Tools of the Trade: Inside the Kit of an Ironworker

Ironworkers are skilled tradespeople who work in the construction industry, specializing in the erection and installation of steel structures. These professionals are responsible for assembling and reinforcing steel buildings, bridges, and other structures that require a high degree of strength and durability.

Ironworkers rely on a range of specialized tools and equipment to get the job done, each serving a unique purpose in the construction process. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some of the equipment commonly used by ironworkers on the job.

Positioning Belt

A positioning belt is an essential piece of equipment that helps ironworkers stay safe and secure while working at heights. This belt is worn around the waist and includes d-rings that allow the ironworker to attach a lanyard, which is then secured to an anchor point on the structure. This helps prevent falls and ensures the ironworker is positioned safely while working.

Ironworker Pliers

Pliers are a crucial tool for ironworkers, as they offer a versatile range of functions required in steel construction. Ironworkers use pliers to grip, twist, and cut wire, bend steel as necessary, and cut through bolts and other materials.

Ironworker pliers are a types of hand tools used primarily in metalworking and construction applications. These pliers are designed to perform a wide range of tasks, such as cutting, twisting, bending, and gripping different types of metal. Ironworker pliers are characterized by their long handles, tapered jaws, and serrated cutting edges.

There are several different types of ironworker pliers available, each with their own unique features and functions. The pliers that we currently offer are:

• Diagonal Cutting Pliers - Our Diagonal Cutting Pliers were designed with durable knives that feature strong cutting power, and have more plier cutter power over standard cutter pliers! The angled head makes it easy to work in confined spaces and the 135° curved handle improves your grip and reduces slippage. The high-leverage design has greater, enhanced cutting power. The hot-riveted joint ensures smooth action and no wobble in the handle. This pair will be your go-to tool when working with soft annealed rebar tie wire.

• Side Cutting Pliers - Our Side Cutting Pliers are used to twist and snip soft annealed rebar tire wire. These linesman pliers feature a spring loaded handle for self-opening and an angled head design for better rebar tying performance. The deep knurled jaws aid in providing a strengthened grip power for twisting and pulling. These pliers feature a 135° curved handle added grip and leverage. Industrial handle tempering helps to absorb the ''snap'' when cutting wire.

The pliers' design allows for easy manipulation of wire and steel, making them a highly useful tool for ironworkers in the construction industry.

Tie Wire Reel

Tie wire reels are small and lightweight, allowing them to be easily carried by ironworkers on their tool belt or positioning belt. They are typically made of durable plastic or metal and have a center hole where the wire is threaded through. The reel allows the wire to be dispensed smoothly and prevents it from tangling or knotting.

The tie wire reel is an essential tool for ironworkers who work with reinforcing steel, as it helps to keep the wire organized and easily accessible, which can save time and increase efficiency on the job site. It is commonly used in the construction of buildings, bridges, and other steel structures.

Tie Wire Reel Pad

A tie wire reel hip pad is designed to minimize hip fatigue and discomfort, allowing workers to perform their tasks more comfortably and for longer periods of time.

Tie wire reel hip pads are typically small, padded surface that your tie wire reel sits on to provide support and to help reduce pressure on your hips. It is attached to the worker's tool belt or positioning belt and is positioned over the hips to distribute the weight of the tools and equipment more evenly. This helps to reduce the strain on the hips and lower back, which can lead to fatigue and discomfort over time.

Bolt Bag

Bolt bags are used by ironworkers to carry bolts, nuts, washers, and other small components needed for construction. These bags are often made of canvas or leather and include multiple compartments to keep the various components organized and easily accessible.

Steel Positioning Lanyard

Like the positioning belt, a steel positioning lanyard is used to help ironworkers stay safe and secure while working at heights. These lanyards are made of steel with a heat-treated chain link and includes a 2 snap hooks that allows it to be attached to the ironworker's positioning belt and 1 rebar hook that secures to an anchor point.

Steel positioning lanyards are NOT for fall protection and they do NOT have shock lanyard absorber. Pairing a steel positioning lanyard with a safety lanyard doubles up your safety when working at heights on scaffolding.

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Ironworkers are essential professionals in the construction industry, responsible for building and reinforcing some of the most critical structures we rely on daily. They rely on a range of specialized tools and equipment to get the job done, and each piece plays a critical role in ensuring their safety and efficiency on the job. From positioning belts and pliers to tie wire reels and bolt bags, these tools are essential to the success of ironworkers and the projects they work on.

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