Project Supervision.

The company provides nationwide safety training and consulting services to construction, oil and gas, general industries, and project owners. Cole-Preferred Safety designs, engineers, installs, and certifies permanent fall protection systems in finished buildings. It sells fall protection safety products frequently used by steel erectors.

“As a full service safety and training consulting company, Cole-Preferred is the first SEAA member company to take advantage of NCCER’s broad curriculum of training modules,” said Tim Eldridge, SEAA Craft Training and Assessment Coordinator and President of Education Services Unlimited.

“We believe that NCCER credentials offer high value and national recognition among employers. We chose to pursue NCCER accreditation through SEAA because it’s cost-effective, and SEAA has a vested interest in expanding its network of training and testing centers. We can now offer our customers a broader scope of services, including dual certification, such as OSHA 10 and NCCER Safety credentials,” said Barry Cole, President of Cole-Preferred Safety.

In March, approximately 4,500 engineers, fabricators, detailers and erectors will convene in San Antonio, Texas for the North American Steel Construction Conference. To be held March 22-24, The Steel Conference presents design concepts, construction techniques, and research related to construction of steel buildings or bridges.

Among the more than 100 technical sessions is a track specifically covering steel erection topics. Highlights of those sessions include:

Annual Membership Directory

■■Golf

Topics offered at The Steel Conference

• The Art of Sequencing, presented by Craig Peterson of Peterson Beckner Industries • Erectors and Anchor Rods, presented by Mark Yerke of S&R Enterprises • Developing Erection Schedules for Projects, presented

by Travis Freeman of Buckner Steel Erection • Complex Erection Bracing, presented by Rudy Runko of LPR Construction • Also of interest to SEAA members are tracks on Connections, Detailing, Project Management, and Technology.

Registration is now open at https://www.aisc.org/nascc/.

Craft Training Grant Applications due March 15 Seaa.net/craft_training

ConExpo-Con/Agg March 7-11 Las Vegas, Nev. Conexpoconagg.com

NASCC The Steel Conference March 22-24 San Antonio, Texas aisc.org/nascc

45th Annual SEAA Convention & Tradeshow

Tournament Supports Training Grants

Despite bad weather courtesy of Hurricane Matthew, the 17th Annual Education Fundraiser Golf Tournament, held Oct. 7, 2016 in Raleigh, N.C., was successful. “We had to shorten the event to a 9-hole tournament,” said Tom Underhill, Executive Director. “To compensate, golfers were given passes to return to play another round at a later date.”

“About 65 out of the 100 that signed up, turned out to play a soggy course,” said Dave Schulz, Golf Tournament Chairman. “But spirits weren’t dampened. We still had a lot of fun—especially executing the ball drop in the

Renewals due March 1 for inclusion in Spring-May 2017 Connector Annual Directory. Renew online

pouring rain,” he said. The Captain’s Choice tournament was held at the Lonnie Poole Golf Course on the Centennial Campus of North Carolina State University. Generous sponsorships from 37 companies made the event possible.

See a full list of sponsors at seaa.net.

Prizes were given to First, Second, and Third Place teams, as well as individual awards to the golfer with the longest drive and to five individuals who got closest to the pin. “Congratulations to the team from United Rentals, who under-scored the rest this year,” said Schulz.

Proceeds help to fund grants for implementation of Ironworker Training Units and Assessment Sites.

April 27-29 Myrtle Beach, SC Seaa.net/events

Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction May 8-12 Members can report their participation and receive a certificate from OSHA. osha.gov/StopFallsStandDown

Apply for Training Grant by March 15

(Left to Right) Brent Ellis of Arc3 Gases, Dave Schulz of Schulz Ironworks, and Don Grigg of Trible Solutions/Tekla. See photo gallery.

11 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

Applications for the 2017 Craft Training Grant are due March 15, 2017. Grant monies, not to exceed $4500, covers initial Training Unit/Assessment Site set up, administrator, instructor and coordinator training, plus a set of both instructor and trainee customized texts for the SEAA Iron Worker Levels 1 – 3 and electives. Companies pursuing other craft areas can substitute textbooks for that craft area. For more information click the Craft Training tab at seaa.net. Download Application > Connector | WINTER EDITION February 2017 | 11

PRODUCT FOCUS: CRANES

Manitowoc crawler fleet lifts new Dolphin stadium From its Newport, Ky., location, Maxim Crane Works is supplying a fleet of Manitowoc crawler cranes for the construction of the new Miami Dolphins football stadium. The job began with four 660-ton Manitowoc 18000s, each equipped with a MAX-ER that brought their capacities to 826 tons.

Then the company added a 772-ton Manitowoc MLC650 to the job site.

Often the cranes lifted together in tandem, with the heaviest load weighing 800 tons.

■■Grove

All-Terrains

Manitowoc will introduce the 175-ton GMK5150L and 300-ton GMK5250L all-terrain cranes at ConExpo 2017.

A single Tier 4 Final engine powers each crane, driving both the carrier and superstructure. This reduces overall weight and lowers fuel consumption. Both cranes feature long boom design. The GMK5250L has a 230-ft. boom; the GMK5150L has a 197-ft. boom.

The GMK5150L is part of Grove’s latest generation of all-terrain cranes that provide various counterweight configurations to sustain capacity without giving up mobility.

The GMK5250L was the first mobile crane to feature the VIAB turbo clutch module, which eliminates fluid overheating and clutch burning while simultaneously delivering improved fuel economy. The VIAB module also enables class-leading maneuverability and driver comfort by working in tandem with the crane’s integrated retarder, resulting in wear-free braking and starting.

12 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

■■Liebherr

RT Cranes

Liebherr has expanded its rough-terrain crane product line with 100- and 110-ton class cranes. The LRT 1090-2.1 and LRT 1100-2.1 will be unveiled at ConExpo 2017. The VarioBase® variable support base developed by Liebherr as standard on the new LRT cranes allows each individual outrigger beam to be extended to arbitrary lengths.

The crane work is controlled by the load moment limiter within the LICCON controller which calculates the maximum load capacities precisely for the current situation.

