Steelwork Glossary

WHIL Steelwork Glossary
GLOSSARY OF STRUCTURAL STEELWORK TERMS
A
AISC
ASB
ASTM
"A" FRAME
ABUT
ABUTMENT
Abbreviation for American Institute of Steel Construction.

Abbreviation for Asymmetric Slimdeck Beam. Hot rolled I section
beam in which the bottom flange is wider than the top flange. Beam
is built into the depth of the slab with the bottom flange supporting
the decking, therefore reducing the overall depth of the construction.
A structural system utilizing members which when fastened together

resemble the letter A.
Joining the ends of construction members.
Construction intended to resist lateral thrust and vertical load, usually from
an arch or bridge.
ACCEPTABLE PRODUCT
An item named and specified by manufacturers reference meets the

specification in all respects and is acceptable to the Engineer. Products listed
in various sections are to be used as guides and do not imply exclusion of
unlisted manufacturers, models or materials.
ACCEPTABLE WORKMANSHIP
Satisfactory to and approved by the reviewing authority associated

with the contract.
Testing to establish whether a batch of products conforms to the
specified requirements.
The right of the contractor to ingress and egress, and to occupy the
work site as required to reasonably perform the work described in
the contract documents.
ACCEPTANCE TESTING
ACCESS TO THE WORK
ACCESSIBILITY
ACCESSORY
ACCIDENTAL LOAD
ACCURACY
ACOUSTICS
Ability of a space to be entered with ease.

A building product which supplements a basic solid panel building
such window, light transmitting panel, roof vent, etc.
Load that is not specifically foreseen because its occurrence is
unlikely but for which an allowance is made in design.
Quantitative measure of the degree of conformity with an accepted
reference value.
The science of sound. In housing, acoustical materials used to keep
down noise within a room or to prevent it from passing through walls.
ACTUAL COST
The cost actually incurred by the Contractor in the performance of

the 'Work.which includes labour, material, actual ownership cost of
equipment or invoiced rental rates, and administrative overhead.
ACTUAL SIZE
A-FRAME CONSTRUCTION
Achieved size obtained by measurement.
AGRICULTURAL BUILDING
A structure designed and constructed to house farm implements, hay

grain, poultry, livestock or other agricultural products. Such structures
should not include: spaces meant for habitation or to be occupied,
spaces in which agricultural products are processed, treated, or the
possibility of being as a place of occupancy by the general public.
AIR DUCT
A pipe, usually made of sheet metal, that conducts air to rooms from
a central source.
Changing or modifying the character or condition of a building, plant
or civil engineering works.
A Specified item of construction that is set apart by a separate sum.
An alternated may or may not be incorporated into the contract sum
at the discretion and approval of the owner at the time of contract
award.
ALTERATION
ALTERNATE
Framed construction of triangular cross-section, with legs joined at the top

and braced horizontally further down, similar to the letter "A", used for simple
one and two storey buildings.
ALUMINIUM COATED STEEL

ANALYSIS
Steel coated with aluminium for corrosion resistance.

An investigation of a domain that results in models describing its
static and dynamic characteristics. It emphasis question of "what",
rather than "how".
ANCHOR BOLTS
Bolts used to anchor members to a foundation or other support. Also

known as Foundation Bolts.
Rolled steel section with a cross - section resembling the letter L,
whose legs may be equal or unequal in width. (Also see RSA)
1) The horizontal line formed by opposing sloping sides of a roof
running parallel with the building length.
2) The high point/peak of a roof (also known as Ridge).
ANGLE/ANGLE SECTION
APEX
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APPROVAL DRAWINGS
A Set of drawings that may include framing plans, elevations and

sections through the building for approval of the Main
Client/Checking Engineer.
APPROVED CONTRACTOR
A Contractor who has demonstrated that they have the expertise,

resources, ability and desire to tender for a proposed project.
Selection of such contractors in normally a by preselection
procedures.
APPROVED SUBSTITUTION
Refers to manufacturers, materials, products, systems, or equipment

approved by the AIE for use in place of those specified.
ARCH
Curved structural member designed to carry loads between points of

support.
Abbreviation for Architect.
A design professional responsible for developing the aesthetic,
functional, performance and overall form of a construction work to
meet owner or client requirements by preparing detail drawings,
specifications and schedules and ensuring actual construction
conforms with those aspects of design.
ARCH
ARCHITECT
ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING
Drawing which shows the appearance of general arrangements, assemblies,

component ranges and details of a construction project.
AS-BUILT DRAWING
Drawing used to record the details of a structure following its completion.
ASD
(Allowable Strength Design). Method of proportioning structural

components such that the allowable strength equals or exceeds the
required strength of the component under the action of the ASD load
combinations.
ASSEMBLY
A group of mutually dependent and compatible components or

subassemblies of components.
A drawing which shows the overall configuration and all details
required for the fabrication of a complete assembly. Assembly
drawings will show all the profile sizes, cutting lengths, drilling of
each of the component parts, and how they are to be incorporated
into the completed assembly.
ASSEMBLY DRAWING
ASSEMBLY MARK
ATRIUM
AUTOCAD
AYRSHIRE
AXIAL FORCE
AXIS
A number given to each separate part of the building for erection

identification.
An open court (usually with glass roof) within a building.
2-D detailing software.
A manufacturer of cold rolled Purlins and Side Rails.
A force tending to elongate or shorten a member.
Line around which something rotates or is symmetrically arranged.
B
BCSA
B.O.
Abbreviation for British Constructional Steelwork Association.

Abbreviation for Bought Out. Bought Out lists are issued for
special/non standard components required for fabrication/erection.
BOB
BQ
BS
BS5950
Abbreviation for Bottom of Baseplate

Abbreviation for Bill of Quantities.
Abbreviation for British Standard.
British Standard (Code of Practice) relating to the design of structural
steelwork in building construction.
Abbreviation for Both Sides.
Abbreviation for British Summer Time. UK time between April and
October. Indian Time - 4.5 hrs.
Abbreviation for Bright Zinc Plated.
The process of updating drawings to incorporate
comments/corrections made by the checker.
Distance from the back (heel) of an angle or channel to a hole
positioned in the angle leg or channel flange.
Accessible platform projecting or recessed from the external face of
a building.
A deck projecting from the wall of a building above the ground.
A series of balusters or post connected by a rail, generally used
adjacent to stairs.
A handrailing.
Finish board covering the projecting and sloping portion (end rafter)
of a gable roof.
A plate attached to the bottom of a column, which rests on a
foundation or other support, usually secured by anchor bolts.
The lowest story of a building, partially or entirely below ground.
Secondary members (plates, angles or channels) used to link twin
members together.
B/S
B.S.T.
BZP
BACK DRAFTING
BACKMARK
BALCONY
BALCONY
BALUSTRADE
BANISTER
BARGEBOARD
BASE PLATE
BASEMENT
BATTEN
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BAY
The space between the main frames measured normal to the frame.
BAY WINDOW
A projection formed by three windows that are joined at obtuse

angels.
1) A member, usually horizontal, that is subjected to bending loads.
Three types are simple, continuous and cantilever.
2) A horizontal structural member that carries a load.
BEAM
BEAM AND COLUMN

BEAM SPLICE
BEARING PLATE
BEARING STRENGTH
BENCH MARK
BENDING MOMENT
BEVEL CUT
BILL OF MATERIALS (BOM)
BILL OF QUANTITIES (BQ)
BLACK BOLTS
BLAST PRIMER
BIRDS MOUTH NOTCH

BOX GIRDER
BRACE
BRACED CORE
BRACED FRAME
BRACED PANELS
A Structural system consisting of a series of rather beams supported

by columns. Often used as the end fame of a building.
A joint provided at mid span of a beam.
A steel plate that is set on the top of a masonry support on which a
beam or purlin can rest.
The strength of materials subjected to crushing.
1) A marked reference point on a permanent object, such as a metal
disk set in concrete, whose elevation is referenced to a datum is
known.
2) A mark made by a surveyor or general contractor to be used as a
reference point when measuring the elevation or location of other
points.
The force generated when a load is applied at an eccentricity (out of
plane).
An angled cut to a steel section (also known as Bevel/Splay cut).
A complete listing with part marks and descriptions of each piece of
material required for the project. Used for the purposes of
ordering/fabricating materials.
A complete listing, with descriptions, of each piece of material
required for the project. Used for the purposes of pricing/costing
materials.
A ptimer which is applied to steel immediately after shotblasting in
order to maintain the blast cleaned surface in a rust free condition
until final painting can be undertaken.
A rectangular slot placed in a fitting to allow it to fit around another
part, forming a cruciform section.
Girders, trucks or other members of rectangular cross section
enclosed on four sides.
Any stiffening member of a framework.
Essentially a tower braced in all directions so as to provide stiffeness
to a multi-storey structure.
An essentially vertical truss system that provides resistance to lateral
loads and provides stability for the structural system.
Bracing provided between two adjacent columns. Braced panels
provided at various locations throughout a multi-storey structure in
order to provide stiffenes to the structure as a whole.
BRACED FRAMING
BRACING
Frame construction with posts and braces used for stiffening.

Rods, angles or cables used in the plane of the roof and walls to
transfer loads, such as wind, seismic and crane thrusts to the
foundation.
BRACKET
A Structural support projecting from a structural member. Examples

are canopy brackets, lean - to brackets, and crane runway brackets.
BREACH OF CONTRACT
The failure, without, legal justification, to fulfil obligations that are the
whole or part of an agreement, written or oral. The breach of contract
can be intentional, inadvertent, or caused by the negligence of the
party breaching the contract.
BRIDGE CRANE
A load lifting system consisting of a hoist, which moves laterally on a

beam, girder or bridge which in turn moves longitudinally on a
runway made of beams and rails.
BUILDABILITY
The extent to which the design of a building facilitates ease of

construction subject to the overall requirements for the completed
building.
BUILDING
A structure forming an open, partially enclosed space constructed by

a planned process of combining materials, components, and
subsystems to meet specific conditions of use.
BUILDING CODE
A collection of legal requirements for buildings designed to protect

the safety, health, and general welfare of people who work and live
them.
BUILDING HEIGHT
The distance from finished ground level to the highest point of the
roof or parapet.
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BUILDING LINE
BUILT - UP ROOFING
BUILT - UP SECTION
BUILT-UP ROOF
BUMPER
Setback restrictions on property, established by zoning ordinances,

beyond which a building must be placed.
A roof covering made up of alternating layers of tar and materials
made of asphalt.
A structural member, usually an "I" shaped section, made from
individual flat plates welded together.
Roofing for low-slope roofs composed of several layers of felt and
hot asphalt or coal tar, usually covered with small aggregate.
An energy - absorbing device for reducing impact when a moving
crane or trolley reaches the end of its permitted travel, or when two
moving cranes or trolleys come into contact.
BUTTRESS
Vertical masonry or concrete support, usually larger at the base,

which projects from a wall.
C/L
C.F.W.
CHS
Abbreviation for Centre Line.

