When hoisting steel, one worker uses hand signals to direct the hoist operator. Another worker holds a rope attached to the steel to keep it from swinging. Once the steel is in the proper location, several workers use wrenches to connect it to the frame. First the piece is bolted in temporarily. Then workers check that it is correctly aligned before it is bolted or welded into place.
Ironworkers use plumb bob, levels, or laser equipment to check the alignment of pieces.
Reinforcing ironworkers set bars into forms that hold concrete. They follow blueprints that show the location, size, and number of bars. Ironworkers use pliers to fasten the bars down with wire. Occasionally ironworkers have to cut the bars with shears or torches if they are not the correct length. They may bend bars by hand or machine as well as weld them.