North Carolina (NC) (S) Metal Erection Practice Exam
1. Which of the following best describes the primary significance of metal erection in commercial
and industrial projects in North Carolina?
A. Aesthetic improvement to building interiors
B. Enhanced structural integrity and long-span capabilities
C. Reduction of construction waste by 100%
D. Restriction of projects to one-story buildings
Answer: B. Enhanced structural integrity and long-span capabilities
Explanation: Metal (particularly steel) provides a high strength-to-weight ratio, allowing for taller
structures and longer spans. This benefit is crucial for commercial and industrial buildings where open
interior space is desired.
2. Pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMB) are particularly popular in North Carolina for which
main reason?
A. They require complex on-site customization
B. They have higher material costs compared to traditional construction
C. They offer faster installation and reduced labor costs
D. They cannot meet local building codes
Answer: C. They offer faster installation and reduced labor costs
Explanation: Pre-engineered metal buildings are fabricated off-site and shipped in ready-to-assemble
sections, significantly reducing labor costs and construction time. They are also designed to meet or
exceed local building codes when properly specified.
3. Which North Carolina regulatory body oversees the licensure for contractors engaged in metal
erection?
A. North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)
B. North Carolina Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors
C. North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors
D. North Carolina Department of Environment and Quality
Answer: C. North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors
Explanation: In North Carolina, general contractors, including those specializing in metal erection (S
classification), must be licensed by the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors.
4. In North Carolina, the building code that sets standards for metal erection is largely based on
which of the following codes?
A. International Building Code (IBC)
B. Uniform Building Code (UBC)
C. National Building Code of Canada
D. BOCA National Building Code
,Answer: A. International Building Code (IBC)
Explanation: The North Carolina State Building Code adopts and modifies the International Building
Code (IBC). This code sets structural requirements for steel framing, connections, fire protection, and
more.
5. Which of the following is NOT typically considered a key structural steel component in metal
erection?
A. Beams
B. Columns
C. Girders
D. Drywall studs
Answer: D. Drywall studs
Explanation: Structural steel typically includes beams, columns, girders, joists, and trusses designed to
carry heavy loads. Drywall studs are usually cold-formed light-gauge steel members, not part of the
primary structural framing in large-scale metal erection.
6. When erecting structural steel columns, what is the usual method of ensuring a secure
foundation connection?
A. Embedding columns directly into the soil
B. Using anchor bolts set in concrete footings
C. Relying on tension-only cables
D. Using wooden shims around the base
Answer: B. Using anchor bolts set in concrete footings
Explanation: Columns are typically secured to a concrete foundation using anchor bolts. These bolts are
cast into the concrete and provide the necessary anchorage and alignment for the steel columns.
7. In metal erection, why are shop drawings critical?
A. They eliminate the need for building plans
B. They are only used as decoration
C. They provide detailed fabrication and erection instructions
D. They serve as a final construction permit
Answer: C. They provide detailed fabrication and erection instructions
Explanation: Shop drawings detail dimensions, connection details, and assembly instructions, ensuring
that the fabricated steel components fit correctly during erection.
8. Which term refers to the horizontal structural member used to support deck or roofing in steel
construction?
A. Purlin
B. Column
C. Gusset plate
D. Rafter
,Answer: A. Purlin
Explanation: Purlins are horizontal members that support roof decking or sheeting. Rafters are inclined
members, and columns are vertical. Gusset plates are used to connect beams and trusses.
9. A “tension control bolt” is recognized by which unique feature?
A. It is tightened with a specialized electric torque gun
B. It has a splined end that shears off once the correct tension is reached
C. It has a left-hand thread and requires special wrenches
D. It is used only for decorative applications
Answer: B. It has a splined end that shears off once the correct tension is reached
Explanation: Tension control bolts (TC bolts) have a splined tip that breaks off when the designed
tension is achieved, ensuring proper clamping force for structural connections.
10. Which of the following is NOT a typical advantage of structural steel construction?
A. High strength-to-weight ratio
B. Non-combustible material
C. Rapid erection time
D. Susceptibility to termite damage
Answer: D. Susceptibility to termite damage
Explanation: Steel is not susceptible to termites. In fact, steel is favored for being insect-resistant, among
other benefits.
11. What is the primary reason for using high-strength bolts (e.g., ASTM A325 or A490) in metal
building connections?
