Preface

This document is a standard developed by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration. The goal of the
Collaboration is to achieve steel bridge design and construction of the highest quality and value through standardization
of steel bridge design, fabrication, construction, inspection, and long-term maintenance. Each standard represents the
consensus of a diverse group of professionals.

It is intended that Owners adopt and implement Collaboration documents in their entirety to facilitate the
achievement of standardization. It is understood, however, that local statutes or preferences may prevent full adoption
of the document. In such cases, Owners should adopt these documents with the exceptions they feel are necessary.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.

Disclaimer
The information presented in this publication has been prepared in accordance with recognized engineering
principles and is for general information only. While it is believed to be accurate, this information should not
be used or relied upon for any specific application without competent professional examination and verification
of its accuracy, suitability, and applicability by a licensed professional engineer, designer, or architect.

The publication of the material contained herein is not intended as a representation or warranty
of the part of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO)
or the National Steel Bridge Alliance (NSBA) or of any other person named herein, that this
information is suitable for any general or particular use or of freedom from infringement of any patent
or patents. Anyone making use of this information assumes all liability arising from such use.

Caution must be exercised when relying upon other specifications and codes developed by other bodies
and incorporated by reference herein since such material may be modified or amended from time to time
subsequent to the printing of this edition. The authors and publishers bear no responsibility for such material
other than to refer to it and incorporate it by reference at the time of the initial publication of this edition.

AASHTO Publication No: NSBASQBI-3

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF STATE HIGHWAY AND TRANSPORTATION OFFICIALS
555 12th Street, N.W., Suite 1000
Washington, D.C. 20004

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
2024–2025

OFFICERS:

PRESIDENT: Garret Eucalitto, Connecticut

VICE PRESIDENT: Russell McMurry, Georgia

SECRETARY–TREASURER: Russell McMurry, Georgia

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Jim Tymon, Washington, D. C.

REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVES:

REGION I: William J. Cass, New Hampshire

Paul Wiedefeld, Maryland

REGION II: Jim Gray, Kentucky

Justin Powell, South Carolina

REGION III: Scott Marler, Iowa

Mike Smith, Indiana

REGION IV: Ed Sniffen, Hawaii

Marc Williams, Texas

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT: Roger M. Millar, Washington

i
Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration
All rights reserved.
 AASHTO Committee on Bridges and Structures, 2024
CARMEN E.L. SWANWICK, Chair, Utah
JASON HASTINGS, Vice Chair, Delaware
JOSEPH L. HARTMANN, U.S. DOT Liaison, Federal Highway Administration
PATRICIA J. BUSH, AASHTO Liaison

ALABAMA DELAWARE INDIANA

William “Tim” Colquett Jason Arndt Anne Rearick
Eric Christie Kevin Lindell Jennifer Hart
Nick Walker Scott Walls Stephanie Wagner

ALASKA DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA IOWA

Leslie Daugherty Konjit Eskender Jim Hauber
Jesse Escamilla III Richard Kenney James Nelson
Nicholas Murray Gang Zhang Michael Nop

ARIZONA FLORIDA KANSAS

David Benton William Potter Mark Hurt
Navaphan Viboolmate Benjamin Goldsberry Karen Peterson
Felix Padilla Dominique Shannon
ARKANSAS
Charles “Rick” Ellis GEORGIA KENTUCKY
Andy Nanneman Donn Digamon Michael Carpenter
Steven Peyton Doug Franks Royce Meredith
Steve Gaston Carl Van Zee
CALIFORNIA
Jason Chou HAWAII LOUISIANA
Vassil Simeonov James Fu Mark Bucci
Don Nguyen-Tan Nicholas Groves Chris Guidry
Kelly Kemp
COLORADO IDAHO
Michael Collins Melissa Hennessy MAINE
Jessica Martinez Elsa Johnson Wayne Frankhauser
Tyler Weldon Mike Johnson Richard Myers
Michael Wight
CONNECTICUT ILLINOIS
Andrew Cardinali Jayme Schiff MARYLAND
Bao Chuong Mark Shaffer Maurizio Agostino
Bart Sweeney Benjamin Hokuf

