SSMA Launches Third-Party Steel Framing Certification Program
LAS VEGAS, NV – The membership of the Steel Stud Manufacturers Association voted unanimously March 26th to instruct its Board of Directors and Technical Committee to develop a third-party certification program to be implemented Jan. 1, 2009.

SSMA members are already leaders in code compliance within the steel stud construction industry, because the SSMA Bylaws require members to remain in good standing with the appropriate code agency. This program will provide the marketplace with certification of steel framing code compliance, supported by third party inspection of SSMA members’ steel framing manufacturing plants. The program will also help ensure that SSMA’s customers and the contractors will receive what has been specified on a project.

The third-party certification program will begin with heavier structural framing to be followed with a program certifying members’ drywall framing products.

Concurrent with the development of testing and inspection standards, SSMA will launch a communications plan to promote and strengthen the SSMA membership brand as well as educate contractors, architects, and code officials on key properties and what product markings will confirm that the product is code compliant.

The Steel Stud Manufacturers Association is the Chicago-based trade association representing leading manufacturers of steel studs, track and joists. Its twenty-two roll forming member companies support the development and maintenance of quality product standards and specifications for the steel-framing manufacturing industry. www.ssma.com.

Source: Steel Stud Manufacturers Association, March 26, 2008