AASHTO/NSBA Release Updated Steel Bridge Fabrication QA/QC Guidelines
The following information was provided by the National Steel Bridge Alliance.
The AASHTO/NSBA Steel Bridge Collaboration has released the updated G4.1 Steel Bridge Fabrication QC/QA Guidelines.
G4.1 outlines minimum quality control and assurance requirements, guiding fabricators, contractors and owner agencies in consistent inspections and verification.
It’s an essential resource for building robust steel bridge quality management systems.
Does steel provide an economical solution for bridge construction?

- Due to the light weight of steel, cost savings can be significant
- Studies show that weathering, A1010 (A709-50CR), and galvanized steel reduces both initial and life cycle costs.
- Steel can compete and even save costs when compared with nearly identical concrete structures. re.
- Steel bridges also have long lives, decreasing the need for replacement.
- Steel’s high strength permits longer spans, minimizing disruption to underlying habitats.
- Steel is highly resistant to extreme natural disasters such as earthquakes.
- Steel is the world’s most recycled material and is infinitely recyclable.
- Short span steel bridges can be designed with prefabricated elements which provide a simpler installation and cost savings.
News
Missouri Steel Bridge Bundle Project Wins Prize Bridge Award
The National Steel Bridge Alliance (NSBA) named Missouri’s FARM Bridges Design/Build Bundle the 2026 Prize Bridge Award winner in the Short Span category. Fabricated by SSSBA member DeLong’s, the project delivered 31 rural bridges across 15 counties using galvanized steel and SDCL design for a 100-year service life.
Durability & Coatings
HDG Rebar vs. Epoxy-Coated Rebar
A new publication by the American Galvanizers Association compares the performance of hot-dip galvanized (HDG) rebar and epoxy-coated rebar in reinforced structures.
Durability & Coatings
Determining and Overcoming the Size Limitations of Hot-Dip Galvanizing
The American Galvanizers Association explains how kettle size limits can be overcome with strategies like modular design, progressive dipping, and other creative solutions.
Short Span Steel Bridges