FALL EDITION 2019
PEOPLE
• PEOPLMOVERS
MOVERS The complexities of building infrastructure for MASS TRANSIT
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
20 NO Safety Silos 24 Body Harnesses — Quality , Comfort are Key 36 Training Directory
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c ntents
FALL EDITION September 2019
FEATURES Management
20
No Safety Silos Safety and productivity don't have to be mutually exclusive. By David Duke, CHST
In the Field
24
Harnessing Safety Quality and comfort are key to selecting body harnesses. By Lucy Perry
36
People Movers Featuring Class III and IV Project of the Year winners, public transportation projects often share common challenges—including working in facilities that remain open to the public during construction.
Special Focus Training Directory Training resources for employers of ironworkers with listings for Aerial Device Operator, Fall Protection, Ironworker, and Welding.
seaa.net
On the Cover: Williams Steel Erection Co., Inc. of Manassas, Va., performed steel erection and heavy hauling for the Dulles Corridor Metrorail project. The job included five mainline stations, 31 pedestrian bridge segments, and nine entrance pavilions.
DEPARTMENTS
ONLINE HIGHLIGHTS
10 Perspective
QQ3M Issues Recalls for Two Fall Protection Devices
12 Association News
QQParent Survey Reveals Surprising Opinions about Trade Careers
14 Product Focus
QQEast and West Coast Companies Join Training Network
44 Business Operations
QQSEAA Names President Elect, New Board Member
46 Topping Out
Check out our latest social media feeds. See more photos of Project of the Year winners.
28 Cover Story
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web.seaa.net/publications/subscribe.aspx 6 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
Connector received Superstar Award from Construction Marketing Association. 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.
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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. Members enhoy opportunities to 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 (National Center for Construction Education and Research) sponsorship means that member companies 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 provide member companies with industry representation with American Institute of Steel Construction, Steel Joist Institute, Steel Deck Institute, National Institute of Steel Detailing, and others.
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 David Schulz, President Josh Cilley, Immediate Past President Carrie Sopuch-Gulajan, VP, Associate Representative Geoff Kress, VP, Industry Representative Greg Phillips, 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 David Deem, Erectors, Deem Structural Services Glen Pisani, Erectors, MAS Building & Bridge Ben Wein, Erectors, SSW Erectors Bryan McClure, Safety, Trivent Safety Consulting Connector™ is published quarterly by the Steel Erectors Association of America, 401 E. 4th Street, #204, Winston-Salem, NC 27101-4171
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.
8 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
Copyright 2019 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.
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PERSPECTIVE
By Tom Underhill
Hashtag Ironworker Training— SEAA’s Custom Programs are Trending
S
EAA’s Ironworker Craft Training Program is one of the most important benefits SEAA offers its members. The program features exclusive benefits for members, which cuts costs and administrative requirements, while providing members access to custom ironworker curriculum and dozens of other construction craft training resources through NCCER. You’ll find a listing of the current participating Training Units and/or Assessment Sites on page 42. These participating SEAA member companies have invested in quality skills development training and assessments for their employees, and in some cases make their services available to the public. Three times a year, SEAA visits cities around the country, introducing erectors and fabricators in the area to the program. In October we will host a Meet & Greet reception in Raleigh, N.C. Whether you are a member or not, if you’d like to learn more about how SEAA can help you implement SEAA/NCCER Ironworker Craft Training, plan to attend one of these upcoming meetings, or call me at the SEAA office. Learn more at seaa.net/ quarterly-meetings.html. Providing training resources to members and the industry is a central focus of the association. In this issue we feature our first ever Training Directory, highlighting training options of particular interest to erectors and fabricators. This is a work in progress. If your company would like to be considered for next year’s listing, please contact editor@seaa.net. In that same vein, the board of directors recently voted to expand SEAA’s relationship with technical and community colleges in order to bring NCCER accredited testing for craft professions, including the SEAA/NCCER ironworker program, to students in local communities. The partnership allows colleges to become members of SEAA, giving them access to the SEAA/NCCER Ironworker Craft Training program, and other NCCER craft curriculum and assessments. Post-secondary institutions can join SEAA for a nominal fee of $700, which gives them access to become accredited training units and/or assessment sites. In addition, it affords students of those
schools the opportunity to receive SEAA’s Connector magazine, monthly newsletters, and invaluable networking opportunities with steel erectors, fabricators and other member companies. “As demand for skills training grows, SEAA seeks to provide communities with the resources and students with the pathways necessary to get the training, qualifications, and certifications necessary for careers in construction,” said Tim Eldridge, President of Education Services Unlimited and SEAA’s Craft Training and Assessment Administrator. In recognition of the good work our member companies do, the Safety & Education Committee will offer two
Providing training resources to members and the industry is a central focus of the association.
Tom Underhill is the Executive Director of the Steel Erectors Association of America. Contact him at tomunderhill@seaa.net. 10 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
new awards in 2020. Safety Awards will be given to all companies that meet specific low rates of job site accidents, and the Training Awards will be given to companies who demonstrate a commitment to training a qualified workforce. Watch for more information on these new programs in October. These new awards join our prestigious Project of the Year program, of which two winning jobs are featured in this issue. This also is a benefit of membership, as winning companies receive considerable free publicity through SEAA and to the broader construction industry. If your company topped out a steel erection project in 2018 or 2019 that you are proud of, consider submitting using a simple online submission form. Deadline is March 1, 2020. Find the form at seaa.net/project-of-the-yearsubmission.html. One final note. SEAA's newest staff member, Bryttany Freeman, has a background in social media marketing. Working in conjunction with the Media Committee, she will be expanding the association’s social media presence. Feel free to tag us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn using #SEAA, #ironworker, #steelerection, or forward prospective submissions in the form of news stories, blogs, and graphics to bryttany@seaa.net.
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Connector | FALL EDITION September 2019 | 11
ASSOCIATION NEWS ■■SEAA Announces Committee Positions Available
S
EAA’s Executive Board directs six committees, which tackle specific projects and annual planning. “More than anything, involvement in the day-to-day work of the association is what opened doors and created great networking opportunities for me personally,” said Jack Nix, Chairman of the Membership Committee. Openings are available for each of the following committees: Long Range Planning, Finance, Safety & Education, Media, Convention, and Membership. Committees meet in person at quarterly board meetings and by conference call as projects dictate. Contact the SEAA office for more information.
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES SEAA 4th Quarter Board Meeting Oct. 17, 2019 Embassy Suites, Crabtree/Raleigh, N.C. seaa.net/quarterlymeetings.html
Craft Training Meet & Greet Oct. 17, 2019, 6-8 PM Embassy Suites, Crabtree/Raleigh, N.C. Open to Everyone RSVP: seaa.net/ quarterlymeetings.html seaa.net/quarterlymeetings.html
Annual Education Fundraiser Golf Tournament Oct. 18, 2019 Lonnie Poole Golf Course Raleigh, N.C. Registration Now Open seaa.net/events.html
■■SMEs Needed for NCCER Ironworking Curriculum NCCER, SEAA’s partner in the development of the association’s Ironworker Craft Training materials, is seeking Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to assist with revisions to the Reinforcing Ironwork and Ironworking curriculum. For Reinforcing Ironwork, NCCER is looking for SMEs in concrete reinforcement, concrete forms, foundations, and metal decking. The Reinforcing Ironwork project will coincide with an update to NCCER’s Concrete Finishing program. Work has already begun and SMEs are needed immediately. For Ironworking, NCCER is seeking SMEs in structural ironworking, joists and girders, metal decking, tilt-up erection, and other areas of knowledge needed in the craft (rigging, welding, etc.). The start date for this project has not yet been set. “NCCER subject matter experts should have outstanding knowledge of their trade; have the ability to communicate verbally in group settings; have familiarity with NCCER curricula; have journey-level experience in their craft; have experience teaching the craft to others; and have a commitment to the project for its duration,” explained Chris Wilson, NCCER Project Manager. Direct inquiries to Chris Wilson at cwilson@nccer.org.
■■Solve Workforce Challenges and Play Golf Join SEAA in Raleigh, N.C. on October 17 to find out how the association can help you implement ironworker craft training. There is no cost to attend the Meet & Greet, from 6-8 pm at the Embassy Suites by Hilton, Crabtree/ Raleigh, where you can find out how SEAA member companies are solving their workforce development needs with SEAA/NCCER Craft Training.
National Convention & Trade Show April 1-3, 2020 Charleston, S.C.
12 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
Make the most of your visit, and stay for a round of golf on October 18. SEAA’s 20th Annual Education Fundraiser golf tournament offers a chance to network with erectors, fabricators, and suppliers, while raising money for safety and training initiatives. The event concludes with an awards dinner and prizes, including 50/50 payout on the Boom Lift Ball Drop raffle. “SEAA is great resource of education, safety and steel industry trends with an exceptional network of steel erectors working together to resolve the issues we all face in the steel erection industry,” said Bob Beckner, Sr. VP, Peterson Beckner Industries. Both events are open to members and prospective members. More information at seaa.net/events. RSVP for the Meet & Greet online and register for golf by September 2 to receive $25 off per player.