The LRT 1100-2.1 has a 164-ft. telescopic boom and 30,800 lbs. of counterweight. The LRT 1090-2.1 has a 154-ft. telescopic boom and 26,500 lbs. of counterweight.

EDUCATION IN THE FRONT

NETWORKING IN THE BACK

NASCC

THE STEEL CONFERENCE San Antonio | March 22–24, 2017

www.aisc.org/nascc

PRODUCT FOCUS: CRANES

■■Link-Belt

Telecrawler

Link-Belt has expanded its telecrawler product line with the highest capacity telecrawler currently available in the market. The 250-ton TCC-2500, with its Tier 4 Final Cummins QSL 9 diesel engine and seven-section formed boom, will make a public debut at ConExpo 2017.

The crane features a seven-section 43.7 – 223 ft. pin and latch boom, the longest in class. Another key feature is an extra wide winch design that can handle its maximum permissible line pull through the fourth layer – front and rear winches are matching. The rear auxiliary winch can be removed for transport weight reduction and a power pinning system mitigates work at height exposure. The TCC-2500 is a purpose-built design like the rest of LinkBelt’s TCC line, not an all-terrain upper conversion.

One of the most important things about the TCC-2500 is its ability to move quickly and easily. The main transport

load weighs under 106,000 lbs. Once off a trailer, carbody jacks can be deployed via remote control. On jacks, the crane sits wider than the competition for a solid self-assembly platform with hook and pin side frames that hydraulically pin.

Link-Belt’s TCC counterweight system attaches 154,000 lbs. of upper counterweight and is a 9-piece modular design (allowing for partial counterweight capacity charts) and transports on seven overflow loads, all 44,000 lbs. or less.

■■Tadano

Mantis Telecrawler

A new 88-ton teleboom crawler crane from Tadano Mantis was designed in collaboration with Tadano Ltd. The GTC-800 has a five-section, 141 ft. boom. It features operating charts for up to 4° slope with automatic out-of-level chart selection. The GTC-800 has track width sensing and 3 track width operating zones; the crane has sufficient hydraulic track extend power to extend and retract the tracks on demand, and the tracks do not require pinning in position once set to operating width.

•

■■National

Boom Truck

In the 40-ton lifting class, National Crane will introduce the NBT40-1 Series of boom trucks that are available with an aerial lift configuration. Three models—NBT36-1, NBT40-1, and NBT45-1— enable companies to perform both crane lifting and aerial lift projects more efficiently with just one machine. The cranes are fully compliant with both ANSI/SAIA A92.2 aerial lift and ASME B30.5 mobile crane industry standards. The cranes have 161 ft. or 142 ft. boom lengths.

Replacing the former NBT40 Series, updates include a Graphical Rated Capacity Limiter (RCL), strengthened aluminum decking, a swing-out cab access ladder and second removable ladder to allow access at several locations around the machine, and lighter polymeric outrigger floats.

14 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

Connector | WINTER EDITION February 2017 | 15

MANAGEMENT

By Lucy Perry

Mini Maneuverability Mini-Cranes Find their Place in Steel Erection Work “The higher you pick something the larger the crane required and the more expensive the crane, associated transport to and from (the jobsite) and set-up fees,” he explains.

“The lifting capacity of a small crane on top of a building reaching down is mostly limited by the weight the structure will support and the length of the load line. Mini-cranes are light because their outrigger spread is designed for stability not weight, and since the structure is designed to support whatever you are putting on it, normally that is enough to do the job.”

On a recent job installing solar panels atop a parking garage in Baltimore, Maryland, M-L Cranes rented A mini-crane is an ideal tool when the steel construction jobsite is inside an existing building, on a rooftop, a Maeda MC405 to a contractor who in a parking garage, or behind or between buildings, where conventional lifting equipment can’t work. would otherwise have had to bring in a tower crane, or a 330-ton capacity crane with a luffer to perform the work. “The customer saved enough he construction industry frequently remotely, putting the operator in close prox- money on the job that he decided he would uses mini-cranes for maintenance imity to the load and machine. This improves buy one,” says Cockerham.

Another place the mini-crane works well tasks, or for lifting and handling his or her ability to monitor the load for safe small loads, but there are also appli- handling and accurate placement. is when there are a lot of modifications or Most mini-crane capabilities range from retrofit work. “This is especially true if there cations for these small cranes in steel erection activities. According to Tony Inman of Maeda 550 pounds maximum lifting capacity at a is an electric power mode on the mini-crane USA, Houston, Texas, mini-cranes may be height of 67 feet, to 20,000 pounds capacity at and you need to build onto or work inside an the right tool for erectors when the jobsite 100 feet. Anything rated under 2,000 pounds existing structure. The ability to switch to the is inside an existing building, on a rooftop, means that the operator doesn’t have to be electric power option does away with noise in a parking garage, or behind or between certified to run one. “Mini cranes have all the and exhaust fumes,” he continues. buildings. design and safety features of bigger convenOne of the smallest mini-cranes has a lift- tional cranes, but don’t sacrifice safety,” says Other benefits ing height of 18 feet and maximum capacity Inman. In contrast, even if a conventional Haymarket, Va.-based Phoenix Steel Erecof 3,700 pounds, but can pick 1,400 pounds crane can access the job, it could be over- tors uses its Maeda MC405 mini crawler at an 8-foot radius. At the other end of the sized and overpriced for a task that can be primarily for jobs that traditional cranes are spectrum are mini cranes with the ability to accomplished more efficiently. too big to perform, says Paul Kollman, princilift as much as 16,500 pounds. In addition, Ben Cockerham, vice president for M-L pal, such as renovation projects and interior some can pick-and-carry about 2,000 to 9,000 Cranes and Equipment, Charlotte, N.C., agrees. work. The mini-crane can fit through a doupounds. Most can be operated from a cab or The cost of operating a mini-crane on the ble door. “We use this crane to set beams, roof of an existing building, versus the cost columns, connection plates, and other miscelassociated with operating a big crane on the laneous steel,” he says. “They can be operated Lucy Perry is a construction editor and writer. She can be reached at lperry3@kc.rr.com. ground and reaching up, is dramatically less. in the seat of the crane, and also by remote

T

16 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

Setup Tips control. This helps the operator see in tight and blind spaces.”