A. To reduce the cost of fasteners
B. To ensure connections maintain sufficient tension and shear capacity
C. To comply with aesthetic requirements
D. Because they allow for easy hand tightening
Answer: B. To ensure connections maintain sufficient tension and shear capacity
Explanation: High-strength bolts like A325 or A490 are specified to handle significant tensile and shear
loads in structural steel connections.
12. Which of the following best describes a “moment connection” in steel construction?
A. A connection that supports tension only
B. A connection that allows free rotation of beams
C. A connection designed to resist rotation, transferring bending forces
D. A connection used solely for lightweight trusses
Answer: C. A connection designed to resist rotation, transferring bending forces
Explanation: Moment connections are rigid and prevent the beam from rotating freely at the point of
connection, thereby transferring bending moments from the beam to the column.
, 13. During metal erection, “decking” typically refers to:
A. Horizontal structural boards made from timber
B. The primary load-bearing girders
C. Metal panels used as a structural floor or roof surface
D. Wooden forms for concrete slabs
Answer: C. Metal panels used as a structural floor or roof surface
Explanation: Metal decking is commonly used for floors and roofs, providing a substrate for concrete or a
base for roofing materials.
14. The primary purpose of a bridging member in open-web steel joists is:
A. To distribute loads to the columns
B. To brace the joists against lateral movement
C. To provide an aesthetic finish to the roof
D. To function as a drip edge for roof runoff
Answer: B. To brace the joists against lateral movement
Explanation: Bridging is essential to stabilize open-web steel joists, preventing buckling or twisting under
load.
15. Under OSHA’s Steel Erection standard (29 CFR 1926 Subpart R), what is the maximum height
at which workers must be protected from falls?
A. 4 feet
B. 6 feet
C. 15 feet
D. 30 feet
Answer: B. 6 feet
Explanation: For most steel erection activities, OSHA requires fall protection for workers at heights of 6
feet or more above a lower level.
16. When erecting steel columns, which device is commonly used to ensure columns are plumb
(vertically straight)?
A. A transit or laser level
B. A sledgehammer
C. A torque wrench
D. A theodolite for horizontal angles only
Answer: A. A transit or laser level
Explanation: Erectors use instruments such as transits, laser levels, or plumb bobs to verify that steel
columns are vertical before final bolting or welding.
17. Which statement is TRUE regarding the function of grout under base plates?
A. Grout is only used to prevent corrosion
B. Grout compensates for uneven surfaces on concrete foundations
1. Which of the following best describes the primary significance of metal erection in commercial
and industrial projects in North Carolina?
A. Aesthetic improvement to building interiors
B. Enhanced structural integrity and long-span capabilities
C. Reduction of construction waste by 100%
D. Restriction of projects to one-story buildings
Answer: B. Enhanced structural integrity and long-span capabilities
Explanation: Metal (particularly steel) provides a high strength-to-weight ratio, allowing for taller
structures and longer spans. This benefit is crucial for commercial and industrial buildings where open
interior space is desired.
2. Pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMB) are particularly popular in North Carolina for which
main reason?
A. They require complex on-site customization
B. They have higher material costs compared to traditional construction
C. They offer faster installation and reduced labor costs
D. They cannot meet local building codes
Answer: C. They offer faster installation and reduced labor costs
Explanation: Pre-engineered metal buildings are fabricated off-site and shipped in ready-to-assemble
sections, significantly reducing labor costs and construction time. They are also designed to meet or
exceed local building codes when properly specified.
3. Which North Carolina regulatory body oversees the licensure for contractors engaged in metal
erection?
A. North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)
B. North Carolina Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors
C. North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors
D. North Carolina Department of Environment and Quality
Answer: C. North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors
Explanation: In North Carolina, general contractors, including those specializing in metal erection (S
classification), must be licensed by the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors.
4. In North Carolina, the building code that sets standards for metal erection is largely based on
which of the following codes?
A. International Building Code (IBC)
B. Uniform Building Code (UBC)
C. National Building Code of Canada
D. BOCA National Building Code
,Answer: A. International Building Code (IBC)
Explanation: The North Carolina State Building Code adopts and modifies the International Building
Code (IBC). This code sets structural requirements for steel framing, connections, fire protection, and
more.
5. Which of the following is NOT typically considered a key structural steel component in metal
erection?
A. Beams
B. Columns
C. Girders
D. Drywall studs
Answer: D. Drywall studs
Explanation: Structural steel typically includes beams, columns, girders, joists, and trusses designed to
carry heavy loads. Drywall studs are usually cold-formed light-gauge steel members, not part of the
primary structural framing in large-scale metal erection.
6. When erecting structural steel columns, what is the usual method of ensuring a secure
foundation connection?