■■SEAA Makes Craft Training and Testing Available to College Students SEAA is expanding its relationship with technical and community colleges in order to bring NCCER accredited testing for craft professions, including the SEAA/NCCER ironworker program, to students in local communities. The partnership allows colleges to become members of SEAA, giving them access to the SEAA/ NCCER Ironworker Craft Training program, and other NCCER craft curriculum and assessments. “As demand for skills training grows, SEAA seeks to provide communities with the resources and students with the pathways necessary to get the training, qualifications, and certifications necessary for careers in construction,” said Tim Eldridge, President of Education Services Unlimited and SEAA’s Craft Training and Assessment Administrator. Wake Technical Community College in North Carolina is the newest post-secondary institution to be sponsored by SEAA as an assessment site. They join a previously established relationship with Trident Technical College, with locations in South Carolina. “Post-secondary institutions can join SEAA for a nominal fee of $700, which gives them access to become accredited training units and/ or assessment sites. In addition, it affords students of those schools the opportunity to receive SEAA’s Connector magazine, monthly newsletters, and invaluable networking opportunities with steel erectors, fabricators and other member companies,” said Tom Underhill, Executive Director.
■■ New Team Member Joins SEAA Staff Bryttany Freeman is the Social Media Coordinator for the Steel Erectors Association of America. As SEAA is expanding, Freeman is assisting Kathy Epperson in everyday operations as well as managing social media accounts for the association. She has three years of prior experience with writing blog posts and managing social media accounts through previous employer, Keller Williams Reality, located in, Winston-Salem, N.C. “Bryttany is a valuable asset to our team and we are very fortunate to have her in our office,” said Tom Underhill, Executive Director.
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Connector | FALL EDITION September 2019 | 13
PRODUCT FOCUS
Miller Electric Miron XMT 350 FieldPro system
On sprawling structural jobsites such as this one, welding happens hundreds of feet from power sources. Outdated equipment wastes hundreds of work hours and thousands of dollars every year by forcing welders to walk to the power source for each adjustment. Appleton, Wis.-based Miller Electric Mfg.’s ArcReach technology, available on the XMT 350 FieldPro system being used here on a site involving steel construction, lets welders adjust parameters at the weld joint using the feeder or remote, improving productivity, quality and safety.
■ CM Herc-Alloy Chains are High
Strength to Weight
JLG Industries, Inc. material racks for large LRT and RT scissor lifts.
CM Herc-Alloy 1000 chains, offered by Columbus McKinnon, Getzville, N.Y., are constructed of triple alloy steel that provides superior strength-to-weight performance. The chains meet ASTM A973 & NACM standards, have a 25% higher working load limit compared to Grade 80 and an environmentally friendly black coating for distinct appearance and ease of identification. A certification is included with every drum. With a design factor of 4:1, the chains are 100% proof tested, have a working load limit of 2,700 to 35,300 lbs., and come in sizes 7/32 in. to 3/4 in.
■ JLG Now Offers Material Rack for Scissor Lifts JLG Industries, Inc., McConnellsburg, Pa., has introduced material racks for large rough-terrain (LRT) and rough-terrain (RT) scissor lifts. The racks allow operators to transport larger materials around the workplace. They feature nylon straps to hold heavy materials in place. Rated for outdoor use, the racks include a foldable cradle that accommodates building supplies including piping and flat materials. They have extendable arms for loading wide panels and fixed deck footers for extension deck expansion and retraction. The racks can support up to 860 lbs. of material while allowing two operators in the platform. 14 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
Connector | FALL EDITION September 2019 | 15
■■Hougen Releases Annular Cutter Kit Hougen Manufacturing, Inc., Swartz Creek, Mich., has released a new annular cutter kit. The RotaLoc Plus Master Kit contains 14 different sizes of Hougen RotaLoc Plus cutters in the most popular sizes. Two pilots are also included, and all the tools are individually protected in a high-quality plastic case to safeguard cutting edges. RotaLoc Plus annular cutters are made from M42 HSS and are precision ground for hole making in materials up to 1” thick. They feature a bayonet style shank for quick change of cutter sizes. tack cut geometry allows teeth to drill through single plate as well as two or more pieces of steel at one time. The cutters can be resharpened multiple times, with each time reducing the cost per hole. The cutters, which can be used on standard magnetic drills with an optional adapter, are made in the USA.
Hougen Manufacturing, Inc. RotaLoc Plus Master Kit
■■Magni debuts 13-ton
Telehander
Italian telescopic handler manufacturer Magni produced the first RTH 13.26 SH rotating model earlier this year. It lifts 13 tons on tires and on scissor stabilizers, for stability in tight spaces. When partially stabilized, the machine provides the best possible load chart on each side. With stabilizers fully extended, the machine can work at full height over 360°. It has a maximum lifting height of 86 ft., and maximum reach to 70 ft. It is equipped with a Mercedes OM 934 LA Stage IV engine, and has 2/2 gears. It travels at 25 mph, and rotates 360°. For a dealer near you, visit magnith.com.
Magni RTH 13.26 Telehandler
16 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
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Connector | FALL EDITION September 2019 | 17
■■Lincoln Electric Announces
Wire Feeder, Welding Helmet
Learn what over 250 Steel Erectors know THAT YOU DON’T.
Lincoln Electric, Cleveland, Ohio, introduces two new products for welders. The LN-25X, a portable industrial wire feeder with CrossLinc and True Voltage Technology, provides greater control with fewer cables. The LN-25X can be used in MIG and fluxcored processes. The wire feeder has adjustable wire run-in speed; arc hours meter; and Maxtrac wire drive system. Options include split wire guide; trigger interlock switch; and weld timers.
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CREATED FOR AN ERECTOR BY AN ERECTOR Lincoln Electric LN-25X Wire Feeder
60 YEARS DEDICATED TO QUALITY AND SERVICE Sixty years ago Hougen invented the annular cutter and not long after that the small lightweight magnetic drill. From day one we worked hard to ensure every cutter and mag drill we produced was worthy of our customers time and money. While technology has changed, some things stay tried and true, and our commitment to our customers is number one. We still build our mag drills one at a time and quality check every cutter that we make. We have stood behind our products for sixty years and always will.
In addition, the company announces Viking 2450 and 3350 series welding helmets with 4C optics, new headgear design, and a low-profile external grind button. The X6 Headgear contours to the operator’s head to evenly distribute weight across six key contact points. With the external grind button the operator can switch quickly between weld to grind mode without having to remove the helmet or gloves.
MAGNETIC DRILLS ANNULAR CUTTERS 800-426-7818 SERVICE • INTEGRITY • RELIABILITY HOUGEN.COM Hou-746-SEAA.indd 1
18 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
1/3/19 1:27 PM
Lincoln Electric 3350 Daredevil Welding Helmet
â– â– Two Length Options Available on New
SafeWaze Retractable
SafeWaze, Concord, N.C., has released its 7 ft. Tie-Back Retractable SRD Series with the flexibility of two length options. The standard 40-in. unit provides additional length for tie-off to larger anchor points, while the 20-in. version is for applications where longer webbing could create a hazard. Both options are available in single and dual leg configurations with a variety of attachment points. Additional features include clear plastic housing, steel tie-back snap hook with 5,000 lbs. gate. The user capacity is ANSI 130-310 lbs. and OSHA 420 lbs. (max).
Momentum for your Marketing Message
Safewaze Tie-Back Retractable SRD Series
*>QJ@D•UKQN• I>NGB|JڕLNKFB@€•€KA>U Serving the Construction Industry Manitowoc GHC 140
â– â– 140-ton TeleCrawler Joins Grove
Product Line
Manitowoc Cranes, Manitowoc, Wis., has launched its largest telescopic crawler crane for the North American market. The GHC140 features a 171-ft., six-section boom. It can be configured with a 49.3 ft offsettable bi-fold swingaway jib. Introducing new 1.5 degree load charts, the GHC140 offers pick-and-carry cabability at 100 percent of load chart on inclines up to 4 degrees, and it can swing loads a full 360 degrees. Crawler tracks deliver 57 percent gradeability; the undercarriage is powered by two-speed hydrostatic drive motors. Track side frames extend and retract to three track spans. The crane can be transported in as few as four loads, and features self-assembly counterweight and undercarriage frame.