Phoenix crews also use the crane in conjunction with a conventional crane for projects going over the top of an existing building with a large radius, so long as the existing structure will handle the weight of the small machine and its load, says Kollman.

He also likes that transporting the crane to the jobsite is not complicated. “They can be transported fairly easily and pulled with a decent-sized pickup truck, plus they can eliminate a lot of time-consuming hand work and rigging.”

Another advantage noted by Cockerham is the dual-power diesel or electric operations. “Running on electric inside a building where everybody else is working, there are no emissions, no noise, no diesel fumes, no gas produced by the mini-crane. As we do more renovating of old buildings and refurbishing existing structures where we have to reset the steel, a mini-crane gives us options.”

• The safety issues involved in working with a mini-crane on a steel application are much like a conventional crane: “Make sure you’re setting up on compacted, level, and stable ground,” says Kollman. “The operator should do a daily inspection of the machine to insure it’s in good working order. Also, make sure you have caution tape or a barricade around the machine to keep people from entering the swing area.”

• Working on top of a building, you must make sure the building meets the load-bearing capacities of the crane, explains Cockerham. “Can the structure support the weight of the crane and its load? Mini-cranes are light because their outrigger spread is designed for stability not weight. So, you can put one on top of an existing structure without overtaxing the structural limits of the floor.”

Endless options M-L Cranes has about 10 mini-cranes in its fleet, though the number goes up and down as the company rents and sells the machines.

“It seems like every time we turn around someone is coming up with a new application for these cranes we had never thought of,” says Cockerham, recalling a job where one mini-crane was used to lift another smaller mini-crane into a more confined area.

Kollman of Phoenix Steel adds that he thinks mini-cranes could make an ideal training tool for potential crane operators with no on-the-job experience. “The controls are similar to a modern crane and the operator can get a feel for the basics without getting overwhelmed,” he says.

Inman sees mini-cranes changing the image of steel construction as they join the toolbox. “Steel construction is always considered really heavy and high. That’s not the case where smaller equipment comes in, especially when steel is going into a building that already exists. In fact, steel erection often involves small, light steel pieces that do require mechanical lifting, but at modest heights and reaches,” says Inman. “Space and work constraints often influence the machinery and the lifting methods. Mini-cranes work in the spaces where conventional equipment can’t work.”

•

Connector | WINTER EDITION February 2017 | 17

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Connector | WINTER EDITION February 2017 | 19

IN THE FIELD

By Lucy Perry

A Blueprint for Better Quality Welds Helping welders understand, read and use Welding Procedure Specifications

T

he AISC’s Structural Steel Erectors Certification program, updated in 2015, requires that contractors seeking the ‘certified’ designation integrate a higher level of quality in their welding operations. The American Welding Society (AWS) has taken the lead in writing methods for developing Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS), the plan for delivering the properties of a weld. Many say making the use of WPSs a common practice sends a message that quality is important to the steel erection industry.

“WPSs are very important for our work.

Unfortunately, they are not utilized as much as they should be,” says Conrad Hernandez, senior vice president/project executive Peterson Beckner Industries Inc. He has been studying the procedures since being named quality control manager for the Houston, Texas company. “I don’t know too many welders that even know how to read a WPS, yet AISC certification for steel erectors requires welders to have a WPS handy so they can find the correct info for the weld.”

Bryan McClure, consultant with MSC Safety Solutions, Westminster, Colo., says nine out of 10 welders in the field don’t consult a WPS. Lucy Perry is a construction writer and editor. She can be reached at lperry3@kc.rr.com.

The AWS codebook states that contractors shall be responsible for Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS), a recipe for delivering on the mechanical and chemical properties of the weld is developed in accordance with the code.

“Most go out, set the machine up, and get it dialed in without looking at a WPS. Yet when you get audited, you’re asked for WPSs on the jobsite.” Once a welder knows where the WPS is located, he can be taught how to use one for best welding practices. It just makes sense to not only learn to read a WPS, but to develop one, as well, McClure says. “We’d never go build a building without a set of blueprints, so why would you lay a weld down without parameters to do a good one?”

A welding recipe The AWS codebook states that contractors shall be responsible for WPS qualifications of welding personnel, contract inspection, and performance to code and contract docs. This recipe for delivering on the mechanical and chemical properties of the weld is developed in accordance with the code.

The WPS includes the electrode manufacturer’s information on the rods and the properties of the rod, and the welder must consult the code to determine what metals are

20 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

compatible for that rod. These requirements involve Essential, Non-essential, and Supplementary Variables. Essential variables are properties that have to be replicated exactly from the WPS, while the non-essential variables allow the welder a range to work within, using his best judgment, explains McClure.

“When a welder takes a certification test, he’s required to have with him a WPS for the weld he’s about to make. He can take that WPS and see ranges for where the electrodes must be set—the voltage, amperage, preheat, and post heat, if required,” says Hernandez.

“When he’s doing a bevel weld, for instance, the WPS shows him what root opening is required, and what the backing must be.”

The AWS codebook also includes welds that have already been approved by the Welding Research Council and AWS. It’s understood that if a welder uses the materials listed in these Structural Welding Procedure Specs (SWPS), he’ll be successful. But both McClure and Hernandez stress that a proficient welder should know how to write his own WPS.

Writing procedures Developing a WPS starts with a test weld, the results of which are included in a procedure qualification record (PQR). For every type of welding job, there is a different PQR that includes the type of joint, metal, and weld involved. “The AWS codebook can’t include all WPSs, so for those not covered, the contractor will have to produce a PQR to develop a WPS,” explains Hernandez. The welder performs the weld in a controlled environment under the supervision of a Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) who records the pertinent data, then tests the weld. “If it holds up as an accepted weld, from that PQR you derive your WPS for how to weld in the field,” he says.

Certain information is required for every WPS, such as the welding process, whether SMAW or FCAW; the position of the weld— vertical, horizontal, or flat; the electrode classification the welder will use; and the polarity of the machine (DCEN or DCEP).

