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Coronavirus News, Enforcement Guidance, and Resources

Association News

Erectors Showcase Award-Winning Steel Construction Projects

Six steel erection companies have been named as recipients in the annual Project of the Year awards by the Steel Erectors Association of America (SEAA). Chosen by an independent panel of judges, the projects were topped out in either 2018 or 2019. More .

Member Companies Receive Safety Excellence and Craft Training Awards

SEAA announces the recipients of the 2020 Safety Excellence Award and Craft Training Recognition Award.

“SEAA members represent all sizes of structural steel erectors, many of them with exemplary training and safety practices,” said Bryan McClure, Chairman of SEAA’s Safety and Education Committee. "We are pleased to establish this recognition of companies that are doing the hard work of preparing and protecting their employees” he said. More .

New Officers, Members Elected to SEAA Board of Directors

Geoff Kress

The Steel Erectors Association of America (SEAA) announces new officers and board members.

Geoff Kress, Vice President of Gardner-Watson Decking, Inc., Oldsmar, Fla., was elected President. Kress has been a member of SEAA since 2007 and served as Treasurer for eight years. More .

SEAA Releases Short Training Videos for Members

Four new Craft Training Videos are now available through the Members Only Portal on the SEAA website. These short videos support the SEAA/NCCER Ironworker Level 1 curriculum and have been designed to complement your existing training materials. More .

2020 Media Kit now available

Book early to take advantage of special promotions.

4,000 active qualified readers
National circulation
Primary industries: steel fabrication, steel erection, general contractors, and construction design

Call Chris Harrison, 660-287-7660

ConnectorSales@SEAA.net

Board of Directors Meeting

Summer Meeting

To Be Determined

Safe & Sound Week

August 20-26, 2020

Education Fundraiser Golf Tournament

October 9, 2020

Raleigh, N.C.

Industry Reports

Steel Industry Wants Infrastructure Investment in Next Stimulus

Five steel industry groups are pushing Congress to include significant infrastructure investment in the next phase of COVID-19 stimulus legislation. The goal is to provide a clear path toward our nation’s recovery. More .

7th Fall Prevention Stand-down Postponed to the Summer

OSHA has postponed the 7th annual National Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction, originally scheduled for May, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event will be rescheduled this summer, but OSHA urges vigilance on the jobsite. More .

SJI Releases New Version of Joist Girder Moment Connections

The Steel Joist Institute (SJI) has released Version 2.0 of its Joist Girder Moment Connections. The new downloadable version includes updates to the AISC’s 2016 specifications for most spreadsheets. In the new version, SJI also revised reference manuals to make them easier to follow. More.

News Briefs

Construction Business Owner: 4 Steps to Adapt your Marketing Strategy in a Fluctuating Economy

Construction Equipment: Tips to Manage COVID-19 On Site

IPAF Report: Insights into Work Platform Accidents

Dodge Data & Analytics Study: Contractors Concerns about Longer-Term Impacts of COVID-19

Survey: Industry Anxiety Levels Fall, But Concern for Business Stability Still is High

In this Issue of Spring 2020 Connector :

Management : Building Blocks of Calibration Systems. Read

In the Field: Steel Work Offers Major Role for Mini Cranes. Read

Special Focus: 2020 Convention Preview. Read

Advertising Deadlines

Summer Issue- May 15

Fall Issue-Aug. 14

Member Updates

Peterson Beckner Makes Leadership Changes

Peterson Beckner Industries (PBI) has promoted Lance Beckner to president, Craig Peterson to senior vice president of sales & estimating, and Austin Beckner to senior vice president of project management & operations. Larry Peterson announced his retirement in January after serving as president since 2005, and board member and shareholder since 1993. More .

Kinsley Receives ABC Baltimore Excellence Awards

The Greater Baltimore Chapter of Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) recognized Kinsley Construction, Inc. with an excellence award for Gerstell Academy Alumni House, and a merit award for Courtyard by Marriott at McHenry Row. The Excellence Award is a top honor given to the highest scoring project in each category, while the Merit Award is a second-place honor given to all other projects within each category that scored 80 or more points. More .

Williams Steel Erection Featured by Link-Belt

Williams Steel Erection Co., Inc. was recently highlighted on Link-Belt.com for their work on the new Atlantic Union Bank Center at James Madison University Convocation Center in Harrisonburg, Va. The feature showcases Williams Construction Services’ new Link-Belt HTC-86100 hydraulic truck crane alongside their Link-Belt Model LS-248H II lattice-boom crawler crane and Model HC-248H lattice-boom truck crane. More .

NCCER Elects 2020 Board of Trustees

NCCER elected Michael Bennett, vice president of The Cianbro Companies, as its 2020 board of trustees’ chairman. Stephen Toups, president of Turner Industries Group, LLC, is the 2020 vice chairman. The board executive committee includes Scott Marshall, group director – people operations – MPIS of Worley, as secretary, and Monique Ford, CPA, as treasurer. More .