ii
Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration
All rights reserved.
MASSACHUSETTS NEW JERSEY PENNSYLVANIA
Alexander Bardow Harjit Bal Richard Runyen
Matthew Weidele Eric Yermack Kristin Langer
MICHIGAN Xiaohua (Hannah) Cheng Shane Szalankiewicz
Rebecca Curtis
Mike Halloran NEW MEXICO PUERTO RICO
Bradley Wagner Jeff Vigil Angel Alicea
Vincent Dorzweiler Manuel Coll
MINNESOTA Ben Najera Eric Rios
Ed Lutgen
Arielle Ehrlich NEW YORK RHODE ISLAND
James Flynn Keith Gaulin
MISSISSIPPI Brenda Crudele Mary Vittoria-Bertrand
Scott Westerfield Julianne Fuda
Micah Dew SOUTH CAROLINA
Bradnado Turnquest NORTH CAROLINA Chris Lacy
Brian Hanks Terry Koon
MISSOURI Scott Hidden Hongfen Li
Bryan Hartnagel Girchuru Muchane
David Hagemeyer SOUTH DAKOTA
Darren Kemna NORTH DAKOTA Steve Johnson
Lindsay Bossert Todd Thompson
MONTANA Jason Thorenson Patrick Wellner
Andy Cullison
Amanda Jackson OHIO TENNESSEE
Sean Meddles Rebecca Hayworth
NEBRASKA Alexander Dettloff Ted Kniazewycz
Ross Barron Jeffrey Syar Wesley Peck
Fouad Jaber
Kyle Zillig OKLAHOMA TEXAS
Justin Hernandez Graham Bettis
NEVADA Jason Giebler Bernie Carrasco
Jessen Mortensen Walter Peters Jamie Farris
David Chase
Michael Taylor OREGON UTAH
Ray Bottenberg Cheryl Hersh Simmons
NEW HAMPSHIRE Albert Nako Mark Daniels
Loretta Doughty Tanarat Potisuk Rebecca Nix
David Scott

iii
Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration
All rights reserved.
VERMONT Associate Members
Carolyn Cota
Bob Klinefelter CHESAPEAKE BAY BRIDGE AND
TUNNEL DISTRICT
Jim LaCroix
Timothy Holloway

VIRGINIA
MARYLAND TRANSPORTATION
Greg Henion
AUTHORITY
Junyi Meng
James Harkness
Andrew Zickler
William Pines

WASHINGTON
MULTNOMAH COUNTY
Evan Grimm TRANSPORTATION DIVISION
Andrew Fiske Jon Henrichsen
Amy Leland
TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH
WEST VIRGINIA BOARD

Tracy Brown Ahmad Abu-Hawash

Robert Douglas
Chad Robinson U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
Phillip Sauser

WISCONSIN
Josh Dietsche AASHTO STAFF

Aaron Bonk Ben Sade

Laura Shadewald Jovy Varquez

WYOMING
Michael Menghini
Paul Cortez

iv
Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration
All rights reserved.
 AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration
Task Group 4, Field Repairs and Retrofits
Jamie Hilton, KTA-Tator, Inc., Chair

Robin Dunlap, Vice Chair High Steel Structures

Anna Petroski Atema, Inc.
Art Bustos AISC
Brad Streeter Scougal Rubber Corporation
Chad Hawkins Infrastructure Consulting and Engineering
Dave Johnson Industrial Steel Construction, Inc.
Frederic Bergeron Canam Bridges
Gary Wisch DeLong's, Inc.
Halim Bas WSP
Heather Gilmer Pennoni
James Derry Tampa Tank/Florida Structural Steel
Jamie Hilton KTA-Tator, Inc.
Jeremy Rice Veritas Steel
Jonathan Stratton Eastern Steel Works, Inc.
Matt Conso KTA-Tator, Inc.
Maury Tayarani Pennoni
Melissa Dawson WSP
Michael Leonard Massachusetts Department of Transportation
Nina Choy Calafornia Department of Transportation
Phil Dzikowski WSP
Phillip Sauser UH Services Group
Robert Horwhat TRC Solutions
Shawn Potter Contech Engineering
Teresa Michalk Texas Department of Transportation
Terry Cummings TRC Solutions
Terry Logan Atema, Inc.
Zane Keniston QMC Auditing