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MANAGEMENT
By David Duke, CHST
No Safety Silos
Safety and productivity don’t have to be mutually exclusive
C
onstruction is a fast-paced business in which safety has an integral role. Despite their directive to reduce risk, construction safety managers should not turn a blind eye to production. In the early days of starting my career as a steel fabricator and welder, I was sent to a job to erect handrails and stairs. I had very little foreman experience, but I was a smooth talker. And despite my lack of experience, the crew began looking to me to get direction and answers from the superintendent. Safety was certainly not my focus—back then I didn’t even know what a lanyard was. However, I was fortunate that the onsite project manager took me under his wing, teaching me enough to successfully complete the job with zero injuries and on time. David Duke is Field Safety Director, CHST, for Cooper Steel, Shelbyville, Tenn. He is responsible for providing jobsite audits and training for equipment, rigging, signaling, and safety practices. He is a member of the Board of Certified Safety Professionals and the American Society of Safety Professionals. In addition to years of safety and management experience in steel fabrication and erection, he also has worked in the racing industry as a safety official for NASCAR, so he knows a thing or two about being fast and safe at the same time.
David Duke (right) looks at a job safety analysis and drawings with a jobsite foreman.
His main advice to me: “Son, if you have any sense about you, you’d get into safety. That’s where you can make a difference, have a long career, and not punish your body.” Now Jerry Long and I are co-workers at Cooper Steel, and to this day, I thank him every chance I get for that advice. Soon after my first project ended, I was selected to attend a 30-hour OSHA class. At the time, General Contractors were starting to require at least one member of each Field Crew to possess a 30-hour card. This opened the door for me to serve as a third-party safety consultant on a large job in Fort Dodge, Iowa. What was supposed to be a one-month project, turned into 10 months, after which I was hired by Cooper Steel in a newly created position of Field Safety Manager. New to Cooper Steel, and still fairly new to safety, I went about things the only way I knew how—get my hands dirty, learn, and do whatever it takes to succeed. Because of my past experience as a foreman, I was also occasionally tasked to be On-Site Project Manager. This is where the worlds of safety and production collided.
20 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
Safety vs. Productivity When I would show up on a job site and tell the superintendent that I was the Project Manager and the Safety Manager, I often got confused and untrusting looks. People assumed production and safety were mutually exclusive of each other. And for a long time, I believed this myth myself. How can someone in charge of making sure the job got done FAST, also be the person that is looking out for SAFETY, which seemingly slowed things down? All that changed for me on a multi building complex with precast and tilt walls, insulated panel walls, multi levels and pits. Multiple trades were working in very close quarters. Our plans were designed to prevent the crane operator from having to lift any materials in the blind, which is considered a Critical Lift. However, those kinds of plans rarely pan out the way they’re supposed to, and we were left with installing materials through an access hole in the roof structure. The GC required all Critical Lift Plans to be submitted 48 hours in advance of the pick being made. Tempers were already peaked
Connector | FALL EDITION September 2019 | 21
WIRE ROPE AND PERIMETER CABLE
Davide Duke believes safety management has to work in coordination with project management and the trades to work effectively. due to the time constraints on the job and now with this Critical Lift forced upon us, things were starting to bubble over. It was the middle of summer on a complex job when a colleague asked why I was concerned about the delay. Safety was supposed to be my priority. In the moment, we weren’t exactly cordial, but later that day, it dawned on me. As Safety Manager, I MUST be aware of scheduling and production, especially on multi tasked jobs. Because when one thing slips, others will follow, allowing other trades to encroach into our areas, causing greater risk exposure to us and to them.
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Since that day, I have realized that safety can’t be a silo. Safety management has to work in coordination with project management and the trades to work effectively. To do safety well, safety managers need to be aware of the other aspects of the project planning. This means taking the time to attend pre-erection meetings, reviewing blueprints prior to stepping on site, attending many morning meetings with the different trades and the GC, helping the erector reps review their shipping Bills of Lading, etc. This information helps safety managers better predict when and where the next hiccups will occur, and have a better game plan for when those situations arise. Likewise, safety managers must understand the challenges faced by your crews. An excellent way to achieve this goal is to utilize ironworker training programs, such as the SEAA/NCCER Ironworker Curriculum. A Safety Manager should be able to understand the nuances of the job in order to communicate and educate, even if that means taking the assessments yourself. With technology advancing the way we communicate; the speed of construction is not going to slow down. Meanwhile, less experienced workers are being introduced into the trades. I was there once, too. Wouldn’t it be nice if the next generation of workers looked at safety as a way to improve their productivity on the job, not slow it down?
•
Connector | FALL EDITION September 2019 | 23
IN THE FIELD
By Lucy Perry
Harnessing Safety Quality and comfort are key to selecting body harnesses PBI trains its employees to a 12-step safety plan for use and care of body harnesses. It starts with inspection, and ends with a series of questions asked of the employee to show management that the worker knows how to properly don the harness. They’re also required to use proper tie-off methods for the task. Photo provided by Peterson Beckner Industries.
T
he heaviest, most uncomfortable, and most critical PPE that will likely save an ironworker’s life at some point in his or her career is their body harness. Much focus is placed on tie-off procedures and types of connection points, but selection of the right harness often gets overlooked. Quality and comfort are key. “The harnesses have to be comfortable and practical,” says David Duke, field safety director for Cooper Steel, Shelbyville, Tenn. “If you don’t get something a guy can wear all day, he’s not going to wear it correctly,” adds Jason Farris, Cooper Steel’s vice president of safety and field operations.
Selection considerations All Cooper Steel employees who work at height have their own harnesses. They are assigned and fitted to their gear, and they’ll keep the gear until it wears out, at which time it is replaced. Cooper’s safety management team looks for a product that will stand up to welding sparks and hot slag as well as cuts and abrasion. Though nylon construction is the industry standard, Farris and Duke favor fireproof Kevlar/Nomex harnesses. “Compared to nylon webbing, those seem to hold up better to grinding and producing sparks,” says Duke. In their experience, employees will get about a year’s use out of a Lucy Perry operates WordSkills Editorial Services in Kansas City, Missouri. She has spent 25 years following the North American construction industry. She can be reached at wordskillseditor@gmail.com.
Nomex/Kevlar harness. Some wear out sooner, especially in welding applications. Standard nylon webbed harnesses have a life of about three to six months, he adds. Monte Bowden and Kurt Hettinger, part of the safety management team for S.L. Shaw Co., Bakersfield, Calif., are candid about the company’s harness purchasing practices: “We found that welders burn harnesses up. Welding spatter over time eats away at the harness manufacturing material. Buying special welding harnesses with Kevlar is pricey and they don’t last long enough.” Instead the company chooses to buy less expensive nylon webbed harnesses, and replace them more often. “We’re buying the least expensive and lightest nylon harnesses for our welders because they either burn them up or are wearing them under a welder’s jacket,” says Hettinger. In addition, the company keeps extra harnesses in every size in stock so if someone has a bad harness they can swap it out for a new one, says Bowden.
24 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
Meanwhile, Peterson Beckner Industries, Houston, Texas, orders basic nylon harnesses with padding around the lower back and kidneys as well as over the shoulders. “We want to make sure they’re comfortable so our employees will want to wear them, and not take shortcuts. “We look at how the webbing is made. There are a lot of cheaper harnesses that will not withstand day to day ironworker use,” says Jesse Kulhanek, safety manager. When evaluating the webbing, PBI looks for material that sheds moisture, to prevent mildew, and has a higher level of abrasion resistance. “Workers carry a lot of stuff from their shoulders, and they like it to lay on the actual webbing of the harness,” says Kulhanek. Other features are also important. There are different types of harnesses for the various connection points. The connector is putting pressure on his inner leg for long periods of time, so having a suspension seat or D-rings positioned in front of the body are best for
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Tool belts with bolt bags and tool holsters, designed to hold implements that could injure if they fall, can weigh up to 30 lbs. Despite that, most employees want a waist belt to carry their gear, so employers look for harnesses that are as comfortable as possible. Photo provided by S.L. Shaw
when connectors need to position themselves to make certain connections, explains Kulhanek. PBI looks at the D-ring quality and how it is designed into the harness. They avoid plastic pieces. Farris of Cooper Steel adds that they look for harnesses that accommodate a waist belt for tool bags, bolt bags, and holsters. “Most employees want a waist belt to tack all that stuff onto, and we want to find something comfortable for the guys,” he says. Some tool lanyards are now designed with an individual strap for each tool that could hit or impale someone if the tool was dropped. “With this lanyard, those tools can’t hit the ground,” says Hettinger of S.L. Shaw. Additional safety features to look for are harnesses made of reflective material, and those with integrated self-rescue kits. “There’s also a suspension trauma stirrup strap which we make sure connectors have. Even with boom lifts, if someone falls, you’re trying to rescue him from above. At that height, he’s hanging there in his harness, and it cuts off the circulation to his legs. He tends to go into shock once the blood flows back into his legs. We try to have suspension trauma stirrups for guys so they could step in and stand there the 20 minutes it might take to get the basket over to them,” explains Hettinger, who adds that he thinks built-in stirrups should be industry standard, not an optional add-on.