“It’s a challenge because when you get down to it, essential variables will change the mechanical properties of the weld, and it’s essential the welder follows these requirements. The skill of the welder may control

non-essential variables,” says Hernandez. “Arc voltage, amperage, and travel speed have little effect so are usually considered non-essential. Supplementary essential variables (SEVs) are those variables that must be considered when Charpy V-Notch (CVN) requirements are invoked.”

According to FinishLine Certified Welding, Tonopah, Ariz., the AWS D1.1 Structural Steel Welding Code-compliant Qualified WPS is the traditional route welding companies take, and requires the welder to:

"Essential variables will change the mechanical properties of the weld. It's essential the welder follows these requirements."

• Determine a desired welding process based on the job, company equipment, etc.; • Identify all essential and non-essential variables to be covered by the WPS; • Determine if Charpy V-Notch testing is required and if additional essential variables need to be considered; • Purchase, or machine WPS qualification coupons; and • Perform a WPS qualification test, recording all variables for entry into the PQR.

Once the WPS qualification coupon is welded out, a visual examination of the cap and root (if open root) must be performed. In addition, volumetric examination is required.

Once the non-destructive exam is completed, the welder must cut test specimens out and bend/pull them in accordance with code requirements.

FinishLine blogs that the AWS D1.1 committee established prequalified WPSs to alleviate the need to test the most common processes on the most common base material year after year. The thought was because

Connector | WINTER EDITION February 2017 | 21

IN THE FIELD ADDITIONAL INFORMATION these materials and welding processes have been proven, no value was added by requiring each company to test their weldability. So, AWS added to the code Clause 3; Prequalification of WPS. To take advantage of this effort, a company must follow parameters, including essential variable, base material, joint detail, and welding process limitations.

A prequalified WPS is ideal for companies that generally work on standard, typical jobs, such as structural steel building, enclosures, supports, etc. If a company writes a WPS in accordance with Clause 3, no procedure qualification is required, exempting them from the testing, PQR, and other requirements.

The third option for developing a WPS, according to FinishLine, is the SWPS, for use in a structural steel application. AWS reviewed hundreds of PQRs and developed a set of industry-wide WPSs based on them.

SWPSs, which can be purchased from AWS for around $200 each, are recommended for any contractor who needs an approved weld procedure quickly. But, based on their limitations, including very conservative allowances

to protect the lowest performing weld shops, and the requirement for engineer approval prior to use, they’re not recommended for normal business practice. According to the AWS codebook, they are a quick fix for situations where procedure qualification is not an option.

Sending a message The WPS, and educating welders of its importance, are key to welding quality, says Hernandez. “We run into a lot of welders flying by the seat of their pants. If they can put a weld there and pass the bend test, everybody’s happy. I believe if we get this welder, help him put together a WPS, and follow him through the test procedure so he knows what he’s got to do by the book, then we’re sending a message that we’re expecting quality. I’m telling guys to look back at their test specimen. If the cap doesn’t look good, throw it away. You’re better off to waste the time to do another test, and you’re telling that manager how important it is to do quality work in the field.”

•

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“Almost without exception owners and engineers require conformance to American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), American Welding Society (AWS), or American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) in the general notes or project specification for steel buildings in the commercial and industrial sector,” explains Hernandez. “The Welding Research Council (WRC), AWS, and ASME have developed code requirements to ensure the combination of base materials, welding process(es) and welding filler metals covered by the scope of each Standard Welding Procedure (SWPS).”

An SWPS must meet the rules for qualification of AWS B2.1, Specifications for Welding Procedure and Qualification, he continues “All SWPSs are supported by Procedure Qualification Records (PQR) which meet the rules of AWS B2.1 and which are intended to meet the rules of the major codes which govern the intended applications such as AWS Structural Welding Codes (D1.1, D1.2, D1.3, etc.).”

For more information on welding certification, SWPSs, and writing a WPS, contact: aisc.org aws.org asme.org Welding Research Council at forengineers.org

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COVER STORY

By Tina Cauller

University Projects Selected for PROJECT OF THE YEAR Contractors overcome tight sites, tight schedule

E Installation of shopfabricated radial seat modules.

ach year, the Steel Erectors Association of America (SEAA) selects stand-out projects to recognize at its annual convention. Projects are recognized for their complexity, and companies are awarded the Project of the Year for overcoming challenges while maintaining safe work standards. Four steel erectors were

recognized at SEAA’s 43rd Annual National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., for jobs that were topped out in 2015. Featured here are the Class III and Class IV winners. (See the Summer and Fall 2016 Editions for coverage of Class I and Class II Projects of the Year.)

■■Near Perfect Precision Required

Tina Cauller is a graphic designer and freelance writer with 30 years of experience reporting for trade and technical publications in building construction and real estate markets. She can be reached at tinacauller@gmail.com.

When Liberty University, Lynchburg, Va., committed $500 million to rebuilding its campus, the showpiece was a new center to house the Music, Performing Arts and Worship departments. The school boasts the 7th largest music program in the U.S. The 141,000

Liberty School of Music Class III Erection Contract over $1 million to $2.5 million Erector: CSE Inc. Structural Engineer: Fox & Associates Fabricator: Lynchburg Steel & Specialty Detailer: Virtual Steel Technologies Inc. GC: CMA Architect: VMDO Architects Contract Value: $2.3 million Total Steel Erected: 1,072 tons

An aerial view of the Concert Hall situated at the heart of the campus shows the tight physical constraints of the project site.

24 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

The ability to work with a local fabricator was the only way to cost-effectively accommodate the complicated steel schedule.

Catwalk framing suspended from roof trusses provided a safe and efficient work platform. sq. ft. center includes a concert hall with double exterior walls for optimum acoustic isolation. It is connected to a four-story building with education space, recording and practice areas, and offices.

Unusually tight physical constraints of the job site meant that intensive planning and close collaboration between contractors was critically important. The jobsite was flanked on one side by train tracks, and on the other by an access road. In addition, the facility had to dovetail neatly with existing buildings, which left a snug space for the construction team to work. The typical approach of dedicating adjacent space for staging iron for steel erection was out of the question – there was simply no room.

