The most important aspect in metal fabrication is maintaining the metal’s quality. Compromising is never a choice, as millions of future projects depend upon it. One slight mistake and it all goes down the drain: the reputation of the manufacturers, the suppliers, the consumers, and the projects themselves, along with the precious resources that are invested into them.
Thus, multiple industry standards and certifications guide metal fabrication and ensure the metal’s quality.
If you are a buyer who is sourcing metal, you must know about these to source the best quality metal.
If you are looking for quality metal, AZ Metals is the best for metal custom fabrication in Phoenix, AZ.
Here are the essential standards and certifications you must be aware of:
ISO 9001
ISO 9001 is a globally recognized certification, including in the US. It sets the standards for a company’s quality management system (QMS), ensuring that products meet customer and regulatory requirements consistently. For metal fabrication companies, having this certification means a commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
AWS D1.1
The American Welding Society has prescribed standards for welding, and AWS D1.1 covers structural welding in the US. It outlines the requirements for welding processes, materials, and qualifications of welders for structural steel. It applies to the welding of structural components and is commonly used by companies that assist in building bridges, buildings, and other infrastructure components. The standard covers the safety and strength of the final products.
At AZ Metals, we provide welding services among the suite of our fabrication services, and we follow AWS D1.1 standards to ensure that all our clients, retail or wholesale, get the best welding services.
ASME Section IX
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers has specified welding and brazing standards for vessels, pipes, and other components that face high pressure. Metal fabricators working on boilers, pressure vessels, and related components must meet ASME standards to ensure the materials and workmanship can withstand demanding conditions.
AISC
It stands for American Institution of Steel Construction and offers certification courses for steel contractors working on commercial and public infrastructure projects. Companies engaging in steel fabrication must hire employees with this certification as it covers the company’s quality management processes, employee qualifications, and adherence to safety standards. The steel contractors who engage in building skyscrapers, bridges, etc., must obtain this certification.
ANSI
The American National Standards Institute prescribes many standards, including for metal fabrication. These standards ensure the safety and performance of machinery, tools, and welding equipment. For instance, ANSI Z49.1 covers safety requirements for welding, cutting, and allied processes.
Working around metal is a hazardous task, and thus, safety at the workplace is vital. Companies must adhere to these guidelines to maintain workplace safety and protect workers from hazards associated with welding and metalworking.
UL Certification
Underwriters Laboratories Certification is for metal fabricators who are engaged in the fabrication of electrical components.
It sets standards for safety, ensuring that metal parts used in electrical equipment meet strict requirements to prevent hazards like overheating or electrical fires.
Many companies engaged directly or indirectly in such applications are required to obtain this certification.
OSHA Compliance
These are not certifications, but every metal fabricator must comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines to ensure workplace safety. OSHA establishes regulations to protect workers from accidents and injuries in industrial environments.
Industries house multiple machinery, dangerous tools, and thousands of workers who work in this environment. It is the absolute responsibility of the companies to ensure that they have policies in place to ensure that work environments are safe, machinery is working properly and is maintained as per regulations, employees are trained in safety protocols, etc.
Conclusion
Metal fabricators have a huge responsibility for their work, maintaining quality, and employees. The certifications and standards discussed above aim to ensure that metal fabricators ensure safety and quality while training competitively in the market.
At AZ Metals, we understand that metal work is hazardous; thus, we ensure that we have stringent rules in place to ensure that our workers are safe and our work environment is great. We also ensure that we only offer quality products and services to our customers. The multiple awards and recognitions that we have received over the past decade attest to our reliability, quality, and experience.
For quality metal custom fabrication in Phoenix, AZ, contact us today.