Fit to be tied-off Harnesses come in standard sizes from medium to 2X. according to a worker’s inseam and pants waist measurements. But according to Hettinger, while some adjustment for size can be made in the leg straps, you don’t want them to be too tight. “If you tighten up the leg too tight you can take a fall and lose circulation. If it’s too loose, a guy can slide out of the harness. While they might want to walk around with loose leg straps, at height they never make these mistakes,” he says, adding that the rule of thumb is you should be able to put a couple fingers between the leg strap and your legs— “no more, no less”—for comfort and safety. PBI uses several vendors and comes up with a couple models they’re interested in. The vendor will give them samples. “We test the harnesses and get feedback from our crew about the way it reacts with their tasks,” says Kulhanek. The Cooper Steel safety team meets the manufacturer. Once the worker is in the right sized harness, it’s time to adjust to fit the employee’s body structure. The key, say Duke and Farris, is making sure the shoulder straps are snug and the leg straps are comfortable. The chest strap should fall about 6 inches down from the top of the shoulders. Then there’s a D-ring—affixed either front or back of the body. At the back it should fall between the shoulder blades. The harness waist belt,
26 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
which won’t affect the effectiveness of the harness, is a comfort factor for the employee, says Farris. “The chest strap, leg straps, and D-ring are the main things we look at. We see a lot of guys with D-rings out of adjustment or chest straps that are up too high. That can cause issues: If the chest straps are too high and the leg straps are not tight enough you can hang yourself. If the D-rings are too low and you have a fall, you can flip over upside down. That’s why it’s important to get them adjusted correctly,” says Farris.
Lanyards are the lifeline Where lanyards and self-retracting lanyards are concerned, some safety directors wish the manufacturers would listen a little more to their clients. “With lanyards we do 100% tie-offs, so we always put our guys in a double lanyard. They unclip as they move along, so they’re always tied off that way,” says Bowden. “One thing I try to purchase every time is a snap hook, but I try not to buy the metal type because it’s one more thing to fail, and it weighs 1.5 to 2 lbs. So I get a fabric loop for my guys.” Bowden says he also buys lanyards with elastic sheathing. Shock cords within the elastic sheathing are 6 feet long including a shock absorber pack which would be longer if deployed in a fall. The elastic tugs them up tighter so they actually measure about 4.5
feet, “which keeps our shorter guys from tripping up while walking around at ground level,” he explains. “In the past, we’ve had workers trip on their own [dangling] lanyards. That is not what we want—someone’s own fall arrest gear becoming an everyday tripping hazard. I’d like to tell the lanyard manufacturers to put good elastic on all their lanyards. It’s a big deal.” Cooper Steel no longer buys 6-foot lanyards, but opts instead for personal self-retracting lifelines. Because their crews work on multi-level structures, there aren’t as many applications for the 6-foot lanyards anymore, say Duke and Farris. “We don’t use large pelican hooks anymore, either. We found over the years the guys that have a big hook will hook off to anything and it’s not a successful anchorage. So we only use SRLs with smaller hooks, to hook into proper anchorage points.” And if the work requires it, employees use retractables, Cooper Steel’s personal SRLs are edge-rated. If a worker is tying off at his feet walking the steel or installing decking, he’ll have a thicker cable and an acceleration
device in the cable. “It’ll say on it that it’s edge-rated for the leading edge,” says Farris. “Our welding guys don’t use that type; most of our work is done out of baskets. But our decking crews all have leading-edge-rated retractables. If they’ve got to get out on the steel that’s what they use.” Selection, fit, and tie off procedures are only as good as the individual employee’s proper care and use of the harness. PBI trains its employees to a 12-step safety plan that starts with an inspection and ends with a series of questions asked of employees to demonstrate they know how to properly don the harness. “Harness webbing has memory—you can see how the harness has been taken care of and stored,” says Kulhanek. The daily inspection calls for checking the overall condition and to make sure the harness lays flat with no twist. Employees are instructed to adjust for proper fit and to tuck in straps. They must also demonstrate knowledge of anchor points, which D-ring to use, and how to properly attach to the structure.
•
Welders go through harnesses more quickly than other construction crew members because welding spatter over time eats away at the harness material. Photo provided by S.L. Shaw
1-866-733-3272
COVER STORY
By Tina Cauller
PEOPLE MOVERS The complexities of building infrastructure for mass transit
P Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project, Phase 2, Dulles, Va. Class III ($1 Mil to $7.5 Mil) Erector: Williams Steel Erection Co., Inc. Fabricator: Banker Steel Co. Detailer: DOWCO Consultants, Ltd. Architect and Structural Engineer: Dewberry GC: Capital Rail Constructors Contract Value: $6 Mil Tons of Steel: 3,900
Salt Lake City International Airport Terminal Redevelopment, Salt Lake City, Utah Class IV (Over $7.5 Mil) Erector: Derr & Gruenewald Construction Fabricator: ADF International Structural Engineer: HOK GC: Holder/Big D joint venture Contract Value: $26 Mil Tons of Steel: 30,000
ublic transportation projects often share common challenges—including working in facilities that remain open to the public during construction. This and other similarities defined two steel erection projects recognized by SEAA for the complexity and successful delivery. On the Dulles Corridor Metrorail project, serving the Washington, D.C. area, the steel erector had to haul oversize loads on Dulles area toll roads. Meanwhile, working in an active airport complex at the Salt Lake City Airport Terminal, redevelopment meant that crane boom height had to be restricted in order to allow for ongoing air traffic, explained one Project of the Year judge. Projects are reviewed by an independent panel of judges, which are evaluated based on the complexity of the job, unusual conditions or challenges, and which were completed without significant accident or injury. Open to members whose projects have topped in the previous two calendar years, featured here are the Class III and Class IV winners of SEAA’s annual Project of the Year contest. (See the Summer 2019 edition for information on the Class I and Class II winning projects by Flawless Steel Welding LLC and Derr & Gruenewald Construction).
■■Preplanning is the silver bullet for Silver Line completion The 23-mile long Silver Line, connecting Metrorail stations between Reston, Va., Ashburn, Va., and the Dulles International Airport in Washington, D.C., is at last complete. To finish Phase II of the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project, Williams Steel Erection Co., Inc. of Manassas, Va., performed steel erection and heavy hauling for the project’s five mainline stations, 31 pedestrian bridge segments, and nine entrance pavilions. The second phase of the Silver Line spans 11.4 miles. During construction, crews worked at as many as 25 different sites at once. Handed off to Williams Steel on Labor Day of 2013, the project has been a six-year endeavor that put the team’s capacity for planning, coordination, and creative problem-solving to the test. At SEAA’s 47th Convention & Trade Show last April, Project Manager Matt Skinner joked, 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
28 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
“You know you’ve been on a project for a long time when it shows up on Google Earth halfway through.” Skinner attributes the success of this highly complex and massive project to the years of detailed erection planning that the project team invested. Early preplanning with the fabricator meant that the steel being delivered to site was detailed and fabricated so erection could proceed as smoothly and efficiently as possible. The project required 55 separate erection plans for three types of structures—vaulted roofs, pedestrian bridges, and entrance pavilions. While the structures had similarities, each one had unique conditions that made each plan different. The work was carried out over two years as segments became ready. To facilitate this schedule, Williams Steel worked at up to six sites at any given time. All of the major structural components of the project had complex geometries that made traditional means and methods of steel erection non-viable. There were virtually no vertical columns or flat beams on the project. “Our team considered the best way to erect each
type of structure, and created detailed plans for how to perform the work. We developed a custom system of shoring and guys for each structure type. Taking the time to come up with the right plan paid off over the course of the project as the structures at each station were similar. We were able to reuse shoring components multiple times,” said Skinner. In addition, the company assigned the same crew to each structure type for the duration of the project, so they had an opportunity to become familiar with the structure and the shoring. “This gave us a real advantage, especially when operations were at the most critical stage and paid dividends in time, safety, and cost by the end of the project,” said Skinner. Each station centered on a 330-ft. long, 300-ton barrel vaulted roof erected on a precast concrete platform in tight quarters in the median of the Dulles Toll Road and Dulles Greenway. To simplify erection, Williams Steel worked with the fabricator to detail the roof as shop-fabricated panels that could be quickly erected onsite. To stabilize the roof during construction, custom-built shoring was developed that could be leapfrogged down each vault as it was erected. Each station has 11 arches that run across the width of the structure and web lacing across the entire roof of the vault, contributing to the aesthetic beauty of the structure when viewed from below. Most erection of the vaults was done with a tower crane since there was no room onsite for a mobile crane. Working just 10 feet from the roadway demanded extreme care and precision. According to Skinner, “For each bay, only 14 pieces were erected in the field. Because we panelized across each vault, we were able to erect 300 tons of steel in just 136 picks and complete each structure even more quickly than we estimated.” But this job was far more than just a structural steel erection project. It also entailed heavy hauling logistics, creation of custom rigging, and innovative lift planning.
The Silver Line project required 55 separate erection plans for three types of structures—vaulted roofs, pedestrian bridges, and entrance pavilions.
