Direct Answer
Steel erection is typically sequenced from the ground up, working outward from the crane's most favorable position. Columns are plumbed and temporarily guyed, then beams are connected floor by floor. The sequence prioritizes structural stability at each stage — never leave a partially-erected structure without adequate temporary bracing to resist wind loads.
Full Explanation
A typical erection sequence for a 5-story office building: (1) Grout base plates and confirm anchor bolt projection. (2) Set and plumb first-tier columns (2–3 stories). (3) Install first-floor beams and make up connections. (4) Conduct plumb-and-square check before proceeding. (5) Set second-tier columns. (6) Install second-floor beams. Continue in tiers. The erection engineer provides a temporary stability analysis — required by OSHA 1926.755 — that identifies minimum requirements for temporary bracing at each erection stage. Do not exceed these requirements.
What This Means for Your Shop
As a fabricator, you are responsible for shipping steel in the erection sequence. Delivering assemblies out of sequence forces the ironwork crew to sort material in the field — a wasteful, expensive activity.
Common Mistakes
Not providing an erection engineering analysis on multi-story projects. OSHA 1926.755 requires that a structural engineer analyze the building's stability during each phase of erection. Failure to do this is a regulatory violation and a safety hazard.
Recommended Process
Before erection begins, hold a pre-erection meeting with the ironwork foreman, crane operator, and GC safety supervisor. Review the erection sequence, temporary bracing plan, crane picks, and safety requirements. Document attendance and agenda.