Steel Decking Education and Training

Get the right training and certification to work in steel deck construction

By Marjorie Gilbert
In commercial construction, one will inevitably work with steel, be it steel decking, steel deck framing, the stainless steel deck or even aluminum decking. Steel decks have the unquestionable advantages of not only lasting for a long time, but also for having great strength. Steel deck materials are also easy to clean and sterilize, which is a boon in environments such as clean rooms.

Gone are the days where steel workers perched high atop the rooftops on the bones of the steel structures they were erecting. Now-a-days, steel erectors must undergo rigorous training and complete a certification process before working as a steel erector. The path of steel decking education and training is long, but lucrative. Below you will find information that can help get you started in the process.

1. Get the proper training to work with steel deck construction.

2. Become certified to work with steel decking and construction.

3. Learn and follow OSHA's safety regulations concerning steel deck construction.

 

Start with proper training in steel deck construction

The first step in steel decking education and training is getting the proper training. Much of this training is on site at any steel deck construction job. It is also possible to receive steel decking and education through the United Steel Workers, which has apprenticeship programs through their unions throughout the US. There, you will learn how to build a steel deck safely and other steel decking information.
Try: National Steel Erectors in Indiana requires their workers to enroll in apprenticeship classes in the Local 22 Apprentice School. The United Steel Workers is nation-wide. Their site offers information about the union and its various locations.

Gain your certification to become eligible to work with steel deck equipment

Becoming AISC Certified (American Institute of Steel Construction) is imperative, in that many positions require this certification when building a steel deck or any kind of steel construction. Because steel construction can be a dangerous profession, safety is the number one concern. In the certification training, you will learn about the certification process, which includes the "Code of Standard Practice for Steel Buildings and Bridges,", "Specification for Structural Joints Using ASTM A325 or A490 Bolts" and more.
Try: Quality Management Company can help you acquire your AISC certification. It is possible to also directly contact the AISC itself for information about the process.

Learn OSHA's safety regulations when working in steel deck construction

It probably is no surprise that OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administrations) has quite a number of safety regulations regarding steel deck construction. OSHA has provided helpful information for those who wish to go into steel deck construction so they have not only a safe working environment, and a safe final product. Some of the regulations include the "prohibition of installation of sheer connectors and pour-stop angles to top flange of steel beams prior to decking," designating the "entire floor as a controlled decking zone for steel decking work" and more.
Try: The OSHA website is an excellent resource for information regarding safety in steel deck construction. Washington State Dept. of Labor and Industries also provides very helpful information in their site as well.

 

  • Working in steel deck construction can be very rewarding and lucrative. One thing to consider before entering the field is to carefully research the construction company before joining it. Look for companies that have good reputations and excellent safety records.