v
Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration
All rights reserved.
vi G4.2—Guidelines for the Qualification of Structural Bolting Inspectors

This page intentionally left blank.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Section 1: References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Section 2: Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.1—Capabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.2—Duties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Section 3: Training/Experience Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3.1—Education and Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3.2—Structured Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3.3—Experience Credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Section 4: Qualification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
4.1—Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
4.2—Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Section 5: Body of Knowledge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5.1—Bolted Connection Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5.1.1—Joint Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5.1.1.1—Slip-Critical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5.1.1.2—Snug-Tightened . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5.1.1.3—Pretensioned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5.1.2—Load Transfer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5.1.2.1—Shear/Bearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5.1.2.2—Direct Tension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5.1.2.3—Friction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5.1.3—Bolt Holes and Slots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5.1.4—Snug-Tightening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.1.5—Bolt Pretension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.2—Bolting Materials and Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.2.1—Bolts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.2.1.1—Bolt Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.2.1.2—Material Grades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.2.1.3—Markings, Dimensions, Etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.2.2—Nuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.2.2.1—Materials, Markings, Dimensions, Etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.2.2.2—Suitability with Bolts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.2.3—Washers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.2.3.1—Material, Dimensions, Etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.2.3.2—Connection Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.2.4—Washer-Type DTIs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5.2.4.1—Material, Dimensions, Etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5.2.4.2—Connection Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5.2.5—Coatings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5.2.6—Bolt Length/Grip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
viii G4.2—G Q S B I

5.2.7—Reuse of Bolts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5.2.8—Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5.2.9—Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5.2.10—Bolted Splices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5.3—Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5.3.1—Prior to Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5.3.2—RC Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5.3.3—Snug-Tight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5.4—Installation Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5.4.1—Turn-of-Nut Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5.4.2—Twist-Off Bolts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5.4.3—Washer-Type DTIs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5.4.3.1—Pre-Installation Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5.4.3.2—Snugging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5.4.3.3—Joint Pretensioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5.4.4—Calibrated Wrench Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5.4.5—Combined (“Torque and Angle”) Method of Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
5.5—Time Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
5.6—Arbitration of Disputes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
 INTRODUCTION

These Guidelines have been developed by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration to define essential
factors involved in structural bolting and the qualification of personnel inspecting and monitoring those
operations.
This document should be a guide in developing individual training and qualification programs. The
recommended elements listed in the Body of Knowledge in Section 5 should be modified to meet specific needs.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
2 G4.2—G Q S B I

This page intentionally left blank.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
 SECTION 1: REFERENCES

The following industry standards and specifications should be used in the development of a qualification and
certification program:

• AASHTO LRFD Steel Bridge Fabrication Specifications

• American Institute of Steel Construction Manual of Steel Construction
• Research Council on Structural Connection (RCSC) Specification for Structural Joints Using High-
Strength Bolts
• ASTM Standard Specifications as they apply to structural bolting: A563/A563M, F436/F436M, F959/F959M,
F3125/F3125M, and F3148.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
4 G4.2—G Q S B I

This page intentionally left blank.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
 SECTION 2: FUNCTIONS

2.1—CAPABILITIES

A qualified Structural Bolting Inspector should be able to perform bolting inspections, conduct audits
of field bolting conditions and methods, and ensure that bolting operations conform to project requirements and
applicable standards.
The Inspector should be able to identify deficiencies in structural bolting, verify rotational capacity
(“rocap” or “RC”) testing, observe pre-installation testing, and verify final bolting conditions.