SEAA Board Member Joins ENR Panel Discussion

SEAA board member Jack Nix, vice president of operations for Shelby Erectors, Inc., will be a speaker for an upcoming Engineering News Report live webinar on robotics in construction. The webinar, “The Robots are Coming: Get Ready to Add Them to the Crew,” is scheduled for May 28, 2020 at 2 p.m. EST. Nix was chosen because of Shelby’s experience with TyBot, a robotic rebar-tying machine. More .

e newsletter march 2020

3/25/2020

Connector | March 2020

Board of Directors Meeting

Association News

SEAA to cancel National Convention & Trade Show April 1-3

In light of ongoing developments surrounding COVID-19, its impact on public health, and subsequent restrictions on corporate travel, the Board of Directors of the Steel Erectors Association of America has decided to cancel its convention and trade show, previously scheduled for April 1-3 in Charleston, S.C.

SEAA will announce the winners of its Project of the Year competition and Safety & Training Awards in April, but is planning an in-person presentation of these awards for a future date. In addition, the association is considering delivering some of the education sessions planned for the convention in alternative ways. Look for more information in the coming weeks. More .

Arizona, Pennsylvania Erectors Complete SEAA/NCCER Training

Two companies have joined the network of SEAA/NCCER Ironworker Training Units and Assessment Sites. They are S&H Steel, Gilbert, Ariz., and L&L Construction Inc., Quakertown, Pa. SEAA is an NCCER Accredited Training Sponsor, which affords member companies access to nationally recognized credentials, with the benefit of reduced administrative costs. More .

Hilti to Sponsor SEAA's June Board of Directors Meeting

Hilti will host the SEAA Board of Directors for its quarterly board meeting in Plano, Texas on June 25, 2020. Prior to the meeting, Hilti will host area erectors at a Meet & Greet reception, for a chance to learn more about SEAA’s Ironworker Craft Training program. Open to members and non-members, the Meet & Greet will take place on June 24 at the Westin Las Colinas Convention Center from 6:45 pm to 9:45 pm. More .

RSVP opens on May 1.

2020 Media Kit now available

Book early to take advantage of special promotions.

4,000 active qualified readers
National circulation
Primary industries: steel fabrication, steel erection, general contractors, and construction design

Call Chris Harrison, 660-287-7660

ConnectorSales@SEAA.net

June 25, 2020

Plano, Texas

Safe & Sound Week

August 20-26, 2020

Education Fundraiser Golf Tournament

October 9, 2020

Raleigh, N.C.

Industry Reports

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) in Construction: Liability, Recordability, and Financial Implications

Over the past few weeks, it’s become clear that the world is facing a remarkable health crisis. The coronavirus pandemic has now been detected in most countries worldwide, creating personal, practical, and legal implications for those in the construction industry. More .

ANSI Standards have been pushed back to June 1

New ANSI A92 standards for Mobile Elevating Work Platforms, which were supposed to go into effect on March 1, have been pushed back. The new effective date is June 1. The delay is due to appeals submitted to Scaffold & Access Industry Association (SAIA), which is the Secretariat for ANSI A92. More .

ConExpo Provides International Exposure for SEAA

The Steel Erectors Association of America (SEAA) attended its first ConExpo-Con/Agg show last week in Las Vegas, Nev. Despite the decision by show organizer Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) to close the show a day early due to uncertainty over COVID-19, registration for the event totaled more than 130,000. More .

News Briefs

Industry Week: US Apprenticeship Programs Get $100 Million Boost

ForConstructionPros: CPWR Tools for Responding to Opioid Impact on Construction Workers

Build your Future: 4 Reasons Schools Should Prioritize Career & Technical Education

ISHN: Asking questions leads to improved worker performance

Construction Business Owner: 6 Imperatives for Safer Equipment Maintenance & Operations

In this Issue of Spring 2020 Connector :

Management : Building Blocks of Calibration Systems. Read

In the Field: Steel Work Offers Major Role for Mini Cranes. Read

Special Focus: 2020 Convention Preview. Read

Spring Issue Advertising Deadline- May 15

Member Updates

Banker Steel Acquires Derr & Isbell Construction

Banker Steel Company, Lynchburg, Va., has acquired Derr & Isbell Construction, based out of Atlanta, Ga. Some of Derr & Isbell’s most prominent work includes AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas, Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Ga., the new Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nev. More .

JP Cullen helps build New Hamel Music Center

JP Cullen, Janesville, Wis., has helped complete the University of Madison Wisconsin's new Hamel Music Center. The 76,000 sq. ft. building is made up of three music halls, the Mead Witter Foundation Concert Hall, Collins Recital Hall, and the Sing Man & Florence Lee Annette Kauffman Rehearsal Hall. More .

Crossland Construction Lands ENR’s 2019 Top 100

Crossland Construction, Columbus, Kan., ranked No. 17 on Engineering News Record’s ( ENR ) Texas and Louisiana 2019 Top 100 Contractors List. The list ranks general contractors based on construction contracting-specific revenue. The Texas and Louisiana territory also includes Arkansas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma. More .

Simpson Strong-Tie Supports Fire Relief Efforts in Australia

Simpson Strong-Tie, Pleasanton, Calif., has donated $20,000 to American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund to assist relief efforts in Australia. Numerous bushfires have ravaged millions of acres throughout the country. More than 2,500 homes have been destroyed and an estimated billion animals have died in the fires. More .

E Newsletter January 2020

3/25/2020

Connector | January 2020

SEAA's 48th Annual Convention and Trade Show

Association News

SEAA Joins ConExpo-Con/Agg Supporting Organizations

The Steel Erectors Association of America joins other leading industry associations in supporting 2020 ConExpo-Con/Agg, to be held March 10-14 in Las Vegas, Nev. Visit us at booth GL31201.