Abbreviation for Continuous Fillet Weld.
Abbreviation for Circular Hollow Section (Round shaped steel
member).
Abbreviation for Cross Centres.
Abbreviation for Centre of Gravity.
Abbreviation for Countersunk Bolt
Abbreviation for Castellated Universal Beam (See Castellated
Beam).
A member in the shape of a block "C" formed from steel sheet, that
may be used either singularly or back to back.
1) The presentation of selected parts of a CAD model as projected
on a drawing sheet. Visibility on the drawing can be controlled by
viewpoints and layers. The drawing sheet can also contain additional
graphics, such as borderlines, title-blocks and legends. CAD
drawings can also be produced independently without an underlying
CAD model (a drawing-oriented approach as opposed to the modeloriented approach).
2) Drawing which is produced by a printing or plotting device or on a
screen, governed by a computer programme.
C/Crs
CofG
CSK
CUB
"C" SECTION
CAD DRAWING
CAD MODEL
CAD data file(s) organised according to the physical parts of the

objects represented (e.g. a building). Models can be two-dimensional
or three-dimensional.
CADMIUM PLATED
Similar to Zinc plating, but Cadmium used instead. Rarely used for
strucutral projects.
Curvature of a flexural member in the plane of its web before
loading.
A projecting roof system that is supported and restrained at one end
only.
A projecting beam or structural member anchored at only one end.
A beam supported only at one end with the other end free to move.
A plate located at the top of a column or end of a beam for capping
the exposed end of the member.
A standard rolled UB or UC which is cut down the middle of the web
with an hexagonal line. The two halves of the beam are then welded
back together to produce a beam with a deeper section.
CAMBER
CANOPY
CANTILEVER
CANTILEVER BEAM
CAP PLATE
CASTELLATED BEAM
CAVITY WALL
CELL BEAM
CELLULAR BEAM
CENTRE OF GRAVITY (CofG)

CENTRE LINE
CHALK LINE
CHAMFER
CHANGE ORDER
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Double masonry wall having an air space between the skins.

A welded plate girder with holes cut in the web plate in order to
reduce the self weight of the section.
A standard rolled UB or UC which is cut down the middle of the web
with a semi-circular cut line. The two halves of the beam are then
welded back together to produce a beam with a deeper section.
The geometrical centre of a section.

A string that is heavily chalked, held tight, then plucked to make a
straight guideline against boards or other surfaces.
Bevelled edge formed by removing the sharp corner of a material.
1) A Change Order is a written amendment to the Contract prepared
by the Consultant and signed by the Owner and the Contractor
stating their agreement costs and implications of changes required to
the building during construction.
2) A written order to the Contractor for extra work, increases or
decreases Contract quantities, and additions or alterations to the
plans or specifications, within the scope of the Contract.
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CHANGES IN THE WORK - SIGNIFICANT
When the character of the work, as altered, (1) differs materially in

kind or nature from that involved or included in the original proposed
construction, or (2) when a major item of work as defined elsewhere
in the Contract is increased in excess of 125 percent or decreased
below 75 percent of the original Contract quantity.
CHANGES TO THE WORK
Additions, deletions, or revisions to the work within the general scope

of the contract.
Rolled steel section with a cross-section resembling the letter "C".
A member formed while in a semi-molten state at the steel mill to
shape having standard dimensions and properties.
A dimension between two given reference points used for the
purposes of checking a multi-part assembly (e.g. crank beams, stair
stringers etc).
CHANNEL SECTION
CHANNEL, HOT ROLLED
CHECK DIMENSIONS
CHORD
CIRCULAR SAW
CORUS
CLADDING
Top or bottom member of a truss.

A saw having a circular blade which is used to cut steel sections to
length.
British-Dutch producer of structural steel sections.
1) The exterior metal roof and wall panelling of a Metal Building
System. See also Covering.
2) The non-loadbearing external surfacing of a building designed to
provide a weather-proof enclosure, fixed to framing. Cladding panels
are generally fromed from cold-rolled trapizoidal sheets with
insulation sandwiched between inner and outer sheets.
CLASH CHECK
A check performed in 3-D CAD models in order to eliminate

problems in the model such as overlapping members (duplicated
material) unconnected members etc).
CLEAT
An angle fitting (usually with holes) used to pick-up connections for

other members/elements of the structure.
A small section, cold formed, angle used to trim edges/projections of
roof purlins/side rails.
Distance between opposite faces of supports.
A bolt hole of a slightly bigger diameter (2 to 3mm) than the bolt
diameter to allow easy insertion of the bolt.
Person or organization that requires a construction to be provided,
altered or extended, and is responsible for initiating and approving
the brief.
CLEADER RAIL
CLEAR SPAN
CLEARANCE HOLE
CLIENT
CLOSE TOLLERANCE BOLTS
Special bolt type which is manufactured to a higher level of

precision. Used in conjunction with tight fitting holes. Rarely used for
strucutral works due to cost.
COLD FORMED/COLD FORMING
The process of using press brakes or rolling mills to shape steel into
desired cross sections at room temperature.
COLD ROLLED
COLUMN
"Z" and "C" section Purlins and Side Rails which are cold formed.
A main member used in a vertical position on a building to transfer
loads from main roof beams, trusses, or rafters to the foundations.
COLUMN SPLICE
A joint provided along the length of a column/to join two column

section sizes together.
COLUMN RESTRAINTS
Small section angles which connect diagonally between the inside

flange of a column and the side rails. Used to provide restraint to the
inside flange of the column.
COMMENTS INCORPORATION
The process of updating calculations/detail drawings in line with

comments made by the checker.
A part used in a Metal Building System. See also Components and
Cladding.
Composite items are items made from more than one material where
each material plays a significant role (e.g. windows with timber
frames and aluminium sashes). "Composite" is not used for items
made predominantly of one material but which include minor items of
another material.
COMPONENT
COMPOSITE
COMPOSITE
CONSTRUCTION/COMPOSITE SLAB
Form of construction in which the concrete slab is linked into the

steel frame via welded shear studs. Resulting design is more
economic as both slab and frame act together to resist loadings.
COMPRESSION
CONCRETE COVER
A force that tends to make a member fail because of crushing.

Distance between concrete surface and surface of reinforcement or
duct of prestressing tendons.
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CONCRETE ENCASED
Term used to describe steel members which have concrete cast

around them. Encasement may be done on site after erection (InSitu), or Pre-Encased. If Pre-Encased then the requirement may
need to be shown on the fabrication details. Members which are
encased are usually left unpainted so as to form proper bond
between steel and concrete.
CONCRETE SLAB
Concrete construction, horizontal or nearly horizontal, of large area

relative to its thickness.
The formation of frost or drops of water on inside walls when warm
vapour inside a room meets a cold wall or window.
A channel built to convey water or other fluids; a drain or sewer. In
electrical work, a channel that carries wires for protection and for
safety.
CONDENSATION
CONDUIT
CONNECTION
CONNECTION DESIGN
Combination of structural elements and joints used to transmit forces

between two or more members.
The design of bolts, welds, cleats, plates and fittings required to
provide an adequate load path between the end of a member and
the component it connects to.
CONSTRUCTION DRAWING
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
Drawing which specifies construction information.

A process to administrate and manage the actual construction of a
project or parts of a project on behalf of an owner or a project
manager; usually begins with overseeing the bid process (usually
multiple bids), coordinating and monitoring construction activities,
establishing a progressive commissioning process; the process may
involve consultation or direction to the design consultants during the
latter portion of the design development stage where it overlaps the
construction phase.
CONSTRUCTION PROJECT
MANAGEMENT
CONSULTANT
The process of planning, organizing and administering control and

result assessment of a construction project.
A person (or organization) with an area of expertise or professional
training who contracts to perform a service.
The terminology given to a structural system denoting the transfer of
loads and stresses from member to member allowing the members
to act as a single unit.
CONTINUITY
CONTINUOUS BEAM
CONTINUOUS BEAM
CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION
CONTRACT DOCUMENT
CONTRACT DRAWINGS
CONTRACT NUMBER
Beam that spans three or more supports.

A beam that has no intermediate supports.
The process of directing, administering, and monitoring the progress
of a construction contract.
Document forming part of a contract.
The drawings forming part of the contract documents which describe
the work to be executed.
A unique number which is assigned to each project done by WHL.
Allows all documents, drawings and assemblies associated with that
project to be easily identified as belonging to that contract.
CONTRACTOR
The Contractor is the person or entity identified as such in the

Agreement. The term Contractor means the Contractor or the
Contractor's authorized representative as designated to the Owner in
writing.
CONTRACTOR
A person, firm, or corporation contracting with the owner (client),

undertaking the execution of the work and to construct the facility;
usually referred to as a general contractor.
COUNTER FORMED HOLE
A hole with a pressed recess in thin material (e.g. cold rolled

sections) to allow the insertion of a countersunk bolt.
A bolt having a flat head so that it can be installed flush with once
face of the connecting steel.
A hole having an angled recess so as to enable it to receive a
Countersunk Bolt
The exterior metal roof and wall panelling of a Metal Building
System.
A machine designed to move material by means of a hoist.
The principal horizontal beams of the crane operates, defined by the
crane span and the uninterrupted length of Crane Runway.
A track supporting and guiding the wheels of a top-running bridge
crane or trolley system.
The member that supports a crane rail and is supported by columns
or rafters depending on the type of crane system. On underhung
bridge cranes, the runway beam also acts as the crane rail.
COUNTERSUNK BOLT
COUNTERSUNK HOLE
COVERING
CRANE
CRANE GIRDER
CRANE RAIL
CRANE RUNWAY BEAM
CRANE SPAN
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The horizontal distance centre - to - centre of runway beams.
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CRANE STOP
A device to limit travel of a trolley or crane bridge. This device

normally is attached to a fixed structure and normally does not have
energy - absorbing ability.
CRANE SUPPORT COLUMN
A separate column that supports the runway beam of a top - running

crane.
A planning and scheduling system which combines all relevant
information into a single plan defining the sequence and duration's of
operations and depicting the interrelationship of the work elements
required to complete a project. The critical path is defined as the
longest sequence of activities in a network that establishes the
minimum length of time for accomplishment of the end event of a
project.
CRITICAL PATH METHOD (CPM)
CROSS BRACING
CROSS CENTRES
CROSS-SECTION
CROPPING
A system of diagonal members used to provide stability to a

structure.
The distance between two holes placed symmetrically about the
centre line in the flange of a beam or column section.
Section which shows a cut that is perpendicular to the longitudinal
direction of the object.
Process of cutting plates and angles to length using a cropping
machine. Process is similar to Guilotineing in that members are
sheared by a vertically dropping blade.
CURTAIN WALL
Perimeter wall panels that carry only their own weight and wind load.
D.F.T.
D.O.
D.T.I. WASHERS
DATUM
Abbreviation for Dry Film Thickness.

