Handling & Safety

Handling & Storage

• Handle Open Joist™ upright and by bottom chord.
• Avoid excessive flat-wise bending of Open Joist.
• Store Open Joist on blocks out of mud and water.
• Blocks should be long enough to support entire bundle width and be spaced about 10' apart.
• Blocks should provide even support for bundles.
• Bundles should not be stacked more than three high with stickers between bundles located vertically above blocks on ground.
• Bundles of Open Joist stored outdoors should be wrapped or covered for protection from weather.
• Bundles should remain banded until ready for use.
• Exercise caution when breaking bands to avoid injury.

Warning!

• Do not exceed design loads or allowed spans.
• Distribute piles of plywood, OSB, or other materials in small bundles.
• Do not overload the Open Joist members.
• Double check drawings to verify Open Joist depth, span, spacing, loading, bearing details, bridging requirements, and bracing details.
• Concentrated loads in excess of 50 pounds should not be hung from the bottom chord of an Open Joist. Concentrated loads may require joist reinforcement.
• Do Not Cut, Do Not Notch, and Do Not Drill Open Joist.
• Check framing layout to avoid conflict with drain traps.