The proposed 2025 edition of the Research Council on Structural Connections (RCSC) Specification introduces an entirely new Section 1.8 dedicated to Bolting Personnel Qualifications. While the updated specification has not yet been finalized, the proposed language provides valuable insight into the direction of the structural steel industry.
For the first time, the RCSC is defining what it means to be “qualified bolting personnel.” Rather than leaving qualifications open to interpretation, the proposed section outlines the knowledge and responsibilities expected of installers, supervisors, inspectors, and all personnel involved in structural bolting.
A More Defined Standard
The proposed Section 1.8 establishes role-specific expectations for three groups of personnel:
- Installation Personnel must be able to properly perform snug-tightening and, when required, pretension joints to the method of installation specified for the project.
- Supervision and Inspection Personnel must understand how to oversee pre-installation verification, rotational capacity testing (when required), and installation procedures.
- Bolting Personnel are expected to have the knowledge of fastener identification, bolt storage and lubrication, bolt hole requirements, washer requirements, thread orientation where applicable, and the proper use of installation tools.
Together, these proposed requirements create a more consistent framework for demonstrating competency across the entire bolting team.
The Biggest Change: Documentation
Perhaps the most significant addition is the emphasis on documenting qualifications.
Under the proposed Section 1.8, contractors would be responsible for maintaining documented evidence that bolting personnel possess the required training, knowledge, and skills.
The proposal also introduces recurring qualification assessments. Rather than treating training as a one-time event, qualifications would be reassessed annually, or sooner if an installer has not used a specific pretensioning method for more than six months.
This represents a shift from simply expecting qualified personnel to requiring documented evidence that those qualifications have been established and maintained.
Why This Matters
Although these requirements have not yet been adopted, they reflect an increasing emphasis on consistency, accountability, and documented competency throughout the structural steel industry.
Organizations that begin preparing now may find the transition much smoother if the proposed language is incorporated into the next edition of the RCSC Specification.
Preparation doesn’t necessarily mean changing your entire process today. It means evaluating current training practices, reviewing documentation procedures, and understanding where future requirements may be headed.
How GWY Can Help
At GWY, our structural bolting training program is already aligned with the concepts outlined in the proposed Section 1.8. Our hands-on training helps installers, supervisors, and inspectors strengthen their understanding of structural bolting best practices while providing documentation of completed training.
Whether you’re preparing for upcoming specification changes or simply looking to improve consistency across your crews, investing in training today can help position your team for tomorrow’s requirements.
As the proposed 2025 RCSC Specification continues through the review process, we’ll continue sharing updates and practical guidance to help you stay informed.
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