Abbreviation for Drawing Office.
Abbreviation for Direct Tension Indicating Washers
A reference point of starting elevations used in mapping and
surveying.
Labour and materials which have to be devoted to work on items
which are not a part of the original contract. They are paid at rates
agreed beforehand in the contract documents, which have to cater
for unepxected as well as expected situations.
DAYWORK
DAVER STEELS
DAWSON SHACKLE
DEAD LOADS
DECK LAYOUT
DECK SUPPORT PLATE/DECK SUPPORT
CLEAT
DEFECT ACTION SHEET (DAS)
Proprietary system of tension rods.

A clamping device which is used for the purposes of lifting columns
into position.
The dead load of a building is the weight of all permanent
construction, such as floor, roof framing, and covering members.
A drawing showing the overall layout and construction details of
metal decking, which is used to support the floor slab.
A plate or cleat added to a beam or column for the purposes of
providing local support to floor decking.
A part of WHL Quality Assurance procedure. All errors notified via
Non Conformance Reports are investigated on Defect Action Sheets.
DESIGN
A process that uses the products of analysis to produce a

specification for implementing a system. A logical description of how
a system will work.
DESIGN CALCULATIONS
Calculations prepared by the Engineer showing the design and

analysis of the structure.
Fully dimensioned drawings or electronic equivalent prepared by the
Engineer showing all members with their size and material grades,
the forces to be developed in their connections, any cambers and
eccentricities and other information necessary for the design of the
connections and completion of fabrication and Erection Drawings.
DESIGN DRAWINGS
DESIGN PROCESS
DESIGN SPECIFICATION
DETAIL DRAWING
The Activities entailed by the further conceptual elaboration of the

desired Facility (brief), prior to the Production Process.
Specifications for the evaluation of engineering or architectural
design.
Drawing showing parts of a construction or a component, generally
enlarged, and including any specific information about the form and
construction or about the assembly and joints.
DIAGONAL BRACING
DIAGONAL TIES
See Bracing.
A system of wires (or angles) used in conjunction with Side Rail
Supports/Struts to provide restraint to cold-rolled Side Rails/Purlins.
DIAPHRAGM ACTION
The resistance to racking generally offered by the covering system,

fasteners, and secondary framing. Distortion of the overall roof, floor,
or wall shape.
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DIMENSION LINE
A line with arrowheads at each end to show the distance between

two points.
DIRECT TENSION INDICATING WASHERS Used in conjunction with High Strength Friction Grip (HSFG)
Bolts.
DOOR GUIDE
An angel or channel used to stabilize or keep plumb a sliding or
rolling door during its operation.
DORMER
Top-floor projection of a room built out from a sloping roof to allow
light and ventilation
DOUBLE SHEAR
A two sided bolted connection having two shear planes (e.g. two
sided end plate connection to column web).
DRAFT DRAWING
Drawing serving as a basis for the choice of a final solution and/or
discussion between involved parties (synonym = preliminary
drawing).
DRAFTSPERSON
A person that prepares drawings under the supervision of an
architect or engineer.
DRAWING
Technical information, graphically represented with dimension in

sufficient detail to fabricate/execute the work.
DRAWING EDITING
Working with detail drawings created using 3-D CAD software to

refine them so as to ensure that all necessary information is
presented in a clear fashion to the workshops.
DRAWING 001/DRAWING No. 001
A drawing produced by the WHL UK Project Engineer to

summarise/confirm the basic requirements of a project as required
by the detailing team.
DRAWING GENERATION
The process of numbering a 3-D CAD model at the completion of

modelling (connection application) and creating the detail drawings,
prior to drawing editing.
DRIFT PIN
A tapered pin used during erection to align holes in steel members to

be connected by bolting.
A test which is performed as a means of checking the quality of a
finished paint finish to fabricated steel.
Sheet metal conductors for warm and cold air distribution.
Hot rolled plate with a patterned surface which is used as flooring in
walkways/platforms/stairs/landings.
Parts which are shown in a 3-D CAD model for reference purposes
only and which do not therefore form part of the main working model.
DRY FILM THICKNESS (D.F.T.)

DUCTS
DURBAR PLATE
DUMMY PARTS
E
EOT
EAVES
EAVES BEAM
EAVES CANOPY
EAVES GUTTER
EAVES HEIGHT
Abbreviation for Electric Overhead Travelling Crane

The line along the sidewall formed by the intersection of the planes
of the roof and wall.
A beam positioned at the eaves of a building.
A projecting roof system on the sidewall whose overhanging edge is
supported at the building.
See Gutter.
The vertical dimension from finished floor to the top of the eaves
strut.
EAVES STRUT
A structural member located at the eave of a building that supports

roof and wall panelling.
EDGE BEAM
EDGE DISTANCE
A beam positioned at the perimeter edge of a floor slab.

The distance from the centre point of a hole and the edge of the
plate/flange/leg of the part that it is drilled in.
ELASTIC DESIGN
A design concept utilizing the property of materials allowing for non permanent shape distortion under a specified range of loading.
ELASTIC LIMIT
The limit to which a material can be bent or pulled out of shape and
still return to its former shape and dimensions.
ELECTRONIC DATA
Computer data and similar data transferred between parties

providing essentially equivalent information to traditional drawings.
ELEVATION
ELEVATION DRAWING
View on a vertical plane outside face of a structure.

Drawing which shows a view on a vertical plane on the outside face
of a structure.
The bays adjacent to the endwalls of a building. Usually the distance
from the endwall to the first interior main frame measured normal to
the endwall.
END BAY
END FRAME
END DISTANCE
END ELEVATION
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A frame located at the endwall of a building that supports the loads

from a portion of the end bay.
The distance from the centre point of a hole and the edge of the
plate in in the direction of the load.
The elevation on the gable end of a building (also known as the
Gable Elevation).
11/25/2015
END STOP
ENGINEER
A device attached to a crane runway or rail to provide a safety stop

at the end of a runway.
The engineer or architect who is responsible for the overall design of
the building project. The manufacturer's engineer is not the Engineer
of Record.
ENGINEER
A design professional responsible for developing the structural or

engineering components or systems of a construction work by
preparing detail drawings, specifications and schedules and ensuring
actual construction conforms with those aspects of design.
ERECTION
The process of assembling pre-fabricated components into a whole

strucutre. It is taken to include the transport of the coponents, their
storage on site before being lifted into position and the final lifiting
and fixing by bolting or welding.
ERECTION BRACING
Materials used by erectors to stabilize the building systems during

erection, also typically referred to as Temporary Bracing or
Stability Bracing.
ERECTION DRAWINGS
Roof and wall erection (framing) drawings that identify individual

components and accessories furnished by the manufacturer in
sufficient detail to permit proper Erection of the metal Building
System.
ERECTION DRAWINGS
Drawings, prepared when necessary by the Steelwork Contractor,

showing details to amplify the information given in the Steelwork
Contractor's erection method statement and showing details of any
temporary steelwork.
ERECTION GAP
The distance left in detailing between the end of a member and the
face of the supporting member. Erection Gaps are provided to
enable steel beams to be easily erected between two fixed faces.
See Also Erection Tolerance
ERECTION SEQUENCE
The steps/key activities necessary for the successful construction of

a steel framed building.
A person or party who assembles/erects/puts together a steel framed
building.
The anticipated sum for which some future builder usually
unknown will agree to execute at some future date often
indeterminate certain works which are frequently only partially
defined at the time the estimate is made.
ERECTOR
ESTIMATE
ESTIMATING
ESTIMATOR
EXPANSION JOINT
EQUAL ANGLE
A technical function with the aim of predicting the cost of

construction.
A person carrying out the estimating function in a building or building
related organisation. Such a person may be a specialist or may carry
out the estimating function in conjunction with other functions, such
as quantity surveying, general management, etc.
A break or space in construction to allow for thermal expansion and
contraction of the materials used in the structure.
An angle (RSA) in which the two leg lengths are identical (I.e.
100x100).
F
F.F.L.
F.P.B.W.
F.R.W.
F/S
FABRICATION
Abbreviation for Finished Floor Level.

Abbreviation for Full Penetration Butt Weld
Abbreviation for Flat Round Washer
Abbreviation for Far Side.
1) The manufacturing process performed in a plant to convert raw
steel materials into finished components for a steel framed building.
The main operations are cold forming, cutting, punching, welding,
cleaning and painting.
2) Work done on parts of a structure at the factory before delivery to
the building site.
FABRICATION DATA
Electronic means of communication for automatic or semi-automatic

methods of fabrication (also known as NC Data)
Drawings or electronic equivalent prepared by the Steelwork
Contractors, showing all necessary information required to fabricate
the structural steelwork.
FABRICATION DRAWINGS
FABRICATOR
FACADE
FASCIA
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A person, firm, or corporation who produces completed steel

components for the construction of steel framed buildings.
Face or front elevation of a building.
1) A decorative trim or panel projecting from the face of a wall.
2) Outside horizontal face of member on the edge of a roof or
cornice
11/25/2015
FASTNERS
FAST TRACK
Nuts and bolts, rivets and other devices which are used to connect
steelwork together.
The process of dividing the design of a project into phases in such a
manner as to permit construction to start before design is complete.
The overlapping of the construction phase with the design phase.
FATIGUE
FILLET WELD
A weakening of structural members

A weld, other than a butt or edge weld, which is approximately
triangular in transverse cross section and which is made without
preparation of the parent material.
FIRE DOOR
FIRE PARTITION
FIRE-STOP
A door that will resist fire.

A partition designed to restrict the spread of fire.
Tight closure material or blocking to prevent the spread of flame or
hot gases within
Plates, flats or rolled sections which are welded or bolted to
structural steel components.
A column base that is designed to resist rotation as well as horizontal
or vertical movement.
See Thermal Cutting
The projecting edge of a structural member (e.g the top and bottom
horizontal projections of an steel beam/column/channel.
A plate welded to the inside face of a member flange, usually for the
purpose of stiffening the flange for tension.
A member used to provide lateral support to the flange of a structural
member.
Sheet-metal work used in roof or wall construction to prevent water
from seeping into the building.
A roof with minimum pitch for rainwater drainage.
Standard washer used with ordinary bolts. Available in "Form E"
(smallest), "Form F" and "Form G" (largest) sizes.
A system of bars and rods arranged in a rectangular grid and used
as floor panels in walkways/platforms/stairs/landings - also known as
Open Mesh Flooring/Grating.
FITTINGS
FIXED BASE
FLAME CUTTING
FLANGE
FLANGE BACKING PLATE
FLANGE BRACE
FLASHING
FLAT ROOF
FLAT ROUND WASHER (FRW)
FLOOR GRATING
FLOOR PLAN
FLUSH SURFACE
FOLLOWING TRADES
FOOTING
FOOTPRINT
FOR CONSTRUCTION DRAWING
The top view of a building at a specified floor level. A floor plan

includes all vertical details at or above windowsill levels.
A continuous surface without any projections.
A term that describes other sub-contractors which follow with their
work once the steel frame has been erected.
A pad or mat, usually of concrete, located under a column, wall or
other structural member, that is used to distribute the loads from that
member into the supporting soil.
The outline of a building at ground level/the outermost extents of a
building.
Drawing issued for actual construction use as opposed to one issued
for approval, guidance, coordination, costing or for information only.
FORM E WASHER
Type of Flat Round Washer (FRW), smallest in size. Most common

type of washer used - provided with all standard Ordinary bolt
assemblies.
FORM F WASHER
FORM G WASHER
Type of Flat Round Washer (FRW).