During the six-year project, crews worked at as many as 25 different sites at once. The company assigned the same crew to each structure type for the duration of the project, so they had an opportunity to become familiar with the structure and the shoring.
Specialized transportation The extension also included 31 pedestrian bridges with segments that fit together to form arms to connect the stations in the median to wayside areas for patron access and parking. The bridges’ trapezoidal geometry echoes the lines of the iconic terminal designed by Eero Saarinen. Each bridge section weighed from 26 to 92 tons and ranged from 39 to 145 feet long. In total, Williams Steel erected more than two-thirds of a mile of pedestrian bridges to complete the project. The uniquely individual bridge sections had to be built in laydown yards and then transported to their final location. A few entailed fairly
Bridge sections had to be built in laydown yards and then transported to their final location. In addition, Williams Steel Erection Co., Inc., developed custom rigging that wasn’t too large and would work for all of the bridges in all of their various locations.
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straightforward moves with short, clear haul paths, but many involved obstacles that had to be addressed. For each bridge, the Williams Steel team worked with the general contractor to explore their options for the best place to assemble the section and identify the best path to get it to its final location. The team took notes on what earthwork would be required, what road signage would have to be moved, and how traffic would need to be diverted to make the move. In some cases, intermediate drop locations or temporary shoring were required to get the bridge to its final location. Due to the bridges’ complex geometry and placement spanning roadways, Williams Steel decided to use an “accelerated bridge construction” methodology. Using this method, bridges were completely assembled on the ground in laydown yards, hauled to their final location on a Goldhofer heavy-haul trailer, and hoisted into place using cranes ranging from 135 to 500 tons in capacity. To speed assembly, the bridge sides were shop-fabricated into frames in Lynchburg, VA before being shipped to the site. “The design of the bridges gave us an
opportunity to take advantage of repetition,” noted Skinner. “All the pedestrian bridges have the same cross section, they just varied in length, so we were able to create custom, reusable assembly jigs that fit the profile of the bridge to support the side frames while the floor and roof beams were infilled and the bridge was welded out.”
Creative rigging and lifting “We invested time to develop custom rigging that wasn’t too large and would work for all of the bridges in all of their various locations,” noted Skinner. “Some involved just a single straightforward crane pick, but others required some out-of-the-box thinking to erect. We used tandem picks in about a third of the operations, but for others, the geometry of the site wouldn’t allow that. For one of these, we had to pick up with one 300ton crane, build shoring, set it down, mobilize a second 300-ton crane and finally set it with a tandem pick.” The bridge-setting process required nerves of steel as well. Most of the hauls traveled over the Dulles Toll Road and Dulles Greenway, both very busy toll roads. Because of
the revenue generated by the roads as well as the high regional visibility of the project, the stakes for safe and timely completion were very high. “We had a very tight six-hour window and failure to complete the work within the allotted time meant we would incur a steep hourly penalty to cover damages, so the move was nerve-wracking,” said Skinner. Each bridge-setting operation was completed in a single shift overnight to limit the impact on traffic in notoriously congested northern Virginia. Each night, traffic was shut down, cranes and other equipment were mobilized into the road, the bridge was hauled up to one mile, rigged with custom rigging, and set in place on the piers. To provide clearance to erect the spans, connecting steel “nodes” were initially left out and later erected in gaps in the bridges. Williams Steel completed every one of the bridge moves within the allotted time. To limit the work done over roadways, floor and roof deck, roofing, finish paint, and mesh side panels were installed on the bridge sections offsite in the assembly areas prior to setting. This approach allowed for the bridges to be ready for use with final fall protection in place as soon as they were set so finish crews could access the stations almost immediately.
Custom shoring
Each bridge-setting operation was completed in a single shift overnight to limit the impact on traffic in notoriously congested northern Virginia. 30 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
The final component of the project was to create the nine entrance pavilions that provide access from ground level at each wayside area to the bridges across the highway. Like the other parts of the project, each pavilion roof was fabricated in frames to speed erection. Because of the sloped framing at multiple elevations, the Williams team developed a customized shoring and guying plan for each pavilion. Skinner noted, “The columns were a challenge to erect. They lean out eight feet over the course of the 25 ft. long column, so there was little lateral stability as we were erecting and there was no way to do it without significant shoring.” For their efforts, the company’s employees were honored with a 2019 Washington Building Congress Craftsmanship Award, and SEAA is proud to add to the accolades. Despite the inevitable challenges on a project of this magnitude, the Williams Steel Erection Co., Inc. team delivered a flawless execution and has contributed to the sustained growth and unique culture of the nation’s capital region.
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The proximity to airport and air traffic mandated strict crane boom height restrictions. In addition, the general contractor required that all cranes be limited to lifting loads below 75 percent of maximum capacity.
■■Flexibility, communication key to massive airport job The Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) was designed in the 1960s with the capacity to serve around 12 million travelers annually. Today, the airport is one of the country’s 25 busiest. More than 300 flights depart from it each day, and more than 25 million passengers pass through each year. New security procedures amplify the need
for modernized facilities, designed for current safety and earthquake zone standards. While the airport redevelopment should be complete in 2020, Derr & Gruenewald Construction, LLC, of Brighton, Colo., completed structural steel erection in 2018. The SLC airfield occupies an expansive 7,824-acre footprint on the plains along the
Wasatch Mountain range. The portion of the project that overlaps the existing footprint was carefully phased to minimize disruption, and construction of the new central terminal and its two flanking concourses on a 297-acre site adjacent to the existing terminal will be completed without disrupting airport operation. Once the new concourses are opened, the old terminals will be demolished, and the second phase of construction will begin. The massive footprint was just one of the challenges for the steel erection team. In addition, the magnitude of the project was exceptional. The full steel erection scope included 30,000 tons of steel and required 125,000 linear feet of weld and more than
Due to the overhead roadway above and adjacent roadway piers on the Salt Lake City airport project, space was very limited. Here, two Versa-Lifts and two cranes lift a section of pre-assembled pedestrian bridge that was moved into place with a Goldhofer transport. Shoring towers added a second level of safety in case a piece of rigging failed.
32 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
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435,000 bolts. At peak manpower, there were more than 85 ironworkers working to bring the project to a safe and successful completion. SLC is an important hub for Delta Air Lines, which has grown rapidly over the past decade. The airline is adding larger, more fuel-efficient planes to their fleet and expanding service to more destinations abroad. Expansion led to plan changes for the new airport terminal that were announced months after construction began, and accommodating those changes made it necessary to modify the facility design. “It went from a $26 million job to a little over $32 million with all the change orders,” said Mike Waters, Safety Director. “After the building was skinned, alterations to the design necessitated demolition, then coming back in with new clips and new beams underneath the existing roof. The changes made it a real challenge to coordinate manpower and manage scheduling, among other things.”
“Working in an active, major airport complex presented many challenges, including boom height restrictions, planning for multi-crane lifts, and transporting and erection of large pre-built segments.”
Cranes and forklifts for complex lifts The new facility is located on the ancient lakebed of the Great Salt Lake where the groundwater table is just four to seven feet below grade and the soil is soft. This posed another significant challenge for the steel erection team. Due to the soft ground, DGC had to bring in an engineered soil base to create designated crane pads to distribute the load of the heavy construction equipment over a larger area. Likewise, the proximity to airport and air traffic mandated strict crane boom height restrictions. In addition, the general contractor required that all cranes be limited to lifting loads below 75 percent of maximum capacity. In collaboration with Mountain Crane, Derr & Gruenewald Construction planned to use 600-ton cranes positioned
— Judge’s comment regarding the Salt Lake City Airport Terminal Redevelopment. outside the construction footprint, in order to move large members throughout the structure, including large plate girders in the terminal’s center, that required a long reach. A multiple-crane plan was developed so the team could erect pedestrian bridges beneath existing overhead roadways. “We used Versa-Lifts, which are 120,000 lb. capacity forklifts with a hydraulic boom and an extendable frame. Since we couldn’t use a large crane, we made the lifts with two cranes on one end while supporting the other end with the Versa-Lift. Then our crewmember could drive the Versa-Lift while the two cranes were flagged in so the bridge could be shifted into position underneath the overpass. It was an excellent solution for this complex lift.” Facing an aggressive timetable—Derr & Gruenewald Construction had just 18 months to erect 26,000 tons of steel—the erector had to maintain daily communication with the general contractor and City of Salt Lake City, the airport owner. “Iron Workers Local 27 deserves credit for helping make the project a success and I really want to thank them,” noted project manager Josh Lucas.
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At peak manpower, more than 85 ironworkers were on site on the project that covered a massive footprint of nearly 8,000 acres.
