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Building and Construction Authority

Structural Steel

Structural steel is steel used for load-bearing structural members. It typically offers good strength-to-weight ratio and can be prefabricated with high accuracy using automated machinery and facilities.

Last updated 18 March 2026
Steel beams and girders forming a building frame against a high-rise facade

Why use Structural Steel

  • Improved productivity – Using prefabricated structural steel can achieve up to 20% manpower and time savings at the project level.

  • Flexibility in design – Steel can span greater distances without the need for intermediate columns or load-bearing walls, offering greater flexibility in design such as incorporating larger open spaces.

  • Better construction environment – With most fabrication done off-site, less dust and noise are generated on site.

  • Improved quality control – Steel sections and joints can be manufactured according to international standards in controlled factory settings, ensuring consistent quality and minimal on-site rework.

  • Environmental sustainability – Steel offers clean and efficient construction methods with reduced environmental impact. All steel products are also 100% recyclable.

What to consider for Structural Steel

  • Corrosion protection – An abrasion-resistant protective layer with a strong bond with the base metal can protect against corrosion. A widely used method is barrier protection, such as painting and hot-dip galvanising.

  • Floor vibration – Vibrations caused by occupant activity or building equipment should be factored into the design, especially for longer and lighter steel structures.

  • Site and project management – Productivity gains can be maximised through Just-In-Time (JIT) delivery, precise alignment of steel members, and use of innovative and easy-to-install working platforms.

Compliance with Regulations and Acceptable Solutions in Singapore

  • Prevailing Building Control Regulations – All buildings and structures must comply with the objectives and performance requirements set out in the prevailing Building Control Regulations and Approved Document under the Building Control Act.

  • Eurocodes SS EN 1993 and SS EN 1994 – For all steel buildings and structures, the acceptable solution would be compliance with SS EN 1993 and SS EN 1994 read with the relevant Singapore National Annexes. Steel materials and construction tests are also required to comply with the standards prescribed in the Approved Document. In addition, steel buildings and structures must comply with all requirements applicable to the construction of buildings.

  • SCDF fire safety requirements – Steel buildings, like reinforced concrete ones, must meet fire safety requirements (opens in new tab) as stipulated by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF).

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