2.2—DUTIES

Although the Inspector’s duties are defined by each organization, a Structural Bolting Inspector should be able
to perform at least all of the following duties:

a. Interpret drawings and other documents.

b. Interpret and accept RC test reports, material test reports (MTRs), and manufacturers’ certificates of
compliance.
c. Verify fastener assemblies for correct components, RC lots, material type, grade, and coating; verify
bolt head markings and manufacturer and supplier marks, nut markings, and structural washer and
washer-type direct tension indicator (DTI) markings, supported by proper documentation.
d. Verify proper storage conditions.
e. Verify proper coating (if required), lubrication, and surface condition of bolts, nuts, and washers.
f. Identify the requirements for washers and ensure adherence.
g. Verify snug-tight conditions prior to final pretensioning.
h. Witness performance of pre-installation verification and verify reference marks on components and
material before final pretensioning.
i. Verify the suitability and calibration of equipment used to perform structural bolting activities.
j. Verify that the knowledge of personnel supervising or performing bolting applications is adequate.
k. Determine whether bolts may be reused (i.e., loosened and retightened).
l. Determine and verify required minimum fastener pretension.
m. Prepare clear, concise reports and verify that pertinent records are maintained.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
6 G4.2—G Q S B I

This page intentionally left blank.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
 SECTION 3: TRAINING/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

3.1—EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

The Structural Bolting Inspector should:

a. be a high school graduate, or hold a state-approved high school equivalency diploma and
b. have experience in structural steel bridge fabrication, erection, and/or inspection, and be directly
involved with structural bolting operations.

3.2—STRUCTURED TRAINING

Training and qualification recommended by this document may be considered satisfied if documentation
can be provided that the Inspector has successfully completed a minimum of eight hours of training offered
by an organization or an individual recognized by the Owner. Such documentation should include evidence of
satisfying the requirements listed in Section 5.

3.3—EXPERIENCE CREDIT

Structural Bolting Inspectors not meeting the experience guidelines of Article 3.1 should work under the
supervision of a qualified Structural Bolting Inspector until such time as the appropriate experience and training
is gained.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
8 G4.2—G Q S B I

This page intentionally left blank.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
 SECTION 4: QUALIFICATION

4.1—REQUIREMENTS

The requirements for qualifying a Structural Bolting Inspector under these Guidelines include all of the
following:

a. The Inspector should pass a written test of no less than 50 multiple choice or True/False questions with
a minimum of 70 percent correct, proving a general understanding of the Body of Knowledge
specified in Section 5.
b. The Inspector should demonstrate hands-on proficiency by completing or directing the completion of
RC testing and pre-installation verification testing using a tension calibration device in the presence of
an individual qualified in accordance with this Guide.
c. The Inspector should remain qualified under these Guidelines, provided that he or she documents
ongoing employment involving structural bolting operations and performing inspection duties at least
once every six months.

4.2—DOCUMENTATION

The employer of the Inspector should maintain training records (including dates and curricula), completed
examinations, evidence of initial demonstrated proficiency, qualification certificates issued, and documentation
of inspections performed, including dates, testing, and installation methods.
Qualification certificates should contain all of the following information:

a. name of the Inspector

b. statement indicating satisfactory completion of training
c. statement indicating that the Inspector’s qualification is in accordance with this Guide and any other
applicable standards
d. name of trainer and trainer’s organization (whether employer or third-party entity)
e. date of qualification

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
10 G4.2—G Q S B I

This page intentionally left blank.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
 SECTION 5: BODY OF KNOWLEDGE

5.1—BOLTED CONNECTION OVERVIEW

This Section delineates code requirements and proper methods for using bolted joints that the Inspector
should understand and enforce. The Inspector should understand the terms and definitions used in high-strength
bolting, and be familiar with the referenced standards and specifications. The Inspector should also understand
the installation and inspection requirements for various types of high-strength bolted joints.