Type of Flat Round Washer (FRW), largest in size. Sometimes used
in Ordinary Bolt assemblies in oversized/slotted holes.
The substructure, which supports a building or other structure.
known as Anchor Bolts
Drawings, prepared by the Steelwork Contractor or the Engineer,
indicating location of column bases and details of foundation
connections to the steelwork.
FOUNDATION
FOUNDATION BOLTS
FOUNDATION PLAN
FRAMING PLANS
FULL PENETRATION BUTT WELD
See Erection Drawings.

A weld between elements which may be in-line, in the form of a tee,
or a corner in which the weld metal achieves full penetration
throughout the joint thickness.
FULL PROFILE WELD

FULLY THREADED BOLTS
A weld which is applied to all external faces of a member.

A bolt which is fully threaded along the length of its shank (also
known as Set Screws).
G.D.R.
G.M.T.
Abbreviation for Gratings Drawing Review

Abbreviation for Greenwich Mean Time - UK Time between
November and March - Indian Time - 5.5hrs.
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11/25/2015
GABLE
GABLE ELEVATION
GABLE OVERHANG
GABLE ROOF
GALVANISE
GALVANISED
GANTRY CRANE
The triangular portion of the endwall from the level of the eave to the
ridge of the roof.
The elevation on the gable end of a building (also known as the End
Elevation).
The purlin extension at the gable end of a building.
A roof consisting of two sloping roof planes that form a ridge and
form a gable at each end.
A lead and zinc bath treatment to prevent rusting.
Steel coated with zinc for corrosion resistance.
A crane similar to an overhead crane except that the bridge for
carrying the trolley or trolleys is rigidly supported on one or more legs
running on fixed rails or other run-way.
GENERAL ARRANGEMENT DRAWINGS

(GA DRAWINGS)
Drawings, prepared by the Steelwork Contractor, showing plans,

cross sections and elevations, main dimensions and the erection
marks of Components.
GENERAL NOTES
Information placed on a drawing which relates to general material

specification for grades, sizes, inspection, testing, etc. This
information may be placed on one drawing and is common to all
drawings within the project for that discipline.
GHOST PARTS
Elements shown in faint dotted lines on GA's/Client Drawings for

reference purposes. Can be non steel elements of the structure (e.g.
vessels) or steel belonging to adjacent buildings/models.
GUILLOTINE/GUILLOTINE SHEAR
A machine which is used to cut (chop) standard width flats to length.
GIRDER
A main horizontal or near horizontal structural member that supports

vertical loads. It may consist of several pieces.
Glass panes or panelling used in windows and doors.
Software used for the purposes of material listing/production control.
GLAZING
GO-DATA
GOUGING
GRADE 4.6 BOLTS
GRADE 8.8 BOLTS
GRADE 10.9 BOLTS
GRADIENT
GRATING
The use of a flame or plasma cutter to remove part or all of a

completed weld. Used as a means of removing defective welds.
A bolt strength designation. Strength < 8.8 Bolts. Rarely used in
structural works.
A bolt strength designation. Strength > 4.6 Bolts < 8.8 Bolts. Most
commonly used bolt strength bolt used in structural works.
A bolt strength designation. Strength > 8.8 Bolts. High strength bolts
- rarely used in structural works.
Inclination or angle of a surface.
Floor Grating/Grating.
GRILLAGE BEAM
A beam placed at ground level and used to spread/transfer loads

from a column above to the concrete below.
GROUPING
The planning/coordination of work activities within a 3-D CAD model

so as to ensure that all similar work tasks are completed together.
Ensures consistency and efficiency of work is maximised.
GROUND FLOOR
GROUT
The floor which is nearest the level of the outside ground.

A mixture of cement, sand and water used to fill cracks and cavities.
Sometimes used under base plates or levelling plates to obtain
uniform bearing surfaces.
GUSSET/GUSSET PLATE
Connecting plate used for members in a bracing system or Main

booms/internals of a truss or girder.
A light gauge metal member at an eaves, valley or parapet (low
points of a roof) designed to collect rainwater.
GUTTER
H
H.D. BOLTS
H&S
Hp/A RATIO
Abbreviation for Holding Down Bolts

Abbreviation for Health and Safety.
Used as a measure of the fire resistance of steel members, where
Hp = Exposed perimeter of the section (m) and A = the cross
sectional area of the section (m2). The lower the Hp/A ratio, the
slower the section will heat in fire situation. Also known as "Section
Factor".
H.S.F.G. BOLT
"H" SECTION
HALFEN CHANNELS
Abbreviation for High Strength Friction Grip Bolts

A steel member with a cross section in the shape of an "H".
Proprietary system used for attachment of secondary construction
elements.
A vertical member suspended from the underside of its supporting
beam.
HANGER
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11/25/2015
HARD FLAT ROUND WASHER

HAUNCH
Washer used with HSFG Bolts.

The deepened portion of a column or rafter designed to
accommodate the higher bending moments at such points. (Usually
occurs at the intersection of the column and the rafter).
HEAD
HEADER
The upper frame on a door or window.

The horizontal framing member located at the top of a framed
opening.
Vertical clearance in a passageway or above a stairway, measured
from the edge of the nosing.
Definitions vary, but generally considered as a Multi-Storey structure
comprising of more than 20 floor levels.
A type of bolt used in critical connections for which no slippage
between the connecting parts should occur.
Structural steel having a yield stress in excess of 36000 pounds per
square inch.
See Pinned Base.
The line formed at the intersection of two adjacent sloping planes of
a roof.
Diagonal rafter that extends from the plate to the ridge to form the
hip.
A roof that is formed by sloping planes from all four sides.
A mechanical lifting device usually attached to a trolley that travels
along a bridge, monorail, or jib crane. May be chain or electric
operated.
HEADROOM
HIGH RISE
HIGH STRENGTH FRICTION GRIP BOLTS
HIGH STRENGTH STEEL
HINGED BASE
HIP
HIP RAFTER
HIP ROOF
HOIST
HOT DIP GALVANISING
The process of applying a zinc rich galvanised finish to structural

steel.
HOT- ROLLED SECTIONS
Steel sections (angles, channels, "I" shapes, "H" shapes, etc.) which are
formed by rolling mills while the steel is in a semi-molten state.
HOLDING DOWN BOLTS

known as Anchor Bolts.
I.F.C.
I.S.T.
I BEAM
IMPACT LOAD
Abbreviation for Issued For Construction

Abbreviation for Indian Standard Time.
A steel beam with an I-shaped cross section.
IMPACT WRENCH
IMPORTED STEEL
INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS
A power tool used to tighten nuts or bolts.

Member copied into a 3-D CAD model from another 3-D CAD model.
A low-level steel structure comprising primarily of columns and roof members
(either rafters or trusses). Used primarily as a manufacturing
plant/warehouse. Variations include Portal Frames and Sheds
INTERMITTENT WELD
INTERMEDIATE COAT(S)
A weld which stops and starts at set intervals.

Additional coats of paint applied to structural steel in order to build the total
film thickness of the paint system prior to the application of the top coat.
INTERFACE
The junction between:

1) Two adjacent structures
2) Adjacent models
3) Steel connections to concrete.
INTUMESCENT PAINT
A special paint finish applied to steel members in order to insulate them from
fire damage. Intumescent paints are typically 1-3mm thick (depending upon
the amount of fire protection required, expressed in terms of minutes/hours).
Paint contains a compound which releases a gas when a fire breaks out,
causing the paint to expand into a thick carbonaceous foam which provides
the necessary protection.
INSTALLATION
The on-site assembling of fabricated Metal Building System components to

form a completed structure.
INSIDE PROFILE WELD

INPUT
A weld which is applied to the inside faces of a member only.

Drawings or documents on which the project/work assignment will be based
upon.
INSULATION
Any material used in building construction to reduce heat transfer.
JACK RAFTER
Rafter shorter than a common rafter; especially used in hip-roof

framing.
JACK TRUSS
A truss used to support another beam, rafter, or truss and eliminate a column
support.
JAMB
JIG
Vertical members of a door or window opening.
A dynamic load resulting from the motion of machinery, elevators,

craneways, vehicles, and other similar moving forces.
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A device used to hold pieces of material in a certain position during

fabrication. Used to assist in the fabrication of multi-part assemblies such as
Trusses.
11/25/2015
JOINT
Area Where two or more ends, surfaces, or edges are attached.

Categorized by type of fastener or weld used and the method of
force transfer.
JOIST
Small section I beam with tapered flanges.
K BRACING
KNEE
A form of bracing which is shaped like the letter "K"

The connecting area of a column and rafter of a structural frame such as a
rigid frame.
KNEE BRACE
A diagonal member at a column and rafter intersection designed to resist

horizontal loads.
LAP JOINT
LBG SHACKLE
Joint produced by lapping and joining two similar members.

A clamping device which is used for the purposes of lifting beams
and other members into position.
A pack comprising of multiple plates, usually of varying thicknesses.
Pack thickness adjusted by changing number of plates/combination
of thickness in order to achieve the adjustment required.
LAMINATED PACK
LAYOUT DRAWING
Drawing showing the location of sites, structure, buildings, spaces,

elements, assemblies or components (synonym = location drawing).
LEAN - TO
A structure having only one slope and depending upon another structure for
partial support.
LENGTH
The dimension of the building measured perpendicular to the main framing

from outside to outside of endwall girts.
LEVELLING PLATE
A steel plate used on top of a foundation or other support on which a

structural column can rest.
LIFT (CRANE LIFT)

LIFTING BEAM
Maximum safe vertical distance through which the hook, magnet, or bucket
can move.
1) A beam which is supplied specifically for the purposes of lifting members
into position.
2) A beam which is provided within a strucutre for lifting/hoisting operations.
LIFTING BRACKET
A plate or bracket which is supplied specifically for the purposes of lifting

members into position.
LINTEL
LIVE LOAD
Horizontal support over a window or door opening
LOAD
Force or other action that results from the weight of building

materials, occupants and their possessions, environmental effects,
differential movement, or restrained dimensional changes. See also
LIVE LOAD, DEAD LOAD AND WIND LOAD.
LOAD FACTOR
Factor that accounts for deviations of the nominal load from the
actual load, for uncertainties in the analysis that transforms the load
into a load effect, and for the probability that more than one extreme
load will occur simultaneously.
LOAD INDICATING WASHERS
A washer with dimples, which flatten when the high strength bolt is tightened.
The bolt tension can then be determined by the use of feeler gauges to
determine the gap between the washer and the bolt head.
LOAD-BEARING WALL
LOCK NUTS
Wall designed to support the weight imposed upon it from above.

