Direct Answer
A steel erection plan is a project-specific document outlining the planned erection sequence, crane type and location, temporary bracing strategy, safety measures, and logistical requirements for site delivery. On most projects it is prepared by the erection subcontractor and reviewed by the GC. For OSHA compliance, the erection plan must include a site-specific erection engineering analysis for multi-story projects.
Full Explanation
A comprehensive erection plan includes: project overview (location, total tons, number of pieces), crane selection and positioning diagrams (showing coverage radius and lift capacity at maximum radius), erection sequence by tier with estimated daily production rates, temporary bracing plan (engineering analysis attached), safety plan (fall protection, connecting and disconnecting, bolt-up safety), delivery routing plan for trucks, and coordination with other trades working concurrently. On large projects, a 4D erection simulation (linked BIM model) may accompany the plan.
What This Means for Your Shop
The erection plan directly determines your shipping sequence and delivery window. Review the erection plan before finalizing your shipping schedule. If the plan calls for 30 pieces per day but you're shipping 50, the ironwork crew will be overwhelmed and material will stack up on site.
Common Mistakes
Not coordinating the erection plan with your fabrication shipping schedule. The erection contractor's plan is optimized for their operations; it may not align with your production sequence without adjustment.
Recommended Process
Share your production schedule and planned shipping sequence with the erection contractor at least 4 weeks before first delivery. Review the erection plan together and resolve any sequence conflicts. Document agreed delivery windows.