“Special focuses on Workforce Solutions, Tech Experience, and Safety make this more than just an equipment show. It aligns closely with SEAA’s own initiatives for steel erection contractors,” said Tom Underhill, Executive Director of SEAA. More .

SEAA Sponsored NCCER Construction Pathways Convention

The Steel Erectors Association of America (SEAA) sponsored the Construction Careers Pathways Conference, an NCCER initiative that took place in December at the Anaheim Convention Center in California. The conference aims to provide successful career paths to America’s youth through construction industry and education partnerships.

This year’s conference covered a range of topics, including programs for every stage of learning, recruitment strategies, and becoming an industry of choice. One popular panel discussion featured Young Craft Professionals who shared why they chose construction. Prior to the conference, NCCER released several Best Practice Profiles . More.

SEAA Announces New Member Awards Program

Training and Safety go hand in hand. The SEAA Safety and Education Committee has developed two new awards to recognize SEAA Erector Member Companies who excel in these areas. The Inaugural Safety Excellence Award and Craft Training Recognition Award winners will be announced at SEAA's 48th Annual Convention.

The new SEAA Safety Excellence Award acknowledges SEAA members who go above and beyond in the effort to provide Ironworkers a safe place to work, while the Craft Training Recognition Award is for companies that are playing a critical role in the development of skilled ironworkers.

Download applications or submit online. Submissions due by February 14, 2020. More .

2020 Media Kit now available

Book early to take advantage of special promotions.

4,000 active qualified readers
National circulation
Primary industries: steel fabrication, steel erection, general contractors, and construction design

Call Chris Harrison, 660-287-7660

ConnectorSales@SEAA.net

ConExpo 2020

March 10-14, 2020

Las Vegas, Nev.

Booth GL31201

April 1-2, 2020

Charleston, S.C.

The Steel Conference 2020

April 22-24, 2020

Atlanta, Ga.

Industry Reports

What to Expect from OSHA in 2020

During 2019, OSHA conducted 33,401 inspections—more inspections than the previous three years, and employers should expect that trend to continue. In order for employers to be prepared for what is ahead, it is good practice to be familiar with the Agency’s Fall 2019 Regulatory Agenda.

Among the standards applicable to steel erectors are lockout/tagout and welding and cutting standards. Additionally, in May, OSHA plans to amend parts of the cranes and derricks in construction standard. More .

Recent Safety Notices

Several product and OSHA enforcement safety notices relevant to steel erection contractors were announced recently. Topics were related to fall protection, rigging hardware and crane operator certification. More .

Online Crane Operator Certification Directory Launched

NCCCO Foundation has released a new web-based tool to help employers navigate OSHA’s rules on crane operator qualifications. Who’s Accredited? Directory , is designed to take the guesswork out of determining whether or not a certification organization’s programs are accredited.

It provides a direct link to the accredited certification maintained by the two bodies that OSHA recognizes- ANSI and NCCA. More .

News Briefs

EHS Today: You Can't Put a Price on Safety, but do It Anyway

Construction Equipment: Top 5 Construction Careers for 2020

For Construction Pros: Equipment Rental Industry Trends of 2019 and 2020

Safety + Health: BLS: On-the-job deaths at highest level since 2007

Industry Today: Estimating ROI for Safety Improvements

In this Issue of Winter 2019 Connector:

Management : The Herd Safety Phenomenon. Read

In the Field: Safety Flashbacks. Read

Special Focus: Annual Membership Directory. Read

Spring Issue Advertising Deadline- Feb. 15

Member Updates

SteelFab, Inc. Updates Apprentice Program to SteelFab University

SteelFab, Inc., Charlotte, N.C., has changed the name of its SteelFab Apprentice Program to SteelFab University. The program provides hands-on training to high school students and includes transportation to and from work for participants of the program. SteelFab University offers high school students paid apprenticeships in many areas including paint application, machine operation, welding, fitting, and maintenance, as reported in Modern Steel Construction . More .

Simpson Strong-Tie Honored at STAFDA for Innovation in Fasteners

Simpson Strong-Tie, Pleasanton, Calif., has been recognized by Worldwide Fastener Sources for its innovation in fasteners and fastening systems products, and is one of only nine companies being honored in this inaugural event. More .

Lincoln Electric’s Welding Gun Line

Lincoln Electric, Cleveland, Ohio., has announced a new line of welding guns, The Magnum® PRO Curve™ HDE™ MIG welding guns are an ideal option for heavy fabrication and general fabrication. More .

Trimble, Hilti and Boston Dynamics New Partnership

Trimble, Hilti and Boston Dynamics have announced a collaboration to explore the development of autonomous robots in construction production and quality control. Automation of routine and tedious tasks reduces workload and improves safety. The project integrates GNSS technology and reality capture devices with Boston Dynamics' Spot Robot platform. More .

E Newsletter september 2019

12/20/2019

Connector | September 2019

2019 October Meet & Greet

Association News

SEAA Participates in Skilled Trades Coalition

SEAA, which is a member of the Skilled Trades Coalition, recently attended the second formal meeting of the newly established group. The organization’s members include the American Welding Society, American Institute of Steel Construction, and more than a dozen others.