34 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
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SPECIAL FOCUS: 2019 Training Directory
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]] CONTENTS: ]] AERIAL DEVICE OPERATOR ]] FALL PROTECTION ]] IRON WORKER ]] WELDING ]] SEAA/NCCER IRONWORKER CRAFT TRAINING UNITS & ASSESSMENT SITES
elcome to the inaugural Training Directory. This directory provides training resources for employers of ironworkers in the categories of Aerial Device Operator, Fall Protection, Ironworker, and Welding. These categories were selected because of their relevance to structural steel ironworking activities. Companies in these categories offer their services to the general public. Only SEAA member companies qualify to receive an upgraded listing featuring their logo. SEAA is an accredited training sponsor for NCCER, providing SEAA members access to the custom SEAA/NCCER Ironworker Craft Training program. Member companies who have achieved SEAA/NCCER Training Units and/or Assessment Sites credentials are listed on page 42. These companies make training and qualification a priority for their employees. Additionally, SEAA/NCCER Authorized Assessment Sites can apply for Mobile Crane, Rigger, and Signal Person certification programs. Editor’s Note: Every attempt was made to contact known entities to submit relevant information. Information published was provided by those who responded. If your company meets the requirements and would like to be considered for future listings, please contact editor@seaa.net to request a form.
AERIAL DEVICE OPERATOR 3-E Safety Services, LLC
First Quality Forklift Training LLC
Kansas City MO cory@3esafety.com 3esafety.com Training Consultant
Appleton, WI tim@firstqualityforklifttraining.com firstqualityforklifttraining.com Training Consultant
BOOM LIFT, SCISSOR LIFT—Classroom and Hands-On training. Client must provide equipment for hands-on.
BOOM LIFT, SCISSOR LIFT—For companies located in Wisconsin and Upper Peninsula of Michigan we offer on-site OSHA-compliant MEWPs certification training for scissor lifts, telescopic booms, and articulating boom lifts.
All Purpose Crane Training Riverside, CA Lt@apstsolutions.com apcranetraining.com Training Consultant BOOM LIFT, SCISSOR LIFT—Aerial Lift Operator Training CFR 1926.453, 1910.67, ANSI A92.2,3. Comprehensive, practical, hands-on instruction.
Construction Safety Council Hillside, IL drosicky@buildsafe.org BuildSafe.org Association BOOM LIFT, SCISSOR LIFT, OTHER—Safety awareness training for inspection, application, and operation of extensible boom mobile
Evolution Safety Resources Raleigh, NC j.kunlo@evolutionsafetyresources.com evolutionsafetyresources.com Training Consultant BOOM LIFT, SCISSOR LIFT—Custom, on-site training that utilizes hands on learning and classroom based education.
Lancaster Safety Consulting, Inc. Nationwide emily.eldridge@lancastersafety.com lancastersafety.com Training Consultant BOOM LIFT, SCISSOR LIFT—On-site safety and operator evaluation training.
Institute for Aerial Lift Safety Philadelphia, PA katherine.hinkel@gmail.com aerialliftsafety.org Trade/Technical School BOOM LIFT, SCISSOR LIFT—Trains clients in IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) safety education for boom, scissor, and truck mounted lifts.
MSC Safety Solutions/Colorado Crane Operator School Frederick, CO tclark@mcss.us mscss.us/ccoschool.us Training Consultant BOOM LIFT, SCISSOR LIFT—Training meets requirements of OSHA, ANSI, and best practices. Classes tailored to meet your needs. Available nationwide.
SafeDay, Inc. Iron Workers International Washington, D.C. lworley@iwintl.org ironworkers.org Association, Union BOOM LIFT, SCISSOR LIFT, OTHER—Course meets general, hazard recognition, and avoidance requirements of OSHA, ANSI, and CSA for workers on all types of mobile elevating work platforms.
2019 TRAINING DIRECTORY 36 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
Winston Salem, NC scott.day@safedayinc.com safedayinc.com Training Consultant BOOM LIFT, SCISSOR LIFT—Course provides classroom training and practical evaluation for participants to safely operate Aerial Work Platforms. Includes in-depth review of general safety requirements and safe work practices for various types of Aerial Work Platforms used in construction.
Trivent Safety Consulting LLC Westminster, CO bryanm@triventsc.com triventsc.com Training Consultant BOOM LIFT, SCISSOR LIFT--Meets current ANSI A92 MEWP Standards, OSHA requirements, ANSI A92 MEWP Standards. Covers fall protection requirements, Personal Fall Arrest Systems, fall restraint, inspections, safe operation, statistics, rescue plan requirements.
United Academy Nationwide UnitedAcademy@ur.com Unitedacademy.ur.com Manufacturer/Distributor BOOM LIFT, SCISSOR LIFT, OTHER—Instructor-Led, Online, Blended Learning, Immersive Learning (coming soon) providing familiarization, hands-on and skills testing, and certification. Also Train-the-Trainer courses
Connector | FALL EDITION September 2019 | 37
2019 Training Directory
FALL PROTECTION 3-E Safety Services, LLC
Construction Safety Council
Kansas City MO cory@3esafety.com 3esafety.com Training Consultant
Hillside, IL drosicky@buildsafe.org BuildSafe.org Association
AWARENESS, SUPERVISOR, RESCUE, COMPETENT PERSON—2,4, 8,16, and 24 hour training that complies with OSHA, and EM-385.
AWARENESS, COMPETENT PERSON, OTHER—Fall hazard identification, OSHA Competent Person requirements, proper protective systems, and importance of pre-planning. OSHA #7405 Fall Protection Awareness in the Construction Industry; OSHA #3115 Fall Protection.
Evolution Safety Resources
SafeDay, Inc.
Raleigh, NC j.kunlo@evolutionsafetyresources.com evolutionsafetyresources.com Training Consultant
Winston Salem, NC scott.day@safedayinc.com safedayinc.com Training Consultant
BOOM LIFT, SCISSOR LIFT—Custom, on-site training that utilizes hands on learning as well as classroom based education.
COMPETENT PERSON—Course prepares participants to recognize fall hazards and apply appropriate fall protection regulations. Includes in-depth review of various OSHA Fall Protection regulations as applies to a wide variety of construction activities.
FrenchCreek Production, Inc Franklin, PA stefanm@frenchcreekproduction.com frenchcreekproduction.com Manufacturer
Steel Fab Enterprises, LLC
AWARENESS, SUPERVISOR, RESCUE, COMPETENT PERSON—Courses range from classroom to hands-on training; delivered at our facility or yours. Includes safety skills and knowledge for compliance with laws and regulations.
AWARENESS, SUPERVISOR, RESCUE, COMPETENT PERSON
Institute for Aerial Lift Safety Philadelphia, PA katherine.hinkel@gmail.com aerialliftsafety.org Trade/Technical School OTHER
All your Safety Training Needs in One Place + 10/30 Hour classes + Rigging and signaling + Aerial lift/MEWP training + Forklift/Telehandler training + Silica/Respirator PPE + First Aid/CPR/AED Performing job site audits with pictures identifying correct procedures and violations, developing safety manuals and more.
816-210-0689 3esafety.com
Servicing the Midwest
2019 TRAINING DIRECTORY 38 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
Lancaster, PA steelfab-inc.com Manufacturer
Iron Workers International Washington, D.C. lworley@iwintl.org ironworkers.org Association, Union AWARENESS, SUPERVISOR, RESCUE, COMPETENT PERSON, OTHER—Training relating to hazards, rules, prevention, and proper rescue of construction falls.
Lancaster Safety Consulting, Inc. Nationwide emily.eldridge@lancastersafety.com lancastersafety.com Training Consultant
Tech Safety Lines Inc Carrollton, TX alida@techsafetylines.com techsafetylines.com Manufacturer AWARENESS, RESCUE, COMPETENT PERSON, OTHER— Courses include Fall Protection Awareness, Rescue and Competent Person Climber Training. Concentration on various uses and applications of self-rescue and assisted rescue equipment. Greatest portion of the class is held on an elevated structure. After familiarity with simple processes used with the equipment, students participate in simulated rescue scenarios.
Trivent Safety Consulting LLC Westminster, CO bryanm@triventsc.com triventsc.com Training Consultant
AWARENESS, SUPERVISOR, RESCUE, COMPETENT PERSON—General awareness through 24 hour competent person training
AWARENESS, SUPERVISOR, RESCUE, COMPETENT PERSON—Geared for steel erection. Includes 4 Hour Awareness, 8-hour Supervisor,8 Hour Fall Protection Rescue, 24 Hour EM385 1-1 Competent Person Fall Protection, 8 Hour EM385 1-1 Refresher Training
MSC Safety Solutions/Colorado Crane Operator School
United Academy
Frederick, CO tclark@mcss.us mscss.us/ccoschool.us Training Consultant AWARENESS, SUPERVISOR, RESCUE, COMPETENT PERSON—All levels including required 24 hour USACE Competent Person class. Classroom and hands on.
Nationwide UnitedAcademy@ur.com Unitedacademy.ur.com Manufacturer/Distributor OTHER-- Instructor-Led, Online, Blended Learning, Immersive Learning (coming soon) for half day, full day, and third party CE outsourcing.
