What must be approved before fabrication of the structural steel begins?

Before the fabrication of structural steel begins, shop and erection drawings must be approved. These drawings are critical as they provide detailed representations of the structural elements, including dimensions, materials, connections, and specific fabrication processes. They serve as a blueprint for the fabricators to follow, ensuring that the final product meets the design specifications and requirements set by the project’s engineers and architects.

Approval of these drawings is essential for several reasons. First, they confirm that all components of the structure are accurately represented and that any potential issues can be identified before the fabrication starts. Additionally, approved shop and erection drawings facilitate clear communication among the stakeholders involved in the project, preventing misunderstandings or errors during the manufacturing process.

While material specifications, fabrication timelines, and financial aspects such as construction loans are important considerations in the overall project management, they do not directly impact the initiation of the actual fabrication process as the approved drawings do. Therefore, obtaining approval for the shop and erection drawings is paramount to ensure a smooth and compliant fabrication phase.