“The group consists of manufacturing, fabrication, and construction associations, which have come together to tackle similar challenges in recruiting qualified workers to their respective specialties,” said Tom Underhill, SEAA Executive Director, who attended the meeting held at AISC headquarters in Chicago. More.

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. More.

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 6-8pm at the Embassy Suites by Hilton, Crabtree/Raleigh. At the event, you can find out how SEAA member companies are solving their workforce development needs with SEAA/NCCER Craft Training. More .

New Team Member Joins SEAA Staff

Bryttany Freeman is the new Administrative Assistant and 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. More .

Submit your Project of the Year Nominations

The Steel Erectors Association of America is conducting its 16th annual Project of the Year national competition. Besides free publicity and peer and industry recognition, one previous recipient of the award says it gives employees and ironworkers a sense of pride in the company.

“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,” said Kurt Hettinger of S.L. Shaw Company Inc., Bakersfield, Calif. More .

Advertise in SEAA's Annual Directory

Connector Magazine Winter 2019 Issue

Advertising Deadline: November 15th

SEAA's Annual Membership Directory is used as a reference tool all year long by contractors, steel erectors, and fabricators.

Call Chris Harrison, 660-287-7660

ConnectorSales@SEAA.net

October 17, 2019

Raleigh, N.C.

2019 Annual Golf Tournament

October 18, 2019

Raleigh, N.C.

SEAA's 48th Annual Convention

April 1, 2020

Charleston, N.C.

Industry Reports

ASCE Explores Structural Steel Failures

A new book prepared by the Education Committee of the Forensic Engineering Division of the American Society of Civil Engineers explores failures in steel structures between 1970 and 2013. Failure Case Studies: Steel Structures provides a summary and review of eight case studies. The case studies are designed to promote failure literacy and to reduce risk to the public. This book serves as a reminder that learning from past failures can avoid similar failures in the future and lead to improved engineering practices.

Harness Safety and Fall Protection

Fall Protection-General Requirements has made OSHA’s “Top 10” citations list for eight years running. The body harness is the most critical piece of PPE that will most likely save an ironworker's life. It is also the heaviest, most uncomfortable piece of safety equipment ironworker deals with on a day to day basis.

Selection and inspection of harnesses, plus proper understanding of tie-off procedures and types of connection points have been the focus of several articles in the news recently. These resources serve as a good reminder of best practices to prevent falls and what to do after a fall. More .

Photo provided by Peterson Beckner Industries

Understanding new Load Sensing Requirements for Work Platforms

The American National Standards Institute’s (ANSI) updated A92.20/22/24 standards go into effect this December. Aerial Work Platforms (AWPs) will now become known exclusively as Mobile Elevating Work Platforms, or MEWPs. MEWPs will be classified as Groups A and B and Types 1, 2, or 3. Type is determined by how MEWPs are driven to, from, and around job sites.

Perhaps one of the most significant changes to design standards that will affect operation is load- sensing technology. Overload or load sensing systems must be included in the new MEWP design. Load sensing assesses the weight of operators and equipment in the work platform, and will only allow the machine to operate if the total load stays within the MEWP’s rated capacity. The machine will disable functionality if it exceeds it. More .

BigRentz Trade School Scholarship Program 2019

During a study conducted in early 2019 by BigRentz is was shown that only 11% of young Americans believed they could get a high-paying job from attending a trade school. To combat this inaccurate view of trade schools BigRentz has launched a trade school scholarship program in order to support students who are looking to pursue a career in a skilled profession. Learn more about the scholarship program and how to apply here .

News Briefs

For Construction Pros: Recession Likely After 2020 Election

Equipment World: When looking for veterans to hire, start with Guard and Reserve units

BYF: Construction Careers Lead to Financial Stability

Modern Steel Construction: Rainier Square Tower Tops Out in Only 10 Months

NCCE R: Three Ways to Make an Impact in Workforce Development

In this Issue of Fall 2019 Connector:

Management : No Safety Silos. Read

In the Field: Body Harnesses- Quality, Comfort are Key. Read

Special Focus: Training Directory. Read

Member Updates

Ironworker Skills Institute now a Non-profit Educational Facility

Garrison Steel, Pell City, Ala., has transitioned its SEAA/NCCER ironworker training program to a 501c3, a not-for-profit educational facility that is now the Ironworker Skills Institute. Garrison Steel partnered with a local community college to offer co-op education for high school students. Recent changes have allowed the Ironworker Skills Institute to transition to a trades program with local high schools and home school associations. Ironworker Skills Institute is able to offer this program at no cost to high school students due to grants and financial contributions from vendors and donors.

The program is designed to guide the current workforce and the next generation of ironworkers and welders towards qualification and employment. “The program is producing young people who are on fire for being in the trades,” said John Garrison, CEO, who reports they have placed at least half of the students into jobs with his company as well as with his competitors. However, Garrison reminds would-be students: “Success doesn’t come without commitment of purpose and hard work.” More.

Banker Steel Awarded Contract for Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

Banker Steel, Lynchburg, Va., will fabricate and erect 9,000 tons of structural steel for Turner Construction for a 17-story addition to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The building will be comprised of 565,000 square feet of office space, along with a fitness center, auditorium, and other amenities. More.

Ashley Sling Releases new Tuff-Ash Sling Armor Sleeve

Ashley Sling, Atlanta, Ga., announces the Tuff-Ash Sling Armor Sleeve. The strong, durable sleeves enable end users to take advantage of the benefits that textile slings can provide while ensuring significant improvements in safety.