In erecting the steel for the new School of Music in 2015, CSE Inc., Madison Heights, Va., delivered a virtuoso performance under pressure and was recognized with SEAA’s Project of the Year Award for Class III Erection Contract ($1 million - $2.5 million).

A coordinated effort “There was barely enough room to set up a crane,” recalls Ronnie Ranson, Vice President of Steel Erection at CSE. While the cramped jobsite could have caused the project’s schedule and budget to run aground, CSE coordinated with a local fabricator to have small sequences of steel delivered and keep construction progressing smoothly.

“With Lynchburg Steel just 10 miles or so from the jobsite, we were able to have them deliver just one or two truckloads at a time. We brought the columns in first, then the header beams, and finally the fill-in beams.”

Pre-fabricating the seating at the fab shop rather than erecting separate pieces on site shaved off months of erection time. “We

used 1/8-inch bent plate to form the seats and risers as a single piece instead of loose deck, so the seats and risers came in as a unit. It allowed us to set the seat-riser units right on the Raker beams.”

Cranes and catwalks Two other interesting aspects of the project included the design of the roof connection and the practical use of catwalk frames.

Designed for virtually perfect acoustics, the concert hall roof is a semi-circle with a step-down conical shape. Structural framing consisted of four 100-ft. long trusses arranged in a spoke formation. The 20-ton trusses were attached at a single connection point with more than 120 bolts. A scheme for placing the trusses with a 350-ton Grove all-terrain crane and Manitowoc 888 crawler crane was designed using 3D Lift Plan.

The dimensions of the truss sections required nighttime delivery due to travel restrictions. Because there was limited floor access and no easy way to access the roof,

The Concert Hall's roof is supported by six 20-ton trusses arranged in a spoke formation, attached at a single connection point with more than 120 bolts. This is a close up of the connection of radial trusses to truss T9.

aerial work platforms could not be used to install hundreds of feet of catwalks used to house the performance hall’s audio/visual equipment. So, before the roof trusses were set, hangers were installed so the catwalk system could be attached. CSE coordinated with the fabricator to prefabricate the catwalk frames, complete with the grating in place, so each catwalk could be lifted into place as a complete unit and attached to the hangers.

This practical solution provided an important advantage. Ranson explains: “We were able to use the catwalks as a work platform, with the workers safely tied off. Later, the

The Pavilion at Ole Miss Class IV Erection Contract over $2.5 million Erector: Bracken Construction Co., Inc. Structural Engineer: AECOM Design Fabricator: Steel Service Corp.

Detailer: MMW Inc. GC: B.L. Harbert International Contract Value: $3.7 million Total Steel Erected: 2,700 tons

Three truss panels were hoisted to a vertical position and connected in the air. Two end sections were lifted using two Connector WINTER EDITION February 2017 300-ton crawler cranes on either side of the arena |bowl.

| 25

months to complete The Pavilion.

Bracken Construction rose to the challenge by completing steel and pre-cast erection in just 21 weeks.

Truss construction Bracken Construction set up in the bowl with a Liebherr 190-ton AT crane lifting the center section of a three-section truss assembly.

other trades used the catwalks in place of AWPs to install the A/V equipment.” Ranson attributes the catwalk strategy to 40 years of experience, stating, “I’m not sure we’ve ever done that before, but after four decades in business, we’ve encountered nearly every kind of challenge, so I wouldn’t be surprised if we had.”

Ranson points out that networking with other SEAA members provides the opportunity to build working relationships with other companies and brainstorm when the need for an out-of-the-box solution arises. “The complex geometry of the hall’s design meant that everything was on a radius and near-perfect precision was required. We worked hand in hand with the design team to devise solutions to the challenges this project presented.”

The extensive preplanning and close collaboration between CSE Inc. and CMA both in the field and office allowed the team to complete the project ahead of time and under budget.

■■Full Court Press Delivers Winning Strategy Pulling off a win when the clock is against you requires an extraordinary level of expertise, coordination, and precision teamwork.

Bracken Construction, Jackson, Miss., the project’s steel erection contractor, showed off their skills and garnered SEAA’s Project of the Year Award for the construction of The Pavilion at Ole Miss. The Pavilion is the University of Mississippi’s new 230,000-square-foot multipurpose facility, which will host men’s and

women’s basketball games, concerts, convocations, and other schoolwide events. The Pavilion is the $96.5M crown jewel in the school’s recent “Forward Together” campaign.

The Pavilion, which replaces the 50-year old C.M. Tad Smith Coliseum, is a state-of-theart facility with retractable seating. It includes a basketball court, 9,600-seat arena, training facilities, a private student concourse, courtside and baseline seating for students, three premium club areas for fans, and more than 1,700 premium seats.

The arena features a sweeping barrel roof and a grand clerestory window wall that floods the seating bowl with natural light.

Fans traversing the concourse and mezzanine levels have a view directly into the bowl. In total, the three-story arena required 2,440 tons of structural steel. It contains 418 pieces of precast panels, and risers which make up the seating and exterior facade of the structure.

The new arena was situated just feet away from the campus’ historic Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, also slated for renovation and expansion. Construction was scheduled to begin just as the old stadium was set to open its doors for an exciting new season of basketball at this major SEC college. Contractors not only had to execute the project in tight quarters with limited room to lay down steel but, in order to be ready for the 2016 season, they had to sustain a full court press with clockwork coordination throughout construction.

From the time the project broke ground in July 2014, contractors were given just 16

26 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

The arena’s structural steel supports eight 60-ton main trusses that serve as decking for the Pavilion’s free span roof system. Since there was only one access road available to construction traffic and meager laydown space, Bracken Construction had to devise an efficient method for truss construction.

Using the 90-foot-wide bowl of the stadium as a workspace, each truss member was delivered to the site in pieces and field assembled. The three truss panels were hoisted up individually to a vertical position using three separate cranes so they could be connected in the air. Each of the two end sections was lifted into place using two 300-ton crawler cranes set up on either side of the arena bowl, with one 200-ton crawler inside the bowl to erect the center section. The center sections were partially supported by temporary shoring towers until the bolting at each splice point was painstakingly completed. Once all the support steel between each of the trusses was in place to carry the loads created by the roof system, the cranes were removed.