A. Embedding columns directly into the soil
B. Using anchor bolts set in concrete footings
C. Relying on tension-only cables
D. Using wooden shims around the base
Answer: B. Using anchor bolts set in concrete footings
Explanation: Columns are typically secured to a concrete foundation using anchor bolts. These bolts are
cast into the concrete and provide the necessary anchorage and alignment for the steel columns.
7. In metal erection, why are shop drawings critical?
A. They eliminate the need for building plans
B. They are only used as decoration
C. They provide detailed fabrication and erection instructions
D. They serve as a final construction permit
Answer: C. They provide detailed fabrication and erection instructions
Explanation: Shop drawings detail dimensions, connection details, and assembly instructions, ensuring
that the fabricated steel components fit correctly during erection.
8. Which term refers to the horizontal structural member used to support deck or roofing in steel
construction?
A. Purlin
B. Column
C. Gusset plate
D. Rafter
,Answer: A. Purlin
Explanation: Purlins are horizontal members that support roof decking or sheeting. Rafters are inclined
members, and columns are vertical. Gusset plates are used to connect beams and trusses.
9. A “tension control bolt” is recognized by which unique feature?
A. It is tightened with a specialized electric torque gun
B. It has a splined end that shears off once the correct tension is reached
C. It has a left-hand thread and requires special wrenches
D. It is used only for decorative applications
Answer: B. It has a splined end that shears off once the correct tension is reached
Explanation: Tension control bolts (TC bolts) have a splined tip that breaks off when the designed
tension is achieved, ensuring proper clamping force for structural connections.
10. Which of the following is NOT a typical advantage of structural steel construction?
A. High strength-to-weight ratio
B. Non-combustible material
C. Rapid erection time
D. Susceptibility to termite damage
Answer: D. Susceptibility to termite damage
Explanation: Steel is not susceptible to termites. In fact, steel is favored for being insect-resistant, among
other benefits.
11. What is the primary reason for using high-strength bolts (e.g., ASTM A325 or A490) in metal
building connections?
A. To reduce the cost of fasteners
B. To ensure connections maintain sufficient tension and shear capacity
C. To comply with aesthetic requirements
D. Because they allow for easy hand tightening
Answer: B. To ensure connections maintain sufficient tension and shear capacity
Explanation: High-strength bolts like A325 or A490 are specified to handle significant tensile and shear
loads in structural steel connections.
12. Which of the following best describes a “moment connection” in steel construction?
A. A connection that supports tension only
B. A connection that allows free rotation of beams
C. A connection designed to resist rotation, transferring bending forces
D. A connection used solely for lightweight trusses
Answer: C. A connection designed to resist rotation, transferring bending forces
Explanation: Moment connections are rigid and prevent the beam from rotating freely at the point of
connection, thereby transferring bending moments from the beam to the column.
, 13. During metal erection, “decking” typically refers to:
A. Horizontal structural boards made from timber
B. The primary load-bearing girders
C. Metal panels used as a structural floor or roof surface
D. Wooden forms for concrete slabs
Answer: C. Metal panels used as a structural floor or roof surface
Explanation: Metal decking is commonly used for floors and roofs, providing a substrate for concrete or a
base for roofing materials.
14. The primary purpose of a bridging member in open-web steel joists is:
A. To distribute loads to the columns
B. To brace the joists against lateral movement
C. To provide an aesthetic finish to the roof
D. To function as a drip edge for roof runoff
Answer: B. To brace the joists against lateral movement
Explanation: Bridging is essential to stabilize open-web steel joists, preventing buckling or twisting under
load.
15. Under OSHA’s Steel Erection standard (29 CFR 1926 Subpart R), what is the maximum height
at which workers must be protected from falls?
A. 4 feet
B. 6 feet
C. 15 feet
D. 30 feet
Answer: B. 6 feet
Explanation: For most steel erection activities, OSHA requires fall protection for workers at heights of 6
feet or more above a lower level.
16. When erecting steel columns, which device is commonly used to ensure columns are plumb
(vertically straight)?
A. A transit or laser level
B. A sledgehammer
C. A torque wrench
D. A theodolite for horizontal angles only
Answer: A. A transit or laser level
Explanation: Erectors use instruments such as transits, laser levels, or plumb bobs to verify that steel
columns are vertical before final bolting or welding.
17. Which statement is TRUE regarding the function of grout under base plates?
A. Grout is only used to prevent corrosion
B. Grout compensates for uneven surfaces on concrete foundations