The sleeve is resistant to cutting, while also being flexible. It offers excellent resistance to sharp edges and outstanding abrasion resistance. The Sling Armor sleeve also offers identification and wear indicators. More .

Simpson Strong-Tie Hosts Fellowship for Scholarship Recipients

Simpson Strong-Tie hosted 32 scholarship program award recipients from universities across the country as part of its new fellowship program. The Simpson Strong-Tie Fellowship provides the opportunity to network with industry professionals, meet with Simpson Strong-Tie executives and fellow scholarship awardees. Since 1998 more than 850 scholarships have been awarded to nearly 100 participating universities. More.

The Crosby Group Names New CEO

The Crosby Group, Tulsa, Okla., has named Robert Desel CEO. He has served as Chief Commercial Officer since 2017, leading sales, marketing, and company strategies. Desel gained channel management and product support experience in his previous role as founding partner and CEO of Carlisle & Co. More.

E Newsletter November 2019

12/20/2019

Connector | November 2019

SEAA's 48th Annual Convention

Association News

SEAA and NISD Release 3rd Edition of Detailing Guide

The growing trend towards Design-Build and Fast-Track methods of construction have made it more important than ever for there to be cooperation between members of the steel industry in the construction process.

In its 3rd Edition of Detailing Guide: For Steel Erector’s Safety and Efficiency, the Steel Erectors Association of America and the National Institute of Steel Detailing have partnered to update its practical guide for erection procedures. More .

SEAA Announces 2020 Convention Program

SEAA will hold its 48 ^th Annual Convention & Trade Show in Charleston, S.C., April 1-3, 2020. Keynote speaker Bob McCall draws on more than 30 years of experience in the utility industry, addressing leadership, culture, expectations, and behaviors that need to be changed in order to take safety to the next level. Additional sessions will focus on workforce development, responding to workplace disasters, correcting rigging and structural steel field mistakes, and managing AISC certification. More .

2020 Convention Keynote Speaker Bob McCall

Golfers Play for Safety and Education at Tournament

The Steel Erectors Association of America (SEAA) held its annual Education Fundraiser Golf Tournament, and the Boom Lift Ball Drop Raffle last month. Both activities fund safety and education projects for the implementation of new craft training programs.

The golf tournament was preceded by a Meet and Greet Reception where more than 50 people attended. The reception included a presentation by Tim Eldridge, President of Education Services Unlimited and SEAA’s Craft Training and Assessment Administrator, on the SEAA/NCCER Ironworker Craft Training Program. The reception was sponsored by member company Pneutek, Inc. More .

2020 Media Kit now available

Book early to take advantage of special promotions.

4,000 active qualified readers
National circulation
Primary industries: steel fabrication, steel erection, general contractors, and construction design

Call Chris Harrison, 660-287-7660

ConnectorSales@SEAA.net

April 1-3, 2020

Charleston, S.C.

SEAA's 48th Annual Trade Show

April 1-2, 2020

Charleston, S.C.

The Steel Conference 2020

April 22-24, 2020

Atlanta, Ga.

Industry Reports

OSHA Gets New Construction Director

Scott Ketcham has been chosen by the U.S. Department of Labor as the new director of OSHA’s Directorate of Construction (DOC). Ketcham has been acting as head since January 2019, succeeding Dean McKenzie.

While Ketcham had previously held the positions as DOC deputy director for more than two years, he has also served in various other roles at OSHA for 19 years. Ketcham has a background in construction, general industry, and maritime. He is also a Certified Safety Professional. More .

New Effective Date for A92 Suite of Work Platforms Standards

The new ANSI/SAIA Suite of Standards, originally scheduled for December 2019 has been changed to March 1, 2020. Members of the A92 Main Committee decided at the 2019 ASC A92 Aerial Work Platforms Annual Meeting, held Oct. 27-30 in Kansas City, Mo.

The suite includes ANSI/SAIA A92.20 design, calculations, safety requirements, and test methods, the ANSI/SAIA A92.22 safe use of MEWPs, ANSI/SAIA A92.24 Training Requirements for the Use, Operation, Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of MEWPs. More.

News Briefs

Construction Business Owner: Why Mentorship Is a Must in Construction

NCCER Breaking Ground: The Role of Social Media in Construction

For Construction Pros: Construction Training Initiatives Need to Start with Top Level Managers

FF Journal: The Right Touch- How to select TIG Gloves

Dig Different: A Safe, Productive Job Site is One With Good Communication

In this Issue of Fall 2019 Connector:

Management : No Safety Silos. Read

In the Field: Body Harnesses- Quality, Comfort are Key. Read

Special Focus: Training Directory. Read

Winter Issue Advertising Deadline- Nov. 15

Member Updates

Simpson Strong-Tie Supports Habitat’s Annual Carter Work Project

Simpson Strong-Tie sponsored Habitat for Humanity’s annual Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project that took place in Nashville, Tenn., in October. Volunteers from the company’s facilities in Columbus, Ohio, and Gallatin, Tenn., participated in the week-long build project alongside former President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. More .

Mazzella Companies Acquires Denver Wire Rope & Supply

Mazzella Lifting Technology, a Mazzella Company, has acquired Denver Wire Rope & Supply. The acquisition strengthens the company’s footprint west of the Mississippi River. Denver Wire Rope & Supply is a leading supplier of rigging products, crane and hoist service, below-the-hook lifting devices, and certified rigging inspection and training. More .

