The steel framing industry operates on the foundation of robust standards that ensure safety, innovation, and consistency in design and construction. These standards not only guide professionals but also maintain the credibility and reliability of cold-formed steel (CFS) applications. Recent changes in the industry have resulted in changes in the responsibility of standards development. Let’s explore the key standards and their host organizations.

A Turning Point for CFS Framing Standards

In 2023, the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) abandoned its standards development and construction code advocacy program. Initially transferred the Steel Deck Institute (SDI), framing standards were acquired by to the Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA) at the end of 2023. This move raised questions about the future of cold-formed steel standards and their adoption into building codes.

SFIA, under the leadership of Executive Director Don Allen, has taken significant steps to ensure a smooth transition. In December 2024, SFIA began managing the S200 series of standards, the S400 seismic design standard, and twelve of the S900 series test standards. These efforts are supported by the SFIA Standards Committee, which uses the canvass method to develop and maintain standards efficiently.

Summary of Where the CFS Standards are ending up in this Post-AISI World

Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA):

1. AISI S202 – Code of Standard Practice for Cold-Formed Steel Structural Framing.
2. AISI S220 – North American Standard for Nonstructural Framing.
3. AISI S230 – Prescriptive Method for One- and Two-Family Dwellings.
4. AISI S240 – North American Standard for Structural Framing.
5. AISI S250 – Thermal Transmittance of Building Envelopes.
6. AISI S400 – Seismic Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural Systems.
7. AISI S9XX – A suite of twelve test standards (S909 – S911 and S913 – S921) defining testing requirements for cold-formed steel members and assemblies.

American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)

• S100 (except Section 𝐈6 ) – The standard for cold-formed steel member design.
• Test Standards: S902, S903, 904, S905, S923, and S924, addressing testing methods for steel components.

Steel Deck Institute (SDI)

• S310 – A specialized standard for steel deck design and application.
• S400 Sections F1.4.1.2 and F3 – Criteria for steel decks under specific conditions.
• Test Standards: S907 and S922, focused on material performance.

Metal Building Manufacturers’ Association (MBMA)

• S100 Section 𝐈6 – Requirements for cold-formed steel in metal buildings.
• Test Standards: S901, S906, S908, and S912, ensuring the safety of metal building components.

Material Handling Industry / Rack Manufacturers Institute (MHI/RMI)

• Test Standard S902 – Addresses the reliability of steel racks and material handling systems.

The Role of Collaboration in Standards Development

In September 2024, the Steel Associations Council (SAC) convened to discuss the funding of code advocacy and research, alongside the management of former AISI standards. Their collaborative efforts ensured that the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) continue referencing CFS framing standards. This initiative underscores the industry’s dedication to maintaining robust and relevant standards.