Direct Answer
Incoming structural steel should be inspected for: correct section size (section designation stamped or verified with scale), length (for pre-cut material), material grade (from mill certification matching the heat number stenciled on the steel), surface condition (no excessive rust, seams, or lamination), and quantity (matching the purchase order). Any discrepancies must be documented and reported to the supplier before the material enters production.
Full Explanation
Receiving inspection procedure: (1) Verify the delivery matches the purchase order — section, grade, quantity, and lengths. (2) Locate heat numbers stenciled on each piece. (3) Match heat numbers to the accompanying mill certifications. Verify: ASTM grade, chemical composition, and mechanical test results on the cert match the specified requirements. (4) Visually inspect for surface defects: heavy lamination (delamination visible at the end), excessive seams, or obvious dimensional distortion. (5) For pre-cut material, spot-check lengths with a tape measure. (6) Sign the delivery receipt only after verification — signing indicates acceptance.
What This Means for Your Shop
Material accepted into the shop without proper receiving inspection becomes your problem if quality issues emerge later. A supplier who delivers A36 when A572 was ordered can claim you accepted it when you signed the delivery ticket.
Common Mistakes
Signing delivery receipts without inspecting material, especially when trucks arrive during busy periods. A signed receipt is an acceptance document — disputing material quality after signing is much harder than refusing it at delivery.
Recommended Process
Assign a dedicated receiving inspector (or train the receiving dock personnel) in the material inspection procedure. Post a receiving inspection checklist at the dock. Require the receiving checklist to be completed before any delivery ticket is signed.