JP Cullen Hosts 5 th Annual Construction Career Fair

JP Cullen hosted its 5th annual Construction Career Fair in Janesville, Wis. More than 200 local students participated in activities that allowed students to experience different trades such as utility work, mechanical, fire protection, ironworking, and prefabrication. JP Cullen’s Apprenticeship Committee builds partnerships with local schools by allowing students to participate in tours of their jobsites and mentoring students in the classroom, as well as encouraging participation in their annual career fair. More  .

The Crosby Group Donates Money to Children of Fallen Patriots

Through the sales of The Crosby Groups' popular wire rope clips, the company was able to donate funds to the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation at the company’s warehouse in Arlington, Texas. The Foundation provides college scholarships and educational counseling to children that have lost a parent in the line of duty. More .

E newsletter july 2019

7/17/2019

Connector | July 2019

2019 October Meet & Greet

Association News

East and West Coast Companies Join Training Network

Four companies have joined SEAA’s network of Ironworker Craft

Training providers, offering SEAA/NCCER training and assessments. Participation in the program provides SEAA member companies with access to nationally recognized credentials for ironworkers. Because of SEAA’s affiliation with NCCER, members also have access to the dozens of other construction craft training materials, assessments, and certifications. More.

These four companies will join a network of 22 training units, located all over the United States. These companies include:

Guy M. Turner
Commercial Steel Erection Inc.
Steel Fabricators, LLC
Monterey Structural Steel Inc

Steel Fabricators, LLC.

SEAA Names President Elect, New Board Member

The 2019-2021 slate of directors includes Geoff Kress, Gardner-Watson Decking, as President-Elect. Pending approval in 2020, Kress will be installed as President at the conclusion of Dave Schulz’s term.

Joining the board of directors is Tom Schlickbernd, Sales Manager for Vulcraft of New York, Inc., a division of Nucor Corp. Schlickbernd fills a spot vacated by the retiring Alan Sears, formerly of Nucor-Vulcraft. Schlickbernd began his career with Nucor in 1987 and has been in his current role for 13 years. He is a Professional Engineer with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Nebraska- Lincoln. More.

Geoff Kress

Tom Schlickbernd

California Fabricator, Erector Receives Training Grant

Monterey Structural Steel Inc., a family owned and operated steel fabricator and erector located in Watsonville, Calif., was the 2019 recipient of the SEAA Training Grant. The grant provides funding to cover startup costs associated with establishing a new SEAA/NCCER training unit and assessment site. Monterey Structural Steel is SEAA’s second Training and Assessment site in the state of California. More.

April 2019 Winners of the Boom Lift Fundraiser

Golf Tournament Discounts End July 30th

SEAA will hold its annual golf tournament on Oct. 18 in Raleigh, N.C. The tournament raises funds for the Craft Training Grant and other Safety Committee initiatives. Held at the Lonnie Poole Golf Course, the Captain’s Choice style tournament kicks off after a brief industry update from SEAA. Fees include lunch, snacks and beverages, and the awards dinner.

Receive $25 off per player if you register by July 30th. More.

SEAA Seeks Members for Committee Positions

SEAA’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. Committees meet in person at quarterly

board meetings and by conference call as projects dictate. Looking for more information? Contact Tom

Underhill at the SEAA office or the individual chairperson. More.

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October 17, 2019

Raleigh, N.C.

2019 Annual Golf Tournament

October 18, 2019

Raleigh, N.C.

Steel Day 2019

September 27th, 2019

#WeAreSteel

Industry Reports

Subject Matter Experts Needed for Reinforcing Ironwork, Ironworker 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.

“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. More info on becoming an SME is available at NCCER’s website .

“SEAA members have a vested interest in supporting ongoing updates to NCCER curriculum, especially, the Reinforcing Ironwork and Ironworking materials,” said Tom Underhill, SEAA Executive Director. More .

Parent Survey Reveals Surprising Opinions about Trade Careers

Frankel Media Group, on behalf of NCCER, recently survey more than 500 parents in Virginia about their opinion of careers in construction for their children. According to NCCER, parents and teachers are among the primary influencers on the career paths chosen by students.

While some of the results related to opinions about the importance of college, pay and benefits, job security, and safety were expected, other results were surprisingly supportive of careers in the trades. More.

Engage Employees in Safety and Health Programs

Effective safety and health programs tap into workers' collective experience, knowledge, and insight in order to find solutions to workplace safety and health challenges. SEAA encourages steel fabricators and erectors to participate in Safe + Sound Week, August 12-18. More.

News Briefs

OH&S: Reevaluating PPE

ForConstructionPros: How Social Media is Attracting Workers to Construction

Modern Contractor Solutions: 5 Steps to Succession Planning

NCCER: What Gen Z Employees Want

AISC: 2019 Student Steel Bridge Competition Finalists

In this Issue of Summer 2019 Connector:

Product Focus: Trade Show Demos. Read

Management : Rent the Right Equipment for your Job. Read

In the Field: Redefining Welding Training. Read

Member Updates

Mazzella Sales Manager Honored as Top Trainer

Adam Franz, Southeast Regional Sales Manager of Mazzella Companies, was nominated and awarded 2019’s Corporate Top Trainer by Crane Hot Line. The Top Trainer program presents an annual award to trainers in the lifting and rigging industry who excel at using innovative hands-on instruction, encourage peer or corporate accountability, demonstrate training success, and have a strong overall impact on students, the industry, or the environment. More.

