Steel Erection Pre-Lift Inspection

Pre-lift inspection for steel erection activities covering connector procedures, decking, and perimeter protection in accordance with OSHA 1926 Subpart R.

Pre-Lift Planning and Competent Person Review

• Lift area reviewed by competent person before work starts
  Confirm a competent person has reviewed the erection sequence, access, and fall hazards before the lift begins.
• Erection sequence and connector procedure communicated to crew
  Verify the crew has been briefed on the planned sequence, connection points, and safe positioning for connectors.
• Weather and site conditions acceptable for lift
  Confirm wind, precipitation, visibility, and ground conditions do not create an unsafe condition for steel erection.
• Required tools, bolts, and materials staged and secured
  Verify bolts, drift pins, tools, and other materials are staged to prevent dropped-object hazards and unnecessary exposure at elevation.
• Communication method established between crane operator, signal person, and crew
  Confirm the communication method is understood and available for the lift and placement sequence.

Connector Procedures and Access

• Connector access path is clear and free of trip hazards
  Verify access to the connection point is unobstructed and does not expose workers to unnecessary fall or trip hazards.
• Connectors have a safe position and stable footing at the connection point
  Confirm the connection area provides stable footing and a safe working position for the connector.
• Temporary fall protection for connectors is in place where required
  Verify required fall protection measures are installed and usable for connector work at height.
• Connection hardware available and compatible with members being erected
  Confirm bolts, washers, and other connection hardware are available and appropriate for the steel members being installed.
• Members are controlled to prevent unexpected movement during connection
  Verify the load and adjacent members are controlled and aligned before connectors begin work.

Decking and Working Surface

• Decking materials are properly staged and secured before placement
  Confirm decking panels or bundles are staged to minimize handling hazards and prevent shifting or sliding.
• Installed decking is secured against displacement
  Verify decking is fastened or otherwise secured so it cannot shift, slide, or become dislodged during work.
• Openings in decking are protected or covered
  Check for unprotected openings, gaps, or penetrations that could create a fall hazard.
• Walking and working surfaces are free of loose materials and slipping hazards
  Verify the surface is reasonably clear of debris, oil, ice, or other conditions that could cause a slip or trip.
• Decking installation sequence maintains required stability
  Confirm the planned installation sequence does not create an unstable condition for workers or the structure.

Perimeter Protection and Fall Hazard Controls

• Perimeter fall protection is installed where required
  Verify guardrails, safety nets, personal fall arrest systems, or other required controls are in place for exposed edges.
• Leading edges and floor openings are clearly identified
  Confirm exposed edges and openings are visibly marked or controlled to prevent inadvertent exposure.
• Perimeter protection is continuous and not bypassed
  Check that the protection system is continuous around exposed areas and has not been removed or left incomplete.
• Fall arrest anchorage points are available and appropriate if used
  Verify anchorage points, if part of the protection plan, are suitable for the intended use and accessible to the crew.

Housekeeping, Tools, and Closeout

• Tools and loose materials secured against falling
  Confirm hand tools, fasteners, and small parts are secured to prevent dropped-object hazards.
• Area below lift is barricaded or controlled
  Verify the drop zone is controlled to keep unauthorized personnel out of the hazard area.
• Inspector comments and deficiencies documented
  Record any deficiency, non-conformance, or corrective action needed before the lift proceeds.