Half sized Nut. Used in bolted connections subjected to dynamic
loads to prevent nuts working loose. Used in bolts subjected to pure
tension to prevent bolt threat stripping.
LONGITUDINAL
LOUVER
The direction parallel to the ridge or sidewall.

An opening provided with fixed or movable slanted fins to allow flow of air.
LOW RISE BUILDING
A description of a class of buildings usually less than 60' eave height.

Commonly, they are single story, but do not exceed 4 stories.
LRFD
Load and Resistance Factor Design.
MAG
Abbreviation for Metal Active Gas Welding. Form of welding in which

the arc and weld pool are shielded by a gas which does not react
with molten steel. More commonly known as MIG (Metal-Intert GAS)
welding, even though inert Argon can not be used with steel.
MIG
Abbreviation for Metal Intert Gas Welding - see MAG welding for
more details
Abbreviation for Management Information System.
Loads that are produced (1) during maintenance by workers, equipment, and
materials, and (2) during the life of the structure by movable objects and do
not include wind, snow, seismic, or dead loads. Also see Roof or Floor Live
Load.
M.I.S.
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11/25/2015
MEWP
MMA
Abbreviation for Mobile Elevated Working Platform.

Abbreviation for Manual Metal-Arc Welding. Welding electrode
consists of a steel core wire and flux coating. Welding rod is about
300mm long - best used for short weld runs since much time can be
lost by welders having to change rods.
M.P.I.
Abbreviation for Magnetic Particle Inspection, a form of NonDestructive weld testing.

Abbreviation for Material Take Off.
Proprietary system of tension rods.
The company which has employed WHL as a contractor for the
supply of a steel frame.
M.T.O.
MACALLOY
MAIN CLIENT
MAIN FRAME
An assemblage of rafters and columns that support the secondary framing

members and transfer loads directly to the foundation.
MAIN WIND FORCE RESISTING SYSTEM
A structural assembly that provides for the overall stability of the building and
receives wind loads from more than one surface. Examples include shear
walls, diaphragms, rigid frames, and space structures.
MAGENTA ITEMS
Colour coding used in 3-D CAD models to identify members for which
doubts/queries exist.
MAGNETIC PARTICLE INSPECITION (MPI) A form of Non-desructive weld test.

MANSARD ROOF
MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM
(MIS)
A roof with two slopes on each side, with the lower slope being
nearly vertical and the upper nearly horizontal.
Software used for the purpose of managing/monitoring activities
within a company/project.
MASS APPLICATION
The process of applying typical connections at multiple locations

throughout a 3-D CAD model (See Typical Connection Generation).
MASONRY
General term for brickwork, stonework, concrete blockwork, or

similar materials.
MASTIC
See Sealant., Any material that is used to seal cracks, joints or laps.
A term used to describe the direction of the section having the greatest
strength (I.e for a UB beam section the major axis is aligned along the depth
of the beam).
MAJOR AXIS
MATERIAL TAKE OFF
activities related to the take-off (listing) of materials for the purposes of

estimating/measuring the weight of steel materials in a job, including pricing
of materials, pre-ordering of materials and measurement of completed jobs.
MEAN ROOF HEIGHT

MEDIUM RISE
Average height of roof above ground.
MEMBER
METHOD STATEMENT
Definitions vary, but generally considered as a Multi-Storey structure

comprising of less than 20 floor levels.
A single piece of material used in a structure.
A document which provides an outline description of how a steel
framed building will be erected, giving consideration to buildability
and Health and Safety issues.
METSEC
METAL BUILDING SYSTEM
A manufacturer of cold rolled Purlins and Side Rails.
METAL DECKING
MEZZANINE
See Decking.
An intermediate level between floor and ceiling occupying a partial area of
the floor space.
MILL
MILL ORDER
Factory in which rolled steel sections are produced.

Steel materials which are to be pre-ordered direct from an steel producer.
MINOR AXIS
A term used to describe the direction of the section having the weakest
strength (i.e. for a UB beam section the major axis is aligned along the width
of the beam).
MOMENT
MOMENT CONNECTION
The tendency of a force to cause rotation about a point or axis.

A connection designed to transfer moment as well as axial and shear forces
between connecting members.
MOMENT FRAME
Framing system that provides resistance to lateral loads and

provides stability to the structural system primarily by shear and
flexure of the framing members and their connections.
MOMENT OF INERTIA
A physical property of a member, which helps define strength and deflection

characteristics.
MONOLITHIC
Term used for concrete work poured and cast in one piece without
joints.
MONOLITHIC CONSTRUCTION
A method of placing concrete grade beam and floor slab together to form the
building foundation without forming and placing each separately.
Page 14/24
A complete integrated set of mutually dependent components and

assemblies that form a building including primary and secondary framing,
covering and accessories, and are manufactured to permit inspection on site
prior to assembly or erection.
11/25/2015
MONORAIL CRANE
A crane that travels on a single runway beam, usually an "S" or "W" beam.
MULLION
MULTI - GABLE BUILDING
Structural support member between a series of windows
MULTI-STOREY
MULTI - SPAN BUILDING
A structure consisting of multiple, repeating floors.

Buildings consisting of more than one span across the width of the building.
Multiple gable buildings and single gable buildings with interior columns are
examples.
NDT
Abbreviation for Non Destructive Testing. Tests which are prerformed

on welds to verify that the welds are of the required standard/quality.
Include radiographic, ultrasonic, magnetic particle or dye-penetrant.
NSSS
Abbreviation for National Structural Steelwork Specification document which set-out fabrication and erection tolerances for
British steelwork projects. (Also know as N-Triple-S)
N/S
NC DATA
Abbreviation for Near Side.

Abbreviation for "Numeric Control". Data file produced from CAD
software or from manual input. Used to define cutting and drilling of
main sections and fittings.
N.T.S.
NEUTRAL AXIS
Abbreviation for Not To Scale

The position within the depth of a member at which bending stresses
will zero (i.e. neither tension or compression exists).
1) The desired optimal dimension, although some deviation from the
actual value stated is permitted according to the prevailing
conditions.
2) A dimension which should be in the region of the exact figure
shown.
Buildings consisting of more than one gable across the width of the building.
NOMINAL DIMENSION
NOMINAL LOAD
NONBEARING WALL
NON-CONFORMANCE
Magnitude of the load specified by the applicable building code.

A dividing wall that does not support a vertical load.
An error or an omission, which, if it is not corrected, will lead to a
decision taken on a wrong basis by the client or will lead to a
situation where the physical object resulting from the engineering
services will not fulfil the expected (by the client and/or the
consultant) needs.
NON COMPOSITE DESIGN
Form of construction in which the concrete slab is designed to act

independently of the supporting beams.
Metal containing no iron, such as copper, brass, or aluminium.
The rounded edge of a stair tread.
NONFERROUS METAL
NOSING
O
ONE PACK PAINT SYSTEM
A chemical resistant paint (acrylated rubbers, vinyl's) which is

supplied as a single component. Note this does not refer to the
number of coats required to any given paint system.
OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

MANUAL
An organized compilation of project technical documents,

manufacturer's data, and project site records provided to the owner
at the conclusion of the construction project, to assist the owner to
properly operate and maintain the constructed facility.
OPEN MESH FLOORING

Floor Grating/Grating.
ORDINARY BOLT ASSEMBLIES
A bolt used in a non-preloaded bolt assembly which is designed to

carry forces in shear and bearing or tension.
The positioning of a house on a lot in relation to the sun, wind, view,
and noise.
A term which is used to describe the work of other contractors on a
project (e.g. Civils, Cladders, Glaziers etc) . Often used in contract
documents and drawings to define the scope of work of the
steelwork sub-contract.
ORIENTATION
OTHER TRADES
OUTRIGGER
OVERHANG
Projecting area of a roof or upper story beyond the wall of the lower
part.
OVERHANGING BEAM
OVERHEAD DOORS
A simply supported beam that extends beyond its support.

Doors constructed in horizontally hinged sections. They are equipped with
springs, tracks, counter balancers, and other hardware, which roll the
sections into an overhead position clear of the opening.
OVERSIZED HOLE
A bolt hole deliberately made a larger diameter to provide additional

clearance for insertion of the bolt.
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11/25/2015
P.E.
PFC
Abbreviation for Project Engineer - person responsible for technical

coordination of a project.
Abbreviation for Parallel Flange Channel ("C" Section steel member)
P.M.S.
P.P.B.W.
PACK
Abbreviation for Piece Monitoring System.

Abbreviation for Part Penetration Butt Weld.
A combination of thin plates used to allow for adjustment to member
level or length. Pack thickness adjusted by increasing or decreasing
number of plates as necessary. Also known as Shim Packs or
Laminated Packs.
PAINT CODE
A reference which appears on fabrication drawings and other

documents allowing the paint finish of an assembly to be identified.
PAL NUT
A proprietary half nut made from pressed metal - used as an

alternative to a lock nut.
Cladding: The exterior metal roof and wall panelling of a Metal
Building System. See also Covering.
That portion of the vertical wall of a building that extends above the
roofline.
Drawing depicting a single part (which cannot be further
disassembled) and which includes all necessary information required
for the definition of that part.
PANELS
PARAPET
PART DRAWING
PARTIAL PENETRATION WELD

PARTITION
PEAK
PERMANENT LOAD
PERSONNEL DOOR
PIECE MARK
PIER
PILES
PIN CONNECTION
PINNED BASE
A weld formed using a technique which ensures a specified

penetration which is less than the depth of the joint.
An interior wall that separates two rooms.
The uppermost point of a gable.
Load in which variations over time are rare or of small magnitude. All
other
variable loads.
Doorsloads
used are
by personnel
for access and exit from a building.
A number given to each separate part of the building for erection
identification. More commonly known as Assembly Mark.
A concrete structure designed to transfer vertical load from the base
of a column to the footing.
Long posts driven into the soil in swampy locations, or whenever it is
difficult to secure a firm foundation, upon which the foundation
footing is laid.
A connection designed to transfer axial and shear forces between
connecting members, but not moments.
A column base that is designed to resist horizontal and vertical
movement, but not rotation.
PITCH
See Roof slope. The tangent of the angle that a roof surface makes
with the horizontal, usually expressed in units of vertical rise to 12
units of horizontal run.
PITCH
PLAN
PLAN
PLAN DETAIL
PLANS
Slope of a roof usually expressed as a ratio.