Hougen Mfg Releases New Master Cutter Kit

Hougen Manufacturing, Inc has released a new annular cutter kit, The RotaLoc Plus™ Master Kit. This kit contains 14 different sizes of Hougen RotaLoc Plus cutters in the most popular sizes.

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 so cutter sizes can quickly be changed in seconds without the use of tools. Stack cut geometry is used on the cutting teeth which allows them to drill through single plate but also two or more pieces of steel at one time. The RotaLoc Plus cutters can be resharpened multiple times, with each time reducing the cost per hole. More.

Dave Steel Expands In-House Service Offerings

The Dave Steel Co., Inc., has expanded its services to include field services and erection. Bringing field

construction services in-house means the company is able to support both supply and install with its

own forces for a seamless project experience. The Field Services and Erection division will be led by Jerry Cagle, a 40-year veteran of the steel erection business. More.

Nucor Announces a Capital Investment in Carolina Bar Mill

Nucor Corp. announced a capital investment to add vacuum degassing to its engineered bar capabilities

at its mill in Darlington, South Carolina. Adding this capability enables the mill to produce engineered

bar products meeting some of the most stringent quality specifications in the industry. The vacuum

degassing system is expected to begin operations in late 2020. Nucor Steel South Carolina is the first

steel mill Nucor built. More.

Lincoln Electric Expands Availability of its Welding Curriculum

Lincoln Electric has formed a new partnership with Tooling U-SME to make its welding curriculum more accessible to welding instructors and educational institutions. Tooling U-SME has the authority to administer U/LINC and leverages the company’s extensive access to industry and academia, as well as its competency-based learning and development solutions.

Working directly with thousands of companies, including more than half of all Fortune 500® manufacturers, as well as 600 educational institutions across the country, Tooling U-SME helps to prepare the incumbent and next generation workforce by providing industry-driven curriculum. More.

Williams Steel Wins Craftsmanship Award

Williams Steel Erection Co., Inc. won a Washington Building Congress Craftsmanship Award for work on the Dulles Corridor Metrorail – Phase 2 project. The company was also honored by SEAA with a Project of the Year award for this project.

WBC honors its members for high standards of excellence in the construction trades. Williams Steel erected more than 3,500 tons of structural steel across five stations, nine entrance pavilions, and 31

pedestrian bridge sections in less than two years. The steel on this project was fabricated by Banker Steel Co. The project was nominated by Clark Construction Group. More.

H&E Equipment Opens Oregon Location

H&E Equipment Services Inc. has opened its 96th location in Prineville, Ore. The new 23,500-sq.-ft. facility, on 5.5 acres, has a fenced yard area, offices, parts warehouse, and a repair shop with six bays. The branch specializes in aerial lifts, telescopic forklifts, and earthmoving machinery. In addition to equipment rentals, it provides new and used equipment sales, service, parts, and training. More.

E Newsletter May 2019

5/20/2019

Connector | May 2019

2019 October Meet & Greet

Association News

Conference Speakers Stress Importance of Workforce Development

Attracting and retaining the next generation of workers was a common theme of the 2019 Steel Erectors Association of America Conference, held April 24-26, 2019 in Concord, N.C. Keynote speaker Kayleen McCabe and closing speaker Peggy Smedley both offered keen insights and valuable action plans to address skilled labor shortages.

Kayleen McCabe may not be in the steel erection industry, but as a celebrity general contractor whose show, Rescue Renovation , touched millions, she knows the value of construction expertise and skilled labor.

Peggy Smedley closed out the conference. As the Editorial Director of Constructech Magazine , and the recipient of the Excellence in Journalism Award from the American Society of Civil Engineers, Smedley is a leading proponent using technology in the construction industry. Her goal is to help people working in construction to understand and use new technologies. More

Kayleen McCabe

Peggy Smedley

Steel Erectors Announce 2018 Person of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Award

Jack Vernon Nix, Jr., Vice President of Operations for Shelby Erectors, Inc., was named the 2018 Person of the Year by the Steel Erectors Association of America (SEAA).

Alan Sears, who has been a SEAA board member for at least 15 years and actively involved with the association for nearly 20, recently retired from Nucor-Vulcraft, where he was the National Accounts Representative. He was recognized with a Lifetime Achievement award. As a previous recipient of the Person of the Year and William Davis Service awards, these honors speak to the quality of the man. More

(Center) Jack Nix & Alan Sears

Parking Garage, Office Building, & Airports Fly Away with Steel Project Awards

Three steel erection companies were presented with Project of the Year awards by SEAA. Chosen by an independent panel of judges, the companies received their honors at SEAA’s 2019 Annual Convention, held in April in Concord, NC. Submission were accepted for projects that were topped out in 2017 or 2018.

Three steel erection companies were presented with Project of the Year awards by the Steel Erectors Association of America (SEAA). Chosen by an independent panel of judges, the companies received their honors at SEAA’s 2019 Annual Convention, held in April in Concord, NC. Submission were accepted for projects that were topped out in 2017 or 2018. More

Flawless Steel Welding LLC

Class I Winner

Corbin Park Parking Garage

Derr and Gruenewald Construction

Class II Winner

Prism Office Building

Williams Steel Erection Co., Inc.

