A program to independently certify that cold-formed steel (CFS) connectors consistently meet minimum manufacturing quality standards has been approved by the Falls Church, Va.-based Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA). In CFS construction, connectors are galvanized steel straps, ties, or angles typically used to hold structural elements of a building together. This can be connecting the top of a wall to the roof trusses or attaching walls to the foundation. Connectors are considered structural elements that help ensure that buildings are safe even when subjected to high winds and seismic forces.
Manufacturers that participate in the Manufacturing Compliance Certification Program agree to comply with requirements that govern the materials used to produce the connectors, protection against corrosion, manufacturing tolerances, and marking requirements. A third-party administrator audits each manufacturing facility twice each year to ensure these standards are met. SFIA encourages all companies that manufacture CFS connectors to apply for the program, and has made participation in the program a membership requirement. Selection of the third-party administrator for this SFIA program is underway, with audits to begin in July 2013. To learn more, visit www.steelframingassociation.org.