View, section or cut, in a horizontal plane, seen from above.
A horizontal, graphic representational section of a building.
Drawing which to a large scale shows a part of a plan.
Approved Contract drawings showing the location, type, dimensions,
and details of Contract work to be performed.
The use of a electrically charged gas flame to cut steel members to
the correct length/shape.
Machine used for the fabrication of fittings - profiles cut and holes
formed via plasma cutter.
A design concept based on multiplying the actual loads by a suitable
load factor, and using the yield stress as the maximum stress in any
member, and taking into consideration moment redistribution.
PLASMA CUTTING
PLASMA PUNCH
PLASTIC DESIGN
PLATE GIRDER
An I section beam which is fabricated from plates welded together.
PLENUM SYSTEM
A system of heating or air-conditioning in which the air is forced

through a chamber connected to distributing ducts.
The land on which a building stands
An exported drawing file produced for the purpose of printing a hard
copy of the drawing.
Term used to describe the vertical alignment of a column or structure
as a whole. A column which is correctly aligned is said to be "In
Plumb", one which is incorrectly aligned is "Out of Plumb".
PLOT
PLOT FILE
PLUMB
PORTAL FRAME
A rigid frame so designed that it offers rigidity and stability in its

plane. It is generally used to resist longitudinal loads where other
bracing methods are not permitted.
POST
A perpendicular supporting member.
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POST & BEAM CONSTRUCTION
Wall construction consisting of large, widely spaced posts to support

horizontal beams.
POST AND BEAM
A structural system consisting of a series of rafter beams supported

by columns. Often used as the end frame of a building.
PRECAMBER
A preset radius/arc applied to a member so to counteract deflection

of the member under loading.
Buildings that are built in sections or component parts in a factory,
and then assembled at the site.
Drawing of a designer's concept of a project and which is expected
to be modified.
A reference number assigned to each member which is ordered via a
Preliminary Material List. Is used to track materials through ordering,
supply to the workshop and fabrication.
PREFABRICATED BUILDINGS
PRELIMINARY DRAWING
PRELIM MARK/PRELIM NUMBER
PRESET
PRIMARY FRAMING
PRIMER
PROGRAMME
PROJECT
PROJECT DOCUMENTATION
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
PROJECT MANAGER
PROJECT SPECIFICATION
PROPRIETARY SYSTEM
PUNCH/PUNCHING
PURLIN
An increase to the height of roof members applied at the apex so as

to counteract the effects of deflection when load is applied.
Main Frame: An assemblage of rafters and columns that support the
secondary framing members and transfer loads directly to the
foundation
The first coat/base coat/undercoat of a paint system.
The programme of dates given in the Project Specification, or agreed
with the Steelwork Contractor, for the release of all necessary
information
the progress
the works;contemplated
the preparation,
The
Project for
means
the total of
construction
of which the
submission
and
fabrication drawings, calculations and
Work may be
theacceptance
whole or a of
part.
information; the intended starting and completion for steelwork
Documentation
applying to a particular project.
erection.
The utilization of skills and knowledge in coordinating the organizing,
planning, scheduling, directing, controlling, monitoring and evaluating
of prescribed activities to ensure that the stated objectives of a
project, manufactured product, or service, are achieved.
Person responsible for day to day management of a project within an
organisation.
A specifications prepared for a specific building project The Works
which includes the National Structural Steel Work Specification and
qualifies it where necessary.
A specific product unique to a particular manufacturer.
A machine which is used to form holes or slots in plate or angle
fittings.
Horizontal structural member that supports roof deck and is primarily
subjected to bending under vertical loads such as snow, wind or
dead loads.
PURLIN EXTENSION
The projection of the roof beyond the plane of the endwall
Q.A.
Q.S.
OUTSTAND LEG
Abbreviation for Quality Assurance

Abbreviation for Quantity Surveyor.
The projecting leg of an angle or cleat (e.g. in the case of a shelf
angle the outstand leg is the horizontal leg which supports the slab).
QUALITY ASSURANCE
Activities concerned with the provision of systems, equipment and

personnel necessary to achieve the required level of quality.
Person responsible for measurement of materials, labour and other
costs in a completed project. Is responsible for making applications
for payment to the Main Client.
QUANTITY SURVEYOR
R
RSA
RSC
RSJ
RHS
RQSC
RAFTER
RAFTER RESTRAINTS
RAIL (CRANE)
RAILS (DOOR)
RAKE
Page 17/24
Abbreviation for Rolled Steel Angle (L section steel member).

Abbreviation for Rolled Steel Channel (C section steel member).
Abbreviation for Rolled Steel Joist (Small size I beam with tapered
flanges).
Abbreviation for Rectangular Hollow Section (Box section steel
member).
Inclined structural members used to frame a roof.
Small section angles which connect diagonally between the bottom
flange of a rafter and the roof purlins. Used to provide restraint to the
bottom flange of a rafter.
Crane Rail: A track supporting and guiding the wheels of a toprunning bridge crane or trolley system.
The horizontal stiffening members of framed and panelled doors.
The intersection of the plane of the roof and the plane of the endwall.
11/25/2015
REACTIONS
The resisting forces at the column bases provided by foundations

that hold a structure in equilibrium under a given loading condition.
REBAR
REFERENCE MODEL
Steel reinforcing bar.

A 3-D CAD model which is used for the purposes of cross checking
connections at the interfaces between two adjacent models or other
such activities.
REINFORCING HOLES
Holes drilled in steel members for the purposes of passing concrete

reinforcing bars through, so as to interlink adjacent concrete.
RESTORATION
RESTRICTIONS
Rebuilding s structure so it will appear in its original form.

Limitations on the use of real estate building materials, size, or
design styles.
A secondary member used to hold in position a main structural
member.
A wall to hold back an earth embankment.
The installation of new components into a steel structure after
erection of the intiial main frame has been completed (also known as
Retrofit Works).
RESTRAINT
RETAINING WALL
RETROFIT
RIB
RIBBED PANEL
RIDGE
RIGID CONNECTIONS
RIGID FRAME
The longitudinal raised profile of a panel that provides much of the

panel's bending strength.
A panel, which has ribs with sloping sides and forms a trapezoidal
shaped void at the side lap.
1) The horizontal line formed by opposing sloping sides of a roof
running parallel with the building length.
2) The high point/peak of a roof (also see Apex).
A connection designed to transfer moment as well as axial and shear
forces between connecting members.
A structural frame consisting of members joined together with
moment connections so as to render the frame stable with respect to
the design loads, without the need for bracing in its plane.
RISE
RISER
RIVET
The vertical height of a roof.

The vertical board in a stairway between two treads.
A fastner which can be used to join two elements of steel together.
Fastner is placed inside hole, heated and then compressed to form
head. Rarely used in modern constuction since bolts are much
quicker to install.
ROLL UP DOOR
A door that opens by travelling vertically and is gathered into a roll

suspended some distance above the floor.
A structural frame consisting of members joined together with
moment connections so as to render the frame stable with respect to
the design loads, without the need for bracing in its plane.
ROLLING DOORS
ROLLING PROGRAMME
ROOF COVERING
ROOF DECKING
ROOF OVERHANG
ROOF PLAN
ROOF SLOPE
Schedule issued by a steel producer confirming the schedule of

production for available section sizes.
The exposed exterior roof surface consisting of metal panels.
Term used to describe Cladding sheets when used in the roof
construction.
A roof extension beyond the endwall or sidewall of a building.
Drawing which specifies in detail the roof seen from above.
The tangent of the angle that a roof surface makes with the
horizontal, usually expressed in units of vertical rise to 12 units of
horizontal run.
RUNNING DIMENSION
The total cumulative dimension to a part or hole on a detail drawing

from a given reference/datum point/zero point. Is shown on detail
drawings so as to avoid the need for platers to add several
intermediate dimensions together so as to arrive at a hole or part
position.
RUNWAY BEAM
Crane Runway Beam: The member that supports a crane rail and is
supported by columns or rafters depending on the type of crane
system. On underhung bridge cranes, the runway beam also acts as
the crane rail.
S275
S355
SA
Steel Material Grade, having a yield strength of 275 N/mm2

Steel Material Grade, having a yield strength of 355 N/mm2
Standard grade reference for abrasive blast cleaned steels
(shotblasted).
SA1 = Light Blast Cleaning
SA2 = Through Blast Cleaning
SA2 1/2 = Very Through Blast Cleaning
SA3 = Blast Cleaning to Visually Clean Steel.
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SAW
Abbreviation for Submerged-Arc Welding. SAW is a mechanical

process used for welding plate girders. The flux is placed along the
joint in the form o f granules while a welding head traverses along
the length of the joint to perform the weld.
SCI
Abbreviation for Steel Construction Institute (UK Trade organisation).
SHS
Abbreviation for Square Hollow Section (Square shaped steel

member)
Abbreviation for Set Out Point.
1) Abbreviation for Superseded
2) Abbreviation of Stainless Steel.
Context in which the abbreviation is used will help to determine the
meaning. In the case of superceded, then this should be clearly
written in bold red letters across the drawing or document front page.
If applied to Stainless Steel then it will most likely appear as a note
on a Main Client's Drawing.
S.O.P.
S/S
S.S.L.
STET
S.W.I.
S.W.L.
SAFETY FACTOR
SAG MEMBER
SCHEDULE
SCOPE OF WORK
SCREED
SECONDARY FRAMING
SECTION
Abbreviation for Structural Slab Level.

Term used to identify a checking comment which has been made
incorrectly.
Abbreviation for Site Work Instruction
Abbreviation for Safe Working Load
1) The ultimate strength of the material divided by the allowable
working load. the element of safety needed to make certain that
there will be no structural failures.
2) A multiplier applied to a working load in order to ensure that the
member/structure will be designed with a sufficient margin of safety
so as to prevent failure under unexpectedly high loading conditions,
defects in materials or failures in workmanship.
A tension member such as rods, straps or angles used to limit the
deflection of a girt or purlin in the direction of its weak axis.
Listing of members/items/components.
A document or statement which clearly defines the activities to be
undertaken as part of a project/work assignment, and the
product/documents to be returned to the client at the completion of
the project/work assignment.
Thin coating of cement or concrete applied to the top of a strucutral
slab in order to ensure a smooth finish to the floor.
Members that carry loads from the building surface to the main
framing. For example - purlins.
The drawing of an object that is cut to show the interior. Also, a panel
construction used in walls, floors, ceilings, or roofs.
SECTION FACTOR
SELF-CHECKING
See Hp/A Ratio.

