A reinforcing steel contractor fabricates, places and ties steel mesh or steel reinforcing bars (rods), of any profile, perimeter, or cross-section, that are or may be used to reinforce concrete structures.
Authority cited: Sections 7008 and 7059, Reference: Sections 7058 and 7059 (Business and Professions Code)
Content of the Examination
The Reinforcing Steel (C-50) Examination is divided into four major sections. These sections are:
1. Detailing and Fabrication (27%)
Job requirements
Plans and specifications
Types and grades of reinforcing steel
Preparing shop drawings
Preparing cut sheets
Fabricating reinforcing steel
2. Placing Reinforcing Steel (31%)
Layout and templates
Securing bar supports
Placing and tying steel
Lap splices and clearances
3. Placing and Stressing Post Tensioned Cables (26%)
Layout and placement of tendons
Placing support
Tendon stressing procedures and equipment
4. Safety (16%)
Handling reinforcing steel
Fall protection
Equipment handling
*Percentages are approximate*
Sample Questions
The following questions are typical of the types of items that are on the examination. The correct answer is highlighted.
1. Where is the greatest bending force of the earth on a cantilever retaining wall?
At the top of the wall
Halfway down the wall
Two-thirds of the way down the wall
At the bottom of the wall
2. Which of the following items is used to reinforce concrete slabs on grade of 4” or less?
Slab bolsters
High chairs
Welded wire mesh
Multi-strand tendons
3. Under whose observation must post tensioning stressing operations occur?
The design architect
The engineer of record
The prime contractors
The certified special inspector
*All questions are written and reviewed by licensed contractors who are actively working in the field*
Resources
Cal/OSHA State of California Construction Safety Orders.
