Association Liaisons Provide Industry Updates on Standards, Workforce, and Sustainability

Representatives of SEAA member companies, who are also involved in other industry associations, recently provided updates on relevant initiatives to SEAA’s board of directors. The following reports come from The National Institute of Steel Detailing (NISD), Steel Joist Institute (SJI), Steel Deck Institute (SDI), and the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC).

“SEAA is committed to aligning with industry partners on safety standards, technical advancements, and workforce challenges,” said Glen Pisani, Chairman of the Strategic Planning Committee and Steel Division Manager for MAS Building & Bridge.

New ASTM Portal Enhances Standards Accessibility
Report Provided by Todd Alwood, Vice President Membership & Certification, AISC

AISC announced the launch of a new ASTM Portal, offering immediate access to the latest standards and replacing the need for printed versions. This initiative aligns with Section 1.3.c of the Standard for Certification Programs (AISC 207-23), which requires certified participants to maintain access to up-to-date resources, including the ASTM portal or necessary individual standards. The portal streamlines compliance with contract requirements and enhances the accessibility of essential guidelines.

Looking ahead, AISC has scheduled two key industry events: NASCC: The Steel Conference is planned for April 2-4 in Louisville, and SteelDays 2025 will take place on October 14, 2025.

Strengthening Technical Standards with NISD
Report Provided by Jack Metcalfe, Retired

NISD and SEAA are collaborating through a joint task force focused on establishing improved guidelines for bent plate attachments to beams. This initiative underscores both organizations' commitment to safety and structural integrity and will benefit detailers, fabricators, and erectors alike.

In addition, SEAA’s board will review NISD’s Quality Procedure Certification and Individual Detailer Certification programs ahead of a vote scheduled for the winter board meeting. The programs are designed to elevate standards in steel detailing and enhance professionalism across the field. 

To support improved communication, NISD is updating its website and continues to host bi-weekly webinars that are open to SEAA members. These webinars provide a platform to discuss pressing issues, share best practices, and address technical challenges in steel detailing. Contact Ryan Wunderle at 1-330-241-4130 for more details.

NISD has also invited SEAA to appoint a voting member to its Board of Directors, aiming to strengthen ties and foster greater alignment on shared industry standards. 

New Technical Resources and Erection Guidance from SJI
Report Provided by David Deem, President of Deem Services Unlimited 

At the latest SJI meeting, it was announced that the Technical Digest No. 9: Handling and Erection of Steel Joists, fourth edition, is set for release in November 2024. This edition includes a significant update–a chapter dedicated to wind load path considerations during single-story structure erection. The guidance aims to enhance safety by addressing wind load management prior to roof deck installation.

Also forthcoming is Technical Digest No. 12, which covers joist reinforcement requirements. This digest may permit mechanical attachment of web stiffeners as an alternative to field welding in certain cases, adding flexibility to on-site practices. Additionally, SJI has established a committee to review bridging requirements specific to double-pitched joists, addressing a specialized area of concern in joist erection.

SJI’s interest in supporting young talent includes offering two $2,500 scholarships to college students. This initiative aligns with SEAA’s own long-term goal of promoting trade school scholarships as a means to build a robust talent pipeline. 

Finally, Deem will partner with SJI’s Mark Denavit in 2025 to present a webinar on the updates to Technical Digest No. 9, providing SEAA members a prime opportunity to deepen their understanding of these critical guidelines.

Advancing Steel Decking Innovation and Sustainability with SDI
Report provided by Jason Kulvinskas, Vice President, Gardner-Watson Decking
SDI is currently exploring updates to several of its technical manuals and is sponsoring research projects aimed at highlighting the competitive advantages of steel deck products. These studies, conducted in collaboration with university partners, aim to provide compelling data on the reliability of steel solutions versus alternatives like wood and hollow-core materials.

In response to growing industry interest in sustainable construction, SDI is forming a Sustainability Committee to explore how steel decking can support eco-friendly building practices. In parallel with SEAA’s workforce development initiatives, SDI is addressing the challenge of recruiting skilled engineers by considering scholarships and funding programs that could encourage more young talent to enter the field.

We hope that members find valuable insight into industry advancements and shared challenges, from evolving technical standards to workforce development and sustainability initiatives. By staying closely connected with allied organizations, SEAA remains apprised of developments that impact steel construction, helping its members stay informed and well-prepared for what lies ahead.