Wordpress Theme

Handling and Storing Materials

Blocking under the columns and rafters protects the splice plates and the slab from damage during the unloading process. It also facililtates the placing of slings or cables around the members for later lifting and allows members to be bolted together into sub-assemblies while on the ground. Extra care should always be exercised in the unloading operation to prevent injuries from handling the steel and to prevent damage to materials and the concrete slab.

If water is allowed to remain for extended periods in bundles of primed parts such as girts, purlins, etc., the pigment will fade and the paint will gradually soften reducing its bond to the steel. Therefore, upon receipt of a job, all bundles of primed parts should be stored at an angle to allow any trapped water to drain away and permit air circulation for drying. Puddles of water should not be allowed to collect and remain on columns or rafters for the same reason. All primer should be touched up as required before erection.

Packages of sheets should be lifted off the truck with extreme care taken to insure that no damage occurs to ends of the sheets or to side ribs. The packages should be stored off the ground sufficiently high to allow air circulation underneath the packages. This avoids ground moisture and deters people from walking on the packages. One end of the package should always be elevated to encourage drainage in case of rain. Moisture in contact with the surface of the panels over an extended period can severely attack the finish and reduce the effective service life. Therefore, it is imperative that all panels be inspected for moisture upon receipt of the order. If moisture is present, dry the panels at once and store in a dry warm place.

<>CAUTION: Care should always be taken when walking on panels. Use safety lines and nets when necessary. Panels are slippery. Oil or wax applied to the roof and wall panels for protection against weather damage will make them a very slippery surface. Wipe dry any oil that has puddled from bundles stored on a slope. Dew, frost, or other forms of moisture greatly increase the slipperiness of the panels. Always assume panel surfaces are slippery and act accordingly. Think safety!

<>Use wood blocking to elevate and slope the panels in a manner that will allow moisture to drain. Wood blocking placed between bundles will provide additional air circulation. Cover the stacked bundles with a tarp or plastic cover leaving enough opening at the bottom for air to circulate.

When handling or uncrating the panels, lift, rather than slide them apart. Burred edges may scratch the coated surfaces when sheets are slid over one another. Never allow panels to be walked on while on the ground. Use gloves when handling metal panels to prevent hand injuries. Be aware of the dangers of handling panels on a windy day. A large panel can catch enough wind to knock a worker off his feet, even at gound level.