NEW MEXICO GS-24 STRUCTURAL STEEL ERECTION
Exam 2026-2027 BANK QUESTIONS WITH DETAILED
VERIFIED ANSWERS EXAM QUESTIONS WILL
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QUESTION 1
In structural steel erection, the term "column splice" refers to which of
the following?
A) A connection that joins two beam ends in a straight line
B) A vertical joint that connects two column sections end-to-end
C) A horizontal connection between a beam and a girder
D) A temporary bolted connection used during hoisting
ANSWER: B
Explanation: A column splice is specifically a vertical end-to-end
connection of two column sections to achieve the required building
height. This connection is typically located a few feet above the floor or
erection level to allow for practical assembly and to avoid the most
highly stressed regions of the column. Column splices are distinct from
beam splices and are designed to transfer axial loads, shear, and
moment, depending on the connection detailing.
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QUESTION 2
The New Mexico State Construction Industries Division adopts which
national standard as the primary regulatory reference for structural
steel erection?
A) ASTM A36
B) AISC 303-10
C) OSHA 29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart R
D) AWS D1.1
ANSWER: C
Explanation: OSHA 29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart R—Steel Erection—is the
primary federal standard adopted by New Mexico for structural steel
erection. While AISC and AWS standards are industry best practices and
often referenced, Subpart R contains the specific mandatory safety and
operational requirements that govern steel erection activities in New
Mexico. Subpart R addresses fall protection, structural stability, column
anchorage, and hoisting operations.
QUESTION 3
According to OSHA Subpart R, what is the maximum allowable gap
between the edge of a walking/working surface and the edge of a
structural member for a 30-inch-wide decking panel?
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A) 2 inches
B) 6 inches
C) 12 inches
D) 18 inches
ANSWER: B
Explanation: The maximum gap permitted is 6 inches when using 30-
inch-wide metal decking panels. This is established to prevent workers'
feet or legs from falling through the opening. The gap is measured from
the edge of the walking surface to the supporting structural member.
Wider gaps increase the risk of falls and require additional fall
protection measures.
QUESTION 4
When using a wire rope sling during steel erection, what minimum
safety factor is required by OSHA for the sling's rated capacity?
A) 3:1
B) 5:1
C) 7:1
D) 10:1
ANSWER: B
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Explanation: OSHA requires a minimum design factor of 5:1 for wire
rope slings used in construction, meaning the breaking strength must be
at least five times the maximum intended load. This safety factor
accounts for dynamic loading, wear, and variations in rope
construction. While a 10:1 factor is used for personnel hoisting, the
standard for material handling is 5:1.
QUESTION 5
In an AISC steel connection, a "shear connection" is primarily designed
to transmit:
A) Bending moment only
B) Axial tension only
C) Vertical and horizontal shear forces with minimal moment
D) Torsional forces only
ANSWER: C
Explanation: A shear connection, such as a double-angle or single-plate
connection, is designed to transfer vertical and horizontal shear forces
between connected members while allowing for rotation. These
connections are assumed to have negligible moment capacity, meaning
the beam end is free to rotate. The AISC Steel Construction Manual
classifies these as "simple" connections.