Shop Drawings for Steel Structures: What They Contain and How to Approve Them
What steel shop drawings include — general arrangement, erection drawings, assembly and part drawings, bolt lists, weld symbols — and how consultants review and approve them.
Saudi Steel Work Editorial Team · · 3 min read
Short answer: Steel shop drawings translate design drawings into fabrication instructions: erection drawings showing member marks and locations, assembly drawings for each fabricated member with dimensions, holes and welds, part drawings for plates, and bolt and material lists. They are reviewed by the consultant for compliance with the design before fabrication begins.
Shop drawings are the language between designer, fabricator and erector. Their quality and approval speed directly affect the programme.
Types of drawings
| Drawing | Content |
|---|---|
| General arrangement / erection drawings | Plans and elevations with member marks, grid lines, levels |
| Anchor bolt plan | Bolt positions and levels for foundations |
| Assembly drawings | Each fabricated member with plates, holes, welds |
| Single-part drawings | Individual plates and fittings for cutting |
| Bolt lists and material lists | Quantities for procurement |
Information on assembly drawings
- Profile, grade and length
- Hole sizes and positions
- Weld symbols and sizes
- Plate sizes and thicknesses
- Surface treatment
- Piece mark and quantity
The 3D model
Modern detailing builds a 3D model from which drawings and CNC data are generated. Benefits: clash detection, accurate quantities, fewer errors and easier revisions. Models can be shared as IFC for coordination.
Approval process
- Fabricator submits drawings by area or phase
- Consultant reviews for compliance with design and specification
- Comments returned (approved / approved with comments / revise and resubmit)
- Fabricator revises; only approved revisions go to the shop
Tips for faster approval
- Submit by erection zone so approvals can be staggered
- Resolve RFIs before detailing affected areas
- Use clear revision clouds and logs
- Release the anchor bolt plan first so foundations can proceed
What clients should check
- Member sizes and grades match the design
- Connections follow the agreed design
- Interfaces with MEP, cladding and concrete are coordinated
- Coating and fire protection noted correctly
Read the steel fabrication process or see structural steel fabrication.