The BSCA has recently published the 7th edition of the NSSS. This latest edition has been extensively updated.
The 7th edition of the National Structural Steelwork Specification (NSSS) continues to meet its objective of achieving greater uniformity in steelwork contract specifications and is recognised as a document that can be incorporated readily into contract documentation to specify acceptable standards for the fabrication and erection of steelwork structures for buildings.
It can be used for all types of building construction designed for static loading and is based on Execution Class 2 structural steelwork designed in accordance with EN 1993-1-1 and executed in accordance with EN 1090-1 and EN 1090-2. Annexes for Execution Class 3 for static and fatigue structures are also included.
The principal topics covered in the NSSS are as follows:
- Information required by the Steelwork Contractor
- Materials & Specifiers
- Information provided by the Steelwork Contractor & Main Contractors
- Workmanship
- Bolting
- Fabrication Accuracy
- Erection
- Erection Accuracy
- Protective Treatment
- Quality Management
NSSS 7th Edition has several changes - the key of which is below:
Section 5
of the NSSS now includes a requirement for the Steelwork Contractor’s system for the management of welding to be certified by a National Accredited Body (NAB) to the appropriate quality requirements described in EN ISO 3834.
Section 10
of the NSSS ow includes comprehensive information on intumescent paint systems and to improve quality, it encourages the paint systems to be applied in the workshop rather than on-site.
To allow steelwork contractors time to put in place the necessary third party systems to comply with the Specification the 7th Edition of the NSSS will come in to force 1st January 2021.
To achieve EN ISO 3834 certification, companies must have an audited Welding Quality Management System (WQMS) system in place. A key aspect of the WQMS system involves the requirement for a Responsible Welding Coordinator.
If your company fabricates structural steel and needs professional assistance in setting up a WQMS system or requires more information please contact:
Gerry McCarthy
International Welding Engineer,
BEng, MSc, IWE, CEng, MIEI, MWeldI.
Director, WQMS Ltd.