The review of completed work by an individual before that work is
handed-over to a Team Leader/Checker for independent checking.
The purpose of self checking is to try and ensure that all work is
complete and error free before it is handed over to the checker.
SELF - TRAPPING SCREW

SELF- DRILLING SCREW
SELF-WEIGHT
SERVICE HOLE
A fastener that taps its own threads in a predrilled hole.

A fastener that combines the function of drilling and tapping.
The weight of members/materials used in construction.
A hole/opening formed in a steel beam to enable electrical, M&E
services to pass through.
Bolt which is fully threaded along the full length of its shank.
Drawing used to establish marks and lines to define position and
level of elements for construction work so that work can proceed with
reference to them.
SET SCREW
SETTING-OUT DRAWING
SET OUT POINTS (SOP)

SHANK
SHEAR
The primary points between which a member is set-out (also see

Working Points).
The round portion of a bolt.
1) The force tending to make two contacting parts slide upon each
other in opposite directions parallel to their plane of contact.
2) A force tearing which tears a bolt or section along its depth.
SHEAR STUD
A plane bar with a upset head. Welded to steel beams prior to the
concrete being cast, thereby ensuring composite action between
steel and concrete. Also known as Studs
SHEAR WALL
Wall that provides resistance to lateral loads in the plane of the wall
and provides stability for structural systems.
An angle welded to the web of a floor beam for the purpose of
supporting the floor slab.
SHELF ANGLE
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SHERADISED
A type of surface treatment to bolts.Items are tumbled in hot zinc

dust. Gives higher qaulity finish than zinc plating or galvanising but
process is more expensive.
SHIM/SHIM PACK
A combination of thin plates used to allow for adjustment to member

level or length. Pack thickness adjusted by increasing or decreasing
number of plates as necessary. Also known as Shim Packs or
Laminated Packs.
SHOP BOLTED
Items which must be bolted together in the fabrication shop prior to

delivery to site.
SHOP DRAWINGS
Drawings prepared for a fabricator to use in a workshop. Based on

Working Drawings, but with full dimensions, and extended to show
each piece of work individually.
SHOP PRIMER PAINT
The initial coat of primer paint applied in the shop. A temporary

coating designed to protect the steel during shipping and erection
until the building exterior and interior finish coverings have been
installed. This coating may or may not serve as a proper prime coat
for other finishing paints.
SHOT BLASTER
Machine which is used to clean off mill scale and surface oxidisation
(rust) off of structral steel members prior to fabrication.
SHOULDER BOLT
Special bolt type used in slotted connections. Bolt shank has one
portion at a large diameter and one portion at a smaller diameter.
This
configuration
oneface
ply in
connectionframe
to freely
move in
1) The
elevation onallows
the long
of the
a shed/portal
building.
a lateral
direction.along the eaves of a shed/portal frame building.
2)
The elevation
SIDE ELEVATION
SIDE CLADDING
SIDE RAIL
Cladding on the elevation of a building.

A secondary horizontal member - usually a cold formed "Z" or "C"
section -positioned of the elevations of a building and used to
support the cladding.
SIDE RAIL SUPPORT

SIGN OFF
A vertical strut used to provide mid span restraint to a side rail.

A meeting held with the Main Client to review WHL GA's for a "Pre
Engineered" model. Comments/changes made as necessary. Markup set of drawings kept as a record of any changes implemented.
SILL
Horizontal exterior member below a window or door opening. In

frame construction, the lowest structural member that rests on the
foundation.
SIMPLE CONNECTION
Pin Connection: A connection designed to transfer axial and shear

forces between connecting members, but not moments.
A detail shown on a fabrication drawing of any parts/fittings which are
to be included as a part of the assembly.
A sketch which is separate from the fabrication details showing all
details necessary for the fabrication of a single part/fitting.
A term used in structural design to describe a beam support
condition at two points which offers no resistance to rotation at the
supports.
SINGLE PART VIEW

SINGLE PART DRAWING
SIMPLE SPAN
SINGLE SLOPE
SINGLE SHEAR
SITE
SITE PLAN
A sloping roof in one plane. The slope is from one sidewall to the
opposite sidewall.
A single sided bolted connection having one shear plane (e.g. bolted
end plate to column flange).
Area of land or water where Construction Work or other development
is undertaken.
Location drawing giving the position of construction works in relation
to the setting out points, the means of access and the general layout
of a site. It may also contain information on service networks, road
work and the landscape.
SITE WORKS
Drilling, welding, cutting activities which are carried out on the

construction site for the purposes of rectifying problems or
implementing client changes to the structure.
SITE WELDING
Welding operations which must be carried out on site after the

erection of components.
1) A written instruction from the Main Client instructing the steelwork
contractor to proceed with the implementation of a change to the
structure involving site works.
2) A document issued by the DO instructing the site erection team to
undertake site modifications to the structure to a given set of
drawings.
SITE WORK INSTRUCTION
SKETCH
Drawing commonly prepared freehand and not necessarily to scale.
SKEW CUT
SKYLIGHT
An angled cut to a steel section (also known as Bevel/Splay cut).

An opening in the roof for admitting light.
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SLAB CONSTRUCTION
SLAB LAYOUT DRAWING
A reinforced concrete floor and foundation system

A drawing showing the overall layout/construction of a concrete slab.
SLAG
Deposit left over a weld following MMA welding. Must be cleaned off
before surface treatment is applied.
A short length of member used to strengthen the connection
between two adjacent purlins or side rails.
See ASB.
A normal rolled UB or UC section which has a wide plate welded to
the bottom flange. Plate used to support floor decking. Beam is built
into the depth of the floor slab, therefore reducing the overall height
of the floor construction.
SLEEVE
SLIMDECK BEAM
SLIMFLOOR BEAM
SLOPE
Roof Slope: The tangent of the angle that a roof surface makes with
the horizontal, usually expressed in units of vertical rise to 12 units of
horizontal run.
SLOTTED HOLE
Holes which is elongated in one direction. Used in Expansion Joints

in which movement is required and other connections in which
tolerance is required (e.g. connections to concrete).
SNOW LOAD
Roof Snow Load: The load induced by the weight of snow on the
roof of the structure
The tightness of a bolt in a connection that exists when all plies in a
joint are in firm contact.
Underside of an overhang such as the eaves, a second floor, or
stairs.
The distance between two supports.
A written document with technical directions and conditions
describing the quality of materials and standard of workmanship of
the project or parts of a project. It deals with items that cannot be
shown on drawings or in the schedules and is normally presented in
a sequence of Trades. The Specification forms part of the Tender
Documents and, with agreed modifications (if any), of the Contract
Documents.
SNUG TIGHT
SOFFIT
SPAN
SPECIFICATION
SPLAY CUT
SPLICE
SPLICE PLATES
An angled cut to a steel section (also known as Bevel/Skew cut).

Joining of two similar members in a straight line.
Plates which are used for the purpose of connecting two main
assemblies together along their length (e.g. Beam Splice, Column
Splice).
STAINLESS STEEL
An alloy of steel, which contains a high percentage of chromium to

increase corrosion resistance. Also may contain nickel or copper.
STAGGERED WELD
A two sided weld which stops alternates at set intervals between

welded and unwelded portions (I.e. welded portion on one side of the
welded part coincides with the unwelded portion on the other side).
STALK PLATE
STEEL FRAMING
STEELWORK CONTRACTOR
The outstand (web) portion of a welded tee section.

Skeleton framing with structural steel members.
The Company appointed to fabricate and / or erect the structural
steelwork. Where required by the Project Specification, the
Steelwork Contractor may also be responsible for design.
STEEL STOCKIST
Company which specialises in selling plain lengths of steel to

fabricators.
The outstand (web) portion of a rolled or cut tee section.
A member used to strengthen a plate of main section against lateral
or local buckling.
Steel materials which are to be purchased from a steel stockist.
See Steel Stockist.
Height measured from floor finish to floor finish. For single-storey
buildings and the top floor of multi-storey buildings, the height shall
be measured from floor finish to notional floor finish (level at which
the next floor would be likely if there was one).
STEM
STIFFENER
STOCK ORDER
STOCKIST
STOREY HEIGHT
STOREY
STRAIN
Space between two floors of a building.

The deformation per unit length measured in the direction of the
stress caused by forces acting on a member. Not the same as
deflection.
STRESS
A measure of the load on a structural member in terms of force per

unit area.
Any force acting upon a part or member.
One of the sides of a flight of stairs. The supporting member cut to
receive the treads and risers.
3-D CAD modelling and detailing software for structures.
STRESS
STRINGER
STRUCAD
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STRUCTURAL FRAME
Columns, beams, joists, walls, floors, trusses, etc., which act

together as the structural frame to which non-structural items or
materials are attached.
STRUCTURE
Organised combination of connected parts designed to provide some

measure of rigidity, or a Construction Works having such an
arrangement.
STRUT
A member fitted into a framework, which resists axial compressive

forces.
A secondary member used to provide mid span restraint to roof
purlins.
A plane bar with a upset head. Welded to steel beams prior to the
concrete being cast, thereby ensuring composite action between
steel and concrete. Also known as Shear Studs.
STRUT
STUD
STUD WELDING
The process of welding shear studs to the floor beam. Usually done
on site, but sometimes done in the shop, in which case the
necessary details must be shown on the fabrication details.
SUBASSEMBLY
SUB-CONTRACT
SUBCONTRACTOR
A portion or subclass of an Assembly.

Contract to carry out part of a larger contract.
A company or single person providing consultancy services to the
engineering consultancy company.
Written on drawings and documents to indicate that the
drawing/document is out of date (not the latest revision) and should
not therefore be used as a working copy.
SUPESEDED
SURVEY DRAWING
SURVEYOR
Drawing that records measurements of an existing structure.

A person skilled in land measurement.
TL
T.B.A.
T.B.C.
T.B.D.
T.F.U.
T.O.C.
T.O.F.
T.O.G.
T.Q.
Abbreviation for Team Leader

Abbreviation for To Be Advised
Abbreviation for To Be Confirmed
Abbreviation for To Be Determined
Occasionally used as an abbreviation for Top Flange Unpainted.
Abbreviation for Top Of Concrete
Abbreviation for Top Of Foundation
Abbreviation for Top Of Grating
Abbreviation for Technical Query. TQ's are issued as a means of
querying missing information/clarifying doubts relating to a project.
Abbreviation for Top Of Steel.
A built up plate member consisting of flanges welded to a variable
depth web
The base (flange) portion of a welded tee section.
A small "spot" weld, used to temporarily hole members in place
during fabrication prior to full welding.
A full size paper or card representation of a fitting which is used in
order to cut-out and drill the fitting - rarely used today due to the use
of automated machinery and NC data.
T.O.S.
TAPERED MEMBERS
TABLE PLATE
TACK WELD
TEMPLATE
TEMPORARY WORKS
Items or strucutres which do not form part of the permanent

structure, but which are necessary to support parts of the permanent
strucutre as it is built. They can often be major strucutres in their own
right and desrve as much care in their design.
TENDER
Written offer to execute at a stated price or rate an order for the

supply of goods or services or the execution of works in given
conditions.
TENDER DOCUMENTS
Documents submitted for the compiling of tenders such as Bills of

Quantities, Drawings, Specifications and Contract Conditions.
The greatest longitudinal stress a structural member can resist
without adverse affects (breaking or cracking).
Forces acting on a member tending to elongate it.
The use of a gas fueled flame torch or plasma cutter to cut steel
members to the correct length/shape. (Note, conventional gas fueled
flame torch cutting also widely known as Flame Cutting).
TENSILE STRENGTH
TENSION FORCE
THERMAL CUTTING
THRESHOLD
TIE
TIMBER HOLES
TIRFORS
TOLERANCE
TOP COAT
TORSION
Page 22/24
Wood, metal, or stone member placed directly below a door.

