Steel’s impressive strength-to-weight ratio, durability, and recyclability make it one of the most dependable materials in construction. Its ability to handle heavy loads and withstand demanding conditions also makes it exceptionally safe for structural use. So it’s popular for use across a huge range of construction projects. And it’s ideal for bridges, high-rise structures and myriad other structures.
Steel erection involves components including beams, columns and trusses. Cranes, hoists and similar heavy equipment lifts the various elements into place.
But, whatever the job, safe and efficient steel construction doesn’t happen by magic or without preparation and hard work. Here are the key factors behind the process:
Planning and site prep
This involves site assessment and studying the terrain, available space and access points. The detailed plans which should follow this survey need to cover the construction schedule, site safety and lifting, as well as work scope and project timelines. Meanwhile, you have to complete extensive safety briefings covering the various job roles, working from height plus lifting techniques. At the same time, verify the foundations are prepared, with anchor bolts in place for column installation.
You also have to clear any obstacles to the movement of heavy machinery and level the ground, which needs to support the weight of both the steel components and the associated machinery.
Erection and assembly
Using cranes, the steel beams, columns and so on are lifted in place, in accordance with the pre-agreed plan. Other elements at this stage include initial securing of steel members, aligning columns and, finally, fully tightening bolts or welding to create permanent stability. Building must take place in a pre-agreed sequence, in consultation with a structural engineer.
Safety first
There are also, of course, several safety measures which need to be in place, including having adequately trained staff who are competent in operating equipment safely. Additionally, clear channels of communication, including about potential hazards and designated roles, need to be in place and conveyed to the whole team, as does an emergency response plan.
In particular, it’s important to communicate clearly about electrical lines, uneven ground and heavy machinery.
When it comes to controlled lifting, clearly this needs to be carefully planned too, with exclusion zones respected and everyone understanding not to lift directly above people. (This may sound obvious but is a crucial part of site safety in preventing potentially serious accidents.)
Fall protection measures must also be in place. Workers should wear lanyards and use personal protective equipment (PPE) while working on platforms like scaffolding or mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) are key during bolting-up plus similar operations.
Final inspections ensure the site is secure and complies with all relevant standards, followed by load testing, plus regular inspection and maintenance.
Steel construction is a complex business, and potentially hazardous if the right safety measures aren’t in place. Precision and expertise are essential from start to finish to ensure safety and efficiency and, most importantly, avoid injuries and accidents.
Safe and efficient steel processes from Two J’s Metalwork
At Two J’s Metalwork, based in East Sussex, we supply superior-quality steelwork solutions for many different types of projects, both commercial and domestic. We bring the same level of commitment, laser-like precision and expertise to each one, no matter its size, and follow all procedures outlined above for safety and efficiency.
Check out our services, from structural steelwork and architectural metalwork to builders’ beams, aluminium decking and steel erection. At the same time, our expert CAD drawings and detailing ensure every project’s accuracy and precision; we offer clear, precise plans to guide the production and installation of steel structures.
Want to learn more? Browse our website and get in touch whether you require expert advice, need an in-depth quote or have any questions at all about what we do. Our team stands ready to help.
