Essential equipment required for steel erection process and rules of using them

There are a number of tools that are essential for the process of erecting steel structures. Thorough preparation of such tools ensures the quality, safety, and speed of the construction. This writing shall provide you with information about essential equipment required for the steel erection process and the rules for using them.

1. Essential equipment required for the steel erection process and rules for using them

Every step in constructing a pre-engineered steel building requires the use of particular materials, tools, and technique items. The proper knowledge and planning of equipment usage are important to ensure the quality of steel construction. This writing is focusing on discussing some pieces of essential equipment required for the steel erection process and the rules for using them:

1.1 Mobile equipment

Mobile equipment involves vehicles, machines that are used in carrying materials, or other tools such as delivery trucks, truck cranes, hoists, and so on.

It is significantly important to follow below rules when operating mobile equipment in order to ensure the quality as well as the safety of the steel structural buildings:

• Only certified operators and qualified equipment are permitted to approach the construction sites.
• The equipment should be operated not closer than 4.5m to a voltage l line of 220V or more. 
• Except for emergency situations, only 1 signalman is permitted to give signals to the equipment operators.

1.2 Slings

Slings are devices that are used to support, lift, or carry objects. There are a variety of slings that can be used for the construction such as cable, chain, rope, webbing, etc. Based on many factors such as size, strength, flexibility, weight, the suitability for the working environment, steel contractors can choose suitable types of slings to operate the tasks. 

Below are some rules steel construction workers must follow when using slings in the process of erecting steel structures:

• Before they are used, slings are strictly examined for their durability. This step makes sure that they can be used to carry heavy objects during the process of lifting things. 
• Slings are cushioned by sharp corners to avoid being broken.
• The lifting load is not jerked to reduce the risks of increasing the lifting load.
• Slings are hung up when not in use.

1.3 Scaffolds

Scaffolds are movable platforms that are used for construction workers to stand or sit on when working at a height above the ground, or for supporting the framework.

Here are some basic rules that workers should follow when using scaffolds in construction:

• Scaffolds are placed on positions with the firm ground with foot bases erected on wood platforms with a size of a minimum of 20 cm*20 cm.
• Scaffolds are placed in positions where they do not restrict the operation of mobile equipment like cranes.
• The frame scaffolds are capable of supporting four times the maximum intended load.
• Scaffolds are set up with handrails, mid rails, ladders, and platforms on every floor to ensure the safety of workers.

1.4 ELCB Box

ELCB (Earth-leakage circuit breaker) is a safety device used in electrical installations with high earth impedance to prevent shock.

Rules for using this device in the steel erecting process are mentioned below:

• The electrical system is standardized, following these standards: sealed box and 3-pin sealed plugs for outlets are included, and ELCB electrical current is from 30mA to 60mA.
• At least 1 ELCB is put on the roof to facilitate the operation process.

1.6 Hand tools

Hand tools are simple tools that are powered by hands rather than motor such as chopping, chiseling, cutters, files, striking tools, struck or hammered tools, screwdrivers, vises, clamps, snips, saws, drills, and so on.

Proper use is more important than speed of work while using hand tools and here are some rules for using them:

• Hand tools are fixed to the wrists to prevent dropping. 
• Tools used for particular tasks are provided with comprehensive instruction.
• Temporary tools are not acceptable during the construction process.

2. BMB Steel’s principles behind using equipment for the steel erection process

In order to ensure the quality, and safety of the steel structure, as well as the speed of the construction, BMB Steel always does thorough and adequate preparation for essential equipment before the steel erection process is conducted and strictly follows regulations on using them during the erection process.

Not only the use of all tools and equipment in the steel erection process but also other materials and devices used in constructing steel structures is included in BMB Steel Safety Handbook. Strictly following these principles helps BMB Steel gain success in a lot of construction projects and gain the trust of customers. This has reinforced the position of BMB Steel in the steel construction industry. We commit to continue working on these principles in order to satisfy our customers not only at the moment but also in the future.

Above are some pieces of information about essential equipment required for the steel erection process and the rules for using them. Hopefully, this article has provided you with useful information. Visit BMB Steel’s website to read more about pre-engineered steel buildings and building processes.