2019 Training Directory
Cooper Steel Fabricators, Inc.
IRON WORKER 3-E Safety Services, LLC Kansas City MO cory@3esafety.com 3esafety.com Training Consultant
Shelbyville, TN asons@coopersteel.com coopersteel.com Manufacturer LEVEL 1, LEVEL 2, LEVEL 3, SUBPART R, CONNECTOR HAZARD—Utilize the NCCER/SEAA Ironworker Certification course. Cooper Steel is an Accredited Training Unit with certified Craft Instructors and Performance Evaluators. Offering SEAA Steel Fabricator Training and Assessment. Curriculum partner with local schools.
Iron Workers International
Steel Fab Enterprises, LLC
Washington, D.C. lworley@iwintl.org
Lancaster, PA steelfab-inc.com Manufacturer
K Allen, LLC
LEVEL 1, LEVEL 2, LEVEL 3, APPRENTICE, SUBPART R, CONNECTOR HAZARD
Ridgeway, SC kgallen444@gmail.com Training Consultant
Steel Structures Technology Center
OTHER—Field Quality Control Training, AISC Certification Preparations, CSE Pre-audits, Review and Commentary
Educational Services Unlimited, LLC
SUBPART R
Adaptive Construction Solutions, Inc. Houston, TX goapprenticeship.com Training Consultant
Mt. Holly, NC t_eldridge@bellsouth.net Training Consultant OTHER: Helping organizations build NCCER accredited or custom training programs-from concept to implementation.
Ironworker Skills Institute
List LEVEL 1, LEVEL 2, LEVEL 3, APPRENTICE. ACS sponsors an employer-centric Department of Labor (DOL) Community-based Registered Apprenticeship program for occupations in multiple industries. Sponsors the largest veteran apprenticeship in the State of Texas.
Pell City, AL pdaigle@garrisonsteel.com garrisonsteel.com Trade/Technical School
OTHER—Online seminar for Structural Welding Inspection, and publication Structural Welding Quality Handbook.
MSC Safety Solutions/Colorado Crane Operator School Frederick, CO tclark@mcss.us mscss.us/ccoschool.us Training Consultant
Trivent Safety Consulting LLC
LEVEL 1, LEVEL 2, LEVEL 3, APPRENTICE, SUBPART R, CONNECTOR HAZARD—NCCER Ironworker Apprenticeship class for the public and testing facility. Steel erection industry training since 1990; specializing in trade training nationwide.
Training Consultant, Trade/Technical School LEVEL 1, LEVEL 2, LEVEL 3, APPRENTICE—Prepares individuals for all aspects of the Iron Industry Trade.
SAFETY FOR
Howell, MI rshaw@steelstructures.com steelstructures.com Training Consultant
Westminster, CO bryanm@triventsc.com triventsc.com Training Consultant LEVEL 1, LEVEL 2, LEVEL 3, APPRENTICE, SUBPART R, CONNECTOR HAZARD—Delivers SEAA sponsored NCCER Ironworker apprentice program for all levels as well as OSHA Subpart R and connector hazard training.
DESIGNED THE
IRONWORKER WWW.TRIVENTSC.COM
800-819-6092
2019 TRAINING DIRECTORY Connector | FALL EDITION September 2019 | 39
2019 Training Directory Pioneer Steel Services, Inc.
WELDING
SMAW = Shielded metal arc welding FCAW = Flux-cored arc welding
American Welding Society Miami, FL jmcbain@aws.org aws.org Association
Iron Workers International
OTHER Nine specialized certifications for inspectors, supervisors, educators, radiographic interpreters, welding engineers, fabricators, etc. Welding education for those looking to fulfill company requirements or for specialized certifications.
Washington, D.C. lworley@iwintl.org ironworkers.org Association, Union Training in equipment and welding processes
Atema Inc
Jane Addams Resource Corporation
Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. Cleveland, OH theo_facaros@lincolnelectric.com lincolnelectric.com Manufacturer SMAW, FCAW—Welding school has instructed over 250,000 people in theory, techniques and practices of welding safety and arc welding processes since 1917.
Midwest Technical Institute
Chicago, IL anna@atema.com atema.com Training Consultant
Chicago, IL and Baltimore, MD laurelh@jane-addams.org jane-addams.org Trade/Technical School
OTHER—AISC required QCI (Quality Control Inspector) training via web session or onsite at active jobsites. Includes welding inspection and WPS creation per AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code—Steel and AWS D1.3 Structural Welding Code—Sheet Steel, and AISC Chapter N Quality Control welding N5.4.
SMAW—Targeting skills gaps in advanced manufacturing in CNC, welder and brake press. Custom training in welding, workplace safety, quality control, and lean manufacturing.
Springfield, IL ssmiley@midwesttech.edu midwesttech.edu Trade/Technical School SMAW, FCAW, OTHER—Hands-on Journeyman Welder training includes SMAW, TIG, MIG and flux-cored welding techniques. Instructors have real-world experience and provide students skills in pipe welding and/or pipe fitting.
Miller Electric Mfg LLC Appleton WI info@millerwelds.com millerwelds.com Manufacturer SMAW, FCAW—Custom training available through company training centers or district managers, and partnerships with local Unions, schools, and distributors.
Missoula, MT lpielaet@pioneersteelservices.com pioneersteelservices.com Training Consultant OTHER—Helping erectors achieve, manage and upgrade AISC Certifications
Rochester Arc & Flame Center Rochester, NY info@rocafc.com rocafc.com Trade/Technical School SMAW, FCAW, OTHER—In partnership with Monroe Community College, 20-week, 45-hour intensive program for entry-level fabricators. 10-month night class also available. Custom training, inspection, metallurgy, and NDE also available. Received 2016 Excellence in Welding Award.
R & S Welding Mentors LLC Salem, OR theweldingmentors@gmail.com weldingmentors.com Trade/Technical School SMAW, FCAW, OTHER—Training for GMAW, GTAW, SMAW, FCAW on plate and pipe. Welding fundamentals classes. Certification testing on site. All training is individualized. Ppersonal enrichment in addition to career preparation.
Steel Fab Enterprises, LLC Lancaster, PA steelfab-inc.com Manufacturer SMAW, FCAW
Steel Structures Technology Center Howell, MI rshaw@steelstructures.com steelstructures.com Training Consultant OTHER—Online seminar for Structural Welding Inspection, and publication Structural Welding Quality Handbook.
Trivent Safety Consulting LLC Westminster, CO bryanm@triventsc.com triventsc.com Training Consultant SMAW, FCAW--Structural steel weld training through SEAA sponsored NCCER Ironworker apprentice program.
Universal Technical Institute, Inc Phoenix, AZ bschubert@uti.edu uti.edu Trade/Technical School SMAW, FCAW—36 -week Welding Technology program was built in conjunction with Lincoln Electric and will prepare graduates for the construction, structural, pipe and fabrication industries.
2019 TRAINING DIRECTORY 40 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
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Connector | FALL EDITION September 2019 | 41 Available plugins: Tekla®
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2019 Training Directory
SEAA IRONWORKER CRAFT TRAINING UNITS & ASSESSMENT SITES
S Adaptive Construction Solutions, Inc. Houston, TX goapprenticeship.com Ironworker Training & Assessments, DOL Registered Apprenticeship; Available to the public
EAA’s exclusive Ironworker Craft Training program was developed with NCCER. As an NCCER accredited training sponsor, the program features exclusive benefits for members, which cuts costs and administrative requirements. Members have access to custom ironworker curriculum and dozens of others. NCCER produces industry recognized credentials, verifications, and certifications. These participating SEAA member companies are official SEAA/NCCER Training Units (TU) and/or Authorized Assessment Sites (AAS). These organizations can apply for delivery of NCCER Mobile Crane, Rigging, and Signal Person certifications. Some are also U.S. Department of Labor-approved Ironworker Apprenticeships. SEAA provides members the Apprenticeship Standard as a tool to create and register formal training that meets State and Federal requirements. Participation is open to all SEAA members. New participants can apply for an annual grant that offsets startup costs. These companies have invested in quality skills development training and assessments for their employees, and in some cases make their services available to the public. Find out how you can implement accredited craft training and assessments at seaa.net/craft-training.html or contact Tim Eldridge, SEAA’s Craft Training and Assessment Administrator at t_eldridge@bellsouth.net.
All Things Metal, LLC Phoenix, AZ allthingsmetalllc.com Rigger & Signal Person Assessments and NCCER Certifications
Deem Structural Services, LLC
Rackley Company, Inc.
Longview, TX deemstructural.com
Orland, CA rackleyco.com
Ironworker Training & Assessments
Ironworker Training & Assessments
Eastern Constructors, Inc.
S&R Enterprises, Inc.