Class III Winner

Dulles Corridor Metrorail, Phase 2

Derr and Gruenewald Construction

Class IV Winner

Salt Lake City Airport Terminal

Schedule Advertising in our 2019 Connector eNews and Safety Flash

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2019 July Meet & Greet

July 18, 2019

Ontario, Calif.

October 17, 2019

Raleigh, N.C.

2019 Annual Golf Tournament

October 18, 2019

Raleigh, N.C.

Industry Reports

W orkers in Construction at Higher Risk for Suicide

According to the American Society of Safety Professionals based on research by the CDC, suicide rates are highest among males in the construction and extraction occupational groups. “The construction

industry is kind of a perfect storm of all the risk factors that we know contribute to suicide risk,” says Sally Spencer-Thomas, lead of the Workplace Task Force within the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention. More

O’Leary of the Iron Workers Union Recognized for Improving Safety and Diversity

Vicki O’Leary, General Organizer for Safety and Diversity for the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental, and Reinforcing Iron Workers, has received an Award of Excellence from Engineering News-Record magazine.

“Workplace harassment is a dangerous distraction in our line of work. When ironworkers are distracted from their tasks full of potential hazards, it could lead to life-threatening consequences,” says O’Leary. More

Photo Credit: ENR and Jessica Savidge

Make Plans for Safe + Sound Week

Safe + Sound Week is a nationwide event to celebrate the successes of businesses that have implemented safety and health programs in the workplace. The week-long recognition is August 12-18.

Every year, more than 5,000 workers are killed on the job (a rate of 14 per day), and more than 3.6 million suffer a serious job-related injury or illness. More

News Briefs

ForConstructionPros: 5 Mistakes Affecting your Bid-Win Ratio

ISHN: Respiratory Protection for Welders

Rental Equipment Register: Stuck in the Air: Rescue from the Platform

ConExpo: Using Social Media to Attract New Hires

TheFabricator.com: AI Boosts Metal Fab Efficiency

In this Issue of Spring 2019 Connector

Cover Story : A Unified Message. SEAA part of Industry-Wide push to market, recruit and train craft professionals READ

Management : Working with Certified Craft Detailers. Knowledge of structural steel construction contributes to project accuracy. READ

In the Field: Good Ways to Destroy Bad Rigging Gear. Best practices for disposing of damaged hardware, wire rope and slings. READ

Member Updates

Lincoln Electric Raises Training Standards, Invests in Welding Simulators

Lincoln Electric has partnered with NC3, a nonprofit network that bridges the gap between education and the industry workforce. This partnership will allow NC3 to administer Lincoln Electric’s Education Partnership Schools (LEEPS) program to raise education standards community colleges, technical schools and post-secondary trade schools to provide national welding certifications.

Lincoln Electric has also released the next generation VRTEX welding system which will feature a realistic GTAW welding experience. The VRTEX will allow schools and training centers to train multiple welders at once, using different processes, joints and Welding Procedure Specifications.

Banker Steel Launches Steel Fab Training Programs

Banker Steel, Lynchburg, Va., has launched new vocational training programs related to steel fabrication for high school and post-secondary. Banker High is an unpaid internship for school credit, providing welding, fitting and hands-on training. Banker University is a wage-compensated six-week course. Curriculum includes welding, fitting, and basic blueprint reading, followed by two to four weeks of mentored training. More

Deem Structural Services Presents Steel Sequence Solution for Hospital Job

ENR Texas & Louisiana recently reported on the progress of Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo, Texas, which is undergoing a 32-month renovation. The project faced significant challenges, including coordinating construction activity near an active helipad and allowing

hospital operations to continue unimpeded.

Mentioned in the article is SEAA member Deem Structural Services, Longview, Texas, which proposed a plan to erect the building in a specific sequence using a conventional crawler crane to limit obstructions to the helipad. More

AGC, ABC Honor Peterson Beckner Industries with Safety Awards

Peterson Beckner Industries (PBI), Houston, Texas, has received recognition from both the Associated General Contractors (AGC) and the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). The company received second place in the Specialty Division for the AGC’s Willis Watson 2019

Construction Excellence Safety Award for firms working under 350,000 hours. In April, Bob Beckner, Senior VP, attended the 100th AGC National Convention in Denver, Colo., to accept the award (right).

In addition, in March PBI was named the winner of a National Safety Merit Award from ABC. PBI was named in the Specialty Contractor category for its company wide safety program on industrial and commercial projects.

AISC Promotes Collins to Senior Structural Steel Specialist

AISC announced the promotion of Jacinda Collins to Senior Structural Steel Specialist. Collins has 12 years of involvement, contribution and demonstrated leadership at AISC, this new role recognizes Jacinda's work in developing and mentoring our growing presence of Steel Specialists. More

Trimble Tekla Improves Structural BIM Software

Trimble introduces Tekla 2019 Structural BIM Software Solutions. New features enable a smoother workflow, more precise control and improved productivity. Tekla Structures 2019 includes new tools such as Revit Export that will allow more flexibility, economical precast solutions and faster value engineering when working with different programs. More.

E Newsletter March 2019

3/20/2019

Connector | March 2019