AISI Releases New Code of Standard Practice for Cold-Formed Steel Structural Framing

On September 12, the AISI Committee on Framing Standards (COFS) published a revised Code of Standard Practice, which was reviewed by several peer committees within the industry and endorsed by the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industries (AWCI), Steel Framing Alliance (SFA) and Steel Stud Manufacturers Association (SSMA). This document helps define the lines of responsibility in cold-formed steel framing design and construction. It is another step forward for the industry and is available as a free download from the Steel Framing Alliance website.

The COFS began development of this Code of Standard Practice in 2002 and released the first edition in 2005. This Code of Standard Practice defines accepted norms of good practice for fabrication and installation of cold-formed steel structural framing. It helps define the roles of the owner's representative, architect of record, engineer of record, specialty engineer, manufacturer, framing contractor and truss/wall panel supplier in the design and construction of cold-formed steel framed structural systems. Among the many topics covered are general requirements, classification of materials, plans and specifications, installation drawings, materials, manufacture and delivery, installation requirements, quality control, and contractual relations.

This 2006 edition includes new provisions related to clarifications, revisions and the RFI process, contract price adjustment and scheduling. The new Commentary helps explain, clarify and illustrate the provisions. This new document will also be the subject of a seminar at METALCON in October, presented by Jay Larson of AISI and Jeff Klaiman of ADTEK Engineers. For more information, contact Jay Larson.

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