Steel Fab Enterprises, Inc. Lancaster, PA steelfab-inc.com Ironworker Training & Assessments, DOL Registered Apprenticeship
ASPE-South, LLC Graham, NC aspesouth.com Ironworker Training & Assessments
Geismar, LA easternci.com Ironworker Training & Assessments
Orange Park, FL and Harrisburg, PA srenterprises.com Ironworker, Rigger, & Signalperson Training & Assessments, DOL Registered Apprenticeship (FL)
Building Envelope Systems
Garrison Steel Erectors, LLC Pell City, Alabama garrisonsteel.com
Cooper Steel Fabricators, Inc.
Ironworker Training & Assessments; High School and Post-Secondary Curriculum
Schulz Iron Works, Inc. Raleigh, NC Ironworker Training & Assessments; NCCER Mobile Crane, Rigger, & Signal Person Training and Certifications
Trident Technical College North Charleston, SC tridenttech.edu
Shelbyville, TN coopersteel.com
NCCER Authorized Assessment Site
Ironworker & Fabricator Training & Assessments; Curriculum partnerships with local schools
Guy M. Turner, Inc. Greensboro, NC guymturner.com
CSE, Inc.
Rigger, Signalperson, & Mobile Crane Assessments and NCCER Certifications
Madison Heights, VA cseonline.net
Monterey Structural Steel, Inc.
Ironworker Training & Assessments
Ft. Lauderdale, FL sfab.com Ironworker, Rigger, Signalperson & Crane Assessments, DOL Registered Apprenticeship
Plainville, MA teambes.com Ironworker Training & Assessments
Steel Fabricators, LLC
Watsonville, CA Ironworker Training & Assessments
2019 TRAINING DIRECTORY 42 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
Shelby Erectors, Inc. Davie, FL shelbyerectors.com Reinforcing Ironworker Training & Assessments, Registered DOL Apprenticeship
Trivent Safety Consulting, LLC Westminster, CO triventsc.com Ironworker, Rigger & Crane Training; NCCER Mobile Crane Certification; Available to the public
Connector | FALL EDITION September 2019 | 43
BUSINESS OPERATIONS
By Preston Ingalls
Learn to delegate
D
elegating is the act of assigning formal tasks and responsibilities to a subordinate, together with the necessary authority to carry them out. There are benefits of delegating, including saving time and motivating subordinates. When an employee is empowered to act, and the supervisor remains accountable for the outcome, everybody wins. Other benefits include:
• Developing new skills in subordinates. • Developing internal ownership of the work goal. • Fostering initiative and responsibilities. • Giving employees the option to choose methods that work best for them. • Encouraging self-leadership.
• Belief that subordinates are too busy; you don’t want to burden them. • Poor definition of duties. • Enjoy doing jobs yourself. Ultimately, delegation builds stronger, more effective teams. Here are eight steps to help you get started.
STEP 1: Determine the task, project, or area of work to delegate It’s important to understand the difference between suitable and unsuitable tasks for delegation. Look for tasks someone else can do better based on their skills or experience; routine activities, such as data entry; and tasks that are time-critical, but not a high priority.
STEP 2: Select the appropriate person and assess their ability and training needs
Unfortunately, many managers aren’t good at delegating, or don’t do it as often as they should. They may fear that mistakes will happen, or they initially don’t have time to coach someone through the delegation process because certain tasks may require training. Here are other reasons people choose not to delegate: • Fear of surrendering authority. • Lack of confidence in employees. • Fear of having nothing to do or appearing lazy.
Once you have determined the appropriate tasks, you need to select a suitable person. Look for someone with the right skills, and who could benefit professionally from the assignment. Make sure you are willing to provide the time necessary to train them before you hold them accountable. Finally, be cautious of asking for volunteers. The person you need may not be interested or have the confidence. It is best to “select” the person you think is best for the task.
Preston Ingalls is president and CEO of TBR Strategies, LLC, a Raleigh, North Carolina-based maintenance and reliability firm specializing in the construction and oil and gas industries. This article is excerpted from one that was originally published in the April 2019 issue of Modern Contractor Solutions. Preston can be reached at pingalls@tbr-strategies.com.
STEP 3: Define the level of authority
44 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
You must give the person enough authority to get the work done, take the necessary initiative, and keep things running smoothly in your absence. The employee must understand what actions they can take on their own, and what requires approval. Clarification of authority levels is
important when assigning responsibilities, especially when it comes to spending funds or making policy decisions. The three authority levels are: • Direct Control (go ahead—do it without consultation), • Indirect Control (make recommendations for approval, then act), and • No Control (I need to decide that first).
STEP 4: Spell out the delegation The employee needs to receive understandable instructions relating to outcomes. The employee will need to know objectives or goals, how to execute the task in general, resources required, checkpoints or milestones, and deadlines.
STEP 5: State task expectations or required results; agree on a deadline Specify the deadline so they understand parameters and tell them how they can tell the task is completed successfully. Clarify how they will be measured—will it be speed, quality, creativity? A combination? What will you take as an indicator of success? The employee needs a clear understanding of responsibility. You decide the level of responsibility. Let them decide “how.” Ask for feedback from the employee to be sure they understand the objectives.
STEP 6: Monitor progress and hold people accountable Keep control when managing through others, but don’t micromanage. If problems occur, make necessary adjustments (budget, time limit, etc.) People sometimes make mistakes, or even drop the ball. Follow up allows you to stay informed on progress and make adjustments as needed. Make sure your employees are getting the information needed for decision making. People can become frustrated when they want to do a good job but do not have the resources or knowledge. A simple checkup meeting ensures they are on-task or finds out why they aren’t. Avoid asking, “How is it going?” Instead ask them to show you progress.
STEP 7: Coach your staff They are learning and won’t necessarily take the path you would have. The employee needs support and the ability to communicate with you. Provide feedback. Let them know when they are doing well and when they need to correct something. It is always motivating to hear, “Hey, you’re coming along well with that project! Good job.” Maybe you have suggestions on how he or she can save additional time, money, etc. In general, it is good to ask before giving this kind of feedback. Delegate the objective, not the procedure.
STEP 8: Allow staff to work Get out of their way and let them do a good job. Don’t measure employees by whether they do a certain task the way you would. The employee may have a more effective way of doing something. Remember, one of the best ways of learning something is through making mistakes. Ask what they learned from their error and what they would do differently next time. Other tips include reviewing the progress on the agreed-upon reporting dates, and refraining from second-guessing decisions.
•
Connector | FALL EDITION September 2019 | 45
TOPPING OUT
How SEAA Members Benefit from Project of the Year Besides the free publicity and peer and industry recognition, one Project of the Year recipient says it gives employees and ironworkers a sense of pride in the company. Submit your steel erection project topped out in 2018-2019 by March 1, 2020. More info at seaa.net/awards.html#poy.
“At the worker level, there can be sameness to the work—same welds, same connections, same steel, project after project. This is proof that we are better than the other guys. Having done the job well, safely and on schedule to a level that garnered national recognition—gives our workers a sense of pride and makes them partners in our efforts to maintain quality.” — Kurt Hettinger of S.L. Shaw Company Inc., Bakersfield, Calif.
Trade School Stats
Meet New Members
According to a survey of 1,000 people conducted by Big Rentz, young Americans do not associate high pay and job security with a trade school education. The reality is quite different. See the full article and slide deck at bigrentz.com/blog/trade-school-survey. BigRentz will award two students $5,000 in trade school scholarships. Apply by Dec. 9 online at bigrentz.com/scholarships/skilled-trades.
Check out the Member Directory at SEAA.net BlueScope Conventional Steel Services, Kansas City, Mo., provides eight fabrication locations across North America specializing in multi-site construction and project execution through engineering and fabrication. K Allen LLC, Ridgeway, S.C., provides consulting services, including field quality control training, AISC certification prep, and CSE pre-audits and commentary. Linton’s Mechanical LLC, Goose Creek, S.C., provides major structural fabrication, steel erection, and manufactures new equipment for the paper, steel and cement industries.
UP NEXT
Steel Construction Market Report Safety Review Member Directory
46 | THE STEEL ERECTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
Mechanical Industries Inc., Bakersfield, Calif., provides structural steel detailing, erection, fabrication, miscellaneous steel installation, along with stairs and rails. Parsons Steel Builders, Tucson, Ariz., provides structural steel fabricator and steel erector services throughout the Southwestern United States. S&H Steel, Gilbert, Ariz., provides estimating services, detailing, project management and steel erection for commercial projects and government contracts.
Winter Edition December 2019 Ad Deadline: Nov. 1, 2019 ConnectorSales@seaa.net
ON THE RUN FROM NON-CONFORMANCES? Use AISC’s certification resources to stand your ground against this costly menace. Help is just a click away at www.aisc.org/cert/SEAA.
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Supporting the Steel Erectors Association of America and Promoting a Safe Work Culture! We offer the following coverages: General Liability, Property, Auto, Umbrella, Inland Marine (Equipment), Workers’ Compensation, Professional Liability, D&O, Health and Life Insurance.
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