Direct Answer
Steel fabrication project close-out involves delivering: as-built shop drawings (reflecting all field modifications), welder certifications and WPS records, material test reports (MTRs) organized by member, special inspection reports, coating inspection records, any open NCR dispositions, and — increasingly — an as-built BIM model. These documents are typically required before the fabricator receives final payment.
Full Explanation
Close-out document package components: (1) As-built drawings — shop drawings marked up with field modifications. (2) Material documentation — MTRs for all structural steel by heat number. (3) Welding documentation — WPS, PQR, and welder WPQ records for all weld processes used. (4) Inspection records — special inspection log, NDT reports (UT/MT), coating DFT reports. (5) NCR log — all NCRs issued and their dispositions. (6) RFI log — all submitted RFIs with responses. (7) Submittals — all approved submittals. (8) BIM model — as-built IFC at specified LOD (if required). Organize this package throughout the project, not as a last-minute scramble.
What This Means for Your Shop
Project close-out documentation that is assembled in real time (maintained throughout the project) takes 4–8 hours to compile at project end. Documentation assembled after-the-fact from memory and partial records takes 40–80 hours and is often incomplete — which holds up final payment.
Common Mistakes
Not collecting MTRs from material deliveries promptly. MTRs for material received 6 months ago from a service center that has since replaced their staff are difficult or impossible to recover.
Recommended Process
Maintain a close-out folder from project day one. As material arrives, file MTRs by heat number. As welds are performed, log welders and WPS references. At project end, a complete close-out package is ready in hours, not weeks.