“It took some creative thinking to figure out how to erect the trusses to the proper elevation and set the camber,” said Ben Wadlington, CEO, who added that this was the first time in the company’s 60-year history that this innovative strategy was used to hang trusses. In all, Bracken placed 6,835 pieces of structural steel and 422 pieces of structural and architectural precast, finishing ahead of schedule.

Bracken Construction is an industry leader in safety, with an industry safety EMR rating of .75. Thanks to excellent training and strict adherence to a rigorous safety protocol throughout the project, Bracken Construction completed more than 48,000 man hours with 1 incident and 0 lost time accidents.

•

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Connector | WINTER EDITION February 2017 | 27

SPECIAL FOCUS: Convention Preview

Tap into Old School Experience and 21st Century Ideas at SEAA Convention

S

EAA returns to Myrtle Beach, S.C., for the 45th Annual National Convention & Trade Show, April 27-29, 2017. As an association with a rich history of connecting erectors and fabricators and general contractors, this meeting is like no other.

“I owe a lot to SEAA for getting us where we are today,” said Bruce Basden, CEO of Basden Steel Corp., Burleson, Texas. “Companies at any level are crazy not to take advantage of this resource.”

Tackling the issues essential to steel erection, presentations are relevant to erectors, first and foremost. “I have not found this kind of comradery and vision in another group.

Attending the convention is what brings all of this together in a productive way,” said Jeremy Macliver, President of All Things Metal, Phoenix, Ariz.

Program highlights include golf and ocean fishing excursions; dinner and music at the Gala and Awards Banquet; plus award-winning

Projects of the Year presentations.

The Trade Show features essential products and services. Look for demonstrations and hands-on displays of cranes, software, welding equipment, and more.

According to repeat tradeshow exhibitor, Duke Perry, General Manager of Bluearc Stud Welding, “The event is small enough to get one-on-one time with key decision makers in a relaxed atmosphere.”

A preview of exhibitors confirmed by the print deadline are listed below. Additional companies will be in attendance.

Can’t Miss Education Keynote speaker Brent Gleeson, a U.S. Navy SEAL combat veteran will open the 45th National Convention. An acclaimed speaker and author, Gleeson will address how trust and accountability are key to achieving high-performance teams. The result: measurable economic impact. He will provide tools for how erectors

28 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

can improve trust within their organizations.

In addition, SEAA is honored to welcome Dean McKenzie, OSHA’s new director of the Construction Directorate, who will lead the opening session. He will provide up-to-date insight into the regulatory agenda affecting steel erectors.

Six breakout sessions for either managers or field level personnel, provide plenty of options for attendees. Field Topics include how changes to aerial work platform standards affect users, how erectors can protect Ironworkers from silica exposure, and applying fall protection drop testing results to the development of pre-planned fall protection systems. Management Topics will focus on understanding social media legal trends and tips for managing corporate and employee activity, plus workforce development trends and success stories.

Old School Experience.

21st Century Ideas.

Don’t miss the 45th Annual SEAA National Convention & Trade Show •

Ironworker Training and Apprenticeship Programs

•

How OSHA’s Regulatory Agenda Affects Erectors

•

A Fresh Approach to Fall Protection

•

Future of Skilled Labor – Reducing Worker Shortages

•

How New Standards Change the Way Erectors Train AWP Users

•

Project of the Year Awards

•

Plus Golf, Fishing, Networking, Trade Show and More

Helping Erectors Succeed “With no background of working for a steel erector, I found myself severely lacking in resources to help me grow my business. Attending the SEAA Convention introduced me to some of the best erectors in the country who were more than willing to help me succeed in one of the toughest business climates I can imagine. I owe a lot to SEAA for getting us where we are today. Companies at any level are crazy not to take advantage of this resource.”

Bruce Basden, CEO of Basden Steel Corp., Burleson, TX

Early Bird Discounts Fly Away March 6 Register at SEAA.net

CONNECTING STEEL ERECTORS, FABRICATORS AND CONTRACTORS

Connector | WINTER EDITION February 2017 | 29

Management Sessions

SPECIAL FOCUS: Convention Preview

Frank Kollman, a management labor law attorney and litigator, will be discussing shares, likes, and tweets. New social media laws are impacting employer access to and disciplinary action of employees' social media use and internet posts.

Daniel Groves, CEO of Construction Industry Resources (CIR), will forecast workforce demand and supply. CIR provides market intelligence and risk mitigation solutions for owners, contractors, unions and other stakeholders.

Nick Morgan, President

Chuck Bagnato, Director of Talent Acquisition

Adaptive Construction Solutions is a veteran owned and staffed company uniquely positioned to recruit, train, and support veterans for the steel erection industry.

Learn how this innovative Carlos Pulido, Director of Operations and Risk workforce strategy supports the needs of veterans and erection contractors.

Melanie Armstrong, RN, BSN, will address the opoid epidemic and how employers can partner with insurance providers to address it. More than 300,000 Americans lost their lives to opioids since 2000.

EXHIBITORS The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) is a not-for-profit technical institute and trade association established in 1921 to serve the structural steel design community and construction industry in the United States. aisc.org

Freedom Tools LLC is the developer of the E-Z Joist Release and E-Z Beam Release, designed to keep crews and riggers safe as they handle joists and I-beams lifted by cranes. The tools are proof tested by a certified testing facility and designed according ASME and OSHA standards. freedomtoolsllc.net

Bigfoot Construction Equipment Inc. is a wood and plastic outrigger pad manufacturer for OEMs, machine dealers, and end-users throughout the United States and Canada. outriggerpads.com

G.W.Y. Inc. sells and rents bolt fastening tools, including turnof-nut wrenches, shear wrenches for TC bolts, and torque wrenches for snug tightening and tensioning of hex-head bolts. gwyinc.com

Bluearc introduces its Stud Welding construction line, including headed concrete anchors, shear connectors, and deformed bar anchors for applications in tilt-up construction, bridge construction, high-rise buildings, tee and beam connections, and more. bluearcstudwelding.com

General Equipment & Supply provides contractors with quality, cost-effective alternatives to retail purchase of tools and equipment, including remanufactured tools, an extensive rental inventory, and surplus inventory. GE&S specializes in bending, cable pulling, pipe threading, lifting, welding, and material handling. gequip.com

Connector, the official magazine of the Steel Erectors Association of America, reaches a target circulation of 4,500 managers in the steel construction community. It published four times per year. Other publications include Connector eNews and Safety Flash newsletters. A variety of advertising programs are available. seaa.net/about/advertise Construction Labor Contractors provides two construction labor staffing solutions for contractors. CLC WorkForce provides skilled, experienced construction workers on demand for industrial project managers and construction contractors.