5.1.1—Joint Types

The types of bolted joints commonly used in bridge and highway construction.

5.1.1.1—Slip-Critical

The definition, load transfer method, surface and bolt requirements, typical usage, installation, and inspection
of slip-critical joints.

5.1.1.2—Snug-Tightened

The definition, installation requirements, and inspection of snug-tightened joints.

5.1.1.3—Pretensioned

The definition, installation requirements, and inspection of pretensioned joints.

5.1.2—Load Transfer

The difference between various load transfer mechanisms for high-strength bolted joints.

5.1.2.1—Shear/Bearing

Bolts subjected to direct shear at bearing connections in bolted splices.

5.1.2.2—Direct Tension

Effects of direct tension on connections for hangers, prying action, etc.

5.1.2.3—Friction

The types of surface conditions required to obtain proper slip coefficients and the essential variables required
for painted surfaces. (See RCSC Specification for Structural Joints Using High-Strength Bolts, Appendix A,
“Test Method to Determine the Slip Coefficient for Coatings Used in Bolted Joints”.)

5.1.3—Bolt Holes and Slots

The acceptance/rejection quality standards for standard bolt holes, oversized holes, and short- and long-
slotted holes including dimensions, reaming, multi-ply alignment, out-of-round, and quality (tears, burrs, etc.).
The acceptance/rejection criteria for bolt spacing and edge distance.

11

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
12 G4.2—G Q S B I

5.1.4—Snug-Tightening

The definitions of “snug-tight” for both RC testing and installation. Proper systematic tightening to bring
an entire assembly to the snug-tight condition. The acceptable fit-up of bolted parts (flatness, contact) and the
condition of faying surfaces.

5.1.5—Bolt Pretension

The principles and methods to tighten bolts in pretensioned and slip-critical joints.

5.2—BOLTING MATERIALS AND USAGE

Know, understand, and be able to properly identify the bolting materials required for a project, ensure the
materials’ quality upon receipt and after storage, and select the proper materials and methods for installation.

5.2.1—Bolts

5.2.1.1—Bolt Types

The differences between various types of bolts (heavy hex head, twist-off type, etc.).

5.2.1.2—Material Grades

The differences and common uses for each grade and type of structural bolt (ASTM F3125/F3125M Grades
A325, A490, F1852, and F2280 with Types 1 and 3; F3148 with Types 1 and 3), including restricted uses and
conditions.

5.2.1.3—Markings, Dimensions, Etc.

The significance of head markings on structural bolts as well as common bolt dimensions and terminology.

5.2.2—Nuts

5.2.2.1—Materials, Markings, Dimensions, Etc.

The significance of markings on structural grade nuts as well as common nut dimensions and terminology.

5.2.2.2—Suitability with Bolts

The acceptable combinations of nuts and bolts for structural bolting applications (see ASTM F3125/F3125M
Table 2, F3148 Table 2, and A563/A563M Table X1.1), and the qualification of bolt–nut assemblies.

5.2.3—Washers

5.2.3.1—Material, Dimensions, Etc.

The standard materials and sizes of hardened steel washers for structural applications (see ASTM F436/
F436M), and plate or beveled washers for slots or sloping surfaces.

5.2.3.2—Connection Requirements

The correct usage of hardened steel washers in applications with standard, slotted, and oversized holes.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
S 5: B K 13

5.2.4—Washer-Type DTIs

5.2.4.1—Material, Dimensions, Etc.

The configuration, interpretation, and sizes of washer-type direct tension indicators used with high-strength
bolts (see ASTM F959/F959M).

5.2.4.2—Connection Requirements

The correct installation and verification of washer-type direct tension indicators, including hardened washer
requirements based on the turned element, and placement for standard, slotted, and oversized holes.

5.2.5—Coatings

The types of coatings that are acceptable and may be expected to be used on various fasteners (see ASTM
F3125/F3125M Table A1.1, F3148 Table 1, and A563/A563M Table A1.1).

