Steel Erection RAMS — Risk Assessments for Structural Steelwork
Generate comprehensive RAMS documents for structural steel erection works. Covers crane operations under BS 7121, steel delivery, column and beam erection, bolt-up procedures, metal decking, and working at height on partially erected steelwork.
What a Steel Erection RAMS Covers
- Crane operations – mobile crane setup, lift planning under BS 7121, and tandem lift procedures
- Steel delivery and off-loading – vehicle management, unloading with HIAB or crane, and storage
- Column and beam erection – bolted connections, temporary stability, plumbing and levelling
- Bolt-up and torquing – HSFG bolt installation, torque values, and bolt group completion
- Metal decking installation – safe fixing, edge protection, and coordination
- Working at height – harness use, safety netting, restraint systems on partially erected steelwork
Steel Erection Regulatory Framework
Steel erection is one of the highest-risk construction activities. BS 7121 governs crane operations and LOLER 1998 requires a written lifting plan for every lift.
- CDM 2015 – management of health and safety during steel erection
- BS 7121:2006+A1:2010 – code of practice for safe use of cranes
- LOLER 1998 – lifting operations and lifting equipment
- Work at Height Regulations 2005 – fall protection on steelwork
- BCSA Guide to Steel Erection in Windy Conditions
- BS EN 1090 – execution of steel structures
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does BS 7121 require for steel erection lifts?
- Every lift must be planned by a competent appointed person covering load weight, crane capacity, ground conditions, rigging, wind speed, and communication procedures.
- How should wind affect steel erection planning?
- The BCSA guide recommends ceasing general steel erection at sustained wind speeds of 23 mph (10 m/s). Crane operations may stop at lower speeds depending on load characteristics.