Forces acting on a member tending to elongate it.
Holes drilled in steel members for the purposes of attaching timber
members (usually at roof level).
Tie wires used to stabilise/tie members in during erection.
The acceptable variance of dimensions from s standard size.
The final coat in a paint system applied to strucutral steel.
1) A twisting force
2) A load applied at an eccentricity (in plane)
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TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT
The consistent integrated orchestration of the total complex of an

organization's work processes and activities to achieve continuous
improvement in the organization's processes and products.
TOUCH-UP
The process of making good/repairing any damage to the surface

coating of painted steel members which has occurred during
delivery/erection/site works.
TORUE CONTROL
Method of tightnening bolts. Bolts are tightened to a pre-defined

torque (twisting force) via a manual toque wrench or power tool with
torque cut-out device. Ensure that bolts are tightened correctly
without applying overstress to the threads. Method is mainly used for
HSFG bolts, but is also applicable to ordinary bolts as well.
TRANSVERSE
TRANSMITTAL
The direction parallel to the main frames.

A covering front page recording all details (drawing numbers,
document numbers, revisions) in a document issue.
The step or horizontal member of a stair.
The assembly of steel components on site so as to ensure accurate
fit-up prior to delivery to site.
The light gauge metal used in the finish of a building, especially
around openings and at intersections of surfaces. Sometimes
referred to as flashing.
TREAD
TRIAL ERECTION
TRIM
TRIMMER
The longer floor or ceiling-framing member around a rectangular

opening into which headers are joined; both headers and trimmers
are doubled.
TRUSS
A structure made up of three or more members, with each member

designed to carry a tension or compression force. The entire
structure in turn acts as a beam.
TRUSS
Structural unit of members fastened in triangular arrangements to

form a rigid framework for support over long spans.
A method for pre-tensioning high strength bolts. The nut is tightened
an additional amount from the Snug Tight position, corresponding to
a few blows of an impact wrench or the full effort of a man using an
ordinary spud wrench. The amount of rotation required depends on
the bolt diameter and length.
TURN-OF-NUT METHOD
TURNED BAREL BOLTS
Similar to Close Tollerance Bolts but manufactured to an even higher

level of precision so as to ensure accuracy in the bolt/nut thread
sizes. Used in conjunction with tight fitting holes. Rarely used for
strucutral works due to cost.
TYPICAL CONNECTION GENERATION
The process of creating and checking one version of each calc

reference within a 3-D CAD model prior to the application of the
connections at multiple locations (Mass Application).
TWIN MEMBERS
Two members which are paired-up to form a single member.

Examples include back to back angles or channels.
A chemical resistant paint (epoxy, urethane) which is supplied as a
two components (base and curing agent). Note this does not refer to
the number of paint coats required for any given paint system.
TWO PACK PAINT TREATMENT
U
UB
UC
U/S
UNDERPINNING
UNEQUAL ANGLE
UPLIFT
Abbreviation for Universal Beam ("I" Section steel member)

Abbreviation for Universal Column ("H" Section steel member)
Abbreviation for Underside.
A foundation replacement or reinforcement for temporary braced
supports.
Angle (RSA) in which each leg length is different (I.e. 150x90).
Wind load on a building, which causes a load in the upward
direction.
V
V.O.
VALLEY
VALLEY GUTTER
VALLEY JACKS
VALLEY RAFTER
VALUE ENGINEERING
Page 23/24
Abbreviation for Variation.

The internal angle formed by two slopes of a roof.
Wind load on a building, which causes a load in the upward
direction.
Rafters that run from a ridgeboard to a valley rafter.
Diagonal rafter at the intersection of two intersecting sloping roofs.
A practice function targeted at the design itself, which has as its
objective the development of design of a facility or item that will yield
least life-cycle costs or provide greatest value while satisfying all
performance and other criteria established for it.
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VARIATION
Work that is neither expressly included in nor implied by the original

contract and therefore is not in the contract price, whether it
represents a change or alteration to the original work or simply an
addition to or omission from it.
VESSEL
VENT
VIERENDEEL GIRDER
VIEW
A tank or cylinder used for the storage of liquids or gases.

A screened opening for ventilation.
A rigid jointed rectangular frame or member.
Orthogonal projection showing the visible part of an object and also,
if necessary, its hidden outlines.
W/C
W/E
W.P.
WHL CLIENT
WASHER PLATES
Abbreviation for Week Commencing.

Abbreviation for Week Ending.
Abbreviation for Working Point.
WHL-UK or WHL-UAE as appropriate.
Used in conjunction with H.D. Bolts/Anchor Bolts - cast into concrete
to lock the bolts into place.
WALLS
WEATHER STRIPPING
Vertical assemblies which are load-bearing.

Strips of fabric or metal fastened around the edges of windows and
doors to prevent air infiltration.
High strength, low allow structural steel which possess good weather
resistance to atmospheric conditions without the need for protective
coatings. Often used in bridge construction.
WEATHERING STEELS
WEB
WEB PLATE
That portion of a rolled steel section between the flanges.

A plate welded to the web of a rolled section between root fillets,
primarily for the purpose of increasing the shear capacity of the web
(also can contribute to the bearing and buckling strength of the
section).
WEB STIFFENER
Stiffener: A member used to strengthen a plate against lateral or

local buckling.
A triangular piece of steel used to adjust the line and level of
columns.
Distance from centre-to centre of the outermost crane wheels.
The vertical forces without impact produced on a crane ok wheel
bearing on a runway rail or suspended from a runway beam.
Maximum wheel load occurs with the crane loaded at rated capacity
and the trolley positioned to provide maximum vertical force at one
set of wheels.
WEDGES
WHEEL BASE
WHEEL LOAD
WIND COLUMN
WINDOWS
WORKING DRAWINGS
WORKING LINE (W.L.)

WORKING MODEL
WORKING POINTS (W.P.)
A vertical member designed to withstand horizontal wind loads,

usually in the endwall.
Glazed openings in partitions, walls and cladding.
A set of drawings issued for construction, showing the detailed
architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, hydraulic,
landscaping or other design solutions and details for a project.
The line formed between Working Points to which a member is setout
A 3-D CAD model produced for the purposes of generating
fabrication details and other related project activities.
The primary points between which a member is set-out (also see
Set-Out Points).
X
XOX
Abbreviation for an Ordinary Bolt assembly, comprising of a

Hexagonal (X) head bolt, a Round (O) shank, and Hexagonal (X)
head nut.
XOX-SS
Designation used in X-Steel to define Set Screws/Fully Threaded

Bolts.
Bracing system with members arranged diagonally in both directions
to form an "X". See Bracing.
3-D CAD modelling and detailing software for structures.
X-BRACING
X-STEEL
Z
"Z" SECTION
ZINC PLATED
ZINC - ALUMINIUM COATED
Page 24/24
A member cold formed from steel sheet in the approximate shape of

a "Z".
Most common type of surface finish applied to bolts. Treatment is
electrostatically deposited. Abbreviated to BZP (Bright Zinc Plated).
Steel coated with an alloy of zinc and aluminium to provide corrosion
resistance.
11/25/2015

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Steelwork Glossary

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WHIL Steelwork Glossary

GLOSSARY OF STRUCTURAL STEELWORK TERMS

Abbreviation for American Institute of Steel Construction.

A structural system utilizing members which when fastened together

An item named and specified by manufacturers reference meets the

Satisfactory to and approved by the reviewing authority associated

Ability of a space to be entered with ease.

The cost actually incurred by the Contractor in the performance of

Achieved size obtained by measurement.

A structure designed and constructed to house farm implements, hay

Framed construction of triangular cross-section, with legs joined at the top

ALUMINIUM COATED STEEL

Steel coated with aluminium for corrosion resistance.

Bolts used to anchor members to a foundation or other support. Also

WHIL Steelwork Glossary

A Set of drawings that may include framing plans, elevations and

A Contractor who has demonstrated that they have the expertise,

Refers to manufacturers, materials, products, systems, or equipment

Curved structural member designed to carry loads between points of

Drawing which shows the appearance of general arrangements, assemblies,

Drawing used to record the details of a structure following its completion.

(Allowable Strength Design). Method of proportioning structural

A group of mutually dependent and compatible components or

A number given to each separate part of the building for erection

Abbreviation for British Constructional Steelwork Association.

Abbreviation for Bottom of Baseplate

WHIL Steelwork Glossary

A projection formed by three windows that are joined at obtuse

BEAM AND COLUMN

BILL OF QUANTITIES (BQ)

BIRDS MOUTH NOTCH

A Structural system consisting of a series of rather beams supported

Frame construction with posts and braces used for stiffening.

A Structural support projecting from a structural member. Examples

A load lifting system consisting of a hoist, which moves laterally on a

The extent to which the design of a building facilitates ease of

A structure forming an open, partially enclosed space constructed by

A collection of legal requirements for buildings designed to protect

WHIL Steelwork Glossary

Setback restrictions on property, established by zoning ordinances,

Vertical masonry or concrete support, usually larger at the base,

Abbreviation for Centre Line.

CAD data file(s) organised according to the physical parts of the

CENTRE OF GRAVITY (CofG)

Double masonry wall having an air space between the skins.

The geometrical centre of a section.

WHIL Steelwork Glossary

CHANGES IN THE WORK - SIGNIFICANT

When the character of the work, as altered, (1) differs materially in

CHANGES TO THE WORK

Additions, deletions, or revisions to the work within the general scope

Top or bottom member of a truss.

A check performed in 3-D CAD models in order to eliminate

An angle fitting (usually with holes) used to pick-up connections for

CLOSE TOLLERANCE BOLTS

Special bolt type which is manufactured to a higher level of

COLD FORMED/COLD FORMING

A joint provided along the length of a column/to join two column

Small section angles which connect diagonally between the inside

The process of updating calculations/detail drawings in line with

Form of construction in which the concrete slab is linked into the

A force that tends to make a member fail because of crushing.

WHIL Steelwork Glossary