CLC FlexForce provides flexible, skilled construction workers to even out workflow surges during up and down times. constructionlabor.com Design Data is a leading software innovator for the steel industry’s fabrication, detailing and engineering sectors. SDS/2 software products provide automatic connection optimization, detailing, engineering information, fabrication data and much more, reducing the time required to design, detail, fabricate and erect steel.Founded in 1981 and headquartered in Lincoln, Nebraska USA, the company serves customers in 17 countries. sds2.com

30 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

Hanes Supply Inc. is a contractor and industrial supplier of slings, rigging and other tools. Hanes manufactures chain, nylon, wire rope, and Slingmax slings, and stocks Ridgid, Apex Tools, Greenlee, Crosby, Honeywell, and Union Tools. Other services include fire extinguisher sales and service, inspections, custom fabrication/assembly, pre-stressing, testing & certification, repairs, rentals and seminars. hanessupply.com Haydon Bolts Inc. an AISC Associate member company, is a family owned manufacturer that specializes in domestic “Melted and Manufactured in the U.S.” structural bolts and anchor rods since 1864. Haydon Bolts manufactures Structural Bolts (A325, A490, A449 & A354-BD,) Anchor Bolts, Tie-Rod Assemblies, U-Bolts, Eye Bolts and J-Bolts in diameters from ½" through 4" and up to 40 feet in length, in plain, galvanized or weathering finishes. haydonbolts.com Hilti is a manufacturer and supplier of specialized tools and fastening systems for the professional user. Hilti’s expertise covers the areas of powder actuated fastening, drilling and demolition, diamond coring and cutting, measuring, firestopping, screw fastening, adhesive and mechanical anchoring, and strut and hanger systems. us.hilti.com List of exhibitors as of 2/10/17.

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Field Sessions Bryan McClure, a senior consultant and safety specialist for MSC Safety Solutions, will offer a fresh approach to fall protection planning. In August 2016, nine SEAA member companies pooled resources to conduct drop tests of 11 different fall protection scenarios. The results are enlightening.

Tony Groat, North American Manager of the International Powered Access Federation will discuss how new 2017 standards will change how erectors train aerial work platform users. New ANSI A92 standards provide best practices for safe use and training requirements.

Troy Clark, president of MSC Safety Solutions, will tell erectors what they need to know about the silica standard. He will look at how to conduct exposure assessments and suggest best practices for compliance.

Patty Bird, Senior Manager of Projects for NCCER, will offer tips for tapping the right talent for recruitment as Ironworkers. She'll explain colloborating with secondary and post-secondary schools, veterans, career centers, and more.

SPECIAL FOCUS: Convention Preview InfoSight is a manufacturer of industrial marking machines, metal tags, metal tag printers, barcode readers and custom machinery for manual and automatic identification and traceability applications worldwide. Applications include plate, coil, tube and pipe, and other construction materials. infosight.com

(NCCCO) nonprofit organization formed 1995 with a mission to develop effective performance standards for safe crane operation to assist all segments of general industry and construction. It provides independent assessments of knowledge and skills of crane operators, riggers, signalpersons, crane inspectors, and lift directors. nccco.org

LeJeune Bolt Company is a supplier of structural bolts, fasteners, anchors, rods, hardware and stud welding products.

It is the largest supplier of TONE and Torqon tools in North America, and it offers rental and repair services. lejeunebolt.com

The National Institute of Steel Detailing (NISD) is an international association that advocates, promotes and serves the interests of the steel detailing industry. The organization advocates for improved quality through member networking, education and certification. nisd.org

Liebherr USA manufacturers a full range mobile and crawler cranes. Among its newest introductions are an expanded line of rough-terrain cranes in the 100- and 110-ton class, which feature VarioBaseÂŽ for individual outrigger extension at arbitrary lengths. liebherr.com

Lifting Gear Hire is devoted exclusively to the provision of lifting and moving equipment for rent. It maintains a comprehensive inventory of hoisting, material handling, rigging, and safety equipment, with more than 65,000 pieces available through 21 locations. lgh-usa.com Lincoln Electric designs, develops and manufactures arc welding products, robotic arc welding systems, plasma and oxy-fuel cutting equipment, and is a leader in the brazing and soldering alloys market. lincolnelectric.com M&P Specialty Insurance provides insurance and risk management services exclusively to the crane and rigging, steel erection, heavy haul, house raising and structural moving industries. Services include same day certificate issue, audit assistance, claim assistance, contract and rental ticket review, and experience modification planning and forecasting. mpspecialty.com Mabey Inc., provides bridging and non-mechanical construction equipment and services for the development of bridges, buildings, roads, railways, and utilities. mabey.com

Mazzella Companies provides ideal lifting solutions, offering all styles of slings, overhead cranes, hoists and engineered lifting devices. Other services include training, in-field inspection and repair services that support the company’s products. The Mazzella family of companies includes Mazzella Lifting Technologies, Indusco Wire Rope & Supplies, Alabama Sling Center, Tennessee Sling Center, and others. mazzellacompanies.com National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators

NCCER is a not-for-profit education foundation serving the construction industry. It offers curricula for more than 70 craft areas and develops standardized assessments with portable credentials for many of these crafts. NCCER also drives multiple initiatives to enhance workforce development, as well as career development and recruitment efforts through Build Your Future. It worked with SEAA to develop Ironworker Craft Training, Accredited Training Units, and Authorized Assessment Sites. nccer.org Nucor and its affiliates are manufacturers of steel products, with operating facilities primarily in the U.S. and Canada.

