Placement of long-span trusses in steel erection

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

February 22, 1977
Leslie H. Gillette
Assistant Executive Vice President
American Institute of Steel Construction, Inc.
[Recipient address omitted]
Dear Mr. Gillette:
This is in reply to your letter of January 25, 1977, addressed to Mr. Allen E. Martin of this Agency, which has been forward to this Division for a response.
Your are totally correct in your interpretation of the standard as rationalized from Mr. Martin's letter of November 5, 1973. 29 CFR 1926.751(a) does address the method that shall be used in the placement of structural members (trusses included) when assembling structural steel. 1926.751(c)(2) address additional requirements for log span joists and trusses.
As you have aptly stated, there are all sort of names used to describe structural members. The object of the standards is to publish rules and regulations in order to assure employees safety. The method described in your letter of April 16, 1973, to Mr. Proctor, amply describes a safe method of placing structural pieces when the two members are on opposite sides of a common support girder.
Thank you for your interest and concern in occupational safety and health.
Sincerely,
John K. Barto, Chief
[Directorate of Construction]
[Correction 6/20/2005. See OSHA Directive CPL 02-01-034 "Inspection policy and procedures for OSHA's steel erection standards for construction" published on 3/22/2002 for the current policy on OSHA's steel erection standards (1926 Subpart R) for construction.]