It’s official. The Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA) has selected Keystone Certifications, Inc. to administer its updated Code Compliance Certification (C3) Program.
The selection follows a March vote by SFIA members to update the existing program with a new method of verifying code compliance.
The updated C3 Program will continue to require unannounced audits of manufacturing facilities. It will place greater focus on processes and procedures while rewarding those who validate code compliance.
From left: SFIA’s Holly Mellinger joins Keystone Certifications’ Daniel Shiflet, Devin Kohler and Seth Gordon for a July 30 meeting on the C3 Program transition.
Keystone’s Role in the C3 Program
That new focus led SFIA to issue a Request for Proposal for a program administrator. Four companies responded to the RFP.
The SFIA Board of Directors selected Keystone based on multiple factors, including recommendations from staff and the Compliance Committee.
SFIA certification programs assure architects, owners, building officials and contractors that specified cold-formed steel (CFS) framing components, assemblies and installations meet recognized codes and standards.
“A big thank you goes out to the volunteer members of the Compliance Committee for carefully and thoughtfully evaluating the four proposals received,” said Don Allen, SFIA executive director. “Every proposal had several good attributes, and it was not an easy decision.”
Keystone will assume the same administrator role under the updated program. However, the actions during inspections and frequency of inspections will change.
According to Keystone, the company will manage administration, compliance auditing and quality assurance workflows for the C3 Program. It provides accredited, independent third-party certification, inspection and testing management services to building product manufacturers worldwide.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Steel Framing Industry Association,” said Dan Shiflet, president at Keystone Certifications. “Our team looks forward to delivering reliable, efficient, and independent third-party verification that supports quality and integrity throughout the steel framing industry.”
What Is the Code Compliance Certification (C3) Program?
SFIA’s Code Compliance Certification (C3) Program helps verify that certified cold-formed steel framing products meet applicable building codes. The program addresses International Building Code requirements and applicable ASTM and AISI reference standards. Independent third-party oversight helps verify compliance with program requirements. Certification provides suppliers, contractors and building inspectors with assurance that qualifying products meet applicable code requirements.
Preparing for the Transition
Keystone will begin administering the updated C3 Program on January 1, 2027. SFIA, Keystone and participating members are already preparing for the transition.
Current efforts include training on program attributes and inspection procedures.
SFIA Manufacturer and Contractor Manufacturer members are preparing their quality control procedures and documentation for the new program audits.
Keystone and SFIA staff have already held multiple virtual and in-person meetings to prepare for the program kickoff.
“The new C3 Program transition will take some time to implement for SFIA, our members and the new Administrator,” said Allen. “From what I have experienced thus far working with Keystone, their knowledge, experience, and collaborative attitude will make the implementation easier on everyone.”
Demand SFIA Certified Steel
Your reputation depends on quality. Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA) certified steel framing products undergo rigorous third-party inspections to ensure they meet industry standards for code compliance. Look for the SFIA label.
Certified Steel Providers
Training and Program Implementation
Training will include pre-arranged hosted visits at select SFIA member manufacturing locations. These visits will give inspectors and members a better understanding of what to expect during upcoming audits.
The hosted training visits will take place only at select facilities and will not provide participating members an audit advantage.
SFIA is developing training videos and documents to support current Manufacturer and Contractor Manufacturer members during the transition. The resources will also help new members navigate the onboarding process.
Keystone and SFIA will continue coordinating training, inspections and program procedures ahead of the 2027 kickoff.
“So far it has been wonderful working with Keystone’s staff and leadership,” said Allen. “They have been quick to understand the processes required, and have even made helpful suggestions to streamline and coordinate inspections and processing and sharing of test results.”
Additional Resources
- SFIA Approves Updates to Code Compliance Certification Program
- SFIA 2026 Annual Meeting Features Newly Approved Certification Program, Industry Awards and More
- SFIA Certification Program Guards Against Shortfalls in Imported Steel