Products produced include: carbon and alloy steel -- in bars, beams, sheet and plate; hollow structural section tubing; steel piling; steel joists and joist girders; steel deck; fabricated concrete reinforcing steel; cold finished steel; steel fasteners; metal building systems; steel grating; and wire and wire mesh. vulcraft.com, vercodeck.com, nucor.com Preferred Safety Products Inc., integrates safety products with training and management systems. Fall protection systems are customized for designers, contractors, owners, and managers of buildings. preferredsafety.com Red-D-Arc Welderentals, an Airgas Company, offers rental welding equipment from 70 branches worldwide. In addition, its operating lease program is a cost-effective option to acquire core welding equipment fleet with large up-front costs. red-d-arc.com List of exhibitors as of 2/10/17.

32 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

Keynote Speaker Brent Gleeson, U.S. Navy SEAL combat veteran, speaks on achieving maximum performance through trust and accountability.

Opening Session Speaker Dean McKenzie, Director of OSHA’s Construction Directorate, analyzes the current regulatory agenda.

SEAA Ironworker Craft Training, SEAA/NCCER accredited training units, and authorized assessment sites are managed by Educational Services Unlimited. Flexible programs feature SEAA Ironworker Certification, NCCER Ironworker Certification, Company Specific Modules, and Qualified Rigger/Signalperson Credentials. SEAA provides oversight for NCCER sponsorship for your company and administrative support for managing employee records and test completions. seaa.net/craft_training SidePlate Systems Inc. unites proven structural integrity with maximum design versatility through a suite of high-performance steel frame connection technologies—all successfully tested to protect against blasts, progressive collapse and earthquakes. Backed by full-scale laboratory testing for earthquake applications (UCSD) and blast and progressive collapse (GSA/ DoD), SidePlate is proven to make steel-frame construction more robust, safer and more costeffective. sideplate.com Simpson Strong-Tie Inc., creates engineered structural products and systems designed to help structures withstand high winds, hurricanes, and seismic forces. They include structural connectors, fasteners, fastening systems, lateral-force resisting systems, anchors and other products. strongtie.com St. Louis Screw & Bolt specializes in HEX Head Bolts in A325 & A490 type I, III Hot Dip Galvanized, Mechanically Galvanized, Weathering and Plain Finish. The company also manufactures Anchor Bolts, Tie Rod Assemblies, U-Bolts, Eye Bolts, and J-Bolts in diameters from 1/2” through 4” and up to 40 feet in length. It stocks TC bolts (tension shear) ASTM F2280/A490 & ASTM F1852/A325, sells and services wrenches for TC and Hex Bolts, and stocks different types of fasteners. stlouisscrewbolt.com Steel Joist Institute (SJI) is a nonprofit organization of active joist manufacturers and other organizations and companies connected to the industry. It maintains the standards for steel joist construction, provides educational opportunities for construction professionals, and assists in identifying existing joists in buildings undergoing retrofit. steeljoist.org Superior Cranes Inc., serving the crane rental and rigging industry in the southeastern United States, features an extensive fleet of all-terrain, truck, crawler, and rough-terrain cranes, as well as forklifts and specialized hauling trailers. superiorcranes.com Tekla software for construction and structural engineering industry is produced by Trimble, a technology company with a vision of transforming the way the world works. Tekla software for construction and structural and civil engineering builds on the free flow of information, constructible models and collaboration. Trimble’s construction offering ranges from total stations to advanced software, giving the industry tools to perform better throughout the construction lifecycle. tekla.com, trimble.com TRYSTAR is a domestic manufacturer and international distributor of portable and permanent power solutions, industrial cables, and power accessories. Innovation in safety and performance are hallmarks of the company, which boasts a legacy of firsts, such as introducing sequential foot-marking to the welding cable industry, which reduced waste. trystar.com List of exhibitors as of 2/10/17.

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Connector | WINTER EDITION February 2017 | 33

TOPPING OUT

Survey Says

Are behavior-based incentives more effective than rate-based incentives for improving safety?

Source: SEAA member survey, January 2017.

How are you implementing and incentivizing behaviorbased safety programs in your organization?

■■ Each employee starts the year with a set $ amount (safety incentive fund). Each month we review our site safety audits, along with contractor’s safety audits. Any individual noted on the audits with a violation has a deduction from their fund based on a pricing list related to severity.

■■ We are rewarding people for new safety ideas and implementation. I think that behavior is more important, because it is connected directly to the action that we are wanting.

■■ Gift cards are given to individuals when good safety practices are witnessed. We feel it's better to award good behavior on the front end than to reward employees for a lack of accidents or violations.

Steel Stats

Meet New Members

According to U.S Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of ironworkers is projected to grow 9 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations.

Construction Labor Contractors, with 20 agencies located around the country, provides construction staffing solutions to help contractors build a skilled workforce.

We asked Gene Cates, General Manager, “What’s something most people don’t know about your company?” He said: "CLC currently has over 6,000 E-Verified skilled tradesmen, including certified ironworkers, riggers, and welders. All CLC employees are eligible for full health, dental and vision insurance plan as well as a 401K retirement program. FullFlex payroll allows clients to reduce or eliminate corporate payroll, tax and Gene Coats, General Manager Construction Labor Contractors worker compensation costs."

Member company Adaptive Construction Solutions, which recruits military veterans and trains them to become ironworkers, reports:

RK Steel, an erector based in Denver, Colo., is one of seven business units in the RK family. It provides end-to-end design, fabrication, and erection services.

■■ 87% retention rate in first 90 days of employment ■■ 100,000 man hours without recordable injury

UP NEXT

Ironworker Training and Apprenticeship Mobile Software Apps for Job Management AWP Operation Welding Equipment

34 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

Spring Issue – May 2017 Ad Deadline is March 1 ConnectorSales@seaa.net

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