Skewed framing and steel-joist column stability

February 23, 2011

Mr. Greg Davis

Engineering Technical Specialist

New Millennium Building Systems

[Recipient address omitted]

Re: Interpretation of OSHA standard CFR 1926.757(a)(1) concerning the angle created by two members framing into a column

Dear Mr. Davis:

This letter addresses your inquiry dated July 30, 2008 to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). In your inquiry, you asked for clarification of our interpretation letter of December 15, 2003 concerning OSHA's standard 1926.757(a)(1). This letter constitutes OSHA's clarification only of the requirements discussed and may not be applicable to any question not detailed within your original correspondence.

We have paraphrased your question as follows:

Question (1): If the angle between the two solid web structural steel framing members at a column is greater than or less than 90 degrees, is the column considered to be framed in two directions as per 1926.757(a)(1)?

Answer: Section 1926.757(a)(1) states:

"Except as provided in paragraph (a)(2) of this section, where steel joists are used and columns are not framed in at least two directions with solid web structural steel members, a steel joist shall be field-bolted at the column to provide lateral stability to the column during erection. For the installation of this joist..."

If the angle between the two framing members at a column is other than 90 degrees, a qualified person must determine whether the skewed framing members will provide adequate lateral stability to the column's major and minor axes during erection. The stability provided to the column by the skewed framing members must be either equal or greater than what would have been provided if framing members were orthogonal at the major and minor axes of the column.

A qualified person is defined as one "who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the project." In this instance, a structural engineer would generally be regarded as a qualified person.

If you have any questions about this response, or need further clarification on this subject, please contact us by fax at (202) 693-1689. You may also contact us by mail at the U.S. Department of Labor, OSHA, Directorate of Construction, Office of Construction Standards and Guidance, Room N3468, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20210.

Sincerely,

James G. Maddux, Director

Directorate of Construction