Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What is the typical method for placing steel reinforcement in concrete structures?

1. Using plastic spacers to maintain position

2. Welding directly to the concrete framework

3. Placing on small metal plastic chairs to prevent displacement

4. Suspending it above the concrete pour

The correct answer is: Placing on small metal plastic chairs to prevent displacement

The typical method for placing steel reinforcement in concrete structures involves the use of small metal plastic chairs to prevent displacement. This technique is crucial because it ensures that the rebar or steel mesh maintains the correct position during the concrete pour, allowing the reinforcement to provide its intended structural support. Using chairs supports the rebar above the concrete slab's bottom surface, positioning it at the optimal depth. This alignment is essential, as it allows the concrete to effectively bond with the steel reinforcement, which enhances the tensile strength of the overall structure. Maintaining the proper cover and spacing is also vital for durability, as it protects the rebar from potential corrosion. While options like using plastic spacers are relevant in some scenarios, they do not provide the same level of stability and positioning accuracy as metal plastic chairs. Other methods, such as welding directly to the concrete framework or suspending the rebar above the pour, are not standard practices in most concrete reinforcement applications, as they can complicate the installation process and affect the structural integrity.