MANAGEMENT
By Fred Tinker
Working with Certified Detailers Knowledge of structural steel construction contributes to project accuracy
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Working with a certified detailer has benefits for the fabricator and erector. IDC-certified detailers are tested in 15 different categories encountered in structural steel construction.
he National Institute of Steel Detailing (NISD) created the Individual Detailer Certification program (IDC) in response to the steel industry's need to determine the skill level of individuals performing steel detailing services. This includes the knowledge and ability to produce quality shop drawings according to various codes, specifications and contract documents. Individuals who achieve IDC have been examined and evaluated according to an industry-wide professional standard of practice. Working with a certified detailer has benefits for the fabricator and erector. IDC-certified detailers are tested in 15 different categories encountered in structural steel construction. The design team requires that architects and engineers
be licensed. Expecting the same of detailers contributes to more accurate projects. A certified detailer is more experienced and understands what erectors and fabricators require and what information they need to see on the erection and shop drawings. Certified detailers are aware of safety issues for erectors and they will incorporate erection aids as well as safer steel connection details. The following Q&A with Fred Tinker provides insight into the benefits of the IDC Program.
Fred Tinker owns a steel detailing company and is on the Board of Directors for NISD. He is chairman of the IDC committee. He has more than 55 years of steel detailing experience.
Who is the IDC program for? Steel detailers worldwide may apply to be certified in either Bridge or Structural/Miscellaneous. In order to be eligible, applicants must meet the
What's new? The test is now administered online. A third-party testing company provides the test to a proctor at a school or library where applicants can take the exam in the computer lab. The test is given, graded and the results are turned over to the NISD administrative office before certifications are awarded.
16 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
following requirements in either of these two classifications: • Senior Detailer [Class I] - This classification is for applicants who have a minimum of 10 years detailing along with checking experience. • Detailer [Class II] - This classification is for applicants who have a minimum of 5 years detailing experience. Both of these classifications require the applicant to submit a detailed experience history and a letter of recommendation along with their application. The letter of recommendation may be from a steel fabricator, engineer or an IDC Certified Senior Detailer. The NISD Individual Detailer Certification stays with the detailer wherever he or she may be employed.