The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) released important updates in 2024 to their Building Fabricator (BU) certification requirements, introducing several key changes that will impact both new applicants and existing certified fabricators. These updates strengthen the focus on practical demonstration of capabilities and technical competency.
Active Fabrication Requirement
In perhaps the most significant change, AISC now requires fabricators to have active structural steel work in their shop during the certification audit. This work must meet the definition of structural steel as outlined in Section 2.1 of the Code of Standard Practice for Steel Buildings and Bridges (AISC 303). If you anticipate not having active fabrication during your scheduled audit, immediate communication with your assigned auditor is essential.
Enhanced Welding Competency Standards
All fabricators must now demonstrate compliance with AWS D1.1/D1.1M Structural Welding Code-Steel during their audit, regardless of their current contract requirements. To meet this requirement, fabricators must maintain and make available:
- At least one representative Welding Procedure Specification (WPS)
- Supporting Procedure Qualification Records (PQR) when required
- Current Welder Qualification Test Records (WQTR) with documented periods of effectiveness
Mandatory Bolting Method Demonstration
The certification process now includes a mandatory bolting method demonstration for:
- Initial certification audits
- First in-person audits for conditionally certified fabricators
- Applicable scope change audits
- As required by the Certification Review Group (CRG)
These demonstrations must follow the current RCSC Specification for Structural Joints Using High-Strength Bolts Section 7, “Pre-Installation Verification,” and must be performed by the fabricator’s own personnel who typically handle bolt installation.
Quality Control Inspector Qualifications
AISC has reinforced its requirements for Quality Control Inspectors (QCI), who must now meet qualifications specified in the current ANSI/AISC 360 Specification for Structural Steel Buildings Section N4. Fabricators must:
- Document their training requirements
- Maintain experience records
- Include these qualification standards in their quality management system
What These Changes Mean for Fabricators
These updates reflect AISC’s commitment to ensuring certified fabricators maintain high standards of practical competency and quality control. For fabricators preparing for certification or renewal:
- Review your audit schedule against your production timeline
- Ensure your welding documentation is current and comprehensive
- Prepare your bolting demonstration team
- Verify your QCI qualifications meet the new standards
Planning for Your AISC Certification
Navigating these new requirements can be challenging, but Freer Consulting can help. Our team of experts specializes in preparing fabricators for AISC certification success. We can help you:
- Align your quality management system with new requirements
- Prepare for practical demonstrations
- Ensure inspector qualifications meet standards
- Schedule audits to coincide with active fabrication
Ready to ensure your AISC certification process meets these new requirements? Contact Freer Consulting today to learn how we can support your certification journey and help you maintain compliance with these enhanced standards.