5.2.6—Bolt Length/Grip

The correct bolt length for given applications, identify stripping, excessive stick-out, and bottoming-out of
nuts.

5.2.7—Reuse of Bolts

The situations in which bolts that have been pretensioned may be reused (see RCSC) and how to check for
suitability for reuse.

5.2.8—Storage

Proper job site/shop storage and protection procedures. Include lot segregation and identifying and isolating
defective items.

5.2.9—Lubrication

Proper lubrication of nuts and bolts (uncoated, galvanized, and other coatings), the proper methods and
materials used for relubrication, and when relubrication is permitted.

5.2.10—Bolted Splices

The requirements for the use of alignment (drift) pins for splice alignment prior to snug-tightening and final
tensioning.

5.3—INSPECTION

Know and understand the specific inspection requirements as they apply to the following listed installation
methods.

5.3.1—Prior to Installation

Identification of fasteners (type, grade, etc.), proper storage and lubrication, and proper pre-installation
verification for the installation method used, including frequency of testing and determination of installation or
initial torque if required.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
14 G4.2—G Q S B I

5.3.2—RC Testing

Requirements for RC testing: frequency, number of specimens, procedure, required results, long vs. short
bolts, etc. (see ASTM F3125/F3125M, Annex A2 and F3148, Annex A1).

5.3.3—Snug-Tight

Definition of snug-tight and systematic tightening, proper snug-tightening procedures and results, how to
identify a snug-tightened condition and verify this condition prior to pretensioning.

5.4—INSTALLATION METHODS

This Article includes items to be verified or observed for specific common fastener installation techniques.
For all methods, understand pre-installation verification, use of correct lengths and sizes of fasteners, correct
wrench operation, the difference between torque and tension, proper progression of pretensioning, and use of
torque verification if required.

5.4.1—Turn-of-Nut Installation

All requirements of the turn-of-nut installation technique, including proper snug-tightening methods and
sequences, match-marking, and required number of turns for the bolts used.

5.4.2—Twist-Off Bolts

All requirements of the installation technique for twist-off bolts, including proper snug-tightening methods
and sequences and the required condition of the twist-off splines after snugging and after installation.

5.4.3—Washer-Type DTIs

All requirements of the installation of high-strength bolts using washer-type DTIs.

5.4.3.1—Pre-Installation Verification

Determination of job inspection gap through pre-installation verification, unless gap is specified; thread
check after pre-installation verification test.

5.4.3.2—Snugging

Proper snug-tightening methods and sequences, and use of feeler gauge to assess conformance to gap
requirements (number of refusals) after snugging.

5.4.3.3—Joint Pretensioning

Use of a feeler gauge or self-indicating features, as permitted, to determine proper bolt pretension based on
number of refusals and some visible gap (no “dead flat” washers).

5.4.4—Calibrated Wrench Installation

All requirements of the installation of high-strength bolts using a calibrated torque wrench, including proper
snug-tightening methods and sequences, determination of installation torque, frequency of wrench calibration,
and proper setting of wrench for achieving installation torque.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
S 5: B K 15

5.4.5—Combined (“Torque and Angle”) Method of Installation

All requirements of the installation of high-strength bolts using a combined method of initial torque followed
by specified turns of a fastener element, including frequency of wrench calibration, proper setting of wrench for
achieving initial torque, application of initial torque to achieve firm contact between plies, match-marking, and
required number of turns for the bolts used.

5.5—TIME MANAGEMENT

It is not possible to closely monitor multiple bolting crews. Be aware of crew schedules and indications of
good or bad crew technique to determine how often to check each operation for efficient inspection.

5.6—ARBITRATION OF DISPUTES

Be familiar with the correct procedures for arbitrating disputes (see the RCSC section on Arbitration).

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.
16 G4.2—G Q S B I

This page intentionally left blank.

Copyright © 2024 by the AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration

All rights reserved.