The American Iron and Steel Institute announces the release of a new Code of Standard Practice for Cold-Formed Steel Structural Framing. Developed by the AISI Committee on Framing Standards, reviewed by several peer committees within the industry, is endorsed by the Steel Framing Alliance and Steel Stud Manufacturers Association, this document will help define the lines of responsibility in cold-formed steel framing design and construction, which have previously been vague and unclear. It represents a significant step forward for the industry and is available as a free download from the Steel Framing Alliance Web site.

The COFS began development of this Code of Standard Practice in 2002. It defines accepted norms of good practice for fabrication and installation of cold-formed steel structural framing. Among the many topics covered are general requirements, classification of materials, plans and specifications, installation drawings, materials, manufacture and delivery, installation requirements, quality control, and contractual relations. The document helps define the roles of the owner's representative, architect of record, engineer of record, specialty engineer, manufacturer, framing contractor and truss/wall panel supplier in the design and construction of cold-formed steel framed structural systems. It is loosely based on similar documents by the American Institute of Steel Construction and Steel Joist Institute, and was guided by documents by the Steel truss and Component Association and the Council of American Structural Engineers.

The AISI Committee on Framing Standards is an ANSI-accredited, consensus standards body that develops, maintains, and improves AISI design and installation standards with the purpose of eliminating regulatory barriers and increasing the reliability and cost competitiveness of cold-formed steel framing.